Summary
NOTE: This Bosch Rotak 430 LI lawn mower has been replace by the range of Bosch Universal and Advanced Rotak models.
What is the Bosch Rotak 430 LI Ergoflex? The Bosch Rotak 430 LI Ergoflex is a cordless lawn mower that charges in 120 minutes and produces 35 to 40 minutes run time. It has a 50 litre grass box, a 43 cm cutting width and has 10 cutting heights that range from 20mm to 70mm. This lawn mower has an integrated rear roller for a stripey lawn and weights just 13.9kg.
The Bosch Rotak 430 LI Ergo-Flex Cordless Lawn Mower is the bigger brother to the Bosch 37 LI and covers up to 600m² , the size of just over two tennis courts, has a larger cutting deck size of 6cm (total 43cm), a 10 litre larger collection box (total 50 L) and 4 more cutting heights (total 10 heights from 20mm to 70mm).
I would say, that it competes very well with the likes of the Greenworks 43cm cordless lawnmower. They are all very similar in terms of deck size and cover a similar amount of ground, but are they as good as each other?
By the end of this review you will know exactly which one is the perfect mower for your garden.
Before we start with the review, I need to tell you why I refer to the 430LI from now on and not the 43LI. The Bosch Rotak 430LI is the newer version and can be identified by the black front (as opposed to silver on the 43LI). The only difference is the colour and the batteries which I will explain later.
The Bosch Rotak 430 LI Ergo-Flex is indeed packed with features found in more higher end cordless mowers and certainly has the ability to cut a lawn up to 600 meters square (roughly slightly larger than the size of two tennis courts) , but it needs to be compared to its nearest rival, the Greenworks 49cm cordless lawnmower, to judge how good this mower really is.
This Bosch Rotak mower is built in the UK. Why dose this matter? Well, customer service, warranty, quality and the availability of spare parts are second to none.
Below I’ll be detailing all the features and functions of the Bosch Rotak 430 LI Ergo-Flex, both good and not so good and then comparing to the Greenworks 49cm cordless lawnmower so you understand exactly what you’re getting for your money.
Main Features
- Rating: 9.4/10
- Covers areas reaching 600m² in size
- 2 x 36 V 2 Ah batteries (430LI)
- Blade length: 43 cm
- Weight: 13.9 kg
- Roller for stripey lawn
- Number of Cutting Height: 10 (20mm – 70mm)
- Grass box capacity: 50 L
- Charge time: 120 minutes (80% charge in only 60 minutes) – Both batteries
- Free run time: 35-40 minutes each
Bosch Rotak 43 LI Ergoflex Video
To give you a visual representation of the Bosch Rotak 430 LI Ergo-Flex please watch the video below (this video is for the 43 LI but they are very similar in design):
- Cutting performance and cut material acceptance thanks to hardened steel blade air flow technology.
- Perfect finish: the new Power Drive li + system delivers consistently high torque in all conditions.
- Excellent ergonomics thanks to ergo flex handles with agar certificate.
- The lithium-ion battery is fully charged in 140 minutes or 80% charged in 70 minutes
Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Features In Detail
Power System
Like many cordless lawn mowers, the Bosch Rotak 430 LI is powered by a Lithium-ion battery (36V) and electrical motor which it will charge in around 70 minutes per battery (total: 140min). The battery is removed from the mower for charging and storage. The mower is supplied with TWO 36V 2.0Ah batteries that are charged and used independently .
Now, 140 minutes is in itself a little slow when you compare it to the 120 minutes charge time for its rival the WORX WG779E.2, however the Bosch is capable of charging 80% of the total power (both batteries) in just 60-70 minutes, believe me this is a great feature that provides outstanding convenience to the average gardener.
Two fully charged batteries can mow up to 600m² or around 80 minutes run time depending on the length and condition of the lawn. Again, this is comparable to the Greenworks 49cm.
The Bosch Rotak 430 LI also has a feature they call “Efficient Energy Management” that Bosch claim will extend operational time by up to 15%. This system adjusts the power delivered to the rotary blade to conserve power when not needed. Again a nice feature on a mower at this level.
The charge to mow time ratio is really very good for a cordless mower at this price range. Ideally you will choose a mower that has enough run time to mow your entire lawn or lawns, but this mower allows you to have a tea break, recharge the batteries in 60min and then continue. If your lawn is less than 600m² then this is not going to be an issue or a feature you will use, but with a 60 min (30min each) charge time for both batteries (to 80%) this mower is still an option for larger lawns.
Also the power system is completely electric so it produces zero emissions and works extremely quietly. Which is quieter between the Bosch and Greenworks? Well there’s not much between them but I would say the Bosch Rotak is slightly quieter due to the “Low-noise design” that Bosch claim makes their mower barely audible from 10 metres.
The great thing about these mowers is that you can set out to work at anytime you want without it annoying you, your family or your neighbours, and with zero emissions it looks after the environment as well.
Please note: there is an option to purchase this mower (06008A4572 – Rotak 43 li Ergoflex) with a single 36 V / 4.0 Ah battery, I personally prefer to have 2 batteries than a single 4.0Ah battery as it extends the life of the battery.
Assembly
This mower can be assembled in around 10 minutes and assembly is relatively simple with no tools required. The instruction manual is a little short on instructions and relies on pictures to guide you, this can be a little difficult if you have not assembled a mower before.
What’s the Difference between Bosch Rotak 430 LI and Bosch Rotak 43 LI?
To be honest this has caused some confusion, so here is the definitive answer!
The 430 LI is the newer version of this mower (released 2108) with two 36V 2Ah batteries, while the 43 LI has ONE 36V 4Ah battery. Both models have the same design and features apart from a black cover as opposed to a silver one. The 430 LI can also hold a 4.0Ah battery. This mower can also be purchased with batteries.
I have spoken with Bosch and they have told me the following model numbers will be supplied with the batteries listed below.
06008A4575 – Rotak 430 LI Ergoflex – 2 Batteries with capacity of 2a/h – amp hours
0600881870 – Rotak 43 LI Ergoflex – 2 Batteries with capacity of 2.6a/h – amp hours
06008A4571 – Rotak 43 LI Ergoflex – 2 Batteries with capacity of 4a/h – amp hours
06008A4572 – Rotak 43 LI Ergoflex – 1 Battery with capacity of 4a/h – amp hours
06008A4508 – Rotak 43 LI Ergoflex – No battery included
Please let me know in the comments below if you have any questions on this.
Model Comparison
Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Blades
The Bosch Rotak 430 LI is equipped with one 43cm (hence the model no. 430) metal mower blade that provides them two very effective benefits…
- Metal blades generally wear less quickly than plastic blades which results in you needing to replace the lawn mower blades less often.
- Metal blades are generally sharper and provide a cleaner cut to the grass blade, resulting in a neater, tidier and superior finish to your lawn and garden. The metal blades on the Bosch Rotak can be sharpened when required unlike plastic blades.
This again does not necessarily put it ahead of its competitors but it’s good that Bosch have taken advantage of what is clearly the most effective cutting system in the market.
As well as being able to sharpen the blades, it is also possible to purchase a replacement blade. Replacing the blade is relatively easy for anyone with basic DIY skills and tools.
Now the Greenworks 49cm does have a larger deck size and this is achieved by it having two blades offset beneath the mower as opposed to a single blade as on the Bosch. To learn more about the benefits of having two blades click here.
Replacement blades can be purchased here – click the image below.
- 1. Bosch Rotak Genuine Cutting Blade (c/w Bolt + Washer)
- 2. VERSION To Fit: ROTAK 42-Li Cordless Lawnmower
- 3. VERSION To Fit: ROTAK 43-Li Cordless Lawnmoer & ROTAK 430-Li Cordless Lawnmower
- 4. The STANLEY Tape is a useful DIY product
- 5. For SAFETY & FITTING Purposes, ONLY use this BOSCH Rotak Genuine Blade on your Bosch Cordless Lawnmower at all times (F016800369)
Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Height Adjustment
In order to combat the changing season and to continually improve the look of your lawn, you can adjust the height at which the Bosch Rotak 430 LI cuts at. This is done very easily using the lever located at the central side of the mower.
You have the option to cut from anywhere between 20–70 mm with 10 separate cutting lengths. Just make sure you don’t set it at the shortest setting from the when the lawn has significant growth, instead start at a higher setting and gradually work your way down. This allows the areas of small grass to catch up with the long, resulting in a more even garden.
The Bosch Rotak 430 LI does come with a built in comb that helps prevent scalping your lawn if the setting is a little low or there is an uneven patch. This is a nice touch not found on other mowers in the class. The comb also helps to ensure you get a good cut right up to the edge along flower beds, fences and walls.
Centrally mounted height adjustment levers are always easier to adjust than front or back mounted ones, this Bosch does not disappoint, and with 10 height adjustments is superior to it’s smaller brother (37 LI) with only 6 height adjustments. How does this compare to the Greenworks 49cm, well much better as the Greenworks only has 5 height adjustments (35mm to 85mm).
Cutting Diameter and Height
The cutting diameter of the mower is a little smaller than that of the Greenwork 49cm but seems to be just right for medium sized lawns. Getting the balance right between deck size and practicalities for storage and more complex lawns, such as small strips of lawn, the 43cm deck size seems perfect. Bare in mind that Bosch do have a 37 cm version of this mower that is the middle brother between the 32cm of the Bosch 32 LI and the 43cm of the Bosch 430 LI mowers, so this may just be mower you’ve been looking for. If you want to see more details of the Bosch 370 Li check out my review here – Bosch 370 Li review.
When you need a mower that’s light in weight and going to reach the smaller areas of your lawn, but not too small for your lawn size, this may well be the may be the best option for you.
As mentioned above this Bosch has combs on either side that guide the grass into the path of the blades, meaning you really are getting the full 43cm cutting diameter.These combs reduce the amount of trimming required around the edges when the mowing is done.
Roller (Stripes)
Do you like a stripey lawn? Well good news! like its smaller brother the 37 LI the Bosch Rotak 430 LI does have a roller for a nice stripey lawn.
Grass Box Capacity
The Bosch Rotak 430 LI has a massive 50 litre grass box and really is fantastic for a mower of this size. 50 Litres allows longer periods of use without needing to empty grass clipping as often.
The grass box on the Bosch Rotak 430 LI is very well engineered and very easy to remove, the grass clippings empty from the box with no obstructions.
There is also a fill level indicator on the grass box that indicates when the grass box needs to be emptied.
What sets this mower out above the rest is the incredible performance in collecting 99% of the grass clippings. Does this make it better than the Greenworks? Well, yes it does as the Greenworks also performs extremely well collecting the clippings but not quite as good as the Bosch. The Bosch Rotak 430 LI will not disappoint when it comes to collection and emptying the grass clippings.
The grass box on the Greenworks is 60 litres, that’s 10 litres more than the Bosch 430 LI. The Grass box on the Bosch is a rigid box where’s the Greenwork’s box has a rigid top but a cloth bottom. There are pros and cons for both, storage space is naturally better with the cloth collection bag as it folds flat, however, will not last as long and these are sometimes prone to tearing and damage.
What’s best? well there’s not much in it really. The Bosch is a smaller collection box but does such a good job of collecting the cuttings and compressing them into the 50 litres they both come out very well.
Practicalities
The Bosch handle design is ergonomically shaped, adjustable and multi-functional allowing for a better body posture and reduced muscle strain. Bosch named this their new “Ergoflex System” and it really does assist in making mowing the lawn that bit easier.
The light weight, compact size and fold away handles make this mower excellent for smaller lawns or lawns with smaller strips of grass. There are 4 power buttons on the grip (2 on the upper and 2 on the lower bars) with one central safety release button. Only one button need to be pressed, to power the mower, making it easy to manoeuvre with one hand round corners, for example.
This mower will make lawn care much easier and really makes the entire experience much less dependent on you struggling with a heavy oversized mower.
As with all cordless lawn mowers, not being tethered by the cord not only make it easier to mow the lawn, but safer, quieter and more environmentally friendly.
Does this make it more practical than its closest competition? Well, yes I think it does for people with smaller lawns and limited space for storage. There is also a very handy and well positioned central handle that makes carrying the almost 14 kg mower to the garage or shed extremely easy.
Storage
The 430 LI has a relativity small footprint. The red clips on the side of the handle are quick release and allow for the top handle to be mobile and fold down. This could be folded inside or out, care is needed not to pinch the wire (which runs from the start button to the motor).
Dimensions: 78.5 x 49.7 x 48.8 cm
Also, there are two quick click buttons at the end of each arm, that allow the whole handle frame to be removed for even smaller storage. This is a nice touch from Bosch as most other mowers (including the 32 LI) are secured by screws and require tools to remove.
Warranty
This mower comes with a 2 year warranty directly with Bosch, but you can extend it to 3 years at https://www.bosch-do-it.com/gb/en/diy/mybosch/login.jsp if registered within 28 days of purchase.
Safety Features
What I really like about the Bosch Rotak 430 LI is the addition of a removable safety key that disables the lawn mower to help prevent accidental starting. This is a nice feature, not always found on similar cordless mowers that provides peace of mind around children.
Mulching
Well there’s good news and bad news! The bad news is that this mower does NOT come with a mulching facility out of the box, however there is an option to add mulching functionality by purchasing the Multi-Mulch for Rotak Lawn Mowers.
The Multi-Mulch insert can be purchased or you can check current pricing by clicking the image below.
To learn more about the benefits of a mower that has the ability to mulch the lawn, please see my article “The Benefits of Mulching Grass – Complete Guide with Pros & Cons“.
- Re-feeds lawn clippings back into the lawn
- Allows effecive fertilisation and adds nutrients into the lawn
- Eliminates the need to collect clippings and empty the grassbox
- Creates a down-draft which pushes clippings into the grass
- The only system to vacate grass clippings from the bowl
Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Bosch Cordless Lawn Mower Range Comparison
Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Bosch Rotak 370 LI User Manual
You can download the Bosch Rotak 430 user manual guide here
What’s Included in the Box?
- The mower itself
- 2 x 36 V 2 Ah batteries
- Instruction Manual
- Charger
- 1 x 50 litre grass box
Downsides
- This mower can be a little tricky to assemble first time as the instruction show diagrams only and are lacking any written detail on assembly.
- A little confusion around models (43 LI – 430Li) and the battery options.
The above items may sound trivial and are common to most cordless mowers but should be taken into consideration anyway. They are part of the package and it’s better being aware of them prior to a purchase than after.
Pros and Cons
Conclusion
Overall this is an excellent mower, due to its light weight, portability, good build quality and array of features.
I really struggled to find any major downsides to this mower; it even comes with a 2 year warranty that can be extended to 3 years if you register the mower directly with Bosch. You simply won’t receive this with any other manufacture.
The extra features like the removable safety key is a nice touch but one that you most probably never use. Besides you want features that will help you achieve a lovely looking lawn with the least amount of work and effort.
The Bosch Rotak 430 LI is very proficient at cutting varying lengths and thickness of grass. For such a small and compact cordless mower. It’s worth mentioning that by cutting more regularly and avoiding very long or wet grass this should avoid putting too much strain on the battery. Remember to always keep the battery charged and in a dry place over winter.
This is not the cheapest mower on the market when you compare the size and battery life to cheaper alternatives, however you are getting a Bosch product and although it may feel a little flimsy, the build quality is what you would expect from Bosch. Bosch need to keep the weight of the mower down so they are deliberately using thinner plastics etc. Also, the functionality that comes with this mower is fantastic.
But do I think it’s better than its closest competitors?
Well, it depends!
Like it’s smaller brother the 37 Li this really gives great value for money and you would be very hard pressed to find a cordless mower that performs this well, has as much functionality and has such a good build quality for this price.
But having said that the Greenwork 49cm is cheaper and the quality of the cut is as good as the Bosch. No, the build quality is not up to Bosch’s standards and but you can insert both batteries into the Greenworks.
It really is too close call between these two mowers. Both would be equally as good purchase as the other.
To get the best out of both these mowers you will need to cut your lawn more regularly and not let the grass grow too high or dense as it may struggle to cut it, this is however common with all cordless mowers at this price point and specification.
Overall, I think the Bosch is a fantastic mower and I encourage everyone with a garden under 600 m² to purchase one. In fact, I think it’s the best mower at this size and level you can purchase right now!
Should You Buy This Model?
Well there are a few factors to consider first, whether or not you purchase this model really depends on your garden and situation.
To give you some guidance on which type of customer would suit this model best, below I’ve listed the categories they would fall under:
- People with lawns up to 600m² in size.
- People who want large cutting width of 43cm so mowing the lawn is fast with fewer passes.
- Those who like the option to charge the battery quickly (80% in 70 minutes).
- People who require a large collection box (40L) for less stops.
- People who require the ability to mulch the grass cuttings (optional extra).
- Those who like a stripey lawn.
Of course this is open to interpretation so if you don’t fall under every single one then don’t worry I’m sure you’ll still love this product. It has loads of great features that I’m sure you make use of even if you’re not its perfect customer.
Where Should I Purchase This Model?
- Cutting performance and cut material acceptance thanks to hardened steel blade air flow technology.
- Perfect finish: the new Power Drive li + system delivers consistently high torque in all conditions.
- Excellent ergonomics thanks to ergo flex handles with agar certificate.
- The lithium-ion battery is fully charged in 140 minutes or 80% charged in 70 minutes
Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Selling Bosch Cordless Lawn Mowers
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Last update on 2024-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Not sure about this mower? Click here to see more Cordless Lawn Mower Reviews.
Additional Specifications | |
---|---|
Working Area | 600 m² |
Cutting width | 43 cm |
Cutting height steps | 10 |
Cutting height max | 70 mm |
Cutting height min | 20 mm |
Cutting height adjustment | Central |
Collector volume | 50 l |
Battery Type | 2 x 36 V 2 Ah batteries |
Typical Charging Time | Charge time: 140 minutes (80% charge in only 70 minutes) |
Typical Mowing Time | 90 minutes (600 m²) |
Vision Window | No |
Right or left start switch | Left and Right |
Foldable handles | Yes |
Battery power indicator | Yes |
Grass bag filling indicator | No |
Roller | No |
Dimensions | 78.5 x 49.7 x 48.8 cm |
Weight | 13.9 kg |
As a seasoned expert in the field of garden power tools, I have dedicated over a decade to working with and reviewing a wide variety of lawn mowers. My extensive experience has allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the benefits and limitations of different types of mowers and garden tools.
Over the years, I have honed my skills in writing informative articles and creating helpful videos for various blogs and publications. This has given me the ability to not only recognise what makes a good lawn mower, but also to help you choose the perfect garden tool for your specific needs and requirements.
With my wealth of knowledge and expertise, I am confident that I can provide you with valuable insights and recommendations when it comes to selecting the right lawn mower for your lawn. So, whether you're looking for a battery cordless, electric, petrol, or robotic mower, you can trust in my expertise to guide you towards the best option for your garden.
Hello
I liked your review. I would like to buy Bosch 43 Li Ergoflex – and nothing else with largest battery capacity. pl let me know where to buy this
thanks
Sudhir
Hi Sudhir,
Thanks for your positive feedback.
Unfortunately this model is now discontinued and has been replace by the new range of Bosch AdvancedRotak mowers.
https://easylawnmowing.co.uk/bosch-advancedrotak-36-660-review/
You may have some luck if you check EBay for someone that still has some stock.
Kind regards
Mark
Hi Mark,
I appreciate the reviews you provide. They have been very useful. I am however still struggling to decide between the Gtech Cordless Lawnmower 2.0 and the Bosch 430Li. The Gtech is currently on offer at £300 and the Bosch at £350, so it’s a tricky decision. I like the idea of a roller, and the potential 80 plus minutes runtime the Bosch provides as although my lawn is only around 200sqM, it’s on quite a slope. Do you think I would be best going for the Bosch?
Thanks,
Paul.
Hi Paul,
Thanks for your message, so pleased the reviews are helping in your decision making process.
The price reduction for the Gtech does definitely make it a contender, however I would still favour the Bosch 430Li over the Gtech slightly. This is mainly down to the build quality of the Bosch, functionality (mulching). The ergonomic handles will make it that bit easier to mow up a hill. As for the roller on the Bosch, though a nice touch, the stripes will not last for a long period of time due to the light-weight of the mower.
With the Bosch you also get the option of a 20mm height adjustment, if you like a closer cut lawn. (10mm lower in comparison to the Gtech)
If you want to purchase the Bosch, for your convenience I have included a direct link (I receive a small commission if you do decide to purchase, at no extra cost to you).
https://amzn.to/2Epm2KR
Hope this helps, let me know how you get on.
Mark
Thanks Mark,
Much appreciated – I’ve gone for the Bosch via your link, so fingers crossed the battery holds out on my sloping lawn!
Thanks again,
Paul.
Hi Paul
Thanks so much for that. Please let me know how you get on with your Bosch.
Kind regards
Mark
Hi Mark,
So far so good – the batteries hold up, although I’ve needed both when the grass has been longer.
Very pleased with the buy so far – thanks for your help.
Regards,
Paul.
Thanks Paul for letting me know, so pleased it worked out for you.
Kind regards
Mark
Hello Mark,
Like the others, thank you for your article on the Rotak 43/430 Li Ergoflex Cordless Rotary Lawnmowers, and for highlighting the differences between the two.
I currently have the 2015 Version, but which has developed a problem which is expected to be the motor. If so, the cost of repair would likely make it more cost effective to buy the “06008A4508 – Rotak 43 LI Ergoflex – No battery included” since I have two good 4.0Ah batteries and I very much like the lawnmower itself.
Are you able to advise me where I could purchase this naked version from please? I have found one website – RAI Technical Ltd. Do you have experience of this website?
Thank you very much for your help,
David.
Hi David
Thanks for your message. Yes, I can see it is difficult to find a supplier of a bare Rotak 43/430.
I have not had any dealings with RAI Technical Ltd. but I know Bosch are very careful who they work with. RAI Technical Ltd are an authorised dealer for Bosch.
Sorry I can’t help with any alternatives.
Thanks
Mark
Any thoughts on whether to choose 430 or 370, ie battery time, time to mow lawn
Hi Arv
The Bosch Rotak 370 and the Bosch Rotak 430 are pretty much identical when it comes to charge and mow time (2 Batteries with capacity of 2a/h – amp hours).
It really is just the size of the deck that is different. You will get a slightly shorter run time with the larger deck size but, as it covers a larger area it gets the job done quicker.
Bosch Rotak 370 = 37cm
Bosch Rotak 430 = 43cm
Hope this helps.
Thanks
Mark
Hi Mark
Bought the 43li – can I ask for some tips on the folding handle assembly? Screwed mine on tight but the red levers don’t automatically release the folding mechanism. Thanks Rob
Hi Rob
Thanks for your comment.
Would it be possible to email over a short video clip (mark@easylawnmowing.co.uk) of the issue you are having releasing the levers. I will take a look and see if I can help.
I can’t remember having any difficulties with the levers or folding the handles when I tested the Bosch.
Alternatively, you could always give Bosch a call on the number below. Their support is very good and they are extremely helpful (I have called them so many times now.)
Could I please ask you to let us know how you get on if you decide to contact Bosch.
Many thanks
Mark
Bosch After Sales Service:
0344 7360109
Monday – Friday: 08:00 – 17:00
Mark, Thank you very much for this review. This has helped me make an informed decision. And thank you for explaining the difference between the 430Li the 43L. I could not find this information anywhere, especially Amazon or Bosch’s website having spent hours trying to resolve this. But your down to earth review really helped. Thank you again.
Hi Adam
Many thanks, so pleased you found the review useful and took the time to write this comment.
Thanks again.
Mark