Hi Grant,
Yes, I do mean the right side as you sit on it. When I was little and trying to learn my rights and lefts my dad told me I could always put sand in my right pocket so I would know which one it was. Maybe I need some sand.
I bet you are correct about the issue of controls, but I thought I looked at a John Deere 4710 that had steps on both sides.
Anyway I have found myself mounting the tractor from the right side, just taking a big first step. Next time I'll notice how close I am to the controls.
Joe