Frontier RC1060 vs JD MX5

[Nathan_OR]

So the Frontier RC1060 I understand is supposed to be a replacement for the LX5. It's about $800 less than the MX5, so I'm just wondering if there is any reason I shouldn't go with the RC1060, since I'll I'm planning to mow is blackberries and weeds and of course I'll hit manure piles mowing the pastures. I like the idea of an MX5 in case I ever need to cut down an overgrown area that may contain stumps or rocks or whatever, but I'm not sure how much tougher it really is... seems like a stump is gonna wreck either one. It seems like everyone around here buys the heavy duty MX5... just wondering why I guess.

Thanks,
Nathan

 

[Z-Michigan]

The MX5 is definitely a tougher machine, but it doesn't sound like you really need one. I just bought an LX6, for what it's worth, for similar uses (mowing pastures and some weed fields). Hitting the occasional stump should NOT wreck either one, though if it's going to happen a lot the MX5 would probably hold up better.

My two cents would be to price out a Woods "Brushbull" 60" mower before buying either of those. I found a BB72 (their light duty, 6' model) was about $200 more than an LX6 when both were equipped with chain guards. I bought the LX6 because I was buying a Deere from a Deere dealer - but after getting it delivered and getting a real close look, if I did it again I would probably pay the extra $200 for a woods.