Top Riding Mowers: The Best You Can Buy

A riding mower, also known as a lawn tractor or a ride-on mower, is a type of lawn care equipment that allows users to sit and ride while cutting grass. Unlike push mowers, which require physical effort to push and maneuver, riding mowers are powered by an engine and have a cutting deck attached to the front or middle of the machine. This makes mowing large lawns much easier and less physically demanding.

There are several benefits to using a riding mower over a push mower. Firstly, riding mowers are much faster and more efficient at cutting grass, especially on large lawns. They can cover a larger area in a shorter amount of time, saving the user valuable time and energy. Additionally, riding mowers often have larger cutting decks, which means they can cut more grass with each pass. This results in fewer passes needed to complete the job.

There are different types of riding mowers available in the market to suit different needs and preferences. The most common types include rear-engine riding mowers, lawn tractors, and zero-turn mowers. Rear-engine riding mowers are smaller and more maneuverable, making them ideal for small to medium-sized lawns. Lawn tractors are larger and more powerful, suitable for larger lawns with rough terrain. Zero-turn mowers are highly maneuverable and can make sharp turns without leaving uncut grass, making them perfect for precision mowing.

Key Takeaways

• Riding mowers are a convenient and efficient way to maintain a lawn.
• When choosing a riding mower, consider factors such as lawn size, terrain, and budget.
• Top 10 riding mowers for large lawns include models from John Deere, Husqvarna, and Cub Cadet.
• Best riding mowers for small lawns include models from Troy-Bilt and Snapper.
• Affordable riding mowers for budget-conscious buyers include models from Poulan Pro and Yard Machines.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Riding Mower

When choosing a riding mower, there are several factors that need to be considered to ensure you select the right one for your needs.

1. Size of the lawn: The size of your lawn will determine the size and power of the riding mower you need. For small to medium-sized lawns, a rear-engine riding mower or a lawn tractor with a smaller cutting deck will suffice. For larger lawns, a larger lawn tractor or a zero-turn mower with a wider cutting deck will be more efficient.

2. Terrain of the lawn: If your lawn has rough or uneven terrain, you will need a riding mower with good traction and stability. Lawn tractors are generally better suited for rough terrain as they have larger wheels and a heavier build. Zero-turn mowers are better for flat and even terrain.

3. Budget: Riding mowers can vary greatly in price, so it’s important to set a budget before starting your search. Determine how much you are willing to spend and look for models within that price range. Keep in mind that more expensive models often come with additional features and better build quality.

4. Engine power and cutting width: The engine power of a riding mower determines how well it can handle thick grass and tough terrain. Look for a mower with a powerful engine if you have a large lawn or if your grass tends to grow thick. The cutting width refers to the width of the cutting deck and determines how much grass can be cut in one pass. A wider cutting width will reduce the number of passes needed to complete the job.

5. Comfort and ease of use: Since you will be spending a significant amount of time on your riding mower, it’s important to choose one that is comfortable and easy to use. Look for features such as adjustable seats, ergonomic controls, and smooth steering. Consider whether you prefer a foot-pedal or hand-lever operated transmission.

Top 10 Riding Mowers for Large Lawns

1. John Deere X350 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor features a 42-inch cutting deck, a powerful 18.5 horsepower engine, and a comfortable high-back seat. It also has cruise control and an easy-to-use hydrostatic transmission. The John Deere X350 is priced at around $3,000.

2. Husqvarna YTH24V54 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 54-inch cutting deck, a 24 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and an ergonomic steering wheel. The Husqvarna YTH24V54 is priced at around $2,500.

3. Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series LT 42 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 42-inch cutting deck, a 18 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a tight turning radius. The Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series LT 42 is priced at around $1,800.

4. Troy-Bilt Mustang Z42 Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 42-inch cutting deck, a 22 horsepower engine, and dual hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a zero-turn radius for easy maneuverability. The Troy-Bilt Mustang Z42 is priced at around $2,500.

5. Craftsman T150 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 46-inch cutting deck, a 19 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and an adjustable steering column. The Craftsman T150 is priced at around $1,800.

6. Ariens IKON XD 52 Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 52-inch cutting deck, a 23 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a durable steel frame. The Ariens IKON XD 52 is priced at around $3,000.

7. Snapper Classic RER Rear Engine Rider: This rear-engine riding mower has a 28-inch cutting deck, an 11.5 horsepower engine, and a disc drive transmission. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Snapper Classic RER is priced at around $1,500.

8. Poulan Pro PP19A42 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 42-inch cutting deck, a 19 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a tight turning radius. The Poulan Pro PP19A42 is priced at around $1,500.

9. Simplicity Regent Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 38-inch cutting deck, a 23 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a durable steel frame. The Simplicity Regent is priced at around $2,500.

10. Toro TimeCutter SS4225 Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 42-inch cutting deck, a 22.5 horsepower engine, and dual hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a zero-turn radius for easy maneuverability. The Toro TimeCutter SS4225 is priced at around $2,500.

Best Riding Mowers for Small Lawns

Brand	Model	Cutting Width (inches)	Engine Power (HP)	Turning Radius (inches)	Price Range
Husqvarna	YTH18542	42	18.5	16	1,500 – 2,000
John Deere	E100	42	17.5	18	1,500 – 2,000
Craftsman	T150	46	19	18	1,500 – 2,000
Troy-Bilt	Pony 42X	42	17.5	18	1,500 – 2,000
Poulan Pro	PP19A42	42	19	18	1,000 – 1,500

1. Troy-Bilt Pony Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 42-inch cutting deck, a 17.5 horsepower engine, and a manual transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Troy-Bilt Pony is priced at around $1,200.

2. Craftsman R110 Rear Engine Rider: This rear-engine riding mower has a 30-inch cutting deck, an 11.5 horsepower engine, and a manual transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Craftsman R110 is priced at around $1,000.

3. Cub Cadet CC30H Hydrostatic Riding Mower: This riding mower has a 30-inch cutting deck, a 382cc engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Cub Cadet CC30H is priced at around $1,300.

4. Husqvarna YTH18542 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 42-inch cutting deck, an 18.5 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Husqvarna YTH18542 is priced at around $1,500.

5. John Deere E100 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 42-inch cutting deck, a 17.5 horsepower engine, and a manual transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The John Deere E100 is priced at around $1,500.

Affordable Riding Mowers for Budget-Conscious Buyers

1. Yard Machines 13AN772G000 Riding Mower: This riding mower has a 38-inch cutting deck, a 344cc engine, and a manual transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Yard Machines 13AN772G000 is priced at around $1,000.

2. Poulan Pro PP155H42 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 42-inch cutting deck, a 15.5 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Poulan Pro PP155H42 is priced at around $1,200.

3. Murray 24″ Rear Engine Rider: This rear-engine riding mower has a 24-inch cutting deck, an 11.5 horsepower engine, and a manual transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Murray 24″ Rear Engine Rider is priced at around $1,000.

4. Yard-Man 13AC26JD000 Riding Mower: This riding mower has a 26-inch cutting deck, a 420cc engine, and a manual transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Yard-Man 13AC26JD000 is priced at around $1,200.

5. Craftsman T110 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 42-inch cutting deck, a 17.5 horsepower engine, and a manual transmission. It also features a comfortable mid-back seat and a compact design for easy storage. The Craftsman T110 is priced at around $1,200.

High-End Riding Mowers for Professional Landscapers

1. Exmark Lazer Z X-Series Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 60-inch cutting deck, a 31 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a durable steel frame. The Exmark Lazer Z X-Series is priced at around $10,000.

2. Ferris ISX800 Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 52-inch cutting deck, a 25 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a durable steel frame. The Ferris ISX800 is priced at around $8,000.

3. Scag Turf Tiger II Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 61-inch cutting deck, a 35 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a durable steel frame. The Scag Turf Tiger II is priced at around $12,000.

4. Hustler Super Z HyperDrive Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 60-inch cutting deck, a 35 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a durable steel frame. The Hustler Super Z HyperDrive is priced at around $11,000.

5. John Deere Z955R Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 60-inch cutting deck, a 29 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a comfortable high-back seat and a durable steel frame. The John Deere Z955R is priced at around $9,000.

Riding Mowers with Advanced Features for Efficiency and Comfort

1. Cub Cadet XT2 SLX54 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 54-inch cutting deck, a 25 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features power steering, cruise control, and an adjustable high-back seat. The Cub Cadet XT2 SLX54 is priced at around $3,000.

2. Husqvarna TS354XD Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 54-inch cutting deck, a 24 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features power steering, cruise control, and an adjustable high-back seat. The Husqvarna TS354XD is priced at around $3,500.

3. John Deere X570 Lawn Tractor: This lawn tractor has a 54-inch cutting deck, a 24 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features power steering, cruise control, and an adjustable high-back seat. The John Deere X570 is priced at around $4,500.

4. Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE Suspension System Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 54-inch cutting deck, a 24.5 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features power steering, cruise control, and a comfortable high-back seat with suspension. The Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE Suspension System is priced at around $4,000.

5. Craftsman Pro Series 54″ 26 HP V-Twin Kohler Garden Tractor: This garden tractor has a 54-inch cutting deck, a 26 horsepower engine, and a hydrostatic transmission. It also features power steering, cruise control, and an adjustable high-back seat. The Craftsman Pro Series 54″ 26 HP V-Twin Kohler Garden Tractor is priced at around $3,500.

Riding Mowers with Zero-Turn Capability for Precision Mowing

1. Ariens Apex 60 Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 60-inch cutting deck, a 25 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a zero-turn radius for easy maneuverability and a comfortable high-back seat. The Ariens Apex 60 is priced at around $5,000.

2. Gravely ZT HD 52 Zero-Turn Mower: This zero-turn mower has a 52-inch cutting deck, a 23 horsepower engine, and hydrostatic transmissions. It also features a zero-turn radius for easy maneuverability and a comfortable high-back seat. The Gravely ZT HD 52 is priced at around $4,500.

3. Husqvarna Z254 Zero-Turn Mower: The Husqvarna Z254 Zero-Turn Mower is a top-of-the-line machine that offers exceptional performance and precision. With its powerful engine and innovative design, this mower can effortlessly tackle even the toughest grass and terrain. The zero-turn feature allows for effortless maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around obstacles and tight corners. Additionally, the Z254 is equipped with a durable cutting deck that ensures a clean and even cut every time. Whether you have a large lawn or a small yard, this mower is sure to provide efficient and professional results.

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FAQs

What is a riding mower?

A riding mower is a type of lawn mower that is designed to be ridden on, rather than pushed. It is typically used for cutting large lawns or fields.

What are the benefits of using a riding mower?

Using a riding mower can save time and energy compared to using a push mower. It is also easier on the body, as the user does not have to push the mower around the yard.

What should I consider when buying a riding mower?

When buying a riding mower, you should consider the size of your lawn, the terrain, and your budget. You should also consider the features you want, such as a bagging system or a mulching option.

What are some of the best riding mowers on the market?

Some of the best riding mowers on the market include the John Deere X350, the Husqvarna YTH24V48, and the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series LT 42.

How much do riding mowers typically cost?

Riding mowers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the brand, features, and size. On average, a good quality riding mower will cost between $1,500 and $3,000.

What maintenance is required for a riding mower?

Regular maintenance for a riding mower includes changing the oil, replacing the air filter, and sharpening the blades. It is also important to keep the mower clean and store it properly when not in use.