Flymo XL500 Petrol/Gasoline Hover Mower Review. Honda Engine.

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 4 ส.ค. 2024
  • This is a review of the Flymo XL500 petrol hover mower. It is powered by a 4 stroke 5.5hp Honda engine. In the review I discuss the mower and the wheel transportation attachment. Watch the mower on steep inclines and see how it can be difficult to control. Find out how easy it is to start and see it dealing with difficult terrain.

ความคิดเห็น • 311

  • @goranfurstedt9951
    @goranfurstedt9951 8 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    First time i saw a Flymo was in the middle of the 60's, a relative of mine cut a steep slope by moving the flymover from side to side like a pendulum, it was amazing to see.

  • @PacoOtis
    @PacoOtis 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for your video! Well done! I remember here in the States in the 70's the JC Penney stores carried a "hover mower" but it didn't sell as they hoped. Best of luck!

  • @swiftjustice44
    @swiftjustice44 9 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    I had one for years. The coolest is to mow side to side like a floor polisher. Freaks people out.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  9 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      swiftjustice44 Yes, they are fun to use!!

    • @BigRedtheGinger
      @BigRedtheGinger 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      That's something I'd probably do lol

    • @gavinmcvey8177
      @gavinmcvey8177 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      The Honda four stroke is two heavy the old flymo two stroke was the only one's you could go side to side with and use with one hand because it hovers I had a flymo domestic l400 great but obsolete now it's a shame

  • @martianshoes
    @martianshoes 8 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    A lawn service I worked for had one of these for banked terrain; best results when you stand at the highest point and mow down.

    • @donaldreitsma6419
      @donaldreitsma6419 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Until you slip on wet grass. Dangerous!

  • @dustycase7189
    @dustycase7189 10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    they where made as a greens mower for around ponds they came with snorkels back in the 70's and early 80's mine is a 79 with a tecumseh engine just love that there is no wheel marks left on the lawn

  • @hoverhead047
    @hoverhead047 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great review Russel, I had a GL47 with the 2 stroke engine for 10 years. It was used on a lightly sloping back yard and and extreme sloping front yard. The trick for the extreme slope (and was as per the instructions) was to stand at the top of the slope above the mower and swing it from side to side. In any case it is unwise to stand below it and push it up hill. Electrolux stopped selling the petrol Flymo in OZ and I was greatly disappointed not to be able to replace my Flymo with another.

  • @foreverdroningon
    @foreverdroningon ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have used the two stroke version of this mower many times. I found that cutting high banks was easier using a rope and walking along the top of the bank lowering and raising the mower as I went along. I am hoping to buy a four stroke version tomorrow. I intend to convert it to run on propane like my other mowers so four stroke is essential as there is no way to add oil to the propane of course. Nice review thank you..

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  ปีที่แล้ว

      You can't beat a four stroke! :-)

    • @foreverdroningon
      @foreverdroningon ปีที่แล้ว

      @@RussellPlatten I picked up my new mower yesterday (sunday). Took it the house I am moving into which has not been cared for for a couple of years. Brilliant results. Absolutely chuffed to bits with it.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, it is a good mower! :-)

  • @richardfinlay7968
    @richardfinlay7968 10 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Thanks for the review Russell. I had the 2stoke model Flymo for 20 years - it was light and easy to use. If you kept it serviced it started easily and you could drop it down banks with a rope on the handle.
    12 months ago I bought this new model with the Honda engine. My view is that it is a great disappointment. It is very heavy (and in NZ you cannot get the wheels) On slopes I think it is dangerous because trying to go across the slope it is almost impossible to keep it going in straight lines.
    After about 20 hours of use (whilst it was still under warranty), an inlet or exhaust valve stuck and Husqvarna didn't want to know, they put all the blame on Honda and my dealer had to talk to them. It took 10 weeks to fix then after another 2 hours of use the con rod came through the side of the block and the oil went all over my lawn.
    They have now fitted an complete new motor, and today will be the first day of use.
    I wish Flymo had never stopped making the 2 stroke version, it was fantastic.
    I could never recommend this new version to anyone

    • @luchaDor
      @luchaDor 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      +Richard Finlay Yes, the 2 Stroke was lighter and better than the big heavy 4-stroke & wheel kit attached. Its not even 'flying' in this video, its sliding on the ground...the original version you could let the handle go and it would fly & mow randomly around the yard. This one doesn't move unless someone's pushing...

    • @s1914
      @s1914 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Richard Finlay interesting review, I've also used a two stroke version many times but am concerned a lot of people do say this Honda engine is heavy. Do you still have yours?

    • @ianjones4116
      @ianjones4116 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Still got my 2stroke , still going strong, love it.

  • @bigturkey1122
    @bigturkey1122 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have virtually the same model. But a husqavana model. Great video and back up everything you say. My only tip is keep cleaning the grass away from the bottom of the engine as it needs to suck air in to float. If you keep cutting grass it gets very hard to push when it gets covered. Enjoy

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      nick coaten Good advice regarding the grass clearance Nick, it certainly does make a difference. My wife was the one to suss this out in our house and she keeps telling me off for not removing it! Thank you for your comment.

  • @MacPakinga-gl8bu
    @MacPakinga-gl8bu 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Aww nice finally 😮 petrol flymo thankyou for sharing 👍🏼 handals great on the hill side & slopes 👍🏼

  • @riphaven
    @riphaven 8 ปีที่แล้ว +80

    Here in the states we put wheels on each corner, it seems to make it easier to use. Cheers.

    • @MarcMac04
      @MarcMac04 8 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      It just seems to, but at the use, you could see that this is more practical with an air cushion ;)

    • @nyedormro3511
      @nyedormro3511 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      not so! had one for many years and hate wheeled mowers now. Stay on the upside of a slope and let it hang down.
      Not dangerous at all. Where can I get a new Flymo?

    • @photographylover1238
      @photographylover1238 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Flymos are extremely easy to use. They are way better on wet grass and hilly lawns than lawn mowers with wheels are. Wheeled lawn mowers kind of do feel a bit restricted once you have owned a Flymo.

    • @dirtyfofdilligaf3526
      @dirtyfofdilligaf3526 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree but when you have a drainage issue that the county won't fix......FLYMOW is the way to go or you will have black muddy lines all in your low lying areas.

    • @garethwigglesworth8187
      @garethwigglesworth8187 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@photographylover1238 from my experience you have to man handle flymos which makes cutting the grass a choir.

  • @holzwolf
    @holzwolf 8 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Where do I begin, well firstly I should read the instruction book if I were you! I reckon they should supply a booklet on "how to mow with a hover" so the uninitiated could understand the advantages of using a hover mower. When these things came about, they were a contractors mower due to their versatility. We used them to mow the grass over the fuel dumps on the RAF bases, yeah, no less than 45 degrees. The sliding down the slope is because you're not letting the mower work for you - you've already noticed that it cuts in any direction, well stand top of slope and trail the mower sideways along it, simples. I don't know why you spent money on wheels, drop handle, turn on side, (air filter up) and carry by side of handle, like a suitcase. By the by, I have the husky badged one.

    • @martinbenton5235
      @martinbenton5235 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      holzwolf seems to me after watching other videos, he needs to flip the handle over so the "bill" on the deck is forward not bsckward.

    • @ShayGlenn
      @ShayGlenn 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for this buddy 👍 Do you find it mulches the Grass well?

    • @tomthompson7400
      @tomthompson7400 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      in the good old days these were two stroke , and could cut anywhere ,,, as mebtioned above , the dodge was to use half the handle , tied to a rope , stand at the top of a bank , and mow from side to side ,,, best bit ,,, no grass box to empty , and no sweeping up ,,, just mow the path last

    • @raymondfoster219
      @raymondfoster219 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      yep we had one in the 60s. I would have been 8 and volunteered, was paid 2 bob. it was floating off the ground cut the right height ,the cut grass just went back into the lawn. rope tied to each side of the handle I could get a pendulum effect on the hill. i was designing a ride on one. was forbidden because I might kill myself. killjoys

    • @ianjones4116
      @ianjones4116 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      LMFAO when he nearly flung it over, starting it up, mowing uphill dragging the extra weight of wheel set.
      I was in tears.
      Had mine over 15yrs and it looks it por thing. But still starts easy cuts and most importantly floats .. No wheels.

  • @danielmarshall4587
    @danielmarshall4587 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Liked it yes thank you. I'm not in the market for a mower that size, though I can see the advantage of petrol rather than electric straight away. Again thank you for your time and effort all the best.

  • @davidhaw9667
    @davidhaw9667 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've had an earlier version (two-stroke engine) for 23years and it has been serviced just twice, yet this morning it roared into life and did my flat lawn of about 500sq yards in fifteen minutes. Where I used to live it had a far greater area of rougher grass and terrain to cut, including steep bankings where I tied a rope to the handle to let it down the banking and then pulled it back etc. It's done many miles of hard work and has been totally reliable. No wheels with mine, and it will have to be changed soon because the body is, not surprisingly, developing a significant crack. However it has been a wonderful investment and I looked in to this demo to see about buying another - I will!
    Thanks for the demo, Russell.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for your comment David. I am still very happy with my Flymo!

  • @d.hansel854
    @d.hansel854 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I remember this mower from the 80's. It was built like a hover craft.
    The only bad thing is when it bogged down it dropped down and scalped
    your yard.
    I think I will stay with my Snapper 42" Yard Cruiser.

  • @zacembleton3402
    @zacembleton3402 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    i would say hardly the finest mower out there and difficult to control but does do a nice job when you come to be familiar with it, seeing you cut on that slope was hilarious!

  • @24hourstosavethearth
    @24hourstosavethearth 8 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    You are correct, it does say which way it should be tilted for servicing the blade, however you tilted it the wrong way!

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  8 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      +Graham Blake Thanks Graham, I know. Someone else also pointed out my school boy error!

    • @loooseunit
      @loooseunit 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ...... and did you end up with oil all over your air filter like I did ?

  • @seanbarnes9021
    @seanbarnes9021 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love mine. Greatest thing for hill sides because of its ability to mow side to side.

  • @jonienglish3231
    @jonienglish3231 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    good review
    i am using a 20v Dewalt electric trimmer and blower , just switched from gas 2 stroke trimmer
    lawnmowers is Lawnboy 22271 brand
    also have a older 2 stroke 10601 lawnboy very lite

  • @SANDSCORCHER
    @SANDSCORCHER 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent review Sir. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
    Thank you so much for going to the effort of making this vid and sharing it😎👍🏻
    Do you find that you get any lumbar discomfort from extended use of your petrol flymo?
    I'm considering one, but have a prolapsed disc in my lumbar spine, so conventional mowing is very painful very quickly, owing to the inherent loading of the lower back, especially when tall, like myself.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I have a slipped disc and find it easier than a self propelled mower as I use mine for rougher ground. I do not use it for prolonged lengths of time though, so I cannot say whether it would cause issues if I used it for longer periods. The good thing about this mower is that it goes wherever you push it and you are not constantly fighting the wheels to turn it. :-)

  • @1digitalwatcher697
    @1digitalwatcher697 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I was considering one but after watching this no, thank you for the demonstration.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      LOL, I wouldn't be without mine. It's a brilliant bit of kit! :-)

    • @1digitalwatcher697
      @1digitalwatcher697 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      for you, thank you

  • @zestydude87
    @zestydude87 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    It looks like a great concept. The flatter the lawn the better i would imagine.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes. it is much easier on the flat. I prefer it on the slopes to the self propelled mower I had before it, but it has to be used vertically up and down. My wife finds it way too heavy for normal use and she is not one to complain. Personally I think it is a good mower.

    • @MarcMac04
      @MarcMac04 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, great Concept. I use Flymo since the eighties (know it since the seventies when my father bought it's first one) and wouldn't use another one.
      For the slopes, it's just a question of practice: once aquired, you'll find it more easy then a mower with weels. If you want to go horizontal, don't follow the mower but walk higher then it , with the handle at about 90 degrees of the direction you walk (sorry if my english is not perfect, hope you understand).
      I'm from belgium, and don't find Petrol Hover Flymo more, even no 47cm electric ones... No more than 40 cm. Is it possible to find it in England?

    • @MarcMac04
      @MarcMac04 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      MarcMac04 I answer to myself: it seems that, if we want a petrol Flymo in Belgium, we must bought a Husqvarna GX 560, witch is a Flymo with the badge or Husqvarna, from the same commercial group.
      I'm happy having finding that, because I prefer this option vs the one witch consists of buying a similar model from another manufacturer (yes it exists) because I prefer buying the original vs the copy :)

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Your English is very good Marc! I have found it easier the more I use it. I tried tying a rope onto the handle for the steep bits, but this leads to other problems and I made the decision that mowing them the way I showed in the video was best for me.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      I had a look at the Husqvarna GX 560 and it certainly looks like the same machine. I did a bit more digging around and Husqvarna own Flymo. so it probably is exactly the same mower! You learn something every day! Thank you for your comments Marc.

  • @ky5958
    @ky5958 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I remember in the late 70's my dad had a Flymo and when he start cutting the grass the neighbors would swarm around. Problem with the Flymo was that it would cut the grass too short and my dad quit cutting the grass with it and just use it for blowing the grass off the sidewalk and driveway.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      They were very popular in the '60s and '70s :-)

  • @tlw2585
    @tlw2585 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Oddly enough allen wrenches will fit star bits, unless they are anti theft. This is the first time I've heard of this and its really cool.

  • @Burps___
    @Burps___ 8 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    Thank you for this informative video. I will avoid the Flymo like the plague.

  • @ajkingy
    @ajkingy 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    is the mower fixed speed ?I noticed that it has a choke and throttle cable but if it hovers it must be a fixed speed , does the control lever on the left hand side do anything ?

    • @ladygardener100
      @ladygardener100 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      it cuts the engine and it operates the choke, as any throttle control

  • @deanemerick2829
    @deanemerick2829 10 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Russ,from all your buddies in the Forties field including Jimmy Faulds.What about the PPE?

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Cheers Dean, give my regards to the guys! Tell jim that GT5 is still going strong and was put to good use over Christmas during the power cuts! PPE - Aye, you've got me there. Must do better! Thanks for watching.

  • @MrRockliff
    @MrRockliff 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Does it really hover?? I used to own the 2 stoke version and it was a beast. Saw this had come out and wondered or it was good enough to a bee apiary? Is it any good on ruff ground?

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      It does hover Christopher and I much prefer it to the self propelled mower I had before it. It is great on rough ground, I posted another video showing it in action if you are interested. It is still hard work, but the mower is so much easier to manoeuvre than wheeled mowers. We use it regularly. :-)

  • @EdensSecret1
    @EdensSecret1 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    great vid mate better than anything i have seen on here what did you pay for the mower ? i have seen one for £375. New

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for your kind comment. I paid about £400 for it if I remember rightly.

  • @skad4life1965
    @skad4life1965 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    On a longer, steep slope I always attached a rope with two half hitches and used it like a pendulum.

  • @bungalowfeuhler1541
    @bungalowfeuhler1541 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    How was cleaning the oil out of your air filter after you flipped it on the wrong side?

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Luckily I never had an issue. :-)

  • @1blackbug
    @1blackbug 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’m too attached to my 1987 John Deere 14PB and wheels, looks like it gives the lawn a crew cut. How do you control cutting height?

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      There are spacers above the blade. I have it set to cut the grass as short as possible. :-)

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      There are spacers above the blade. I have it set to cut the grass as short as possible. :-)

  • @steviedoes2421
    @steviedoes2421 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    What sprinklers?

  • @RussellPlatten
    @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for your comment. I thought long and hard about where to stand on the slope and tried it both ways on another section of the garden with a steeper incline; I came to the conclusion that it is harder to fall uphill that it is down. I reckon I need to do what Georgey1012 said and tie a rope to it. I hope you manage to find another petrol hover mower down under! All the very best, Russell.

    • @firstname9987
      @firstname9987 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Russell Platten you Twit looks like you’ve never handled a mower in you’re life

  • @supertrinigamer
    @supertrinigamer 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    it looks cute

  • @spiff2268
    @spiff2268 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Do they still make these? I remember seeing the commercials in the early 80s and thinking how cool they are if they actually worked.

  • @funfreq9282
    @funfreq9282 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Interesting mower, looks like a pretty good workout! definitely not for the out of shape individuel.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      It is not too bad on the flat and I find it much easier on inclines. :-)

  • @JB-qj6jh
    @JB-qj6jh 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    never seen those add on wheels before,well not in the UK anyways its a lil beast that haha,their meant to be the best for sloped grass verges

  • @RussellPlatten
    @RussellPlatten  11 ปีที่แล้ว

    Cheers.

  • @BIGBADWOOD
    @BIGBADWOOD 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    And for the average "home owner" their was the Ho-mow mower it came in rainbow colors !

  • @frankartieta6752
    @frankartieta6752 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    It took a minute for me to understand this ! No rolling resistance !

  • @ayp1938
    @ayp1938 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    In the US
    we call that a star head bolt!

  • @gearbarrel6237
    @gearbarrel6237 8 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    i never even knew such a thing existed. I am so frustrated with the lawn mowers I've purchased over the last 3 yrs. They all break after a few months it seems. Anyone have a suggestions for a Self propelled mower under $400 that will last 3-4 yrs perhaps. Thanks

    • @MoesKeckeEcke
      @MoesKeckeEcke 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      "Wolf Garden" Red and yellow they seliger for Sure :-) Mine gasoline one is 1992 and still running ...prepare for a price Shock or buy a Honda mower, the do complete units not Engine only

    • @janinewetzler5037
      @janinewetzler5037 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Read Stephen King's 'The Lawnmower Man' short story before wishing you had a self propelled one !

    • @jamesdagmond
      @jamesdagmond 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Just get one with a Honda motor. that is the key.

    • @BenTheRed1
      @BenTheRed1 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      A lot of the time it has to do with the ethanol in the fuel that comes out of the pump now days. If possible buy 100% gasoline for your small engines. Its usually labeled Marine fuel at the gas station.

    • @armandolanda5082
      @armandolanda5082 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Check & change oil level, air flow filter, and spark plug regularly, and use decent quality fuel. Should last years.

  • @TwoTall1988
    @TwoTall1988 8 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    So it has 2 height settings? Scalp your lawn and scalp it a little less?

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  8 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      +Jacob Sorensen The grass starts off long and ends up short, perfect result!

    • @frankmc5112
      @frankmc5112 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Yep, dumbass mower. No one that cares about their lawn is going to use this contraption.

    • @joshharris9093
      @joshharris9093 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@frankmc5112 I guess every gulf course doesn't care about the grass

    • @eriklarson9137
      @eriklarson9137 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@joshharris9093 Post a link to a single golf course that uses one of these.

    • @joshharris9093
      @joshharris9093 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@eriklarson9137 The Conservatory Course im Palm Coast Florida uses on because I just watch the last week while there using it

  • @BassSwirls
    @BassSwirls 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Once you've got a lawn in order frequent use with a flymo yeids great results with virtually no clumping of cuttings. Best done on very dry grass if possible.

  • @wingspan99
    @wingspan99 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    Never seen a Flymo before!

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thomas Andersen They have been around in the UK since the 60's.

    • @wingspan99
      @wingspan99 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Looks like it would cut a putting green nicely. How strange that it dont come with the wheels!

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thomas Andersen There is a fan connected to the shaft above the blade and housing. The fan pushes air through the orange casing and blows it down to the ground. This turns the mower into a mini hovercraft and it literally floats on a cushion of air. It is very easy to move when it is running and wheels are not required.

    • @wingspan99
      @wingspan99 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Its amazing that such a strange design was mass produced

    • @453421abcdefg12345
      @453421abcdefg12345 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thomas Andersen It is mass produced because sensible people could see a need for it, and bought them by the thousand, it is still a very useful machine for many garden requirements where access is a problem, and it does not leave wheel marks on your lawn, try one!

  • @devmyster925
    @devmyster925 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    how to you move it when its in storage ?

    • @devmyster925
      @devmyster925 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      ok i saw the wheel later in the video

  • @1977flija
    @1977flija 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    I wish I could get the time I spent watching this video back

  • @jonienglish3231
    @jonienglish3231 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    check out 58v Echo electric lawnmower with composite deck
    simple , and quite .
    good for the Mrs to use !!!!!!!!!!!

  • @charlesabran
    @charlesabran 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm in love with this lad's sexy Scottish accent ❤️❤️❤️

  • @brianlee9099
    @brianlee9099 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    how much do they cost? american? what if it flips over does it shut off if flipped while running?
    is this supposed to be a self propelled mower without the transmission? can you mow tall grass with it?

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Brian Lee Hello Brian. I could not find the Flymo for sale in the USA, however Husqvarna own Flymo and they sell the GX 560 in the States. I found one listed at $849
      www.husqvarna.com/au/products/lawn-mowers/husqvarna-lawn-mowers-for-homeowners/
      The mower will not flip over. It floats on a cushion of air and is in fact a minature hovercraft. As soon as it is spinning, air is pushed down through the top of the orange case via a fan on engine, this is forced out from under the casing and effectively lifts it off the ground slightly. The mower then floats on this air cushion and is very easy to push around. The air flow is nowhere near enough to allow the mower to lift any higher off the ground and the mower is too heavy to flip over. There is no auto cut off.
      You can see the mower dealing with longer stuff here
      th-cam.com/video/XyTOBEDAkFM/w-d-xo.html
      I reckon you need the wheels to deal with this sort of a problem though Brian, because the hover function will not lift it enough to get over the longer stuff. You can see how I have to pivot it over using the wheel set.
      So because it floats a few millimeters off the ground it is not self propelled, but it is remarkably easy to use.
      I hope this helps.

    • @brianlee9099
      @brianlee9099 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      yes you helped alot, if anybody knows how i can order one in the U.S ,please tell me, i looked at the website and it will not give me a dealer in my country, would it cost alot to have it shipped to U.S from your country?
      I want to thank you for making this video and sharing this you do a great job showing the operation of this mower.

  • @Zyworski
    @Zyworski 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    I owned a later model that used a lighter more powerful 2 stroke motor, and even then there were issues with not enough lift, and side slip on inclines. Honestly the device would have a hope if they could find a way to shed 15 pounds.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree, if it was lighter it would improve the mower immensely.

    • @ArkAngl5
      @ArkAngl5 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      It's made to do just that, slip side to side. Golf courses still use a version of this for cutting extreme banks. You can hold in one hand and swing side to side almost as a sling blade.

  • @453421abcdefg12345
    @453421abcdefg12345 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    It seems obvious that as the mower "floats" on an air cushion, any attempt to push it across a slope will result in it falling down the slope due to gravity, just swing the mower from the highest point of the bank, on a rope if the bank is long/high. The 4 stroke version does look very heavy compared to the 2 stroke version ! I might have to think about this one.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree, it is obvious that it will float downwards, but after handling an electric machine which is easy to traverse slopes with, this is a bit of a shock. it is because of the weight. There is way more leverage on the handle and it takes a lot of strength to hold it level.

    • @ladygardener100
      @ladygardener100 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      I am a lady gardener, and I manage it.
      The two stroke would be lighter and better for real steep slopes [where the fuel might cut out] but I find the 4 stroke with wheels does for me as a jobbing gardener, I have a 4 wheeler as well.

    • @ladygardener100
      @ladygardener100 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Jo Allan I get all my mowers from mowersonline

    • @ladygardener100
      @ladygardener100 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Jo Allan and I recommend reading the manual

  • @df446
    @df446 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Nothing like doing yard work in business casual!

    • @Clearanceman2
      @Clearanceman2 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think Europe is less casual.

  • @johngranato2673
    @johngranato2673 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    A remedy to a non-existent problem. I'll take that Texas-style---------------------------------EL PASO!

  • @keepitthoro6768
    @keepitthoro6768 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great mowing clothes

  • @s1914
    @s1914 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good review. I'm no expert but I think you should have faced the drive when mowing down the hill and used the mower in a side to side motion in order to stop it hovering off the edge

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It is difficult either way. Size to side operation is difficult whilst standing on a slope. :-)

  • @knighthawk86855
    @knighthawk86855 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'd be afraid my foot would slip under it ....but it's a unique design!!

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      knighthawk86855 When you use it, it is suprisingly easy! It really does float over the ground. I have never had any fear of mowing my feet:-)

  • @gatekeeper84
    @gatekeeper84 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good one on complaining about the unusual safety scrow, you almost baited me into a rant.

  • @jfro5867
    @jfro5867 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    These are amazing, always started well, built like a tank. Big engine chomps through anything. Didn’t bother with the carriage thingy waste of time, just carry it around (engine OFF obviously).

  • @bicylindrico
    @bicylindrico 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    I don't understand how it can forcefully blow the grass down hard enough to levitate but still effectively cut it at the same time. Mulchers pull the grass up straight for the clean cut. I never would have thought this would work. Thanks for boggling my mind.

  • @baconneggs2406
    @baconneggs2406 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ive never got out of breath push mowing and i smoke 2 packs a day😅😅

  • @BenTheRed1
    @BenTheRed1 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just why lol...... and then my favorite moment at 3 mins in when he sits down and tells us he is impressed

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Ben & With LOL, you guys never saw what it was like with my self propelled mower! It used to get stuck halfway up the bank and the wheels were useless most of the time! I love this mower!

  • @alonso503a
    @alonso503a 10 ปีที่แล้ว

    hey were are you from ? me from Oregon and i would recommend you get a commercial Honda mower model HRC 216 if they have them i work in landscaping for a living cut at a number 5 and your lawn will look great maintenance is easy and prise is $1,350.00 dollars

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Alonso, unfortunately I live in the UK. I have a Saxon Baroness lawnmower for the main part of the garden. Roughly how long is a number 5? Thank you for your comment.

    • @alonso503a
      @alonso503a 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      ohh the UK never heard of that brand over here US number 5 is about 3-4 inch sorry for responding late I hardly check my personal email

  • @MaYbYl8eR
    @MaYbYl8eR 7 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    isnt that just a torx heaD? very common

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      +MaYbYl8eR Yes I think it is a Torx head, but most people will not have a suitable driver in the garage.

    • @karold79
      @karold79 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      They might not be quite as common across the big pond, here in the states they are very, very common.

    • @flick22601
      @flick22601 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      It's the little pond. The Pacific is considered the big pond.

  • @Carlitosway211
    @Carlitosway211 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Looks like some T30-ish torx bits there.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, they probably are Torx screws.

    • @Carlitosway211
      @Carlitosway211 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      I know it's a Torx, I was just saying what size it looks like.

  • @s1914
    @s1914 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well I finally bought a brand new one of these, same as yours, last month. I'm incredibly disappointed with it - worst mower I've ever had. I bought it for a reasonable sized, flat, garden, similar to the one at the start of your vid. The reason for my disappointment is not that it's heavy or difficult to manoeuvre (I was expecting that) but it sprays grass EVERYWHERE. All over your legs, flowerbeds, foot paths, everywhere. Twenty minutes or so to cut the grass and another ten to clear up the mess. I also have a husqvarna wb53 mulching mower which is an outstanding piece of kit and mulches the grass so beautifully you can hardly even see the clippings. This was an itch that I had to scratch, but I wish I hadn't bothered.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I am sorry that you are disappointed with yours. We were using ours today and still love it. We are not worried about clippings, the areas we cut tend to be rough anyway and for that it is perfect.

  • @BassSwirls
    @BassSwirls 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Anyone using a flymo....or any mower come to that Please wear steel toe capped boots especially if gradients are involved. The is a condition called 'Flymo Foot' at uk A&Es .

  • @aaronbarkley81
    @aaronbarkley81 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    You mow inside your house?

  • @1980cantrell
    @1980cantrell 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    tilt the blade for,more,lift and use tin and all aluminum.

  • @Meg-i7x
    @Meg-i7x 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Seems hard work 🤔

  • @ajkingy
    @ajkingy 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    great video but you did tip the mower on the wrong side ,it should not be tipped onto the air filter side, should be the oil filler down

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      A King Thanks for taking the time to comment.

  • @icutemall
    @icutemall 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Show someone hitting a tree root with it!!! :D things trash can ready, certainly.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      icutemall It is very robust! I ran over a cast iron gate stop with it. it made a lot of noise but kept on going with just a dent on the blade!

  • @kristiebeals3
    @kristiebeals3 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    that one sounds better

  • @flordemagadeaquicomoelcoqu8350
    @flordemagadeaquicomoelcoqu8350 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    I dont like the mess of cutted grass after finished. I prefer a mower with grass catcher.

  • @mellotronn
    @mellotronn 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    If you want to scalp the lawn every time you mow, this is the way to go.

  • @mrannen1958
    @mrannen1958 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    lt looks like it cut too low and there is no adjustment

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      mrannen1958 There are spacers between the mower cover and the blade. The mower is set at it's lowest cut. To raise the cut, you have to remove the blade. Remove a spacer or both if required and replace the blade. This is quite easy to do in reality.

  • @marktyler5486
    @marktyler5486 8 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    This man does not seem to know about the instructions for stopping and starting a hover mower

  • @dulcevendetta
    @dulcevendetta 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Davos is narrating this video

  • @mysock351C
    @mysock351C 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Now all you need is two more wheels, and it will be a lawnmower again, rather than a temporary grass remover.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      LOL. I had self propelled mowers before this and this mower is much better than those. It is so easy to handle whilst mowing. Not having wheels to transport it is a pain though and that is why I bought the wheel set. The wheel set made mowing even easier as you can pivot the Flymo on them for brush cutting. :-)

  • @bobl78
    @bobl78 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    man he does not cut the grass, he digs into the dirt ripping out the grass

  • @Muffin_Masher
    @Muffin_Masher 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    I should mention I am here because I was watching Bizarre ER on TV and an English bloke cut his fingers off while using his new hover mower............. I was like WHAT THE FUCK IS A HOVER MOWER AND WHY WOULD YOU TEST IT WITH YOUR FINGERS.................. so searched for hover mower to see what all the fuss was about

  • @blancaw6280
    @blancaw6280 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This is the strangest mower I have ever seen. I have never heard of a mower without four wheels. You must have a different type of grass in the UK than we do in America. If my landscaper used something like this my grass would be totally scalped and would never recover. I would have to have them replace it. Very interesting to see, though.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Hello Blanca, hover mowers are fairly common here in the UK. They are usually electric and much lighter. Petrol hover mowers are pretty rare. Hover mowers are a real pleasure to use on level surfaces as they float on a cushion of air and are very easy to handle.

    • @MarcMac04
      @MarcMac04 10 ปีที่แล้ว

      You can adjust the cutting height from about 10 to 33 mm

    • @MarcMac04
      @MarcMac04 10 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      MarcMac04 I found a pretty old video witch presents the first flymo in the year 1967 ;)
      www.ina.fr/video/AFE04002111/tondeuses-a-gazon-flymo-video.html
      English version begins at 9min 32 sec

    • @dagwood64
      @dagwood64 10 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      They was a big thing here in the US in the 70s and 80s. I bought mine in 1978 it has a 2 stroke engine, it's light and easy to use you can go any direction with it. I still have it and use it to trim with once in awhile but I have just over three acres of land and it is easier to us the string trimmer to do the trimming.

    • @swiftjustice44
      @swiftjustice44 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      It will NOT scalp your lawn. I'm in the US (Texas) and used one for years. The entire deck floats over the turf...no way it can scalp. I even used it over water on a golf course pond to cut down some reeds and lilies that were not wanted.

  • @dbx1233
    @dbx1233 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    That looks like it botched your lawn pretty good. Your review was good bit the flymo isn't.

  • @double-you5130
    @double-you5130 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    0:15 DEPENDS WHERE YOU BUY IT!

  • @szymongorczynski7621
    @szymongorczynski7621 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Umm.... Why's the engine fitted the wrong way round? LOL

    • @szymongorczynski7621
      @szymongorczynski7621 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      ***** So who thought it a good idea to mount it tge wrong way round?

    • @szymongorczynski7621
      @szymongorczynski7621 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ***** I'm not saying that they aren't mounted like that, all I'm saying is whoever came up with that idea is a spanner

  • @QuantumRift
    @QuantumRift 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    LOL, you can get on on Amazon for $268, but the wheel kit costs $450. LOL.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      I only paid £95 for the wheel set and I thought that was expensive!

  • @heathermcgregor8990
    @heathermcgregor8990 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    just poison the grass, man lol,???

  • @ilfarmboy
    @ilfarmboy 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Use a hex wrench

  • @jedpetersen3806
    @jedpetersen3806 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wheels sold separately LMAO

  • @stavinaircaeruleum2275
    @stavinaircaeruleum2275 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    What sort of black magic is this?!?

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      It has a fan action that blows air down into the blade housing through vents at the top. The mower then floats on a cushion of air just like a hovercraft. These mowers are brilliant, very light when the engine is running, but heavy when it is not so transporting it to and from the work area is a little difficult. Fitting wheels gives you the best of both worlds. :-)

  • @esperanzar.5770
    @esperanzar.5770 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Damn is this man OK he was so out of breath!!!!???

  • @ryelor123
    @ryelor123 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think the lack of oil and tools is their way of hinting that you shouldn't buy it unless you're mechanically inclined. There's nothing companies hate more than mechanically incompetent people buying their product and then giving them bad reviews when they mess something up. At least with this mower, stupid people will either run it out of oil or just send it back when they can't figure out how to put it together - 2 things that won't make the company look bad.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      That is an interesting theory. Personally, I think it is a way of saving money. :-)

    • @ryelor123
      @ryelor123 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      I had a friend once who's mom bought a new mower and didn't put any oil in it and the engine seized. I don't she was the complaining type but, if she were, I could see her giving the company a bad review.
      A big problem with lots of people is that they don't admit their own mistakes with products and instead lie about the causes of engine problems. I'm sure mechanics deal with it all the time when someone comes in with a thrown rod and claims that the engine just started making a knocking sound the day before.

  • @ake70corolla85
    @ake70corolla85 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    my mate at work had one of these and he said it was utterly useless

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think utterly useless is a bit unfair! Personally, I love it.

    • @TwoTall1988
      @TwoTall1988 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      +c3h8O I don't know what you're doing but I've never found a hill steep enough to flip a push mower that I would actually be able to mow with this bad invention.... Hills that would flip a riding mower for sure... but a push mower?

    • @ake70corolla85
      @ake70corolla85 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      +c3h8O my mate at work said it was useless for anything more than a small incline

    • @MarcMac04
      @MarcMac04 8 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Some people use a long cord as for a kite, standing securely on the upper side of the slope and it works fine, as it can move laterally without problems

  • @TheSeanUhTron
    @TheSeanUhTron 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    The electric version seems to work better.

    • @RussellPlatten
      @RussellPlatten  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree, but if you have a large area to mow away from a socket the petrol model is the only option.

  • @patrickg2003
    @patrickg2003 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    I don't know, put a chair on it with a beer holder....then maybe.

  • @donaldreitsma6419
    @donaldreitsma6419 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Really? No PPE!

  • @gzitz7774
    @gzitz7774 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I would rather cut lawn with a reel mower

  • @rustyshackleford1910
    @rustyshackleford1910 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    This looks extremely dangerous on any sort of slope.

  • @pecas6445
    @pecas6445 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    No thanks...