Why are Zero-Turn Mowers so Expensive?

[vrman]

When I bought my Kubota BX23 (with 60"MMM), I also purchased the ZG20 48" for mowing the grass. The reason I got it was to mow the 5 acres I have. And it does a great job in half the time it used to take me with an MTD garden tractor I used to own. I think cut wise, they both do a great job (BX vs ZG), but I have a ton of fruit trees and evergreens, maples etc etc and the ZG just gets around them so much faster.

One thing to watch on those Zero turn machines is what comes with them. I really liked the Kubota line because everything was hydraulic. Even raising the mower deck! The other thing I like about the zero turns are that you are so comfortable sitting in them.

 

[BigDamnFool]

Stubborn,

Try looking for a used commercial model. Most are built with a 2000 hour life expectancy on engine (gas) and hydros. You can probably find a decent used exmark, scag, ferris, dixie chopper, grasshopper, etc. ( sorry if I left out someones favorite brand), with around 1000 hours for about the same as some of these homeowner models are new. Sure you don't get a warranty but you get a machine that is built to last and made to mow all day long. You might spend 50 -75 hours a year mowing. That's 15-20 years life left in that mower before it reaches it's service life. Just look it over really well if you are mechanically inclined, or if not have a dealer look it over. This time of year alot of professional lawn care companies sell their old machines and buy new ones so there should be some out there. Just my 2 cents. Good luck.

Tiny

 

[davemhughes]

I now own a couple with the newest being an absolute mow monster. Air cooled is fine and last a long time. Water cooled are designed for true heavy duty mowing and are very durable. If you have the cash up front and do your research you can find some serious deals on ebay for big bad ZTR mowers. The latest one i just bought: Shivvers Mfg. Inc. - Country Clipper

you will see the difference from residential to commercial. Tractors work fairly well towing a finish mower but in no way can even remotely come close to doing what a commercial ZTR mowers does or vise versa.