Our verdict
The bottom line
The smart-money premium Cobra. Rear roller stripes at this price typically means Mountfield SP485 territory — but Cobra's build is comparable and the Briggs 750EX is a trusted engine. Buy if you want stripes without paying £1000.
Pros & cons
Pros
- 53cm cut at sub-£600 with rear roller
- Briggs 750EX is a known reliable engine
- Cobra UK dealer network for parts
- Stripes from a budget brand — rare combination
Cons
- Cobra brand depreciates faster than Stihl/Honda
- Roller bearings degrade quicker than premium
- 37kg heavy for the price point
Full specs
| Type | Petrol |
|---|---|
| Cut width | 53 cm |
| Engine / Power | B&S 750EX 161cc |
| Weight | 37 kg |
| Deck | Steel |
| Self-propelled | Yes |
| Rear roller | Yes (stripes) |
| Mulching | Yes |
| Cutting heights | 6 positions |
| Bag capacity | 70 L |
| Suited to lawn | Large |
| Noise level | 95 dB |
Buying second-hand
Used-market tip
£170–340 used. Briggs 750EX engine hours under 100 is excellent. Roller bearings are the wear point — check for play. Cobra's rear flap hinge is plastic and cracks; inspect closely. Anything with welded deck repairs, walk away.
Where to look: Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are usually 20–30% cheaper than eBay UK for petrol mowers because most sellers want local pickup. eBay tends to win on cordless and electric (lighter, easier to ship). Always insist on a starting demonstration before paying.
