The Toro dealer tells me they sell more MyRide now than the standard version. Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Mower Review Inexpensive Quality ZTRs. I wanted to get your thoughts on a few different mowers. The Ryobi is holding up well and the owners like it a lot. I think I like the idea of a lighter, more nimble mower, but perhaps the heavier one is better for most general applications. I prefer a mower where the operator (not the whole mower) has a suspension seat. Cub Cadet: The Cub Cadets 725cc professional-grade KOHLER 7000 V-twin engine is a lot larger than the Toro 452cc, and this mower can reach 7 miles/hour. Bobcat mowers have been around a long time and the mowers are very good. I have a rather small yard no more than 1.5 acres but I have a serious spinal cord injury that causes a very painful condition and constant mind numbing back pain so I probably shouldnt cut grass at all but I enjoy it and it allows me to feel productive which is something I miss ever since someones carelessness left me disabled about 4 years back. Theres no winner in terms of durability and maneuverability. Since I can get the zt2 for only $300 more than the zt1, do I take my chances on it and hope the deck is good? So at least Ive narrowed it down to 4 potential brands. Jeff. The rest of the time I doubt youll have more than 3-400 lbs in the cart and the heavy duty ZT2800 transmissions can handle that easily. The used one would be $900 cheaper, but it actually looks a little rough to me, including seat tears. Hi Larry, I have not seen that anyone has possession of one of the new Ryobi ZTRs yet. And because Ive had good luck with my Deere/Kohler and I feel less enthusiastic about the Briggs, Im leaning towards the Cub. 6. . Calculator tells me (for my peace of mind) that I ought to be looking in the 50-60 range if I dont want to spend much more than a few hours doing my lawn every other weekend. Best riding lawn mower overall: Toro Timecutter 75755 Zero-Turn Mower - See at The Home Depot. You seem very knowledgeable in the area and I would appreciate your opinion. (Its like having a locking diff on a Garden Tractor) I suggest the Z-Force S 48 for long life and the extra weight for traction. (I live in central Ohio). Im also not a big fan of mowers where the whole mower uses the suspension (like your car) because the deck can bounce up and down. You can also check out these videos: Looking for my first zero turn. It is fairly rough ground and has two moderately steep areas. So let me go quickly through some of the options youve mentioned. At the end of the day, your priority is the winner of this long but worthy battle! They make small batches and keep the price very affordable. (More money) Your site has given me a good quick education. On the perimeter of our yard there is about a total of a half acre of wooded area which we do not cut. The IKON XL is actually the toughest mower of the three. In your case the Walker H with a rear discharge deck would be the ultimate choice. Its really interesting how the Internet can get facts turned upside down. 1. Of course, durability is important. I have both brands and I use them all the time. Planted a bunch of young 5-8 trees around the property. 2021 Cub Cadet Lawn and Garden Tractors New Models! It mows really well and is a very dependable mower. Appreciate it. fuel type: gas. Arent the Toro engines made in China? Hi iamdgw, The Titan does not have the Smart Speed. Its just about commercial grade and only about $800 more. The Radius X is also rock solid on slopes. Its also taller and 7 inches longer, which means itll take up more space and look larger, neither of which appeals to me. Very comfortable to mow with The cut is even no lines. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Hi Paul, thanks so much for providing this great resource and helping us be informed consumers. I just want to make the best choice I am not stuck on any one brand. All of these machines seem to be comparable to each other but of course theyre a lot of money and I definitely want to make the right choice. Ive been researching alot lately and deciding on a zero turn to replace my old Cub Cadet Yard Tractor. Any recommendations on brand and a specific mower in that brand? 54 (137 cm) TimeCutter MyRIDE Zero Turn Mower (75754), Toros 42 (107 cm) TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower, Toro 21 (53cm) 60V MAX Electric Battery SMARTSTOW Self-Propel High Wheel Mower, Cub Cadet 60 Volt Max 21 Signature Cut Push Walk-Behind Mower. Its the Capital one Savor Card, google it if interested in the promo. In my opinion, the Toro deck cuts just as well and is actually a little more durable with the bullnose bumper along the front edge. The company has a commercial implement office here in Ft Worth, but they dont stock any mowers at all. I will be cutting about 3.5 acres with a few rolling hills. One con. Paul. The Toro and the Ariens will both mow your entire 2 acres in less than an hour so you can always just mow it all every week . The Toro has the SmartSpeed control so you can slow the top speed down when mowing on the slope but, they are both good mowers. This includes the Vanguard and is only $200 more than the lowest price online for the base 48 ($3999). The Kohler 7000 is an extended life engine. For example, my Dodge Caravan can pull 5000 lbs but I should not have more than 150 lbs on the hitch (tongue weight) Any more weight than that and the weight would push the rear of the van down too much making the van hard to steer or even understeer on a corner causing an accident. However, Im wondering if either of these would be substantially easier to work on for basic maintenance (oil/filter changes, blade sharpening, etc. Is this not the best value out there in commercial mowers? Although stepping or climbing on your cutting deck might seem natural, in the long term it will shorten the lifespan of the deck leading to even bigger problems. If you still want to pick up the mulched leaves then get this sweeper> Agri-Fab 44 in. Great website and article! 6. Basically, its the ELS residential with a high flow commercial air filter. So the real difference and apples to apples price comparison is the ZT X to the ZT XL. I also bought my snow blower through your recommendation. A little history first. Mower Blades, deck belts, air cleaner, oil filter, etc. Though this might seem minor, have you ever tried mowing a very wet lawn? Greetings Paul While it is possible to purchase durable air filters to prevent the problem, its a little inconvenient nonetheless and because of that, the Cub Cadet wins this round with their powerful and durable engines. The hauler is rated to carry up to 1,000 pounds. Husqvarna Z254F Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower. Im very impressed by the $3700 Ultima ZT2 with a 3-year warranty + 2-year extended warranty ($600). They also have the traction to get up that slope. Baggers for the MX and HD are very expensive. I am now in the need for something more robust as the big dog has had a tough time on my farm. Lots to still contemplate. Hi Paul, want your view on a commercial quality/HD zero like the Scagg Tiger II 60ish deck, grasshopper, JD etc. I think I have a truly fun exercise for you with a varied list of contenders. Yard is pretty flat with a little slope to get down to that wooded area.. but i also want to ask u if its safe for the mower to cut back in that stuff. Almost everything like changing belts and blades, needs to be done on a lift. Which models might you suggest? If you go lap-bar I STRONGLY suggest that you demo it on your yard to see if the mower will hold on your slope. Im looking to buy my first zero turn. As stated before, Husqvarna tractors are designed to tackle heavy-duty mowing . I really appreciate your website, your keen insights, and all your help. Q: How hot do these transmissions get? Not sure I can wait that long, though. Heavy Duty Zero Turn Lawn Mowers Outdoor Power For Sale in OHIO - 988 You could prefer the ease of entry or speed options that comes with the Toro TimeCutter, or rather choose to ride those hills with a Cub Cadet zt1 without worrying about the engine failing you; both brands come to the fight with very impressive features. The highest-rated zero-turn lawn mower that Consumer Reports recommends is the Gravely ZT HD 48 991152. It has a very low center of gravity and I believe you can adjust the weight of the deck to give it even more traction if needed. Will the toro be underpowered? Believe it or not, I didnt have to replace the blade belt but about two years ago. Are there any inclines present? The Cub Cadet is the clear winner right now but we need to give the EGO a chance this year to prove itself. 1. I need a ZTR that can perform well on slopes. They have two that I recommend. You helped me 5 years ago buying a Big Dog Alpha and have followed and supported you since. Join the discussionPaul, what is the blade speed on the Cub Cadet Ultima? Ive been using my Dads Ikonx52 bc his grandson was cutting his yard but that stopped so he needs his back now so my turn to cough up for a ZTM. Motor repair on commercial mowers can range anywhere from $1000-$4000 for 60-inch commercial zero-turn. Ive been reading your articles and I want to get your help. Just so you know. Gravely also offers this mower with the heavier ZT2800 transmissions The Gravely ZT XL. I see that a local dealer and Home Depot have the same mower for this. But it only has lightweight EZT transmissions so using it commercially I would not expect it to last more than 3-5 years. I strongly suggest going to a dealer and talk them into demoing the mower on your lawn before you buy. Check it out here: Ariens Ikon 42. Hi Rob, My first choice is the Ariens IKON XL at Home Depot. The body of a zero-turn mower is important for several reasons. If you are mowing one acre and less properties the Walker will be faster overall. Cub Cadet. Usually, for some brands, this feature is only added to the commercial zero-turn machines since they cover more acreages, but Toro has better plans for their residential ZTR mowers and now you get to change speed as you desire on the lawn. Both mowers are ideal for residential homeowners. Hi Thomas, The Big Dog Alpha is a Hustler Raptor painted red. And, it is worth the extra for the IKON XL. In general, stamped decks cut better fabricated decks are tougher and handle more abuse. which tires are good for not tearing up the yard? The large 30-inch deck will get your lawn mowed in half the time of a 22-inch machine. Are you familiar with or have you had experience with this Toro model? Toro with its smart speed control allows you to pull much heavier loads than all the other ZTRs. Agri-Fab Sweeper. I would never mow across the hill horizontally, just up and down vertically. The name is an old, well-respected name in the industry. It could be sent here to pick up, but this location isnt open on Saturdays at all which means Id have to take time off from a new job to pick it up. A homeowner doesnt need a commercial-grade zero-turn mower, as these are intended for very large areas. I dont think youll be happy with Husqvarna 254 over the years. I purposely did not expand on my Toro dealer experience. Others suggest Hustler, Bad Boy, and Husqvarna. The Toros select speed control is also the best for pulling loads without worrying about your transmissions. I cut my lawn high at 4 inches so in the fall when I mulch leaves most of the clippings disappears into the grass. EL Mehdi (Medi), the founder and voice behind Desired Lawn Mower. As time goes by and my father in law and neighbor get older Ill be cutting probably in the 10 acre range. I have seen some concern about the non-serviceable transmission on this model. Unless you have a dependable, local dealer, Id stay away from it. For either of the above options, is a ROPS available? 9. I am looking at Scag Liberty z 48 and Bobcat ZT2000 48, Both look fairly similar. The Cub Cadet is the hottest probably because he gets a little more profit so he pushes the sale a little harder Im also very impressed with the Worx LANDROID L 20V (4.0AH) CORDLESS ROBOTIC LAWN MOWER W/ GPS. For years they sold a contractor grade engine that was $300 cheaper than the rest and it held up well so even though theyve raised their prices many small owner/operators still want the name. Headlights on zero turns have been quite the talk, so if you mow in areas that are peppered with lots of shades and darker skies, the headlights will offer an extra sense of security and stamina to the scene. The only maintenance is sharpening or changing the blade once a year. I have 2 acres to mow and Ive most recently tried out a Ferris IS600z. The deck is tough but mows best on normal lawn. Hi Morty, They dont list the tip speed but since they are advertising 7 MPH it will be at the max for residential mowers. They are fast but they can also mow 24-inch grass cleanly if needed. He suggested to me a few brands that he thought would fit the bill: kubota, scag, exmark. I was looking at the exmark radius 48 but they dont offer the kawasaki engine with them, do you know anything about those engines that exmark is using in their radius mowers. They are very intense about quality and never compromised by making residential models for the masses. That is an easy adjustment and found on page 20 of the operators manual. He is a very good mechanic, but I want to help him with a proper mower. Check it out here: https://homedepot.sjv.io/P00q4N. It all seems easy enough for me to do it, but its got a 3 yr warranty so what is the best practice? Does anyone have experience with these two? I also like the Gravely/Ariens in that price range. Torn on 3 brands. That said, the larger displacement of the Kohler (725cc) will give you more torque going up the hills with thick grass. Hi Paul, Thanks so much for the reply. Appreciate all the help and insight. Im looking to spend around $3k or less for the mower; what would you suggest? Both Toro and Cub Cadet Walk-Behind mowers are classy and durable. There is one mower that is designed for this type of work. The mower can go as fast as 5.5 miles/hour, and its engine is also safe from branches, rocks, and other debris because of a heavy-duty steel guard. They make a good flaunt of their 11-gauge fabricated decks, which are highly dependable. The Deere you are looking at uses the Intek. Hi Laurrelle, There are very few front deck mowers on the market. Yes, It rides well and mows OK but for commercial users, the shaft drive doesnt hold up as well as belts. No-Spill 1450 5-Gallon Poly Gas Can (CARB Compliant), Universal Suspension SEAT KIT for Lawn Mowers, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Toro-42-in-22-5-HP-TimeCutter-Commercial-V-Twin-Gas-Dual-Hydrostatic-Zero-Turn-Riding-Mower-with-Smart-Speed-75742/310836498, 2020 50 (127 cm) TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower (75750), https://www.husqvarna.com/us/products/zero-turn-mowers/z560/967929901/, 2020 The Thirteen Best 42-46 Inch Zero Turn Mowers, 42 in. Yes they are expensive, but then I dont have the maintenance and cost to run. It side discharges and mulches very well. You can buy an Arm Rest Kit for Cub Cadet XT1 Do you recommend I go with a 42 inch or 50 inch deck zero turn? Bush Hog has had zero-turns for many years and the current models are heavy-duty well-built units. My current tractor mower is a Husqvarna 46. Will the 42 suffice or should I get 46 or 48. Thank you very much for your expertise and timely observations . In fact you can buy the new 2020 50 (127 cm) TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower (75750) for less money. Many commercial operators go back to the 30-36 inch walk-behinds because the small standers just arent that great. Hi Daron, Would you please point me to where you read or heard that Toro only has a tow limit of 85lbs? Really want a 48 deck min. Do you have any reason that you would value one over the other? So Home Depot or Tractor supply might be a viable alternative. The decks are manufactured to incorporate aerodynamic force for a much more intentional distribution of clippings; to avoid clumping, stragglers, trailing, and improve the overall cutting quality of the deck. 5. The Cub Cadet ZT2 is a decent mower I just like the Gravely better. Hi Shane, Yes, Deere has made a lot of improvements in their decks in the last 10 years. My current seat does not have (that I can find) any electrical connections and a seated person is required to start the mower. I expect the batteries to last 5-7 years. The Frames are different so the Deere looks lighter because it uses smaller tubing. The best mower in that price range for ride, cut quality, cutting speed and long life components including the drive belts is the Exmark Lazer Z X-Series. Durable, advanced polymer seat suspension A rubber floor mat to dampen vibrations Industry-exclusive overmolded hand grips Removable floor pan for easy deck access 17 quarter-inch deck height adjustments, including transport mode Offset front axle for precise trimming Maintenance-free sealed ball bearing spindles Premium Turf Master tire set If you have a very thick lawn you may wish you went with a V-Twin engine. I am enjoying your site. I favored the Kohler, but I dont care for the black and yellow or the dune buggy look. Thanks, If you own a large patch of land, the Cub Cadet will serve you well for a long time. Both companies are renowned for producing reliable machines that withstand the test of time. Its the latest design. Thanks for your super helpful work. Opinion please. The joystick does seem nice, but I have no idea which one might be better for ride comfort, durability, etc. Thanks for your reply. Thanks! A zero-turn mower is no light purchase, which explains why so many potential buyers ask questions about both of the mowers weve discussed. When checking online pricing for the Z930M I found many of them with over 2000 hours still being sold. Thanks again! All the new decks are much deeper so you get better airflow and you can use bagging blades to throw the grass into a bagger. I couldnt be happier and you gave me some good advice last year, so thanks for that. Hi Daron, What Toro means is hitch/tongue weight or the downward force on the hitch, not what it can pull. Hi Adam, When the Husqvarna MZ came out 10 years ago there were very few ZTRs in the high residential/entry level pro category but today there are many more that have stronger frames, better cutting decks and ride better. Skaggs has a good blade change system, for no lift style. I have been a follower of your site for a few years now. Hi Paul, 2022 HUSTLER SUPER Z 60RD For Sale In NEW ALBANY, Ohio We do have wet grass often in the spring. Hi Greg, You have to move up to the Toro Timecutter HD and the Ariens IKON XL to get the larger transmissions. This will be handy for my open / flat areas Can You Rent Riding Lawn Mower? i just need help deciding which mower to go for, i run my own gardening business of three years and its now time to upgrade to a ZT, I do a few commercial jobs which are about 1 acre in size and alot of smaller residencial properties with small gate access around 1/2 acre. Its very easy to work on and has an accessory front step and handrail so its very easy to get on and off of. They seem comparable but I like the Hydrogear 3100 transmission on the Kubota and the John Deere Kawasaki engine. Headlights are the kinds of features that you either get on commercial zero turns or you get installed, but the Cub Cadet has them fixed for you at the get-go! Hi Kurt, Im always a little partial to the Exmark. The Challenger adds the option of a Deluxe seat, which I might need to smooth my rough yard, but the Edge and Challenger are probably out of my price range. Which one is quieter? Yes, when you read the lawnmowers forums and talk to dealers Kawasaki does appear more popular. I suggest mulching your leaves in the fall. Hi Tommy, My first choice for mowing one acre and pulling a cart is the 42 in. Husky has a big presence here but havent heard good things about reliability. Great point about the extra torque for hills. Its a good mower for your 3 acres and will last a long time. Ive been told to get a fabricated deck, though Ive read what you say about the John Deere stamped decks being good. The 52 and larger sizes cut as well as any other brand. Trying to decide between a 54 Magnum MZ ztr Bad Boy and a Ariens Ikon X 52, any words of advise? Take care. Hi Paul. Check out this video I mow a ditch that Ive never been able to mow with any other ZTR. Which would you recommend? I guess I am just asking if you have any knowledge of this mower that you can share. And to make your mowing experience even better, consider the tips in this, link to How To Organize A Bathroom Closet. Walker will gladly come out and demo one on your property. Hi Larry, In this price range neither Ariens IKON XD is the best. Cub Cadet or Toro - The one I'd choose - Lawnmowerfixed I want to go the mulching route so that I can avoid so many grass clippings. Thank you for the research and in-depth articles; Ive learned a great deal already. Manage Settings Someone who mows more than once a week is better off with a twin-cylinder engine, as they are more fuel-efficient and durable than their single cylinder counterparts. Hi..I am looking for the best battery (about 1.5 acres) riding mower with a steering wheel, that will bag, about 38 in, power steering, dont have to change the blade when I am mulching or cutting (bagging).Thank you. Looking at either the Toro 42 in Time cutter with the Toro branded engine (75744) or the 50 in with the Kawasaki engine (75750) Then on the flip side on the Cub Cadet Im looking at the 46 in (ZT1 46) with the Cub Cadet branded engine or the 50 in (ZT1 50) with the Kawasaki engine. Its a stand-on mower. Quality of cut is secondary, because it is a rough country yard. I like some of the stuff on the zt1, like the larger tires, the lights, my kids really like the looks of it, (they say it reminds them of bumblebee from the transformers movies), but Ive been reading about owners having problems with deck vibrations, so Im leery about getting it. It seems to me that you appreciate the Ariens mowers as the better built and maybe longer lasting. It is well worth the extra $600. This is possible because of lever control mechanics. I especially like the price around $4300. A washout port is included with both mowers, and this component allows an operator to rinse off their cutting deck without the hassle of flipping the deck over. I am considering a Kubota z231 BR-48 and a John Deere Z530M-48. Im looking into a 48-52 mower. 22.5 HP Toro TimeCutter. I would expect both would hold up well for my use. 1. Toro timecutter HD or Another possibility is to go back to a lawn/garden tractor. It has a great engine, heavy-duty transmissions, and a great cutting deck. The best part is the price, the Toro is quite a bit cheaper than the Cub. You get a better experience when you buy from a dealer. If you have any questions or problems your local dealer will be glad to help you. But the real market is Europe so not everyone is selling here yet. Either way, you have the Toro TimeCutter and Cub Cadet zt1 to the test with a spot for the best combatant. Dont make this mistake! It helps the fuel last longer and the escaping vapors wont wreck the environment. Stepping up from there is the Ariens / Gravely APEX / ZT-HD 52. However, I can live without mulching. (Since I review mowers I like to keep a fairly new unit here) $3500, 200 hours, very well maintained. 22 HP Gas Dual Hydrostatic. Home Depot has both the MX5075 and MX6050 available in CA compliant models. My only problem with this feature is that there isnt a way to turn the lights off. I dont necessarily want to mow the whole thing, but at least half of it. Funny you should ask. The Ariens has slightly larger rear tires for better traction and an offset deck so you can trim right around smaller obstacles like telephone poles. Have someone engage the deck and watch the belt, idler bracket, spring, and each pulley. Best in class seating( bad back) and have 4 to 5 acres to mower. So, every young kid who was getting into the lawn mowing business bought the Kaw because they were cheaper. Ive used a California trimmer reel mower for the past 6 years, but want less maintenance and speed. But, Since you have a very rough lawn I recommend that you buy the Titan series with MyRide. (all those clipping need someplace to go and raising the deck up will let them drop into the grass) They will both work flawlessly on your normal lawn. The kids who stayed in the business got used to the Kaws so they continued to put them on their next mower and so on. Toro Timecutter: (they have a fabricated deck or a stamped deck not sure which to get) Havent seen no negative comments on these. That mower should be in the $2700 range and the fact you have to spend an EXTRA $160 for a hitch is ridiculous. I think I would spend the extra money for the new 2018, but I would welcome your advice. I suggest mowing at 4 inches and then mow in the late afternoon. I have been going through drive belts at a rate of 1 per season. The decks just dont have the depth the commercial decks have to hold the grass and recut it well. Other than that I dont have a preference. The hillside is mostly tall fescue with some clover and ground ivy. solid! heating oil prices in fayette county, pa; how old is katherine stinney Also, Id consider the CC RZT42S. Just remember, if you mow that way your mower deck can throw a baseball 600 feet so make sure all debris, kids toys, rocks, and garbage are picked up before you mow. I suggest that you dont mulch until your lawn growth has settled down. I do think Ill like the wider rear tires on the Deere though. Thanks so much for your guidance Paul, much appreciated! They have less lift than regular blades so they dont cut as evenly. I had to yell to be heard over it. With the belt loose wiggle the pulley on the electric clutch up and down (on the bottom of the engine) there should be no play.