Whether you’re a homeowner or a landscaping professional, you can enjoy the speed and comfort of a zero turning radius (ZTR) lawn mower.
Unlike lawn and garden tractors, zero turn mowers have a turning radius that’s almost zero degrees. That means you can make quick, narrow turns that are perfect for navigating a yard full of obstacles. Plus, with the fastest zero turn mower able to hit speeds of 10 mph, you'll finish your yard in a snap.
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Entry-level zero turn mowers come with smaller stamped decks, which make them easy to maneuver through narrow gates and around yard foliage. If you have a very flat lawn that's only 1/2 - 3/4 acres, then an entry-level unit is perfect.
Keep in mind that, because they are smaller, entry-level mowers have minimal comfort compared to higher grades. The belief is that you won't be on them for long stretches of time. Using them on uneven terrain is not recommended, as you'll likely feel every bump.
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Instead of the stamped mower decks typically found on more fragile models, mid-grade zero turn mowers are built with heavy-duty fabricated mower decks, fashioned from heavier gauge steel and then welded at all the critical joints for added strength.
A mid-grade zero turn also has a strong transmission, with larger pumps and wheel motors, increased torque ratings, and the ability to handle heavier loads.
Some other popular features that are standard to most mid-grade zero turn mowers are foot-controlled deck height adjustment and comfortable high back seating.
You also get a wide variety of powerful engine choices with a mid-grade zero turn, including some models with popular Kawasaki, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton V-Twin engines. These engines deliver better overall performance and the highest level of reliability when it comes to powering a zero turn mower.
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Durable prosumer zero turn mowers are designed for daily use. They have heavy-gauge single-piece steel frames, large fuel tanks, and heavy-duty transmissions.
And don't forget comfort features: high back seat, adjustable armrests, multiple cup holders, and cruise control.
Semi-pro mowers can accelerate up to 8 miles per hour and mow 4-5 acres without having to stop for gas.
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Professional zero turns have the largest mowing decks, most powerful engines, largest fuel tanks, fastest speeds, and yes, the biggest price tags as well.
One of the big decisions you'll need to make when picking a zero turn mower is whether you want lap bar or wheel steering.
Mulch vs. Bag?
A popular option is a mulching kit that plugs the discharge chute, keeping grass under the deck and cutting it into fine, nutrient-rich clippings.
Mulching kits come in a variety of sizes. Compatibility is the key. Just make sure your kit is the same size and brand as your tractor.
Another option for disposing of grass clippings is a bagger. Rear-mounted baggers suck cut grass from the blades, through a chute to the collection bags.
Baggers come in either double-bag or triple-bag styles, depending on the mower size. Stick with the same brand to ensure compatibility.
A popular option is a mulching kit that plugs the discharge chute, keeping grass under the deck and cutting it into fine, nutrient-rich clippings.
Mulching kits come in a variety of sizes. Compatibility is the key. Just make sure your kit is the same size and brand as your tractor.
Another option for disposing of grass clippings is a bagger. Rear-mounted baggers suck cut grass from the blades, through a chute to the collection bags.
Baggers come in either double-bag or triple-bag styles, depending on the mower size. Stick with the same brand to ensure compatibility.