Summary
The Bosch CityMower 18 is a cordless lawn mower with 3 cutting heights ranging from 30mm to 60mm, a 32cm cutting width and a 31 litre solid grass collection box. This mower is supplied with 1 x 4.0Ah 18v battery that charges in around 95 minutes and is designed for lawns up to 300m² in size.
A lot of the mowers that I look at have an array of fantastic features, but the Bosch CityMower 18 is the simplest lawn mower from the brand and is ideal for those with very basic mowing needs. If you’re after something that is going to mow the lawn and then go off and make you a cup of tea; this won’t be the machine for you. However, if you want a tool to cut the grass quickly and efficiently, look no further.
While the Bosch CityMower 18 may not be packed with features, it does perform excellently with cut to edge technology and a comfortable user experience, thanks to the ErgoFlex handles. Compared to the more diverse mowers in the Bosch range like the EasyRotak, UniversalRotak and AdvancedRotak, the CityMower might be seen as the laid-back cousin.
There are a few things that might set you back when mowing, such as the lower number of cutting heights and the inability to mulch, but overall for a no frills lawn mower, I was pretty happy with it. In this Bosch cordless lawn mower CityMower 18 review, I will delve a little deeper into the pros and cons of this easy to use tool.
Main Features
- 32cm cutting deck
- 3 cutting heights
- ErgoFlex handle
- Suitable for small to medium lawns up to 300m²
- Supplied with 1 x 4.0Ah 18v battery (or available as bare tool)
- Lightweight at 9.9kg
- Battery charges in 95 minutes
Power System And Batteries
All of the other mowers from Bosch operate on a higher 32 voltage; the CityMower 18 is the only one that works with an 18v battery. However, the advantage of this is that it can power share with plenty of other 18v tools from the brand. This includes power tools like drills as well as other garden tools like hedge trimmers.
Moreover, I was impressed by the fact that you have a choice where power is concerned. The tool typically comes with a 4.0Ah 18v battery and a standard charger, but there is the option to purchase as a bare tool (no battery no charger), should you wish.
The 4.0Ah battery supplied will charge in a respectable 95 minutes. This certainly isn’t as quick as some of the rapid charging batteries out there, but it’s definitely not a stupidly long wait. A fast charger is available separately that will reduce the charge time down to a very respectable 35 minutes. The table below shows the chargers and the corresponding charge times – the charger supplied with this model is the AL 1830 CV.
Bosch Charger Charging Times
| Battery | AL 1810 CV | AL 1815 CV | AL 1830 CV | AL 1880 CV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charging current | 1.0 | 1.5 | 3.0 | 8.0 |
| Charge Time (min) 4.0 Ah | 240 min | 168 min | 95 min | 35 min |
Bosch Bosch CityMower 18 Video
To get a visual representation, see the video of the Bosch CityMower 18 below.
Features In Detail
Performance
I can’t stress enough that even though this is a very basic lawn mower, it doesn’t scrimp where performance is concerned. The Bosch CityMower 18 features grass combs which lift and guide the grass into the path of the blade, allowing you to cut right to the edge. If you have a lot of fences, walls, or other obstructions in the garden then this is an indispensable feature.
What’s more, the CityMower 18 from Bosch offers an excellent user experience with various features that aim to improve your comfort. On top of this, the mower is lightweight and beautifully easy to handle, gliding around the lawn in no time at all, so you can get on with the rest of your day.
Deck and Blade
As I mentioned earlier, this is the most basic model from Bosch. In addition to this, the CityMower 18 also features the smallest blade size at just 32cm. This is perfect if you only have a smaller patch of grass that you need to keep looking neat and tidy. The mower is made for lawns measuring up to 300m² and while it is small, it does do a very favourable job.
If you prefer a more powerful cordless mower, but have a small garden, this 18v tool might not be what you are looking for. But Bosch does still offer the old Rotak model that features the same deck size running on a 36v battery.
Handles
One of the things that stands out on the entire range of Bosch mowers is that they are designed for user comfort. This is evident when we look at the ErgoFlex handle included with this mower and others across the range.
ErgoFlex makes the mower much easier to control and features four push buttons around the handle, only two of which need to be pressed at any time. If you’re tackling corners or awkward turns, this can make the machine so much more easy to control.
Rear Roller (Stripes)
This Bosch CityMower 18 is NOT supplied with a rear roller. Its bigger brother, the Bosch EasyRotak 36-550, does have arear roller. To lean more about the features included with each of the Bosch mowers, please see the comparison table later in this review.
Mulching
Many modern mowers come with the option to insert a mulching plug, but this isn’t a feature you will have with the CityMower 18. While other mowers from Bosch like the AdvancedRotak don’t include a mulching plug, there is the option to purchase one separately. This isn’t the case with this mower, cut and collect is the only mowing method.
However, since this is not a mower designed for people with complex gardening needs, mulching might not be something that you require in the first place.
Height Adjustment
As a no frills mower, you wouldn’t expect the CityMower 18 to be overly exciting when it comes to cutting heights, but the fact that it only has a choice of three did leave me feeling a little deflated. That said, if you are looking for a lawn mower to tend to an already well-maintained garden then this will suit you down to the ground.
What’s more, while there isn’t a great choice when it comes to cutting height, changing them is a breeze thanks to the single lever adjustment. This is a major plus for people who are in a hurry to get the garden looking good.
Grass Collection Box
The Bosch CityMower 18 comes with a 31-litre grass collection box which is more than enough for the smaller lawns that it is designed for. This is a solid grass collection box and this has its pros and cons.
For example, the solid structure of this grass collection box means that it will have much better durability compared to cloth bags. However, since it doesn’t split in half like the grass box on the EasyRotak, you will need more storage space.
Practicalities
One of the most outstanding practical features of this lawn mower is how lightweight it is. Cordless mowers are typically the lightest machines especially when compared to heavy petrol mowers, but this one weighs just 9.9kg so is ideal for people who might struggle with something more cumbersome.
What’s more, people looking to buy this model are likely busy folks with fast-paced lives and very little time to dedicate to putting together a complex mower. The good news is that this one is extremely easy to put together, so you can be outside and mowing in no time at all.
Bosch Cordless Mower Comparison Table
Below is a comparison table so you can clearly see the differences between the Bosch cordless models.
Last update on 2025-01-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Bosch CityMower 18 User Manual
You can download the Bosch CityMower 18 user manual guide here.
What’s Included In The Box
- 1 x Bosch CityMower 18
- 1 x 4.0Ah 18v battery
- Standard battery charger
- 31 Litre grass collection box
- Safety key
- User manual
Pros and Cons
Should You Buy This Model?
If you want a lawn mower that has all the mod cons then this won’t be the machine for you. You might be better suited to the AdvancedRotak which has some impressive features and gives you everything you would expect from a mower.
However, for people who want something simple and easy to use without a fuss, the CityMower 18 is an incredible choice. This is a mower you can take right out of the box and get to grips with. It will deliver a clean and tidy cut on smaller lawns without any hassle and if your garden is fenced or walled in, the cut to edge feature will ensure that there is limited work to do after the mow, saving you even more time.
This Mower Is Suitable For
- People with lawns up to 300m² in size.
- Those that want to power share batteries with other 18 volt power tools from Bosch.
- People that want a premium brand mower that has a very good build quality.
- Those looking for a lightweight mower that is easy to manoeuvre.
- Those that DON’T require a mulching function.
- Those that like a simple mower without a plethora of unnecessary features.
- People who like an ergonomically designed mower for increased comfort whilst mowing.
Conclusion
Bosch has a great range of mowers and they cater for all needs. Their CityMower 18 is ideal for smaller gardens where the needs are limited. I believe this is a great choice for people who want something that they can take out of the shed and get to work.
The mower doesn’t have the most impressive range of features, but you shouldn’t let that put you off because what it does do, it does very well.
Where Should I Purchase This Model?
Bosch Bosch CityMower 18 with 1 x 4.0Ah Battery & Charger
- Cordless freedom: thanks to the powerful Bosch 18V battery
- Comfortable mowing with maximum control: adjustable Ergoflex handles ensure a healthy working posture while reducing strain on the arms and back
- Mowing up to the edge: cut closer to edges, walls and fences thanks to the grass combs
- Easily adjusted cutting height: lever for selection of grass length between 30–60 mm
- Scope of supply: CityMower 18V-32, 1 battery pack PBA 18V 4.0 Ah W-C, charger AL 1830 CV, carton packaging
Last update on 2025-01-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Not sure about this mower? Click here to see more Cordless Lawn Mower Reviews.
Additional Bosch CityMower 18 Specifications
| Additional Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Working Area | 300m² |
| Cutting width | 32cm |
| Cutting height steps | 3 |
| Cutting height max | 60mm |
| Cutting height min | 30mm |
| Cutting height adjustment | Central |
| Collector volume | 31L |
| Battery Type | 1 x 18V 4.0 Ah batteries |
| Typical Charging Time | 95 minutes |
| Typical Mowing Time | 15minutes (300m²) |
| Vision Window | No |
| Right or left start switch | Left and Right |
| Foldable handles | Yes (Top part only) |
| Battery power indicator | Yes (on battery) |
| Grass bag filling indicator | No |
| Roller | No |
| Handle type | “Ergoflex-System” |
| Weight | 9.9Kg |
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 can’t decide between the LawnMaster CLMF2434G and the Bosch Citymower 18-300. I have about 200 m². Both are at the same price (+/-) but which one is the best? Important for me is that it can cut of also a little longer grass and wet grass. And that it collects well all the grass. Quality is important to. Can you help me please?
Hi Wim
To be honest both are pretty much identical in terms of performance and cut. Remember both will struggle to cut wet grass and the battery run-time will be reduced. You can see from my video of the LawnMaster that it did do it, but make sure to have the mower on the highest setting. Both deck sizes are suitable for your lawn size.
I think both will make a great purchase, but here are my thoughts.
Bosch – slightly better build quality – ergonomic handles with 4 starters – More tools to power share with – Bosch brand backup
LawnMaster – Slightly more power – mesh grass bag help pickup cuttings more effectively – Mulching plug included – handles fold a lower deck point with vertical storage.
Hope this helps.
Mark