Dirtworks, I'm quite satisfied with the HST on my CK20.
If I were going to have others using the tractor, HST is the way to go. Too many people don't know how to stay off the clutch, and they slip it too much burning them up way too soon.
I don't know why they can't just put it in gear and go without that foot on the clutch, but you don't have to worry about that with HST. I, too, love that CK30. It's really a capable tractor.
You should have checked with my dealer while you were down here in Jacksonville. He's only 35 miles from here in Lawtey, FL. Good prices and great service. John