Abstract: One aspect of the present invention is directed to an improved operator control system for a walk-behind, mid-size mower having a prime mover and two or more ground-engaging traction wheels. The control system includes a handle having a hand grip and an upper control lever wherein the latter permits engagement of one or both traction wheels for forward or reverse motion and turning. The system further includes a lower lever easily accessible by one or both hands from the hand grip. The lower lever is coupled to the upper control lever such that squeezing the lower lever towards the hand grip also engages both traction wheels. In addition, when the lower lever is squeezed toward the hand grip, it is then substantially adjacent thereto. This permits the operator to provide better lifting assistance to the mower during curb traversal while maintaining engagement of the drive wheels.