In Brief: Troy Bilt TB490 XP 21 Review
Durable and precise are two words that definitely fit the Troy Bilt TB490 XP 21 190cc 2-in-1 4×4 Self Propelled Mower. With its innovative cutting system and its durable engine and build, it offers a lot of benefits that just can’t be overlooked.
Troy Bilt has been a part of farm and lawn care for over 80 years and has focused on delivering reliable, easy to use, and durable equipment since the very beginning.
Starting with rototillers and moving their way into everything from leaf blowers to lawn mowers, the company is one of the most well known and respected in the industry.
The company offers many lawnmowers, each with its own unique benefits. The one we are looking at today is the TB490 XP.
Key Specifications of Troy Bilt TB490 XP Mower
This lawnmower, with all its features, basically is a 4×4 vehicle that just happens to cut grass. It is comfortable to walk behind, and thanks to its high powered Honda engine has plenty of getting up and going.
This will allow you to tackle almost any obstacle. It can be maneuvered in three separate drives – front, rear, and AWD. This lawnmower is easily maneuvered with one hand and is made with quality materials.
If you would like to learn more about this model check out this video:
Key Specifications –
| Parameters | Details |
|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 21” |
| Transmission | AWD |
| Power Type | Gas |
| Engine Size | 190cc |
| Front Wheels (in) | 8” |
| Rear Wheels (in) | 11” |
| Cutting Style | Side/Mulch/Rear |
| Weight | 96 lbs. |
| Cutting Height | 1.25” – 3.75” |
| Deck Material | Tri-action steel |
Unique Features
The key features make this lawnmower a durable and powerful option for your lawn care, but what makes this lawnmower a fantastic choice are the unique features that have been built into the system. Here are a few of them:
Automatic Choke System
The engine and starter are fitted with an ACS system. This keeps the unit from choking when trying to start. No more flooding and having to wait for the engine to be clear of fuel.
The inclusion of this feature allows for better time efficiency and less wear on the engine as well.
Dual Lever Adjustment
This feature gives the unit versatility and usability. With this easy to use system, you can switch between the six different cutting heights with ease.
That ease of use will give you a clean cut every time and allow you to get that cut in just one pass.
Power, Design, Durability
When we review our lawnmower models, there are three main categories we pay close attention to – power, design, and durability.
These three factors will impact the performance and efficiency of the unit more than any other. Here is how the Troy Bilt TB490 XP 21 190cc 2-in-1 4×4 Self Propelled Mower faired:
Power
The Honda 190cc GCV engine gives this lawnmower plenty of power to get the job done. With an S-blade included in the design, the performance and power of cutting that this Troy Bilt lawn mower delivers are vastly improved.
Design
This lawnmower design is not only perfect for efficiency but also for the comfort of use. Crafted with a dual lever height adjustment system gives the user three different levels to take advantage of when sculpting their lawn.
An ergonomic handle rounds out the design of the handling system.
When you look at the wheels used in the construction of this lawnmower, you also see how the design was intended to give the user the most rugged and durable mower possible.
Durability
Not only are the wheels durable, but the engine is high quality, and as long as maintained well, it will last a lifetime.
The body of the lawnmower is crafted in high-quality steel and stamped for more durability. Coated with a deck wash, the cutting deck is also protected from the elements and debris it will be subjected to during the cutting process.
Cut Quality and Available Options
When you start this lawnmower, you can feel the power, and once the AWD kicks in, you know it will be able to handle whatever you throw at it.
The unit handles all terrains well, and with a wide cutting height option, you will be able to cut any type of grass with the TB490.
The results are nice and precise, which leaves your lawn looking like it was professionally landscaped.
A wide cutting deck and powerful S-blade and lawn rake system make sure that the cut is always perfect with no need for multiple passes.
This lawnmower offers a mulching operation that can be used easily to help your garden and flowerbeds really grow. The system is easy to use and is just one of the options this unit gives to elevate its performance.
Performance and Ease of Use
The multiple drives you can choose from makes no difference whichever one you go with you will be getting a powerful and precise piece of lawn care equipment. A TriAction cutting system gives you a perfect cut every time.
This system starts with a rake guard that brushes the grass into an upright position. When the S-blade spins to cut the grass, you can be guaranteed an even cut.
The TB490 is so easy to use even if you have never operated a lawnmower, you will be fine. It takes very little time to assemble, and then once it is done, the rest is pretty self-explanatory, especially with the manual.
It is comfortable and easy to maneuver once you do start using it as well.
Ease of Maintenance, Repairs, and Warranty
This lawnmower offers several features that help reduce the need for maintenance and repair. One of these is the cleanout connection. All you have to do is hook up a hose and turn it on to clean out the blade area.
As for the maintenance that will need to be done, you will, of course, have a little. You will have to make sure to keep the unit well oiled in crucial areas.
The transmission comes lubricated and will not need any service. Ensuring that you clean out the blade area after every use is essential to maintaining the unit’s durability and life.
As with any other tool or piece of equipment that has a motor, you will want to make sure to watch the oil level, check the air filter, and keep the engine clean.
There is also the spark plugs and maintenance of the blade to pay attention to as well.
Warranty
The TB490 comes with Troy Bilt’s standard 3-year warranty. This warranty covers damages caused by defective parts. It does not cover anything caused by:
- Service is done by a non-authorized service provider
- Any products sold or used outside the USA
- Use of non-Troy Bilt replacement parts
- Improper maintenance
For more information on the warranty contact:
Website: www.troybilt.com
Phone: 1-866-840-6483
Mail: P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, OH 44136-0019
Price of Troy Bilt TB490 XP Mower
The TB490 is a precision and accurate model with a lot of power. So when it comes to price, you are definitely getting what you pay for. With no need for multiple passes, you will be saving time and, in the long run, money.
Who Should Buy It
The Troy Bilt TB490 XP 21 190cc 2-in-1 4×4 Self Propelled Mower is one of those lawnmowers that really is a perfect option for everyone. It works well on all terrains, whether your lawn is flat or hilly.
The unit also handles thick, tall grass exceptionally well. Damp grass is no problem either.
If you have a landscaped lawn and need to maneuver around trees, flower beds, or other decorative pieces, you are covered as well.
With the power and precision, it cuts fast and accurately with just one pass. So if you are looking for a lawnmower that can handle everything and save some time, then the TB490 is a good option.
This means it is perfect for that individual that cares about how their lawn looks but just doesn’t have the time to really waste.
Why We Like It
The TB490 has a lot going for it, but it all comes down to precision and power. With the 190cc Honda engine and the well-crafted blade system, it offers a consistent cut quality every time.
On top of that, the power allows for a fast cut that won’t take you multiple times to get it right.
To us, that is what makes the Troy Bilt TB490 XP 21 190cc 2-in-1 4×4 Self Propelled Mower such a great option for your lawn care needs.
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
