YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel FWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower, Black (YG2860) Review

Overview

The YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel FWD 3-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Self Propelled Lawn Mower (YG2860) is a budget-friendly workhorse designed for homeowners with medium to large lawns—think half an acre or more—who want self-propelled convenience without breaking the bank. It combines a robust 201cc engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth speed control, and its high rear wheels make it a solid pick for uneven or bumpy terrain. This isn’t a flashy premium mower, but it’s built to get the job done reliably for value-conscious buyers.

Who Should Buy This

• Homeowners with 1/3 to 1/2 acre lawns: The 22-inch cutting deck and six-speed self-propulsion are ideal for covering ground efficiently without the cost of a commercial-grade machine. You’ll finish in under an hour with less fatigue.
• Buyers tired of wrestling with gas cans: The 201cc engine starts reliably with a simple pull, and the CVT eliminates manual gear shifting—just squeeze the handlebar to go. It’s a step up from push mowers or old-school manual-transmission models.
• Those with bumpy or sloped yards: The high rear wheels (10-inch) provide extra clearance and roll over ruts, roots, and mild inclines better than standard 7- or 8-inch wheels. If your lawn has dips or uneven spots, this mower handles them without bogging down.
• Budget-minded shoppers who want 3-in-1 versatility: At $360, you get mulching, bagging, and side discharge—features often reserved for pricier models. If you’re okay with a few trade-offs (like a plastic deck) for big savings, this is your mower.

Key Features Breakdown

• 201cc YARDMAX Engine: This OHV (overhead valve) engine delivers 6.5-7.0 gross torque—plenty for thick grass and light brush. It’s not a Honda or Briggs & Stratton, but it starts dependably (even after winter storage) and runs on regular unleaded. Fuel economy is decent; you’ll mow a half-acre on a single tank.
• Select PACE 6-Speed CVT: Unlike traditional gear-driven self-propulsion, the CVT offers infinite speed variation within six ranges. You set a max speed via a dial on the handlebar, then control actual speed by squeezing the drive lever. This means no jerky starts and no fighting with a lever to match your walking pace—just smooth, intuitive movement.
• 22-Inch Cutting Deck: A 22-inch deck is a sweet spot for residential lawns—wide enough to cut quickly, narrow enough to maneuver around flower beds and fences. The steel deck is stamped (not fabricated), but it’s coated to resist rust. Note: it’s plastic on some earlier models, but this version uses steel.
• High Rear Wheels (10-inch): The larger rear wheels reduce rolling resistance and improve traction on slopes. They also make the mower easier to push if you disengage the self-propulsion (handy for tight spots). Front wheels are 7-inch, standard for this class.
• 3-in-1 Capability: Mulch, bag, or side discharge with a simple lever adjustment (no tools required). The mulching plug is included, and the 1.5-bushel bag is decent for a 22-inch deck—you’ll empty it every 3,000-4,000 square feet in thick grass.
• Single-Lever Height Adjustment: A central lever lets you set cutting height from 1.2 to 3.8 inches in six positions. It’s easy to use, though some competitors offer more range or tool-less adjustment.

Pros

1. Smooth, intuitive self-propulsion: The CVT is a standout at this price. You can creep along in thick grass or zip across open areas without fiddling with gears—just squeeze and go. It’s especially nice on slopes where constant speed changes are needed.
2. Great value for the features: For $360, you get a CVT, high wheels, and 3-in-1 capability—features often found on mowers costing $100-150 more. It’s one of the best bang-for-buck models in the self-propelled category.
3. Handles uneven terrain well: The 10-inch rear wheels and forward-wheel drive give it good traction on bumpy lawns. It won’t climb a 20-degree hill like a RWD model, but for mild slopes and rough ground, it’s very capable.
4. Reliable starting: The engine fires up within 1-2 pulls, even after sitting for months. The primer bulb is responsive, and the auto-choke system (on most units) prevents flooding.
5. Easy to store and maneuver: The handlebar folds flat without tools, and the mower stands upright on its rear wheels for compact storage. At 75 pounds, it’s manageable for one person to tilt or lift into a shed.
6. Mulches well: In dry grass, the mulching performance is excellent—fine clippings that disappear into the lawn. You’ll need to slow down in wet or thick conditions, but that’s true of any mulching mower.

Cons

1. Bagging capacity is small: The 1.5-bushel bag fills quickly, especially in tall or damp grass. Expect to empty it every 2,500-3,000 square feet. A larger bag (2.0+ bushels) would be a welcome upgrade.
2. Plastic deck concerns: While the deck is steel on current models, some past versions had a plastic deck that cracked under heavy use. If you buy used, check for metal. New units are fine, but the plastic history hurts trust.
3. Forward-wheel drive struggles on steep hills: FWD is great for flat or gentle slopes, but on steep inclines (over 15 degrees), the front wheels can lose traction, especially when the bag is full. A rear-wheel-drive model would be better for hilly yards.
4. Engine noise and vibration: The 201cc engine is loud (around 95 dB) and vibrates noticeably at full throttle. Ear protection is a good idea, and the vibration can fatigue your hands after 30+ minutes.

Bottom Line

The YARDMAX YG2860 is a smart buy for homeowners who want self-propelled convenience and 3-in-1 versatility without spending $500+. Its CVT is a genuine highlight, offering smooth speed control that outclasses many competitors in the same price range. The high rear wheels and 22-inch deck make it a strong performer on medium lawns with uneven terrain, and the engine starts reliably season after season. However, if your yard is steep or you hate emptying a small bag, look elsewhere—this mower’s FWD system and tiny bag limit its appeal. For everyone else, especially those