Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower

After three seasons of wrestling with a hand-me-down mower that left my lawn looking like a patchy quilt, I finally decided it was time for an upgrade. What followed was a deep dive into the world of lawn mowers that I never expected would become my weekend obsession. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about the Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower – from features to maintenance – and why it ultimately earned its place in my garage.

The Search Begins

Let me start by confessing something: I’ve never been a “lawn guy.” I mow because I have to, not because I want to. At least, that’s how it used to be. My requirements were simple: I needed something reliable, not too expensive, and capable of handling my modest suburban lawn without turning yard work into an all-day affair.

When my old mower finally wheezed its last breath mid-cut (leaving half my front yard looking presentable and the other half resembling a mini meadow), I knew it was time. I spent weeks researching, comparing specs, and reading reviews before settling on the Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower. Finding the right balance between affordability and quality is the key to lawn care satisfaction, and that’s exactly what drew me to this particular model.

Features That Caught My Eye

The Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower isn’t flashy. It doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity or a cup holder (though that would be nice on hot summer days). What it does have is a solid set of features designed to get the job done efficiently.

First, let’s talk about the engine. The Bolens comes equipped with a reliable 140cc gasoline engine that strikes a nice balance between power and fuel efficiency. It’s got enough muscle to handle thicker grass without bogging down, but it’s not so powerful that it drinks gas like it’s going out of style. I’ve found that a single tank gets me through my entire quarter-acre lot with some to spare.

The 21-inch cutting deck is what initially drew me to this model. It’s wide enough to make quick work of straightaways but narrow enough to maneuver around my wife’s carefully cultivated flower beds without causing a domestic incident. The steel deck construction feels substantial – this isn’t one of those flimsy plastic mowers that feels like it might disintegrate if you hit a small rock.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the 3-in-1 capability. The Bolens allows for side discharge, mulching, or rear bagging without requiring any additional purchases. I tend to mulch in the spring when the grass is growing quickly (returning those nutrients to the soil) and bag in the fall when I’m dealing with leaves mixed in with the grass clippings.

Price Point and Value Proposition

Let’s address the elephant in the room – cost. At around $229-$279 depending on where you shop and whether there are any sales running, the Bolens sits firmly in the mid-range category for push mowers. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but it’s significantly more affordable than premium brands that can easily run $400+.

For what you get, I consider it excellent value. The build quality exceeds what you’d expect at this price point, and it offers features that are comparable to models costing $50-100 more. I’ve owned mine for two full seasons now, and it continues to start on the first or second pull, which is more than I can say for some pricier mowers my neighbors struggle with.

Where to Buy Your Bolens

If you’re considering picking up a Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower for yourself, you have several options. I purchased mine from Home Depot during their spring lawn care sale, which saved me about $30 off the regular price. They typically carry these in stock during the mowing season, though availability can vary by location.

Lowe’s also carries the Bolens line, and I’ve occasionally spotted them at Walmart as well. If you prefer online shopping, Amazon sells them with free shipping if you’re a Prime member. I’d recommend checking all these retailers and comparing prices before making your purchase, as they frequently run competing sales.

One advantage of buying from a brick-and-mortar store is the ability to have someone walk you through the initial setup if you’re not mechanically inclined. That said, assembly is straightforward enough that most people can handle it with just the included instructions.

Assembly: Easier Than Expected

When the box arrived, I initially felt that familiar dread that comes with the words “some assembly required.” However, I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the process was. The mower comes about 90% assembled – the main tasks are attaching the handle, connecting the pull cord, and setting up whichever collection method you plan to use (bag, mulch plug, or side discharge chute).

The entire assembly took me about 25 minutes, and the only tools I needed were a wrench and screwdriver. The instructions were clear and included helpful diagrams. One tip: take the time to properly adjust the handle height during assembly. Getting this right makes a huge difference in comfort during operation, especially if you’re taller or shorter than average.

Before first use, you’ll need to add the included oil (the engine ships dry) and fill the tank with fresh gasoline. I recommend using ethanol-free fuel if it’s available in your area, as it tends to cause fewer issues with small engines over time.

Fuel Requirements and Efficiency

Speaking of fuel, the Bolens runs on regular unleaded gasoline. The owner’s manual recommends 87 octane or higher, and as mentioned, ethanol-free is preferable if you can find it. The tank holds approximately 0.25 gallons, which doesn’t sound like much, but it’s surprisingly efficient.

I typically use about half a tank to mow my quarter-acre lot, meaning I can get two full mows from a single fill-up. This efficiency is a welcome change from my old mower, which seemed to run on fumes after just covering the front yard.

One important note about fuel: don’t let gasoline sit in the tank for extended periods. If you’re storing the mower for more than 30 days (like over winter), either use a fuel stabilizer or completely drain the system. Old fuel is the number one cause of starting problems in small engines, something I learned the hard way with previous mowers.

Starting Procedure: Almost Foolproof

Starting the Bolens is straightforward, following the typical procedure for gas push mowers. Here’s my routine:

1. Check the oil level (I do this before every third mow or so)
2. Fill with fresh gasoline if needed
3. Prime the engine with 3 pushes of the primer bulb
4. Hold the operator presence control bar against the handle
5. Pull the starter cord with a smooth, steady motion

In warm weather, mine typically starts on the first pull. On cooler days or after the first startup of the season, it might take 2-3 pulls. The pull itself isn’t particularly strenuous – I’ve had mowers in the past that felt like I was doing an upper body workout just to get them started.

The engine runs smoothly once it’s going, with minimal vibration through the handle. It’s not the quietest mower on the market, but it’s not deafeningly loud either – I can still hear my podcast playing through earbuds while mowing, though I do keep the volume higher than normal.

Cutting Height Adjustment: Versatility Matters

One feature I’ve come to appreciate is the cutting height adjustment system. The Bolens offers 6 different height settings, ranging from about 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. Adjusting between heights is handled through a single lever system – you don’t have to adjust each wheel individually like on some budget mowers.

This versatility comes in handy throughout the season. In early spring, I keep it at a middle setting to avoid shocking the grass as it’s coming out of dormancy. During the peak growing season, I raise it to about 3 inches, which helps the lawn better withstand the summer heat. Then in fall, I gradually lower it back down for the final few cuts of the season.

The adjustment lever itself is sturdy and stays in place once set. This might seem like a small detail, but I’ve used mowers where the height would shift during operation due to flimsy adjustment mechanisms, resulting in uneven cuts.

Mulching Capability: A Pleasant Surprise

I wasn’t expecting much from the mulching feature, as lower-priced mowers often struggle in this department. However, the Bolens has proven to be quite capable when it comes to mulching grass clippings.

The mulching blade effectively chops clippings into fine pieces that disappear into the lawn rather than sitting on top in unsightly clumps. This works best when the grass is dry and not overly tall – if you’re cutting more than a third of the grass height at once, or if it’s damp, you might want to use the bag attachment instead.

The mulch plug that blocks the rear discharge when mulching fits securely and doesn’t rattle or come loose during operation. Switching between mulching and bagging takes less than a minute once you get the hang of it.

The Grass Bag: Capacity and Functionality

The included grass bag is generously sized with approximately a 1.9-bushel capacity. On my lawn, I can make a complete pass front-to-back before needing to empty it, which helps maintain momentum during mowing.

The bag attaches easily to the rear of the mower, with a rigid top frame that helps keep it open while collecting clippings. The fabric is durable enough to withstand being dragged across the occasional rock or root without tearing. After two seasons of regular use, mine shows minimal wear and tear.

One design aspect I appreciate is how completely the bag fills before needing to be emptied. Some mowers I’ve used would fill unevenly or leave substantial empty space, but the Bolens’ airflow system does a good job of directing clippings all the way to the back of the bag.

Emptying is straightforward – the bag has a handle on top for carrying to your compost pile or yard waste bin. Just be mindful that a full bag can get quite heavy, especially when the clippings are damp.

Weight and Maneuverability

The Bolens weighs in at approximately 62 pounds, which puts it in the middle range for gas push mowers. It’s substantial enough to feel stable and maintain good contact with the ground, but not so heavy that it becomes difficult to push.

Since this is a manual push mower (not self-propelled), the weight matters. I find it requires moderate effort to push on flat terrain, and a bit more work on slight inclines. For context, I’m in average physical condition, and I can mow my entire yard without feeling exhausted afterward.

The 7-inch front wheels and 8-inch rear wheels help with maneuverability. The slightly larger rear wheels make it easier to tilt and turn at the end of each pass. The wheel design also includes decent tread that helps maintain traction on damp grass without tearing up the lawn.

Performance on Various Terrains

My yard is mostly flat with a gentle slope in the backyard, so I can’t speak to how the Bolens handles severe hills. On moderate inclines, it performs adequately, though you’ll definitely feel the workout in your legs and core by the end.

Where this mower really shines is on flat, even terrain. It tracks straight, cuts evenly, and is easy to maneuver around obstacles. The 21-inch deck width strikes a good balance for most suburban yards – wide enough to be efficient but narrow enough to navigate between landscape features.

For those with hilly yards, be honest with yourself about your physical condition. Without the assistance of a self-propelled system, pushing any mower uphill repeatedly can be challenging. If your property has significant slopes, you might want to consider stepping up to a self-propelled model, even though it will come with a higher price tag.

Manual vs. Self-Propelled Considerations

The Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower is a manual push model, meaning you provide all the locomotion. This design choice helps keep the price down and reduces mechanical complexity, which translates to fewer things that can potentially break.

For yards under half an acre that are relatively flat, a manual push mower like this one is perfectly adequate. The exercise aspect is actually a bonus for me – I track my mowing as a workout on my fitness app, and it typically registers as burning about 300-400 calories per session.

If you’re on the fence between this manual model and spending more for a self-propelled version, consider your yard size, terrain, and physical condition honestly. The money saved initially might not be worth the extra effort if you dread mowing because it’s too physically demanding.

Comparative Analysis with Other 21-Inch Mowers

I researched several comparable 21-inch mowers before settling on the Bolens, including models from Craftsman, Murray, and Troy-Bilt in a similar price range.

The Bolens stands out in a few areas: The steel deck feels more substantial than some competitors’ plastic decks, and the engine seems quieter than several comparably priced options. The cutting quality is on par with mowers costing $50-75 more, which was a pleasant surprise.

Where some competitors have an edge is in features like wash-out ports for cleaning under the deck (the Bolens lacks this) or slightly larger engines (some competitors offer 150-160cc engines at a similar price point).

The Troy-Bilt TB100, for example, is very similar in specifications and typically priced within $20 of the Bolens. The Craftsman M105 offers a slightly more powerful engine but tends to cost about $30-40 more. Neither difference was significant enough to sway me away from the Bolens, which had better local availability when I was ready to purchase.

Warranty Coverage and Support

The Bolens comes with a 2-year limited warranty, which is standard for this price range. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, though normal wear items like the blade and air filter are excluded.

I haven’t had to use the warranty service, so I can’t speak to how responsive they are. The owner’s manual includes contact information for support, and there’s also an online portal for warranty registration and service requests.

One thing to note is that Bolens is manufactured by MTD Products, a major player in outdoor power equipment that also makes Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Cub Cadet mowers. This corporate backing provides some reassurance that parts and support should remain available for the foreseeable future.

Replacement Parts and Accessories

Speaking of parts, replacement blades for the Bolens are readily available at most home improvement stores and online retailers. A replacement blade typically costs between $15-25 depending on where you purchase it. I recommend keeping a spare on hand, as a dull or damaged blade significantly impacts cutting performance.

Other common replacement parts like air filters (around $5-10) and spark plugs ($3-5) are also easy to find. The standardized design means you’re not locked into proprietary, expensive components.

As for accessories, while the mower comes with everything needed for basic operation, you might consider a few add-ons:

• A blade balancer tool ($5-10) is helpful if you sharpen your own blades
• A gas can with no-spill spout ($15-20) makes refueling cleaner and easier
• A mower cover ($20-30) if you store it outside or in a dusty garage

Blade Maintenance and Sharpening

A sharp blade makes a tremendous difference in cutting quality and reduces strain on the engine. I’ve developed a routine of sharpening my blade twice per season – once at the start and again mid-summer.

You have two options for blade maintenance: DIY sharpening or professional service. If you’re comfortable with basic tools, sharpening the blade yourself is straightforward:

1. Disconnect the spark plug for safety
2. Tilt the mower on its side (air filter side up to prevent oil issues)
3. Remove the blade bolt with a socket wrench
4. Secure the blade in a vise and use a metal file to restore the cutting edge
5. Check the balance using a blade balancer tool
6. Reinstall and tighten to specifications (typically 35-40 ft-lbs)

If you prefer professional service, most lawn equipment shops offer blade sharpening for $10-15. Some hardware stores also provide this service, though you may need to leave the blade for a day or two.

Common Problems and Solutions

After two seasons with the Bolens and countless conversations with other owners and lawn equipment mechanics, I’ve identified a few common issues that might arise and their solutions:

1. Starting difficulty: Usually caused by old fuel or a dirty air filter. Always use fresh gasoline and change the air filter annually.
2. Uneven cutting: Most often due to a dull or bent blade, or incorrect deck height adjustment. Inspect and sharpen/replace the blade as needed.
3. Excessive vibration: Could indicate a blade balance issue or loose hardware. Check and tighten all accessible bolts and ensure the blade is properly balanced.
4. Engine surging: Typically relates to carburetor issues. Try running a fuel system cleaner through a tank of gas, or have the carburetor cleaned professionally if the problem persists.
5. Smoke from the engine: Blue smoke usually means oil is burning, possibly from overfilling or storing the mower improperly. Black smoke typically indicates the air-fuel mixture is too rich.

Most of these issues are common to all gas mowers, not just the Bolens, and are relatively simple to address with basic maintenance.

Maintenance Schedule

To keep your Bolens running smoothly, I recommend following this maintenance schedule:

Every use:

• Check oil level
• Clear debris from deck and air intake
• Inspect blade for damage

Monthly:

• Check air filter for cleanliness
• Tighten any loose hardware
• Clean underside of deck

Annually:

• Change the oil (after first 5 hours of use, then annually)
• Replace air filter
• Replace spark plug
• Sharpen or replace blade
• Clean fuel system

This might sound like a lot, but each task only takes a few minutes, and they’re not all needed at once. The annual maintenance can be completed in about an hour once you’re familiar with the process.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Based on my research before purchasing and conversations since, the Bolens enjoys generally positive reviews. On major retailer websites, it typically scores between 4.0-4.3 out of 5 stars.

Common praise points include reliability, value for money, and ease of assembly. Critical reviews most frequently mention the manual push design being strenuous on larger properties or hills (which is a matter of matching the right mower to your needs rather than a design flaw).

One recurring positive comment is the mower’s ability to handle taller grass without bogging down – apparently many comparable models struggle more in this regard. This has matched my experience; when returning from vacation to an overgrown lawn, the Bolens handled the challenge admirably, though I did need to take narrower passes than usual.

Is the Bolens Right for Your Lawn?

After sharing all this information, the question remains: Is this the right mower for your specific needs? Here’s my breakdown to help you decide:

The Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower is ideal for:

• Yards up to 1/2 acre in size
• Relatively flat terrain
• Budget-conscious homeowners who don’t need fancy features
• Those willing to do basic maintenance
• People who don’t mind (or who appreciate) the exercise of pushing a mower

You might want to consider alternatives if:

• Your yard exceeds 1/2 acre (consider a riding mower)
• You have significant hills (look at self-propelled options)
• You have physical limitations that make pushing difficult
• You need specialized features like electric start

Final Thoughts: Two Seasons Later

After two full seasons with my Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower, I remain satisfied with my purchase. It continues to start reliably, cut evenly, and handle my lawn maintenance needs without drama.

Is it the fanciest mower on the block? No. But it’s dependable, serviceable, and represents excellent value for money. The simplicity of its design means fewer components to break down, and the quality of its essential functions – cutting grass efficiently – remains impressive at this price point.

Finding the right balance between affordability and quality is the key to lawn care satisfaction, and for my needs, the Bolens hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s taught me that you don’t need to spend top dollar to get a tool that performs its job well.

Would I buy it again? Absolutely. And for many homeowners with modest lawns and realistic expectations, I believe the Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower deserves serious consideration. Sometimes the middle-of-the-road option turns out to be exactly what you need.

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner looking for your initial mower purchase or a seasoned lawn care veteran seeking a reliable replacement without breaking the bank, the Bolens 21 Inch Push Mower offers a compelling blend of performance, durability, and value that’s hard to beat in today’s market.