Best lawn tractor value
The Best Riding Mowers of 2022
If you have a large lawn or acreage, a riding lawn mower or lawn tractor can save you plenty of time and hassle. Finding the right machine for your needs starts with understanding the demands of your situation. Someone can tell you a machine is great, but if it’s more power than you need or not rugged enough to handle your property’s terrain, then you’ll waste time and money.
Our methodology: We created these categories based on a cost-benefit-performance balance. We feel this aligns best with our audience, who will likely have a half-acre up to a few acres to mow, and some of whom may be looking for comfort and environmentally-friendly options. To find the best combination of power and value, we researched more than a dozen machines through major retailers and weighed consumer and other reviews.
The best riding mowers of 2022
We researched more than a dozen different mowers from major retailers and weighed reviews, specs, and ratings. We broke riding mowers into seven categories:
- Best overall: Husqvarna YTH 18542
- Best value mower: Craftsman R110
- Best electric mower: Ryobi 38 in. Electric Riding Lawn Mower
- Best lawn tractor: Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series 46-inch
- Best value tractor: Troy-Bilt Pony 42-inch
- Best for bigger lawns: John Deere E120
- Best zero-turn mower: Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1
Best overall: Husqvarna YTH 18542
For the best overall riding mower, look no further than the Husqvarna YTh28542, which is hands down one of the most popular offerings when it comes to riding mowers for several years running. At $2,099, the YTh28542 is a humble 42-inch mower that’s known for dependability and surprising power behind its 18.5 horsepower Briggs and Stratton engine. Owners also love the 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Its hydrostatic transmission is smooth, requires no shifting, and breezes through hills.
Owners also appreciate its compact size for storage, the ergonomically-designed seat, and a 16-inch turning radius that makes tough sections of your lawn easy to reach.
- Check price at Lowe’s
- Check price at Husqvarna
Best value mower: Craftsman R110
For busy homeowners who may have an acre or two to mow and just need a reliable machine, the Craftsman R110 is a very popular, solid option. The Craftsman brand is well known, and this rear-mounted engine model comes with a simple 10.5 horsepower Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine, soft-touch steering, mulching kit and a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual transmission.
For $1,799, you also get a reverse mowing feature, and its relatively tight 18-inch turning radius does well in sharper corners. The R110 is not a flashy option, but it’s reliable, and it gets the job done for those who don’t need tractor power.
- Check price at Lowe’s
- Check price at Craftsman
Best electric mower: Ryobi 38 in.
Electric Riding Lawn Mower For those wanting to get away from gasoline engines, Ryobi is the brand that has arguably made the biggest splash in the electric mower arena. The 38 in. 100 Ah offers up to 2.5 hours of run time and can cover up to 2.5 acres, a great step up for only $200 more from its younger sibling, the 50 Ah, which only covers about an acre and one hour of run time with a charge.
At $3,199, you’re paying more, but those who are looking in this category usually understand that; and for the amount of power you get, it’s still a good value. This 48-volt is super quiet, has LED headlights, a phone charger, a 12-position manual adjusted 2-blade deck, cruise control, and it charges on a simple standard 120-volt outlet.
- Check price at Amazon
- Check price at Home Depot
Best lawn tractor: Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series 46-inch
While John Deere has its loyal followers, thousands of Cub Cadet buyers raise their voices about the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series 46-inch.
For $2,399, it’s tough not to find a retailer without hundreds—if not thousands—of reviewers singing this model’s praises about power and reliability.
The tight 16-inch turn radius is complemented by a powerful 22 horsepower Kohler V-Twin engine, and the smooth-riding hydrostatic transmission is a game-changer for larger yards and acreage. It also comes with an adjustable seat built for comfort, and the company’s IntelliPower™ technology assures users of an even mow—even in thick, wet environments.
- Check price at Home Depot
Best value tractor: Troy-Bilt Pony 42-inch
One of the most impressive things about the lawn tractor category is that you can get a lot of power out of an entry-level machine that is priced in line with a riding mower. We found the Troy-Bilt Pony 42-inch delivers the best value for the budget-conscious lawn tractor owner.
For only $1,899, the Pony’s users appreciate its easily adjustable 7-speed transmission. It offers a smooth ride and a tight 18-inch turn radius.
It’s dependable, low-maintenance, and engineered to start in cold weather. The generous 42-inch blade also puts it above others in this price range, many of which have comparable power but only come with 30- or 36-inch blades.
- Check price at Troy-Bilt
Best for bigger lawns: John Deere E120
The John Deere E120’s powerful 20 horsepower V-Twin gas engine is among the top engines in this class. It has the power and torque to handle many different types of cutting situations, and it blends all that muscle with a smooth, agile ride and cruise control.
A redesigned mower deck lift lever makes it easy to lift heights from one to four inches. The ergonomic design of the control compartment makes the tractor comfortable, and John Deere loyalists love the easy 30-second oil change system. You also get a choke-free ready-start system, and the fade-resistant composite hood won’t rust or dent.
- Check price at Home Depot
Best zero-turn mower: Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1
In the world of riding mowers, zero-turn models are in a league of their own.
But that advanced turning ability comes at a price — zero-turn mowers are usually thousands of dollars more than their wider turning counterparts, and many of them are marketed towards professional landscapers.
At $3,599, the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 certainly isn’t cheap. But it has some of the most enthusiastic reviews of any mower we saw, and comes with a 50-in. deck and a 23-HP, V-Twin Kawasaki engine. Its 3.5 gallon fuel tank means you can tackle bigger yards without stopping to refuel.
- Check price at Home Depot
- Check price at Cub Cadet
There’s a lot of information and products out there, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed when shopping for a riding mower or tractor. Your best bet is to talk to users, sales professionals at stores, and also do some online research. Ultimately, the following factors will be key:
- Match machine power and transmission to your needs: If you have a lot of grass with a lot of hills, you’re going to want a more powerful motor and a hydrostatic transmission, with comfortable seating.
If you only have a half-acre, a 20-horsepower engine might be overkill. Gauge your yard size, terrain type, and make sure the machine fits the bill. User input and online research will help you make these decisions. - See it in person to gauge comfort: A common complaint among users is pedals and shifters being in awkward places and the seat not being comfortable. Unfortunately, too many of them don’t realize this until after they’ve bought, assembled, and used the machine. Online research is great, but make sure you actually sit on a model before purchasing it. You can purchase from an online seller, but seeing and touching the machine is critical.
- Understand maintenance needs: You’ve done all your research and are confident you’ve matched the right machine to your needs. Now, read about its maintenance requirements before buying. Some machines may require a lot of special attention during off-hours and off seasons, and there’s nothing worse than dealing with a machine that’s fickle with changing weather.
There are low maintenance machines out there, you just have to read the manual first in order to find out. - Think about attachments and accessories: Make sure all the attachments and accessories are really what you need. You may find yourself being up-sold into models with a lot of accessories and attachments you don’t even want. Typically, a bag and simple mulching kit will do the trick for most users. Beyond that, do you need tilling and thatching tools or fertilizer sprayers? Again, everyone’s needs are unique, but bottom line: don’t be oversold on unneeded accessories and attachments.
Riding mower FAQs
-
Some riding mowers with rear-mounted engines will be less expensive because they have less power and tend to be slower. If you have a smaller yard (closer to a half-acre), you can find some of these models around $1,200, even a little less.
-
Prices vary dramatically.
Generally speaking, you can start as low as $1,000 and go up to $5,000 or more. For homeowners who might have an acre or two to mow, they should expect to spend between $1,200 and $2,000 for a quality machine. -
You want to look at the size of your yard and how hilly it is. A good rule of thumb is if you have a half-acre or more, you should consider a riding lawn mower.
-
A lawn mower is specifically designed for mowing lawns, whereas a lawn tractor will be able to do other things such as towing and hauling. A tractor will have more horsepower, a more durable frame and cost more, too.
The 6 Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2022
By
Camryn Rabideau
Camryn Rabideau
Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer specializing in decorating and design.
She covers home products for The Spruce.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 09/15/22
Reviewed by
Barbara Gillette
Reviewed by Barbara Gillette
Barbara Gillette is a master gardener, herbalist, beekeeper, and journalist. She has 30 years of experience propagating and growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals.
Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board
Fact checked by
Nikki Elmwood
Fact checked by Nikki Elmwood
Nikki Elmwood is a fact-checker, editor, and proofreader with over six years of fact-checking experience. Her areas of interest include botany, ornithology, and home improvement. She received a Bachelor of Science from Portland State University.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process.
If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
The Spruce / Camryn-Rabideau
A riding lawn mower is ideal for anyone with a large yard, requiring less time and energy to operate than a traditional push mower. Over the last four years, we've spent hours researching and testing riding mowers from the top brands, evaluating maneuverability, safety features, noise level, and overall value.
Our favorite is the RYOBI 48V Brushless 38 in. Electric Riding Lawn Mower, a stand-out for its quiet operation, easy maintenance, and performance, especially on rough terrain.
Here are the best riding lawn mowers.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
RYOBI 100 AH 38" Electric Riding Mower at Home Depot
Best Gas:
Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 42 in. Gas Riding Lawn Tractor at Home Depot
Best Zero Turn:
Toro 42 in. TimeCutter Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower at Home Depot
Best Lawn Tractor:
John Deere 42 in.
Gas Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor at Home Depot
Best Small:
Cub Cadet 30 in. Electric Riding Lawn Tractor at Home Depot
Best for Hills:
Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 in. Gas Riding Lawn Mower at Home Depot
In This Article
-
Our Picks
-
What to Look For
-
Why Trust The Spruce?
Courtesy of Home Depot
View On Home Depot
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Who else recommends it? Bob Vila also picked the RYOBI Electric Riding Mower,
What do buyers say? 1,300+ Home Depot reviewers rated this 5 stars.
It may surprise some people, but our top pick is this battery-powered model from RYOBI. The zero-emissions model easily matches gas mowers in terms of power, cutting through thick grass with ease while demonstrating impressive maneuverability.
Plus, it's fume-free and practically silent, generating only minimal noise. (Our tester put a similar model from RYOBI to work on her 10-acre farm and was blown away by the results.)
The RYOBI electric mower has a 38-inch deck, and its 48-volt batteries can run for two and a half hours per charge, allowing you to cut up to two and a half acres in a single session. The two-blade deck has 12 different cutting heights, and the mower offers convenient features like cruise control, LED headlights, and USB charging. There are no belts, spark plugs, or filters, making it easier to maintain than a traditional riding mower.
Our only complaints? The seat gets uncomfortable if you're mowing for long periods, and it doesn't have a mulch setting. Still, if you're in the market for a reliable ride-on mower and ready to switch to a battery-powered model, this is your best bet.
Price at time of publish: $3,199
Cutting Width: 38 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 678 pounds | Cutting Options: Bag, side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres
Home Depot
View On Home Depot
What We Like
Hydrostatic transmission eliminates shifting
Adjustable seat
Tight turning radius
Compatible with a variety of attachments
What We Don't Like
For a powerful—and versatile—gas mower, you can’t go wrong with the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT Lawn Tractor.
It’s powered by a 541cc engine that offers 19.5 HP, and its 42-inch deck has a twin blade system that side-discharges grass clippings. The tractor and deck are made from heavy-duty materials, and Cub Cadet backs it with a three-year warranty with no hour limit.
This mower has a hydrostatic transmission that eliminates the need for shifting—just push the pedal and go—and there are 12 cutting height positions to choose from. It has a tight 16-inch turning radius as well as cruise control and LED headlights, and because it’s a lawn tractor, it can be outfitted with a variety of multi-season attachments.
Price at time of publish: $2,499
Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 570 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 0.5 to 2 acres
Courtesy of Home Depot
View On Home Depot View On Acmetools.com View On Tractorsupply.com
What We Like
Extremely powerful
Ideal for large yards
Built-in washout ports
Includes white glove delivery
What We Don't Like
The Toro 42-Inch TimeCutter Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower is ideal for anyone who has a large yard with many obstacles.
Its zero-turn design gives you the ability to turn on a dime, and it’s powered by a 22.5 HP engine that can handle virtually any condition. Plus, the 42-inch steel deck allows you to cut wider paths, and the brand claims this model can help reduce your mowing time by up to 50 percent.
This lawn mower offers speeds up to 7 miles per hour in mow mode and 5.5 miles per hour in towing mode, and it’s decked out with features to keep you comfortable, including an under-seat storage compartment, built-in cupholder, and step-through front end. The zero-turn mower comes with white glove delivery, saving you from having to do any assembly, and the brand offers a three-year residential warranty with unlimited hours.
Price at time of publish: $3,599
Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 502 pounds | Cutting Options: Bag, mulch, side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres
The 10 Best Electric Lawn Mowers of 2022
Courtesy of Home Depot
View On Home Depot
What We Like
Durable construction
Adjustable seat
Wide range of accessories available
“30-second oil change” system
What We Don't Like
Lawn tractors like the John Deere S120 offer more flexibility for homeowners—in addition to mowing, this gas-powered machine can be used to spread grass seed, sweep your lawn, and even snow blow in the winter.
It’s compatible with a wide range of multi-season accessories, and it’s also a solid riding mower with a 22 HP engine and 42-inch deck.
This lawn tractor has a fully-welded steel frame and 13 different cutting heights. The seat can be adjusted to 10 different positions to keep you comfortable, and the tractor’s 30-second oil change system makes it easier to maintain. The mower has a new easy-read fuel gauge, and it even has cruise control for effortless mowing in large yards.
Price at time of publish: $2,599
Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 444 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 0.5 to 2 acres
Courtesy of Home Depot
View On Home Depot
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Expensive
For a riding mower that won’t take up too much space in your shed, this battery-powered model from Cub Cadet is small yet powerful.
It has a 56-volt battery that offers up to 90 minutes of runtime, and it actually charges back up in around 4 hours—much faster than larger models. The mower has a 30-inch deck that can side-discharge or mulch grass clippings, and it also boasts a tight 18-inch turning radius that lets you navigate around obstacles with ease.
This compact mower is designed to easily fit through gates, and the brand claims it only takes up the space of two garbage cans. It has a high-back seat for comfort as well as cruise control and two USB charging ports, and you can’t beat its low-maintenance design.
Price at time of publish: $3,199
Cutting Width: 30 inches | Power Type: Battery | Weight: 362 pounds | Cutting Options: Mulch, side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres
The 6 Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers of 2022 | by The Spruce
Courtesy of Home Depot
View On Home Depot
What We Like
Automatic transmission
Good traction on hills
Tight turning radius
Compatible with a variety of accessories
What We Don't Like
You’ll be able to power up steep hills with ease on the Troy-Bilt Bronco 42-Inch Gas Riding Lawn Mower.
It has an automatic transmission (just like a car!) that makes it easy to drive, and its 20-inch rear wheels offer superior traction for sloped terrain. The lawn tractor has a 42-inch deck with anti-scalp wheels to prevent turf damage, and the machine’s 19 HP 544cc engine will make quick work of overgrown grass.
The Troy-Bilt Bronco has a step-through frame that offers more leg room, and it offers a mid-seat back and rubber footpads to keep you comfortable. The machine has a rear hitch to pull garden carts, sprayers, and spreaders, and there are also bagging and mulching accessories available separately. However, the one downside is that this mower only offers five cutting heights, with the lowest setting at 1.25 inches.
Price at time of publish: $2,099
Cutting Width: 42 inches | Power Type: Gas | Weight: 520 pounds | Cutting Options: Side-discharge | Size of Yard: 1 to 2 acres
The 10 Best Lawn Mowers of 2022
Final Verdict
The RYOBI 48V Brushless 38 in.
Electric Riding Lawn Mower is a top choice among riding lawn mowers thanks to its two-and-a-half-hour runtime, powerful performance, and ease of maintenance. If you prefer a gas mower, consider the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 42 in. 19.5 HP Gas Riding Lawn Tractor, which boasts a hydrostatic transmission and can be used with a variety of multi-season accessories.
Power Source
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to buy a gas- or electric-powered riding lawn mower. Gas mowers are generally more powerful, but they’re louder, less eco-friendly, and require more maintenance. Electric mowers, on the other hand, are typically less powerful with a shorter run time, but they’re quieter, easier to start, and better for the environment.
Deck Size
The deck size of a lawn mower dictates how wide a path it cuts—larger decks cut wider paths on each pass. A deck size of between 30 to 60 inches is recommended for most homeowners. Bigger decks are better for lawns with few obstacles and turns, while smaller decks will be helpful if you have to mow around trees or garden beds.
Grass Clipping
Don’t forget to consider how the lawn mower handles grass clippings. Some machines simply spit clippings back out onto your lawn, while others have options to bag or mulch the cut grass. The best option for you simply depends on how you prefer to handle your clippings.
This article was written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance contributor for The Spruce. As someone who grew up on a 70-acre farm and owns a 5-acre parcel herself, she’s no stranger to lawn mowers, and she’s written extensively on them. She’s also personally tested the RYOBI 38 in. 75 Ah Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower and used other riding lawn mowers from RYOBI and Husqvarna.
While selecting lawn mowers for this list, she looked at factors such as their deck size, power source, special features, comfort, and warranty period. She also spoke with Caroline Skelton, Go-To-Market Manager for Riding Lawn Equipment at John Deere, for insights on choosing and maintaining a riding lawn mower.
Article Sources
The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
The best riding lawn mower for hills and uneven yards. Bob Vila. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-riding-lawn-mower-for-hills/
? The 5 Best Lawn Mower Tractors - Buying Guide for 2022
Do you have a very large lawn? Or a back and/or leg problem? Or are you just looking for comfort while taking care of your precious green carpet? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need a car designed for this purpose. A tractor mower .
But when you start researching, you see that there are many types and different prices, how do you know which one is best? We will help you. Take a look at the top models.
Index
- 1 Our recommendation for the best ride-on mower
- 1.1 advantage
- 1.2 disadvantage
- 2 Which mower is the best?
- 2.1 Trattorino Tagliaerba Ama Arr62l
- 2.2 Cateis Cadet LR1NR76
- 2.3 STYGE ESTIT 2084
- 2.4 MTD Minirder 60
- 2.5 Tractor XC140 - 98H TEXAS A / S 20019
- 3 Guide to buy a lawn tractor
- 3.1 The size of the garden
- 3.2 Width and haircut height
- 3.3 The tank capacity
- 3.4 Engine Power
- 4 Kakovo 4 Kakovo service sides?
- 4.1 General cleaning
- 4.2 Operator presence system
- 4.3 Battery
- 4.4 Oil change
- 4.5 blades
- 4.6 brake
- 4.7 Level tractor
- 4.8 storage
- 5 Where to buy the best garden tractors?
- 5.1 Amazon
- 5.2 Leroy Merlin
- 5.3 Wallapop
Our recommendation for the best riding mower
Choosing a riding mower is not easy.
Not only are there several types, you also need to consider the price. For this reason, we advise you to look for products of well-known brands, such as our choice:
MOWER TRACTOR ...
No ratings
advantage
- It is designed to work efficiently in medium to large gardens up to 5000 square meters, although it is also great for smaller lawns.
- The cutting width is 77 cm and the height is adjustable from 38 to 102 mm, which allows you to cover large areas in a short time.
- The motor has a power of 6.3 kW, which ensures good performance.
- It has a 200 liter grass collection tank, enough so that you don't have to think too much about it and can work comfortably as it also has a full collector indicator.
- Both speed and direction are controlled by foot pedals so you have better control of the ride-on mower.
- Includes water hose connection.
shortcomings
- The capacity of the shovel may be limited if you have not mowed the lawn for a long time.
- The price can be high if you have a small lawn, given that there are cheaper models for this type of garden.
What is the best mower?
CUB CADET Tractor ...
- engine Cub Cadet OHV 547 cc
- Working area m²/h: 7500
- hydrostatic draft
Lawnmower MTD ...
- Ideal for 4.000 m2 - cutting width: 96 cm
- Engine: MTD, electronic starter, 382 cc power: 8.0 kW / min-1
- Transmission: Transmatic 6 speed.
F&FSH lawn mower...
- One machine for multiple purposes: The product is equipped with weeder wheel, ripper and lawn mower, which you can choose according to your needs, and different working heads can be freely combined to solve your different problems easily.
- Excellent engine: high power, stable operation, low failure rate, economical fuel consumption, constant high temperature without stopping.
- Thick rollers: made of high quality materials, strong texture and long service life.
3.937 Reviews
WORX WR130E - Robot ...
- Robotic lawn mower for mowing areas up to 300 m2; program and control the robot through a mobile phone; quickly and easily calculates the cut area; the robot suggests a work schedule according to the size of the garden (schedule is customizable)
- Patented AI cutting technology that allows the robot to cut hard-to-reach places
- Robot customization with 4 accessories: anti-collision accessory with ultrasonic sensors that prevents the robot from colliding; accessory for voice control; GPS accessory and digital cable accessory
Sandrigarden 7149010 -...
- 4-stroke engine displacement 196 cu.
- 61 cm cut
- 150 liter basket rear drain
Rider Trattorino Tagliaerba AMA ARR62L
If your lawn is very large, about 2500 square meters, but you don't want to spend a lot of money on a tractor, Rider Trattorino Taglia - good option for you.
It works with a 196 cc engine. cm and has 62 cm blades with adjustable height from 30 to 90 mm.
Grass bag holds up to 130 liters of grass cuttings. And the total weight is 125kg.
Trattorino Rider ...
No ratings
Cadet Cube LR1NR76
With this lawn tractor you will enjoy tending your green carpet like never before. It is designed to work in a 2500 square meter area and does so in a way that is very comfortable for you as it has a cutting width of 76 cm and an adjustable height from 38 to 95 mm.
The tank has a capacity of 200 liters and a total weight of 145 kg.
CUB CADET Tractor ...
No ratings
Stiga Estate 2084
The mower must be comfortable and serviceable. And this is exactly what is in this model of the Stiga brand. With a cutting width of 84 and an adjustable height from 25 to 80mm, getting the grass you want is a breeze.
His bag has a volume of 200 liters and a weight of 172 kg.
Lawn mower ...
MTD Smart Minirider 60
MTD Smart Minirider Garden Tractors are designed for those who need a more or less compact tool, but which works best in small to medium gardens. The cutting width is 60 cm and the height is adjustable from 38 to 95 cm.
It has a 150 liter grass collection tank and weighs 152 kg.
MTD Smart Minirider ...
XC140 Tractor - 98H Texas A/S
The XC140 Tractor has a very elegant and compact design, ideal for working surfaces of around 2500 square meters. With cutting width 98 cm and height adjustable from 30 to 90 mm, your lawn will be ready in no time.
As if that wasn't enough, it comes with a 200 liter bag. And it only weighs 165 kg.
tractor xc140 - 98H .
..
No ratings
Husqvarna TS 138
The Husqvarna TS 138 is a powerful and efficient ride-on mower designed to work on very large areas of around 3000 square meters. It has a cutting width of 97 cm and an adjustable height from 38 to 102 mm.
Its tank holds up to 200 liters of cut grass and it weighs 175 kg.
Husqvarna TS 138 -...
Lawn Tractor Buying Guide
We have seen some very interesting models and told you what we recommend, but if you still have doubts, here are some tips to help you choose a lawn tractor tractor:
Garden size
If you have a small lawn, it is preferable to look for a tractor that works well on limited surfaces, otherwise you will spend money on a tractor whose characteristics will not be as useful as they should be. By the way, this is also a way to save some money.
Cutting width and height
Lawn mowers are designed to work in gardens with a minimum area of 1000 square meters, so the cutting width is usually large, about 60-80 cm, so you do not have to spend too much time caring for the green carpet.
As for the height, it needs to be adjusted in several levels, because this way you can get the grass exactly the height you want.
Grass bag capacity
The larger your garden, the larger the grass bag should be. For example, if you have an area of 2000 square meters, it must hold at least 200 liters of cut grass. Otherwise, it will quickly fill up and you will have to empty it frequently.
Engine power
It is clear that the higher the power of the engine, the higher its performance. But... you have to keep in mind that it consumes more fuel and will probably make more noise than a less powerful one if it doesn't have a muffler. So, for example, if you have a small garden and are going to use it a lot, we recommend a tractor with a rather low power, around 4-5 kW, since you don't need more because it always stays low.
Budget
Available budget is probably the most important thing to consider. Whether limited or not, search, compare models and prices, and feel free to ask the seller any questions you may have.
If you also have the opportunity to read the opinions of other buyers, so much the better, since there will definitely not be any problems when buying.
What is the maintenance of the riding mower?
Keeping your ride-on mower in top condition takes time, as there are a few things to look out for:
General cleaning
It must be cleaned after each use, eg with a leaf blower. , this way you can remove any remaining leaves, grass, etc. that he might have left.
Under no circumstances should a pressurized water hose be used as it could damage the engine and transmission system if not protected.
Operator Presence System
This is a system that makes the engine and clutch work only when you sit down. This is very useful as this engine only starts when you are in the car.
If it doesn't work properly, you should take it in for inspection .
Battery
The battery needs to be changed regularly as it will run out of power.
. This is usually done by loosening a screw located on one of the front wheels, pulling out the protective sleeve to expose it, and then using a wrench to disconnect the cable from the larger battery.
For details on how and when to do this, see your tractor's instruction manual.
Oil change
Oil must be changed every X hours of use. (This number will be indicated in the instructions, don't worry 😉). This is because if it is dirty, the engine will not run. To do this, you need to open the oil outlet - usually it is on one side - and immediately put the container a little lower to collect it. Wait for everything to come out and then put the cap back on.
Finally, refill the tank.
blades
Blades need to be sharpened from time to time and even changed if they are badly worn . Wear suitable gloves that protect you well and use a file or grinding wheel or take it to a specialist center so they can sharpen it.
brake
Perhaps this is one of the most important parts and should be given more attention. The brake is very important for it to work well. Therefore, park the ride-on mower on a flat, dry surface, fully apply the brake, and then set the parking brake with the mechanical gear and drive gear to neutral.
If at the same time you see that the rear wheels are turning, you must submit it for inspection .
Align the tractor
It is very important that all four wheels are correctly aligned and properly inflated . The correct functioning of the car and, above all, your safety depends on this.
storage
After use, store in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Do this when the engine is cold , thus avoiding problems.
Where to buy the best garden tractors?
If you want to buy a lawn tractor, you can do it at any of these places:
Amazon
At Amazon, we can find literally everything.
.. or almost. The catalog of lawn tractors is very wide, so we can find models from 1000 to more than 10,000 euros. Buying here has several advantages, such as being able to read the opinions of other buyers before paying for the item. , or that after making the payment, you only have to wait a few days to receive it at home.
Leroy Merlin
Leroy Merlin sells a variety of models at fairly good prices (about 1500 euros). Buyers can't leave reviews, but because they sell famous brands like McCulloch or MTD, you are guaranteed to get a high quality product.
Wallapop
Wallapop is a website (and mobile app) used to sell and buy mostly used items. It's a good idea to shop around when you're looking to buy a lawn tractor, as they're good quality at a very low price. . Of course, feel free to ask the buyer any questions and even ask for more photos if you think it's necessary.
I hope you found the ride-on mower you were looking for 🙂.
Remember that if you are unsure, you may need a different type of lawn mower, such as the one we recommend below:
- Manual Lawn Mower Buying Guide
- Which petrol lawn mower should I buy?
- Best Electric Lawn Mowers
- What is the best robotic lawnmower
If you know but don't know which of these options is the best, remember that we have one comparison of the best lawn mowers.
? Why do you need a riding mower?
The difference between a lawn tractor and others is the ease of mowing. For large fields and no problems with returns.
? What are the best brands of lawn tractors?
You will have MTD, Husqvarna, Mcculloch and many more. We encourage you to look where each one breaks down and stands out.
? How much does a riding mower cost?
From 1.000 to 2.500 euros. Their prices are higher than other types of lawn mowers because of the many tools they offer you to mow your lawn.
? What is mower maintenance?
You should clean it every time you use it and check its battery, oil, level and blades to ensure they are always effective.
Top 5 garden riders
Why and when you need a garden rider
Each tool has its own ideal conditions for use. In the case of a garden rider, these are large yard areas of 500-2500 m2, where grass mowing, even with a powerful self-propelled lawn mower, turns out to be a rather laborious and lengthy process. At the same time, a garden rider will cope with this task many times faster, and the work itself will no longer seem so exhausting.
Based on the size of the territory, owners of detached private houses and cottages who pay great attention to the condition of their own yard, as well as professionals responsible for the beauty of the territory in public places, such as country hotels or recreation centers, can be advised to purchase such equipment.
A few words about the design
In fact, all garden riders are "larger versions" of gas lawnmowers, since the mowing system is similar - it is a mowing deck with one or more large blades rotating parallel to the surface.
Significant differences lie in the dimensions, control system and, accordingly, appearance. While the lawn mower has to be carried in front of you, gradually passing the entire territory on foot, you can drive it on a rider - the car is necessarily equipped with a small but comfortable seat and a conventional steering wheel.
In addition, the entire mass of devices can be divided into 2 classes:
- Miniriders - the deck is located between the axles, turning the handlebars drives the front wheels. The recommended area of the cultivated area is 500-1500 m2.
- Riders are larger and more productive machines, the mowing deck is moved forward and supported by an additional pair of wheels, the steering wheel is responsible for turning the rear wheels, and in most models, during the turn, the frame “breaks” in the middle to reduce the radius. The recommended area of the territory is 1000-2500 m2.
In order to help you better navigate the variety of designs, brands and specific models, we have compiled the top 5 best garden riders this season.
It is with acquaintance with them and their characteristics that we recommend that you start your choice, since these machines can be considered leaders in their classes and price segments.
And before proceeding to their description, according to tradition, we recall: the places in the top are distributed randomly.
Top 5 garden riders
Stiga Combi 1066 HQ
The model from the Swedish brand Stiga belongs to the class of miniriders and is quite compact. This moment is especially important when there are narrow sections in the yard between flower beds or other obstacles. However, for its class it is quite productive and, importantly, comfortable and reliable device.
It is based on the 5.5 hp Stiga ST 250 ES; the mowing deck is equipped with a single knife providing a working width of 66 cm, and a breathable non-woven grass bag can hold up to 150 liters of cut grass. The basket emptying and knife launching systems are mechanical.
In general, the Stiga Combi 1066 HQ can be described as a "strong middle peasant": it does not have many additional functions and puts the highest quality performance of its main task - mowing at the head. But two points in its design can still be distinguished:
- The machine has a hydrostatic transmission, that is, it allows you to smoothly adjust the speed.
- It offers 3 types of mowing: collection in the grass box, side discharge and mulching - you can choose the one that seems most convenient to you.
Find out the detailed characteristics and price of the minirider Stiga Combi 1066 HQ >>>
Solo by Al-Ko Rider R 7-63.8 A 127486
The German manufacturer Al-Ko introduces a tool for semi-professional and professional use into the Solo line. Accordingly, the presence of its name in the name of this model already speaks of its high quality, reliability and motor resource, designed for frequent and prolonged use.
Otherwise, Solo by Al-Ko Rider R 7-63.8 A 127486 can be conditionally considered almost a complete analogue of the Stiga minirider, the same one 66 cm knife, the same 150 l basket with a mechanical emptying lever, the same 3 mowing modes. But upon closer inspection, you can find quite important differences:
- lower total weight - 120 kg,
- more powerful engine - 8 hp,
- 5-speed manual transmission with a maximum speed of 4.5 and 1.5 km/h in forward and reverse, respectively,
- the presence of a sound notification of the full basket,
- 7-step cutting height adjustment.
Despite its small dimensions (the minimum passage width is only 80 cm), the Al-Ko minirider is a full-fledged professional machine - reliable, productive and comfortable.
Speaking of reliability: the car is assembled in Austria, and the manufacturer gives it as much as 5 years of official warranty.
Find out the detailed characteristics and price of minirider Solo by Al-Ko Rider R 7-63.
8 A 127486 >>>
MTD Minirider 60 RDE
The Minirider 60 RDE could well be called the "American answer" to the two competitors described above, if not for one "but" - the manufacturer positions it exclusively as a household model. Hence, not the most powerful engine - 5.2 hp, and the minimum (in comparison with models from Stiga and Al-Ko) mowing width - 60 cm. However, in some cases, a small working width can be considered a plus, for example, if not to talk about wide lawns, but about the winding paths, decorated with benches and flower beds of the yard.
However, the minirider from MTD still has something to brag about:
- At the heart of the machine is an overhead valve engine for more confident operation and reduced fuel consumption,
- turning radius - only 46 cm,
- 3 ways mowing,
- as many as 12 speeds - 6 forward and 6 reverse,
- trailer hitch that effectively converts a mini rider into a compact garden tractor,
- front bumper to protect the machine when it hits obstacles.
The production and assembly of the minirider is carried out in the USA.
Find out the detailed characteristics and price of the minirider MTD Minirider 60 RDE >>>
Husqvarna R 112C
Husqvarna R 112C is already a device of another class. It is equipped with a front deck with a double knife, which provides a working width of 85 cm - not a record, but it is enough even for working on really large areas.
A powerful engine is required to operate a double knife, and here it is in order - the rider has an 11.3-horsepower engine from Briggs & Stratton. Its power is sufficient not only for mowing, during which the machine can reach speeds of up to 7 km / h, but also for transporting goods - a rear hitch is provided for this. Mowing in reverse is not provided, but the speed of movement can reach 3 km / h.
The transmission of the Husqvarna R 112C is hydrostatic, speed control is carried out by pedals - you do not have to take your hands off the wheel.
Unlike all the models considered earlier, the knife is turned on here not mechanically (by a lever), but by a convenient toggle switch on the operator's dashboard. Speaking of mowing: only rear ejection of grass (between the wheels) and mulching is possible - all units of this type are deprived of a grass catcher due to design features.
Despite the fact that Husqvarna is a Swedish brand, this and even the next model from our top is assembled in Poland.
Find out the detailed specifications and price of the Husqvarna R 112C minirider >>>
Husqvarna R213C
By and large, Husqvarna R 213C is the next model in the manufacturer's catalog. In many ways, especially in terms of design, it is identical to its predecessor, but is intended for those for whom its performance was not enough. Here, a more powerful, 12-horsepower model of the Briggs & Stratton Intek 3125 engine and a wide deck with a grip of 94 cm and three rotary knives.
The machine also has a hitch for trailed equipment, which somewhat expands the possibilities of its use. In addition, this is the only model in the selection that has a cruise control function, which greatly simplifies work in large open areas. However, obstacles should not become a significant problem for her - the turning radius is only 30 cm, so it will also be easy to go around them and turn around in a limited space.
The designers took care of the convenience of not only operation, but also maintenance: all components that require periodic inspection, adjustment, lubrication or cleaning are easily accessible, the hood leans back, and the deck has a special service position, thanks to which it does not need to be removed for service, and a separate fitting for flushing with a garden hose.
In general, Husqvarna R 213C can be advised not only to owners of private houses who need the most powerful mowing machine, but also to professionals - for most of their tasks, this garden rider will have more than enough resource.
