I had one with the big wheels and it was very heavy and way harder to push
than one with wheels all the same size. I'd never buy one like that again!
I've had a snapper self-propelled with several speeds that are easy to
change for 13 years with no problems at all with it. Mine has a high vac
deck a mulching blade with a mulching attachment that replaces the chute.

HTH,
Gloria

"tenplay" wrote in message
...
I have a large grassy weedy area that needs regular mowing. I went by
Sears last night and was floored with all the choices of mowers. Please
answer a few questions for me:

1. I am attracted to the self-propelled gas-powered models. What is
the advantage of a variable speed model over a single speed? The area
to mow is relatively flat with a couple of sizeable dips/depressions.

2. Most of them had Briggs-Stratton motors. One had a Honda motor.
The ones I am interested in are 5 to 7 hp with most being 6.5 hp. Any
thoughts on make and motor size?

3. Most had 21 inch cuts but a couple were 22 inches. It seems that
the 22 inch would do the work a little faster but may be less maneuverable.

4. Most had regular size wheels but a couple had large back wheels.
Would the bumpy terrain benefit much from the larger back wheels? Any
other benefits?

5. One had a push-button starter while most started by pulling a
rope-starter. A couple said that they started faster and easier because
of a some kind of "hotter engine" technology.

Guess those are my questions for now. They are all in the $250-400
price range. Thanks for your advice/suggestions.