Makita CML01 21″ Self-Propelled Lawn Mower

Makita ConnectX 1200Wh backpack battery

Makita CML01 Lawn Mower Packs Capacity Onboard Like No One Else

The battery-powered Makita CML01 21″ self-propelled lawn mower uses the ConnectX system. The ConnectX power supply goes right on top and promises commercial-level runtime. For those looking to take their commercial operation from gas to battery, could this Makita mower present a viable alternative?

Makita CML01 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower – The Big Deal

Going directly after runtime with the Makita ConnectX mower, the company pairs it with a 1200Wh backpack battery. To put that into perspective, 1200Wh equates to more than 13 18V LXT 5Ah batteries.

While Stihl, Husqvarna, and the now-defunct Oregon 120V systems beat Makita to the punch on backpack batteries, we still hold out some hope that this provides the runtime many of these tools need to hit commercial levels. With the Makita CML01 lawn mower, the ConnectX battery backpack attaches directly to the top of the mower. So you don’t run any sort of tether. We like that.

Makita ConnectX 21-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower CML01

Makita addressed runtime and says a single ConnectX battery yields up to 3 continuous hours of runtime. Given how most professional crews use their walk-behind mowers to supplement their ZTs, that could get you through an entire day.

The Makita ConnectX power supply/battery runs at 36V (40V max). You can use it to operate the CML01 mower or Makita’s compatible string trimmer and blower. With one of two adapters, you can also use the ConnectX as a backpack battery and run any of the Makita 18V X2 (36V) LXT or 40V Max XGT tools.

If you happen to have the PDC01 LXT Backpack Power Supply, it mounts on and runs the ConnectX mower as well.

The mower itself has a build very similar to the commercial XML08 we reviewed a while back. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Rear wheel drive system
  • Commercial-grade 22-inch steel deck
  • True 21-inch blade
  • 2800 RPM top speed with 2300 RPM Quiet Mode
  • Mulch, bag, and side-discharge capable (all accessories included)
  • Rubberized tires with smooth-rolling wheels
  • Weather-resistant construction (IPX4 )

Makita CML01 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Price

As a professional-grade mower, the Makita CML01 runs $949 as a bare tool and the power supply is another $1549. Like Makita’s other lithium-ion tools, the warranty runs 3 years on both the mower and the power supply.

Specifications

  • Model: Makita CML01
  • Power Source: Makita ConnectX Backpack Power Supply or LXT Backpack Power Supply
  • Deck: 22-inch commercial-grade steel (14-gauge)
  • Blade: 21-inch
  • Blade Speed: 2800 RPM (2300 RPM in Quiet Mode)
  • Drive Speed: 1.5 – 3.0 MPH
  • Cutting Height: 1 1/4 – 3 15/16-inch
  • Weight: 89.1 lbs bare, 108.5 lbs with ConnectX battery
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Price: $949 bare

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