Flymo Petrol Lawn Mower Review
Flymo is a household name in lawn care, famous for its hover mowers. This review examines their petrol-powered range, assessing performance, build quality, and value based on published specs and aggregated owner feedback from major retailers.
Quick answer
The Flymo petrol range is best suited for small to medium gardens with uneven terrain, thanks to their signature hover technology. The Flymo 1200R is the top pick for its balance of power and manoeuvrability, while the Flymo 1500R offers more cutting width for larger lawns. However, for heavy-duty or very large lawns, a wheeled petrol mower from a brand like Stihl or Honda may be a better fit.
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Research updated June 2026.
Flymo 1200R Petrol Hover Mower
Best balance of power, cutting width, and hover performance for most UK lawns.
| Model | Best For | Engine | Cutting Width | Weight | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flymo 1200R | Best Overall | 140cc | 30 cm | 18 kg | 4.2 / 5 |
| Flymo 1500R | Larger Lawns | 150cc | 38 cm | 20 kg | 4.0 / 5 |
| Flymo 1050R | Small Gardens | 100cc | 27 cm | 15 kg | 3.9 / 5 |
| Flymo 1300R | Budget Pick | 130cc | 33 cm | 17 kg | 3.8 / 5 |
Who Is Flymo For?
Flymo is a British brand that has been making lawn mowers since the 1960s. They are best known for their hover mowers, which use a fan to create a cushion of air, lifting the mower slightly off the ground. This makes them exceptionally easy to push and manoeuvre, especially on slopes, uneven ground, and around flower beds. Flymo petrol mowers are designed for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns (up to about 500 square metres) who value ease of use and storage convenience over raw cutting power.
Performance and Cutting Quality
Flymo petrol mowers use reliable Briggs & Stratton engines, ranging from 100cc to 150cc. These engines provide enough power for regular grass cutting, but they are not designed for tackling very thick, wet, or overgrown grass. Owner reviews consistently praise the hover feature for making mowing effortless, even on banks and uneven terrain. The cutting quality is generally good, with a clean, even finish, provided the grass is not too long or damp. The 30-litre collection box is on the smaller side, requiring more frequent emptying, but it is lightweight and easy to detach.
Build Quality and Durability
Flymo mowers are built with a plastic deck, which keeps the weight down but raises questions about long-term durability. Aggregated owner reviews from retailers like Amazon and B&Q show a mixed picture. Many users report several years of reliable service, while a smaller number mention issues with the plastic components, such as the height adjustment lever or the collection box clips, breaking after a few seasons. The engines are generally dependable, but the overall build quality is not as robust as a steel-decked mower from Stihl or Honda. Flymo offers a 2-year warranty on their petrol mowers.
Alternatives to Flymo Petrol Mowers
If you have a larger lawn (over 500 square metres) or need a mower for tougher conditions, consider these alternatives. Stihl petrol mowers are known for their professional-grade build quality and powerful engines. Honda mowers are legendary for their reliability and excellent cutting performance. For a budget-friendly wheeled option, a petrol mower from Bosch or Einhell may offer better value for a standard, flat lawn. If you prefer to avoid petrol altogether, a powerful cordless mower from Makita or DeWalt with a large battery capacity is a viable option for medium lawns.
What to Check Before Buying a Flymo Petrol Mower
Before purchasing, measure your lawn area and assess its shape and slope. Flymo hover mowers are ideal for lawns with slopes, banks, and uneven ground, but they are less effective on very flat, large lawns where a wheeled mower would be more efficient. Check the cutting width: a 30 cm deck is good for small lawns, while a 38 cm deck covers more ground per pass. Also, consider the weight and storage space. Flymo mowers are relatively light, but the hover feature means they cannot be stored on their side, so ensure you have floor space in your shed or garage.
Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is expecting a Flymo petrol mower to handle overgrown or very wet grass like a heavier-duty machine. The hover design works best on regularly cut, dry grass. Another mistake is neglecting to clean the underside of the deck after use. Grass clippings can build up and reduce the hover effect and cutting performance. Finally, do not underestimate the importance of regular engine maintenance, including checking the oil and spark plug, to ensure long-term reliability.
FAQs
Are Flymo petrol mowers any good?
Yes, they are good for small to medium gardens with uneven ground, offering excellent manoeuvrability due to their hover technology. However, they are not as durable as some steel-decked competitors.
Which is the best Flymo petrol mower?
The Flymo 1200R is the best overall choice for most users, offering a good balance of power, cutting width, and weight. For larger lawns, the 1500R is a better option.
How long do Flymo petrol mowers last?
With proper maintenance, a Flymo petrol mower can last 5-7 years. The plastic deck may show wear over time, but the engine is generally reliable.
Are Flymo mowers easy to push?
Yes, the hover feature makes them very easy to push, even on slopes and uneven ground, as the mower floats on a cushion of air.
Do Flymo petrol mowers have a grass collection box?
Yes, all Flymo petrol hover mowers come with a grass collection box, typically with a capacity of 30 litres. It is lightweight and easy to empty.
Can you use a Flymo mower on wet grass?
It is not recommended, as the hover effect is less effective on wet grass and can lead to clogging and a poor cut. Always mow dry grass for best results.
What is the warranty on a Flymo petrol mower?
Flymo offers a 2-year warranty on their petrol mowers, covering manufacturing defects. Registration may be required.
Are Flymo mowers made in the UK?
Flymo is a British brand, but their mowers are now manufactured in various locations, including Europe and China, depending on the model.
What oil do Flymo petrol mowers use?
Flymo recommends using a high-quality SAE 30 oil for their petrol engines. Always check the manual for the specific model.
Can you mulch with a Flymo petrol mower?
Most Flymo petrol mowers do not come with a mulching plug as standard. You may need to purchase a separate accessory or use the mower without the collection box.
Our verdict
Flymo petrol mowers are a solid choice for homeowners with small to medium, uneven lawns who prioritise ease of use and manoeuvrability. The Flymo 1200R is our best overall pick, offering the best balance of features and performance. For a budget-friendly option, the Flymo 1300R provides a good cutting width at a lower price point. However, for larger lawns or heavy-duty use, consider a wheeled petrol mower from Stihl or Honda.