ZD21 v BX2200 or ZTR v SubCompact

TresCrows · Jul 17, 2001

Ben, I can cut on smooth ground as fast as the machine will go--again on rough ground it is needed to slow down. I think you need to go demo some machines including a ZTR. Why are you in such a hurry. The BX is a 22 horse diesel, it and the deck are capable of mowing at full speed ahead but that is not how most guys who want their equipment to last will do it. I probably run along at about 5 MPH most times. The BX leaves an excellent cut. J

glennmac · Jul 17, 2001

I agree with the others who have commented that you have to decide what you want to do with the device. That will answer the question of which one to get. If all you want to do is mow and you want to spend a lot of money, a dedicated zero turn mower will outmow a BX. It will turn better. The cut will be better because the mower is in the front. You can probably go faster. I dont know about suspension on zero turns, but the BX will give you a very bumpy ride at higher speeds on uneven grounds. My 2910 is MUCH easier on the keester than my BX was, partly because of the suspension seat and partly because of a longer wheelbase.

If, in addition to mowing, you want to lift and haul heavy things, cut brush, and turn dirt, get the BX.

Personally, I wouldnt buy a BX or a zero turn if all I wanted to do is mow. I'd get a much less expensive lawn tractor. But your nickel is your nickel.

Boner · Jul 17, 2001

I really appreiciate all the info. It's not that I'm in a hurry. I am trying to compare these units, spec to spec, as mowing machines. I agree the BX can do more, but if I bought one it would be strictly to cut grass. On occasion I may use the 3ph just because I had one, but I am buying because I need a mower. ...a mower that will last a long time.
I would love to demo a couple of units, but have never been offered such by any of the dealers that I have talked to. This may be because I live 50 miles from the closest one. Is there a milage limit for such a thing?

dbrienza · Jul 17, 2001

I've just finished wrestling with a similar choice. I currently have an L35 TLB that I've been using to get my place in shape, and now that I've almost finished, I'm replacing it with a machine or machines to maintain the lawn (2 acres), clear the snow off the driveway (~300 ft, paved), and perform light landscaping tasks (pull a cart around, general loader work, etc.).

I originally thought a BX would be ideal for all my chores, but I'm now glad that I decided to go with the ZTR for mowing. I picked up a used Ransomes Bobcat (25 hp, 61" deck, 150 hrs.) for $3100 on ebay. My mowing time for the lawn has gone from 2+ hours with a 38" cut lawn tractor to less than 1/2 hour with the ZTR. The rate at which this thing can cut grass is nothing short of amazing.

After I sell the L35, I still may end up with a BX w/o a cutting deck, I'm not sure yet. By the way, anyone interested in an 1998, L35 TLB w/ 650 hrs, lights, HD bucket, 24" backhoe bucket and aux, hydraulics? I just have on or two jobs left for it.

-Dave

Boner · Jul 19, 2001

Thanks for all the input. I FINALLY GOT SEE A ZD YESTERDAY. I drove 300 miles to a dealer across state that had a ZD18. The jury is in. I believe the ZD will meet my needs the best. This has been a very difficult decision for me. I VERY much like the BX, but for what I want to do, I think the ZD will be quicker, and more comfortable. After sitting on the LTs the BX seems roomy, but after sitting on the ZD, the BX seemed a tad cramped. I'm sure this feeling would subside if I owned one. This was just an initial feeling. The ZD seems just as well built as the BX, although the frame seems to be 1/4" instead of 3/8". I will agree that it appears to be built far superior than any other on the market. I am convinced Kubota has the best of the best when it comes to Jap Engineers.

I would like to thank all who took time to answer stupid questions. I am still open to any further comments, or suggestions. The only thing left to figure out is how to pay for it.

-Ben

r0GuE · Jul 19, 2001

Boner, I'm tellin you, your friggin screwin up big time!
I'll tell you why:
I bought a BX2200 ~2 months ago. I have 3/4 acre nicly landscaped yard. I was JUST going to mow grass and not that much of it. Well it cuts great BUT, ALREADY I have a real need for the FEL (2 jobs actually). AND I'm trying to decide what to do with all these leaves and old mulch etc, I will get the tiller and compost. In the winter I will use the FEL for snow.
Perhaps you are very good at understanding your future needs, (I doubt this as I have seen how up in the air you have been in the past few weeks)(I was too at the stage you are in), but I really think there is potential for regret here.
Try to drive 2 miles up the road with a slow moving vehicle sign to mow a feild on a ZT.
Well, I dunno, its yer $$$, just trying to help. I am amazed that I have so many uses for this BX. I pulled down a giant steel pole! (That was fun). Try pulling your son (if you have/ or rent one) in a little cart behind a ZT. ZTs are for companies that mow many many lawns. Not for a joe citizen who has one (or a few) yards and many "other" tasks.
thats it now, your on your own.

wait... I gotta say it... .. ZTs look stupid too!

Rogue

r0GuE · Jul 19, 2001

and...
"Real men don't eat quiche"

Rogue

usedcarz · Jul 20, 2001

you won't regret it one tiny bit boner!! i pull anything and everything with my zd 21 and it's the grass cuttinest machine on the market PERIOD!! big fifference in $9,000 and what? $14 grand? if i need a tree taken out i'll call somebody to do it. all them attachments and i'd use 'em maybe two or three times a year, so the zd is my choice for sure.

TresCrows · Jul 20, 2001

Good grief Roque, Ben wants a ZD which I have no clue what they are but it his money and his right to purchase one and I hope it works out great for him. Yes, I think he screwed up too but that is from my perspective which is clearly not his view so just accept the fact that not everyone wants a BX or needs a BX or even likes a BX.
Ben, don't get mad at Roque, he is pasionate about his BX! Please let us know how it works out for you. J

woodstock · Jul 20, 2001

Boner, you said,
"I am convinced Kubota has the best of the best when it comes to Jap Engineers."

I don't know what century you were hatched in, but your choice of language is offensive and I think you own the members of this discussion group an apology.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

2001 BX2200 (15 hrs) All Kubota FEL,Tiller, box blade, blower w/elec shute, 60 mid mt deck, Ag tires.
Grey market B7000 w/Tiller (120 hrs)
1984 JD 316 after 687 hrs.