The 20090 is a manual-push model in Toro's top-of-the-line series of Super Recycler mowers and is, indeed, an impressive lawn-management machine. The Super Recycler series is defined by its eponymous cutting system, which efficiently mulches clippings in order to spread nutrients back into the lawn. Now, mulching systems are fairly standard on most high-end mowers, but the Super Recycler utilizes a veneered cutting blade, clipping accelerator and kickers to pulverize the clippings; this saves the time it takes to bag or rake, in addition to adding the aforementioned nutritional benefits. When you don't want to mulch, it is simple to convert to an effective side-discharge system.

We like the no-prime, no-choke Ready Start system; it's a big time-saver when you simply want to get to work. Once you get down to the job, the mower is a pleasure to push; the Briggs & Stratton 190cc 4-cycle side-valve engine provides smooth, constant power with 6.75 foot-pounds of gross torque. You can push the mower over lawns that feature a wide variety of grasses and varied terrains with few problems. The 20090's deck height is easy to adjust and offers a lot of variety, as you can choose to cut from 1.25 to 4.25 inches.

After you finish mowing with the 20090, you can take advantage of the Quick Wash washout port, an innovative-yet-simple feature that we wish was standard on all mowers. To flush all those grass clippings out of the blades and under the deck, simply plug a garden hose into this port and turn on the water; this feature makes it possible for the 20090 to perform better after each use, with minimal effort assigned to the user.

This machine is fairly light at 69 pounds and is quite easy to store, since you can fold the Quick Change storage handle back and stash the machine upright; this is a big plus if you have an overcrowded garage or shed. The 5-year warranty makes this mower a smart long-term investment, and the Super Care membership that comes free with Super Recycler mowers (if you fill out the warranty card) offers 24/7 Web support, a dedicated toll-free phone number for service and warranty questions and $25 in coupons. SuperCare also provides 5 years of free blade sharpening.

So what's not to like? Well, it is a bit difficult to shell out this kind of money for a push mower, but it makes sense to us to spend more for a machine that performs better and is guaranteed to last longer than mowers that are less reliable in both regards.


Pros: Easy to start, easy to push, large range of cut heights, mulching system, easy to store, long warranty, dedicated customer support
Cons: Relatively expensive