These days, it's not uncommon to find a self-propelled rear-wheel-drive mower at an affordable price, but finding both a rear-wheel drive and more than one speed on a self-propelled mower at such a price point is anything but common. This is, however, exactly what you get with the Troy-Bilt TB1083 XP, which is equipped with SelectSpeed variable transmission. Rear-wheel drive provides the traction that you need for all types of mowing conditions, and the SelectSpeed transmission gives you greater versatility; instead of being confined to just one speed, you use a lever to select and set the precise speed control you need. It's like driving a car -- you typically use slower speeds for city driving and faster speeds on the freeway. When it comes to the lawn, you might slow down when turning, trimming beds or maneuvering around other obstacles, then pick up the pace when you have a nice open stretch of grass.

This model's versatility also comes in the form of a 21-inch heavy-duty steel deck that offers a 3-in-1 disposal. This way, you can choose to mulch your clippings, send them through the side chute or expel clippings to the 2.3-bushel rear grass bag. Conversion between cutting operations is simple and takes just seconds; the rear discharge door springs into place when you want to mulch or side-discharge your clippings, and putting on the bag is simple as it easily hooks in place on a pivot rod. We also find the wide-mouth bag to be faster and easier to empty than others. An ergonomic handle is outfitted with a comfort grip, which makes it easy on the hands

The TB1083 XP's engine provides plenty of power via a 190cc/6.75 foot-pounds gross torque Briggs & Stratton engine. The mower starts in two pulls or less -- as stipulated by the included Briggs & Stratton starting promise -- and the recoil starter is as easy to use as it is to reach. (Some models we've tested have their recoil starter located lower on the handlebar than others, making it harder to reach.) Another feature we like is the single-lever cutting height adjuster, which easily raises and lowers cutting heights from 1.5 to 4 inches; this is a welcome alternative to having an individual lever for each wheel, especially if said levers are hard to access.

We like the TB1083 XP for its simple starting and ease of use. Any way you cut it, this is a contender worth considering.


Pros: Rear-wheel drive, SelectSpeed variable transmission, 3-in-1 operation, wide-mouth bag, high-torque engine, starting promise, single-lever deck height adjustment, fully assembled
Cons: Round-blade control bail as opposed to flat

Warranty
2 years, limited