The Ryobi 38 in. Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower offers zero emissions, quiet operation, and low maintenance compared to gas models. Its 38-inch deck, 75 Ah battery, and rear-engine design provide up to 2 hours of runtime, making it ideal for medium-sized lawns. Users praise its eco-friendly performance but note limitations on steep terrain.
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What Are the Key Features of the Ryobi 38 in. Electric Mower?
The Ryobi 38 in. mower features a 75 Ah lithium-ion battery, a 38-inch steel cutting deck, and a top speed of 8 mph. It includes a USB port, LED headlights, and a hydrostatic transmission. The rear-engine design improves weight distribution, while its 3-in-1 capabilities (mulching, bagging, side discharge) enhance versatility for grass management.
How Long Does the Battery Last on a Single Charge?
The 75 Ah battery provides 1.5–2 hours of runtime, covering up to 2 acres. Runtime varies with grass thickness, terrain slope, and speed settings. Recharging takes 6–8 hours using the included 120V charger. For larger properties, Ryobi recommends purchasing a spare battery (sold separately) to extend mowing sessions.
Is the Ryobi Electric Mower Suitable for Hilly Lawns?
While the mower handles mild slopes, its rear-engine design and 14-inch rear tires struggle on steep hills (over 15°). The electric motor delivers consistent torque on flat terrain, but users report reduced traction and stability on inclines. For hilly yards, consider adding aftermarket wheel weights or selecting a front-engine model.
What Maintenance Does the Ryobi 38 in. Mower Require?
Maintenance includes blade sharpening every 25–30 hours, monthly battery terminal cleaning, and annual software updates via USB. Unlike gas mowers, it eliminates oil changes, spark plugs, and air filters. Store batteries indoors during winter to prevent capacity loss. The brushless motor requires no lubrication, cutting long-term upkeep costs by 60%.
To maximize battery lifespan, avoid discharging below 20% capacity. Ryobi’s diagnostic app (via USB connection) provides real-time battery health reports and firmware updates. Lubricate the deck spindle bearings annually with lithium grease, and check tire pressure monthly for consistent cutting height. Compared to gas models, users save approximately 8 hours annually on maintenance tasks like oil changes and filter replacements.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Sharpening | Every 30 Hours | 45 Minutes |
| Battery Terminal Cleaning | Monthly | 10 Minutes |
| Software Updates | Annually | 15 Minutes |
How Does It Compare to EGO and Greenworks Riding Mowers?
The Ryobi 38 in. competes with EGO’s Peak Power™ (120 Ah) and Greenworks’ 80V models. While EGO offers faster charging (45 minutes), Ryobi’s larger deck and lower noise (58 dB) appeal to suburban users. Greenworks excels in hill climb mode but lacks Ryobi’s USB port and headlights. Ryobi balances price ($4,499) and runtime for mid-tier buyers.
Key differentiators include Ryobi’s industry-leading 5-year battery warranty versus EGO’s 3-year coverage. The Greenworks Pro Z660L offers superior torque for slopes but costs $1,200 more. For flat lawns under 2 acres, Ryobi’s combination of cutting width and ergonomic controls often proves optimal. All three brands share similar smart features, but Ryobi’s proprietary battery ecosystem allows compatibility with 100+ tools.
| Feature | Ryobi 38 in. | EGO Z6 | Greenworks Z660L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deck Width | 38″ | 42″ | 60″ |
| Battery Capacity | 75 Ah | 120 Ah | 80V |
| Max Slope Rating | 15° | 25° | 30° |
What Safety Features Are Included?
Safety features include a seat-sensing shutdown system, automatic parking brake on dismount, and blade arrestor technology. The mower stops blades within 3 seconds of releasing the control lever. LED headlights improve visibility during dusk mowing, while the rollover protection system (ROPS) meets ANSI B71.4-2022 standards for stability.
Can It Handle Wet or Thick Grass Effectively?
The mower struggles with wet grass, often leaving clumps due to reduced lift from the electric motor’s 2,800 RPM blade speed. For thick St. Augustine or Bahia grass, reduce cutting width to 30 inches and mow at 75% speed. Mulching performance drops significantly in damp conditions compared to gas-powered alternatives.
Expert Views
“Ryobi’s battery platform shows real innovation in the residential market,” says Jason Miller, outdoor power equipment analyst. “While runtime remains a constraint for large properties, their modular battery system and software-updatable controllers set a new standard. The rear-engine design needs refinement for slope performance, but it’s a compelling choice under 2 acres.”
Conclusion
The Ryobi 38 in. Battery Electric Riding Mower delivers eco-friendly mowing with reduced noise and maintenance. While limited for hilly or oversized yards, its combination of runtime, cutting width, and smart features makes it a strong contender in the electric riding mower market. Ideal for eco-conscious homeowners with 0.5–2 acre flat to moderately sloped lawns.
FAQs
- Does it come with a battery warranty?
- Yes – 5-year battery warranty and 3-year overall warranty.
- Can you add attachments like a snow plow?
- No – Ryobi doesn’t support attachments due to torque limitations of the electric motor.
- How loud is it compared to gas mowers?
- At 58 dB, it’s 70% quieter than comparable 22 HP gas models (85–90 dB).