Toro Super Recycler Review

Super Recycler review

What makes the Super Recycler ‘Super’

The Toro Super Recycler is the premium gas version of the Recycler, built around a cast-aluminum deck that will not rust. It also adds SmartStow vertical storage, Flex Handle suspension and Personal Pace self-propel on every current model. Toro lists three variants: the 21565 at $749, the 21564 with electric start at $849 and the 21563 with Spin-Stop at $999.

If you are choosing between a Recycler and a Super Recycler, the deck and the warranty are the big differences.

Models and engines

The 21565 and 21563 use a Briggs & Stratton EXi 163 cc engine rated at 7.25 ft-lb gross torque with pull start, and the 21564 uses a 190 cc EXi at 8.75 ft-lb with electric start. Weights are 83, 87 and 92 lb respectively. We could not confirm a Honda-powered version.

Deck, blade and drive

The 21-inch deck is cast aluminum. The Super Recycler uses a dual blade with an accelerator and Vortex technology to move air under the deck, and cutting height runs 1.0 to 4.0 inches with four-point adjustment. Personal Pace Auto Drive follows your walking pace up to 4.0 mph, so there is no lever to hold.

Bagging uses a 1.8 bushel bag and a commercial-style tunnel, with mulching standard. The side discharge chute is not included, so you need to order it if you plan to use it.

Storage and comfort

SmartStow lets you stand the mower on its end, which Toro says saves up to 70% of floor space. Flex Handle suspension reduces vibration through the handle. The wheels are 8 inches in front and 10 inches behind, with a washout port to clean the deck.

Warranty and pricing

The warranty is the standout: 5 years limited plus a 5-year guaranteed-to-start engine promise, compared with 2 and 3 years on the basic Recycler. The 21563’s $999 price is $250 above the 21565 for Spin-Stop blade control, and we could not find a clear reason for a gap that large.

Toro rates the Super Recycler for yards up to about half an acre. Choose it if you mow often, store the mower in a small space or want a deck that will not corrode.