Your comment on the air tires is of interest to me. I have been using 6' side discharge mowers with solid tires for the last 20 years. I have had to replace wheels several times, either worn out or damaged, like when turning & the wheel hits hard object like the edge of a concrete drive. I ordered a 7' rear discharge First Choice about July 1, but haven't seen yet. Everyone here tells me I don't want air tires. Seems to me they would roll smoother but maybe not take the abuse of the solid.
Have you used both styles long enough for good comparison?