24 in. 201cc Electric Start Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower Review

Overview

The Start 24 in. 201cc Electric Start Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower is a heavy-duty machine built for homeowners with medium to large, uneven lawns who want the convenience of electric start and the power of a gas engine without wrestling with a pull cord. Priced at $520, it targets the sweet spot between budget-friendly mowers and premium commercial units, offering a unique continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth speed control and high rear wheels for tackling rough terrain.

Who Should Buy This

• Homeowners with 1/2 to 1 acre lawns on slopes or uneven ground – The rear-wheel drive and high wheels give you traction and stability where lesser mowers slip or bog down.
• Buyers tired of fighting pull cords – The electric start (just plug in a battery or use the wall outlet) is a game-changer for anyone with shoulder issues, arthritis, or just a low tolerance for frustration.
• People who want “set it and forget it” speed control – The PACE CVT system lets you adjust ground speed continuously without shifting gears, ideal for varying grass conditions or dodging obstacles.
• Those who mulch, bag, or side-discharge frequently – The 3-in-1 capability means you’re not locked into one method, and the 24-inch deck covers ground fast without being unwieldy.

Key Features Breakdown

• 201cc Engine – This is a torquey, reliable powerplant from a proven manufacturer. It’s not a high-speed race engine; it’s a workhorse that powers through thick, damp grass without stalling. Expect consistent starts and long life with basic maintenance.
• Electric Start – No battery included? No problem—this mower can start via a standard wall outlet (cord included) or a 12V battery (sold separately). It’s a huge convenience upgrade over recoil starts, especially after winter storage.
• Select PACE 6 Speed CVT – Unlike typical gear-driven transmissions that have fixed ratios, the CVT allows infinite speed variation within a range. You set your preferred pace, and the mower maintains it automatically, even uphill. The “6 speed” refers to selectable ranges, not discrete gears.
• High Wheel RWD – The large rear wheels (usually 11-12 inches) reduce rolling resistance and keep the deck from scalping on bumps. Rear-wheel drive gives better traction on hills compared to front-wheel drive, which tends to push the mower sideways on slopes.
• 24-Inch Cutting Deck – A wide deck means fewer passes. For a 1/2 acre lawn, you’ll save 15-20 minutes compared to a 21-inch mower. It’s still narrow enough to fit through standard 36-inch gates.
• 3-in-1 Capability – Mulch, bag, or side-discharge. The mulching plug is easy to install, and the bagger (sold separately) is optional. Most users will stick with mulching for lawn health.

Pros

1. Smooth, intuitive speed control – The CVT system eliminates the jerky, clunky feel of gear-driven mowers. You can creep through dense patches or stride across open stretches without touching a lever.
2. Electric start is a genuine time-saver – No yanking, no flooding the engine. Press a button or plug in, and you’re mowing in seconds. Great for early mornings or when the grass is damp.
3. Excellent hill performance – The RWD and high wheels combine to climb steep grades (up to 15-20 degrees) without spinning out, something front-wheel drive mowers can’t do.
4. Solid build quality for the price – The steel deck feels substantial, and the handle is vibration-dampened. It’s not a cheap plastic toy.
5. Wide deck reduces mowing time – 24 inches is a sweet spot: fast enough for large lawns, nimble enough for tight spots.
6. Easy to maneuver – Despite the size, the high wheels and balanced design make turning and trimming around obstacles manageable.

Cons

1. Electric start requires either a battery (not included) or an extension cord – If you don’t have a compatible 12V battery, you’re tethered to a wall outlet, which defeats the purpose of a walk-behind. Budget $30-50 for a battery.
2. CVT can feel “mushy” at very low speeds – When crawling around flower beds, the transmission may lag slightly before engaging, making precise control a bit trickier than a geared mower.
3. Bagging kit is sold separately – For $520, including a bagger would be reasonable. As is, you’ll need to spend extra if you want to collect clippings.
4. Heavy at around 80-90 pounds – It’s not a lightweight mower. If you have to lift it into a truck bed or over obstacles, you’ll want a ramp or a helper.

Bottom Line

The Start 24 in. 201cc Electric Start Select PACE CVT High Wheel RWD mower is a smart investment for homeowners with moderately large, hilly lawns who prioritize ease of use over absolute budget-friendliness. The electric start and CVT transmission genuinely reduce the physical effort of mowing, and the high wheels and RWD give it real off-road capability. The missing battery and separate bagger are minor frustrations, but the core performance is strong. If your lawn is 1/2 acre or more and you’re tired of fighting a cheap mower, this is a solid, reliable choice. Recommended for anyone who values convenience and hill performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to buy a battery for the electric start, or does it work with a cord?
A: It works both ways. You can plug it into a standard 120V wall outlet using the included cord, or you can install a 12V battery (sold separately) for cord-free starting. Most users prefer the battery for mobility.

Q: How does the CVT transmission compare to a traditional 6-speed manual?
A: The CVT gives you smooth, stepless speed changes within each of the 6 selectable ranges. It’s easier to use because you don’t have to shift gears—just set your preferred speed and go. It’s less precise at very low speeds but much more convenient overall.

Q: Can I use this mower on a very wet or tall lawn?
A: Yes, within reason. The 201cc engine has enough torque to handle thick, damp grass, and the high wheels prevent the deck from clogging as easily as lower-riding mowers. However, like any gas mower, avoid mowing in heavy rain or when the grass is soaked through to prevent clumping and rust.