Thanks for that nugget. I had seen the slope ratings on the Cub Cadets but wasn't sure if that was for side-hilling or not (the image they use shows it mowing up the slope, not across the slope)
Lawn Tractor vs Zero Turn
- Thread starter drumminj
- Start date
- Views: 30676
Thanks for that nugget. I had seen the slope ratings on the Cub Cadets but wasn't sure if that was for side-hilling or not (the image they use shows it mowing up the slope, not across the slope)
dj1701
Veteran Member
I have about 5 acres to mow. It's steep in a couple of areas and I also have trails through the woods. I was faced with the same problem as you. I really wanted a zero-turn for its speed, but that was the only advantage. Then when you factor in my lawn is not smooth, and I could not go really fast, that advantage was moot.
Zero-turns are really a one trick pony. They cut grass better than a tractor and are much faster. However, they are not that great on steep slopes or uneven terrain.
For these reasons I choose a tractor. I wound up with a Kubota BX2680. It mows really good and will go places the zero-turn won't. The added advantage is, can use it year-round for other chores as well.
Dave
Zero-turns are really a one trick pony. They cut grass better than a tractor and are much faster. However, they are not that great on steep slopes or uneven terrain.
For these reasons I choose a tractor. I wound up with a Kubota BX2680. It mows really good and will go places the zero-turn won't. The added advantage is, can use it year-round for other chores as well.
Dave
dodge man
Super Star Member
A ZTR is going to be faster but side hills can be a problem. It all just depends on how steep the side hill is.
Thanks for the insight.
I already have an L4701 so not looking for something as meaty as a BX. I also have a Kawasaki Mule so have a means of dragging other implements around the yard (seeder, sprayer, drag harrow, etc). It makes this decision difficult as to some degree a "one-trick-pony" would be sufficient, but I also struggle to spend MORE on a single-use tool vs a lawn/garden tractor which likely could serve other functions.
ruffdog
Super Star Member
- Joined
- Dec 31, 2011
- Messages
- 10,579
- Location
- southern wisconsin
- Tractor
- Bobcat Toolcat 5610G, Deere X744, Cub Cadet IH 982
Sometimes a simple garden tractor allows other's to participate in the mowing chores. While I'm doing the trimming with the push mower, my wife is getting ready to mow with her X744 garden tractor. She will mow the yards 2+ acres while I mow the field, ditch, or other areas. My elderly mom is also happy mowing with a lawn tractor. Neither of them would be comfortable with a ZT. Sure, a garden tractor is slower but you can drive it with one hand and use other hand for what ever. The ZT also will scrub the grass as it turns which may be tough on the grass. Test drive them first before you buy!!!!!
2manyrocks
Super Member
- Joined
- Jul 28, 2007
- Messages
- 8,405
Do you already have a mower to get by with so you can take your time looking for what you really want?
Yes, this is exactly a concern of mine.
Right now my gf likes "mowing" the pasture, but she'll only do the flat parts of it, and at about 1mph
. I then do the hilly/uneven/parts with trees.I'm a "research first" type person to find the "optimal" set of choices to decide between in person, but you're right that it may simply come down to whether she's comfortable with a ZT vs a garden tractor.
CloverKnollFarms
Elite Member
I’d vote ZTR. My Hustler weighs in at about 1400 pounds and handles steep side hills fine. The homeowner models, the light weight models, won’t. I’d never want to mow my 2 acre lawn with a lawn tractor. I have 6 acres of fields I routinely mow with an atv and 57” trail mower.
I have a push mower, string trimmer, and 6' bush hog. We can make it work for a little while, but it's not ideal. Don't need something today, but expect we'll buy in the next month.
Going out shopping today -- will check out Kubota, Scag, Deere, and Cub Cadet in Columbia.
jyoutz
Super Member
Zero turn all the way. But I will add that if your ground is rough, get one with 4 wheel suspension. A have one made by Stihl that has the suspension, and it really makes a difference on rough ground. Your back will thank you for that.
