Commercial lawn mower width. All You Need to Know About Lawn Mower Deck Sizes

Zero Turn Mowers Market Size, Share Trends Analysis Report By Cutting Width (Less Than 50 Inches, 50 To 60 Inches, Than 60 Inches), By Application (Residential, Commercial), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2019. 2025

The global zero turn mowers market demand was estimated at 612.9 thousand units in 2018 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2019 to 2025. Zero turn mowers have witnessed several developments in terms of technology and product over the past few years. The emergence of remote-controlled and GPS-equipped products has made gardening easier by making the equipment easy to track, monitor, and operate. Additionally, there has been a notable rise in consumer interest in gardening activities, such as landscaping, backyard beautification, and backyard cookouts. These factors are majorly contributing to market growth and are further anticipated to drive the market for zero turn mowers over the coming years. Additionally, the presence of commercial infrastructure properties having large size lawns coupled with a growing demand for landscaping services is anticipated to bolster market growth.

Rapidly expanding commercial and residential construction sectors, especially in developing countries, owing to the increasing population, is also likely to boost the demand for zero turn mowers. over, increased urbanization is anticipated to propel the growth and maintenance of parks, green spaces, and yards. Thus, owing to the aforementioned factor, the demand for zero turn mowers is expected to rise significantly. However, the rise in disposable income and changing lifestyles in developing countries, such as India and China, are also anticipated to fuel the growth of the market for zero turn mowers over the forecast period.

A zero turn mower allows to cut grass more efficiently owing to its ability to turn 180 degrees without leaving a circle of uncut grass. These types of mowers are designed to cut the grass twice as fast as compared to traditional lawn tractors, which results in reduced mowing time. over, zero turn mowers have faster ground speeds than other types of mowers. High speed reduces the operating time and increases the productivity of the lawn activities. These aforementioned factors have resulted in an increased inclination of end-users towards zero turn mowers.

A gradual shift from traditional manual tools to technically advanced, automated equipment is likely to generate avenues for the growth of the market for zero turn mowers. However, zero turn mowers are widely used to maintain parks, sports fields, and golf courses. Besides the aforementioned factors, the establishment of sustainable cities and growing commercial construction are also expected to drive the market over the forecast period. Furthermore, rising awareness about the benefits of green roofs, such as better storm water management by reducing runoff, energy conservation, and carbon sequestration, has encouraged their adoption since the past few years. over, green roofs provide space for urban agriculture and offer a healthy and aesthetically pleasing environment. These factors are also likely to propel their usage, thereby supporting market development.

The high cost of the equipment coupled with high maintenance cost is anticipated to restrain the market growth. Also, the availability of zero turn mowers at lease is likely to hamper the growth of the market for zero turn mowers. However, advancements in technology have led to the introduction of zero turn mowers with several variants and unique features. These developments have been instrumental in driving the demand for zero turn mowers globally. Furthermore, an emerging trend of covering roofs with small and medium-sized plants and vegetation is further expected to spur market growth.

Cutting Width Insights

In terms of revenue, the 60 inches segment dominated the market with a share of 38.4% in 2018 and is also predicted to register the highest growth rate over the forecast period. These 60-inches cutting width zero-turn mowers are preferred for commercial applications owing to its higher ground speeds and thus significantly reducing the cutting time. Depending upon the area to be mowed and length of the grass, different types of zero-turn mowers with cutting widths are preferred. Thus, the cutting width segment has been further segmented into less than 50 inches, 50 to 60 inches, more than 60 inches.

Meanwhile, 50 to 60 inches segment is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 5.7% over the forecast period. This growth is attributed to the trend of consumer interest in gardening activities, such as backyard cookouts, backyard beautification, and landscaping, among others. over, increasing awareness owing to benefits offered by zero-turn mowers and resulting adoption is a significant factor contributing to the market growth. Furthermore, households with medium and large-sized lawns are considering zero turn mowers to reduce the mowing time.

Application Insights

In terms of revenue, the commercial segment dominated the market with a share of 57.0% in 2018 over the forecast period. Increasing investments by government and public bodies in the beautification of public spaces, such as existing parks, and yards present near historic monuments, will drive the product demand in this end-use segment. over, the Commercial segment was valued at more than USD 1,400,000 thousand in 2018 and is projected to exceed USD 2,180,000 thousand by 2025, growing at a CAGR of over 6% over the forecast period

Meanwhile, the residential segment is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 5.0% over the forecast period. The residential segment is also anticipated to witness considerable growth over the forecast period. The growing inclination of household owners towards gardening, considered as a leisure activity is anticipated to propel the segment growth. over, changing lifestyles and increased urbanization are favorably impacting the segment growth.

Regional Insights

The North America market dominated the overall industry in 2018 and accounted for over 36.5% of the revenue share in the same year. The region is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 5.0% from 2019 to 2025. One of the major reasons for the expected growth is the rise in the number of landscaping activities coupled with the number of golf course in the region. According to the R A Group, the number of golf course facilities in 2018 accounted for 16,905 in the region.

Asia Pacific is expected to record the fastest CAGR exceeding 6.0% during the forecast period. The growth is attributed to the rising construction activities in emerging economies such as China and India. Europe is also expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. The growing popularity of urban gardening in the region is one of the major factors driving the zero turn mowers market.

Key Companies Market Share Insights

The competitive rivalry in the market is high owing to the presence of several dominant players. The presence of well-established players has intensified the industry rivalry, due to which the degree of competition is considerably higher. These market players particularly FOCUS on entering into mergers and acquisitions and joint ventures/collaborations in order to enhance their market presence. The industry competition is anticipated to intensify further as a number of companies are focusing on the development of advanced cost-effective products and technologies. over, the major operating players are investing in research and development in order to offer a better product portfolio. Additionally, major market players are focusing on improving their operational efficiency and are also working on extending the engine life and incorporating additional safety features to make the mowing experience safer and more efficient for customers. Some of the prominent players in the zero turn mowers market include:

Zero Turn Mowers Market Report Scope

Report Attribute

Market size value in 2020

All You Need to Know About Lawn Mower Deck Sizes

I was looking for a new lawn mower and have a lot of ornamental areas in my yard. I need a lawn mower that will fit in between these trees and knew I needed a deck size under 60 inches.

I found manufacturers will list deck cutting width, but they don’t always tell you how wide the actual mower is with and without the discharge chute.

A mower listed as 60 inches usually means the deck cuts 60 inches in width, but the actual measurements are wider.

I definitely needed to know the actual width to be able to mow between these obstacles. I had to make sure it fits into my storage shed opening. Read on and I will explain more about measuring mower the mower deck size and standard deck sizes available by the manufacturer.

This post may include affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operator’s manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Consult a professional if you don’t have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely.

What is the Deck Size on a Lawn Mower?

Lawn mower manufacturers always list the deck sizes on their websites and promotional materials. What are they measuring when they list the mower deck width?

The mower deck width manufacturers are referring to is the cutting width of the deck. The deck cutting width is the actual width of grass that is cut from the outside blade of one side of the mower deck to the outside blade on the opposite end of the mower deck.

How to Measure Lawn Mower Deck Size?

It is good to know what the cutting width of the deck is, but many times you need to know what the actual width of the mower deck is. You’ll be disappointed if you buy a 48” mower deck and expect it to fit through a 48” gate.

The actual dimension of the width on a mower deck will be wider than the deck cutting width.

You must take into consideration the extra space of the mower deck shell on each end of the mower along with the space the discharge chute and anti-scalp rollers add to the deck width when calculating whether your lawn mower will fit through an opening, on your trailer, or in your storage area.

It is also important to select a mower deck size that will fit between elements in your yard such as trees and ornamental areas.

You will want to add in the width of the discharge chute being in the down position unless you want to continually get off your mower and raise the discharge chute to the mower between obstacles.

Measure the actual mower deck size using a tape measurer and extend the tape from the widest point on one side of the deck to the opposite side of the deck. Make sure you take into account the extra width added by anti-scalp rollers and discharge chute.

How Wide Are Riding Lawn Mowers?

The average riding lawn mower, also referred to as a garden tractor, is between 48 inches and 63 inches wide with the discharge chute in the upright position. Add 8 to 15 inches to the width when factoring the discharge chute in the downright position.

How Wide Are Zero Turn Mowers?

The average zero-turn mower is between 48 inches and 79inches wide with the discharge chute in the upright position. The most common zero turn mower deck cutting widths are 42″, 48″, 52″, 54″, 60″ and 72″.

When measuring your zero turn width, make sure you measure from and to the widest part of the deck. Using the discharge chute will up to an additional 15″ to the width.

While these are the most common mower deck sizes for zero turns. You can also find zero turns as narrow as a 36″ cutting width and as wide as a 96″ cutting width.

How Wide is a Standard Lawn Mower Deck?

Standard push mower or self-propelled mowers are 22 inches to 40 inches wide with a cutting deck width of 21 inches to 36 inches wide.

Most lawn mower manufacturers have standard mower deck sizes they offer. Here is a chart of some of the most common lawn mower brands and their average actual mower deck widths.

It is important you measure the actual width before you purchase your lawn mower if you need to stay within a certain deck size for transportation, storage, or yard obstacle reasons.

What Mower Deck Size Do You Need for Your Yard Size?

It is best to find the right-width mower for the amount of grass you need to mow. Here is a quick chart giving you an idea of the mower deck cutting width that best fits your yard size:

In addition to selecting a lawn mower that fits your yard size, you need to also look at other lawn mower features including engine horsepower, type of mower decks, and other lawn mower functions that will make your mowing experience better.

Do Smaller Mower Decks Cut Better?

Smaller mower decks do not cut better, however, the final cut appearance may look better using a smaller mower deck over a larger mower deck. There are several reasons that may affect the final cut’s overall look:

• Tire TracksYou don’t really notice the tracks on a small lawn mower, but will see imprints from the tires on heavier mowers.
• Number of BladesA small lawn mower will show a more even cut because there is only one blade and not multiple mower blades. The engine horsepower will only give you around 3600 RPMs on the engine. A single-blade mower is bolted directly to the engine so it does have quite a bit of blade speed to it.

Can You Put a Bigger Deck on Your Mower?

There are very few manufacturers that make decks interchangeable with the lawn tractor you are mowing with.

With so many changes that will need to be made when trying to change mower decks sizes, why would you want to try? The amount of time and the expense to make the change will not be worth it.

Keep in mind, if you do choose to modify and change your lawn mower deck, you will run into trying to get the correct parts for your lawn mower.

If you need a bigger deck, I recommend buying a new lawn mower to save yourself the headache.

If you really want to change out decks, check with your lawn mower dealer first to see if the deck you’re interested in will fit your lawn mower. You will also want to make sure it is cost-effective.

Don’t make the purchase before you talk to knowledgeable dealership personnel. An experienced dealer should be able to give you compatibility options along with the parts you may need to purchase to make the mower deck work for your lawn mower.

These parts may include new belts, pulleys, lift brackets, caster wheels, and lift parts.

Are Front Mount Deck Mowers Good?

Front mount mowers are good because their maneuverability is far better than belly mount mowers. The front mount mower will follow contours and trims under trees and split rail fences better than utilizing a belly mower.

Advantages of Front Mount Mower Decks

• Maneuverability
• Better contouring
• Easier to service the deck and sharpen blades
• Can mow in a wet spot without getting the tractor tires into the wet spot
• Best to place the mower near a bank of water so the tractor doesn’t need to be close to the water.
• When climbing a hill, you can lift the deck ever so slightly to transfer weight onto the tractor. This will allow the tractor to climb better without spinning a tire.

Stamped Decks Vs Fabricated Decks

There are two different styles of lawn mower decks: stamped decks and fabricated decks. If you are heavily using your mower, you will definitely want to make sure you have a fabricated mower deck.

Most homeowners using their mowers for an hour or two per week will be fine using a stamped deck.

Stamped Deck – Mowers with stamped decks are typically less expensive. Stamped decks are literally stamped out of one sheet of steel. One advantage of the stamped deck is that it has good airflow for a good cut. A disadvantage is the thickness of the steel used.

Blade Tip Speed, Deck Depth, and Mower Blades Affect Quality of Cut

Blade tip speed, deck depth, and lawn mower blades all play a significant role in the quality of cut in a mower. A fabricated deck will provide you with a better cut over a stamped deck because the depth of the deck is typically deeper giving you a better lift of the grass.

The depth coupled with high lift blades spinning at a speed of about 18,500 fpm (feet per minute) is what is necessary to create the best cutting results. High lift blades along with the suction created by the depth of the deck lifts the grass tall.

The mower blade then passes by to precisely cut the grass. information on the different types of lawn mower blades on the market today can be found in “This is the Way the Blade Goes on a Lawn Mower“.

Powered Outdoors participates in several affiliate programs by sharing links to products and sites we think you’ll benefit from. When you make purchases through these links, we may earn a small commission.

Commercial lawn mower width

Home / Machinery Equipment / Machinery / Zero Turn Mowers Market

Zero Turn Mowers Market Size, Share COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Product Type (Less than 50 inches, 50-60 inches, and than 60 inches), By Application (Commercial and Residential), and Regional Forecast, 2023 – 2030

The global zero turn mowers market size was valued at USD 3.24 billion in 2022. The market is projected to grow from USD 3.40 billion in 2023 to USD 5.06 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period.

Compared to other lawn mowers, a riding zero turn mower (z-t mower) can cut more grass per hour. Each wheel can be independently turned by the unit. Instead of overlapping while turning, the mower stays on the grass that needs to be mowed. Unlike in standard models, the mowing deck of a rider mower is located in front of the machine. Models with zero turns can easily fit into small spaces and cut close to obstacles.

Besides, tractor mowers can be replaced with zero turn mowers. They can move around much more easily, and when used by a skilled user, their ability to get close to objects can minimize the need for a string trimmer. Large lawn spaces are where they work best and will not be useful on a small, average-sized city lawn. Furthermore, a traditional push mower is affordable and useful in smaller grassy areas.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Decrease in Supply and Movement of Raw Materials Hampered the Market Growth

The sudden lockdown announced across nations led suppliers to a stagnant position for a brief period. Major suppliers acknowledged that revenue generation and the working of their businesses require in-person contact to complete the sales process. Also, the delivery of mowing systems and conducting training in some cases emerged as a challenging factor for vendors owing to disruptions in the supply chain ecosystem, the widespread shutdown of training centers, and other factors.

The severe impact faced by manufacturers was due to slow demand and hampered supply chain and distribution. This impacted the backlogged production schedule, irregular flow of raw materials from suppliers, and a variable supply rate to the end-users. The dealer networks are open for maintenance, repairs, and services. However, due to the lack of workforce and current restrictions, companies are unable to provide the required services.

LATEST TRENDS

Development in Commercial Construction to Propel Industry Growth

The development of numerous hotels is anticipated to aid the zero turn mowers market growth across the globe. Over 40 new hotels were opened in Europe during Q1 2021. A new office building project in Germany called Markisches Zentrum Redevelopment has been scheduled to be finished in 2023; shopping malls, retail establishments, office buildings, medical facilities, hotels, and residential towers are all part of this project.

Expansion of Smart Cities

The population is adopting Smart products as a result of Smart city initiatives, raising people’s standard of living. Additionally, it intends to keep an eye on and deal with environmental problems. The main areas of FOCUS for Smart city initiatives continue to be energy efficiency and conservation. Initiatives from Abu Dhabi’s Economic Plan 2030 are increasingly encouraging sustainability and green living. Furthermore, during the forecast period, the increased investment in Smart infrastructure, such as Smart buildings, is further driving the market growth.

DRIVING FACTORS

Technological Advancement in Land Mower Equipment to Fuel the Market Growth

Over the past few years, technology and product advancements have led to a number of changes in zero turn mowers. The development of products with remote controls and GPS capabilities has simplified gardening by making the machinery simple to monitor, track, and control. Additionally, there has been a noticeable increase in consumer interest in gardening activities such as backyard beautification, landscaping, and barbecues. The market is expected to grow significantly as a result of these factors in the coming years.

The growing need for landscaping services combined with the presence of commercial infrastructure properties with expansive lawns is anticipated to support market growth. The mandate for zero turn mowers is anticipated to rise due to the quickly developing residential and commercial construction industries, particularly in developing nations. The development and upkeep of green spaces, yards, and parks is also set to gain pace owing to increased urbanization. Accordingly, it is anticipated that the aforementioned factor will considerably favor market growth.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Concerns Regarding Roll Over and Increasing Emphasis on Air Pollution May Impede the Market Growth

Regardless of the many applications that z-t mowers provide, there are definite disadvantages affecting the growth of this market. If the slope of a field angle is greater than 10 degrees, these are not safe for use as they could rollover. Also, mowing on wet terrain also raises the chances of sliding or losing control, damaging the lawn owing to its weight.

Besides, lawn mowers and their gas-powered engines contribute considerably to air pollution, particularly the older models without the catalytic converting devices. As per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), operating a gas-powered mower for an hour generates hydrocarbons equivalent to driving a car for about 200 miles or 321 kilometers. Hence, the EPA has established stringent rules regulations, including installing catalytic converters in smaller engines that can decrease emissions and cut fuel waste.

SEGMENTATION

By Product Type Analysis

50-60 Inches Segment to Depict Significant Growth Due to Increase in Gardening Related Activities

By product type, the market is categorized into less than 50 inches, 50-60 inches, and more than 60 inches.

The 50 to 60 inches segment is expected to exhibit substantial growth during the forecast period. The rise is driven by the growing consumer interest in gardening-related activities, including backyard barbecues, backyard landscaping, and other similar activities. In addition, rising adoption of zero turn mowers as a result of growing consumer awareness regarding their advantages is a key factor driving the market expansion. Households with medium and large-sized lawns are also thinking about these mowers to shorten the mowing process.

The more than 60 inches segment is anticipated to observe significant growth in the market and is expected to continue over the forecast period. Due to their faster ground speeds, which greatly shorten the cutting time, these 60-inch cutting width mowers are chosen for commercial applications. Different types of zero turn mowers with varying cutting widths are preferred depending on the length of the grass and the area to be mowed.

Households with medium or large-sized lawns tend toward adopting zero turn mowers with less than 50 inches cutting width, which offers effective and efficient mowing of lawns while minimizing the efforts and time.

By Application Analysis

Commercial Application Segment to Exhibit Appreciable Growth Due to Increasing Investments in Infrastructural Development

The commercial segment is anticipated to dominate the market over the forecast period. This is due to rising investments by public and government bodies in the beautification of public spaces such as yards present near historic monuments and existing parks.

Meanwhile, the residential segment is estimated to grow in the coming years. Over the forecast period, the residential segment is also expected to experience significant growth. The segmental growth is expected to be fueled by the rising propensity of homeowners for gardening, which is seen as a leisure activity. Additionally, the segment’s expansion is being positively impacted by increased urbanization and changing lifestyles.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

North America has the largest zero turn mowers market share. This is on account of an increase in landscaping projects and significant investments made in gardening technology by local players. Due to the abundance of golf courses and the numerous green spaces present throughout the area, there is a high demand for landscaping services. The demand for zero turn mowers in commercial industries as well as rise in the use of these mowers on a regular basis to maintain lawns in North America, as well as the use of modern technologies to boost productivity, are driving the growth of the global market.

The U.S. held a major share in the global market. Its dominant position in the market is owed to the increasing investments by both private and public organizations, which are likely to boost the market growth. Similarly, companies’ emphasis on research and development activities to develop proficient products to reduce air pollution and provide better terrain control in mowers will enhance market size. over, rising demand, activities such as landscaping backyard beautifications is further rising the market share.

Asia Pacific is anticipated to record the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. This is owing to the soaring demand for aesthetic landscaping and green building solutions, the emergence of “urban gardening” trends, and tremendous growth in the number of commercial infrastructure projects. over, rising construction activity in developing countries, such as China and India, led to the increase. Rising Asian nations are expected to see an increase in zero turn mower sales as a result of the expanding construction sector, particularly in the residential sector. This is expected to present a number of opportunities for the market participants.

Europe is expected to witness progressive market growth as Germany, France, Italy, and Spain augment their GDP from the tourism sector. This requires z-t mowers to maintain tourist spots and landscapes. The region is predicted to account for a sizable portion of the global demand pie. This is on account of the rising popularity of urban gardening. Besides, Europe has significant players contributing to the growth of z-t lawn mowers.

The Middle East Africa and South America are expected to showcase moderate growth over the estimated period. This is owing to the development of green spaces green roofs inclining toward innovative lawn mower products.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Players Focus on Evolving Innovative Zero Turn Mowers to Enhance their Product Portfolios

Prominent players dominate the market globally. However, the local and regional markets are moderately fragmented due to the presence of SME manufacturers. These prominent players have strong product portfolios and industry-leading machines, which are the main factors responsible for their dominant market share. Nowadays, these players are focusing on new product developments with specifications such as increased terrain control, higher fuel efficiency, and enhanced speeds. They have also distinguished their products by adding additional features such as device networking solutions, remote monitoring, and location tracking.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Deere Company (U.S.)
• The Toro Company (U.S.)
• Husqvarna Group (Sweden)
• MTD Products Inc (U.S.)
• Ariens Company (U.S.)
• Briggs Stratton, LLC. (U.S.)
• Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany)
• Textron Inc. (U.S.)
• Altoz (U.S.)
• Brookfield Property Partners L.P. (STIGA SpA) (U.K.)

REPORT COVERAGE

The research report provides a detailed analysis of the industry. It focuses on key aspects such as leading companies, product type, and leading applications of the product. Besides, it offers insights into the current market trends, highlights drivers restraints and regional analysis. In addition to the aforementioned factors, the report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the growth of the market in recent years.

REPORT SCOPE SEGMENTATION

Study Period

Estimated Year

Forecast Period

Historical Period

Growth Rate

CAGR of 5.9% from 2023 to 2030

By Product Type

By Application

• North America (By Product Type, By Application, and By Country)

• U.S. (By Product Type)
• Canada (By Product Type)
• Mexico (By Product Type)

• Germany (By Product Type)
• U.K. (By Product Type)
• France (By Product Type)
• Italy (By Product Type)
• Spain (By Product Type)
• Russia (By Product Type)
• Rest of Europe

• China (By Product Type)
• Japan (By Product Type)
• South Korea (By Product Type)
• Australia (By Product Type)
• India (By Product Type)
• Southeast Asia (By Product Type)

• Rest of Asia Pacific

• Middle East Africa (By Product Type, By Application, and By Country)

• Saudi Arabia (By Product Type)
• UAE (By Product Type)
• Egypt (By Product Type)
• Nigeria (By Product Type)
• South Africa (By Product Type)
• Rest of Middle East Africa

• Brazil (By Product Type)
• Argentina (By Product Type)
• Columbia (By Product Type)
• Chile (By Product Type)
• Rest of South America

How much is the global zero turn mowers market worth?

As per a study by Fortune Business Insights, the market size was USD 3.24 billion in 2022.

At what CAGR is the zero turn mowers market projected to grow during the forecast period (2023-2030)?

The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% over the forecast period (2023-2030).

Which is the leading product type segment in the market?

The 50-60 inches segment is expected to hold the highest CAGR in the market over the forecast period.

What is the value of the North America market?

The market size in North America stood at 1.11 billion in 2022.

What are the key factors driving the market?

The market growth is driven by increasing technological advancements in land mower equipment.

Who are the top players in the market?

Deere Company, the Toro Company, Husqvarna Group, MTD Products Inc, Ariens Company, Briggs Stratton, LLC., Robert Bosch GmbH, Textron Inc., Altoz, and Brookfield Property Partners L.P. are the leading companies in the market.

Which country dominated the market in 2022?

The U.S. dominated the market due to increase in gardening related activities.

Which factor is expected to restrain the deployment of the product?

Concerns regarding roll over and increasing emphasis on air pollution may restrain the deployment of the product.

• REGION: Global
• BASE YEAR: 2022
• HISTORICAL DATA: 2019-2021
• NO OF PAGES: 120

The best riding mowers: Mow your lawn faster

Up your summer lawn care game with a riding mower that makes for a faster, more eco-friendly mowing experience.

Taylor Clemons is a tech writer and reviewer based near Cleveland, OH. After graduating from Tiffin University in 2011, they spent several years in lawn and garden manufacturing before working on their own (now defunct) game review site, Steam Shovel.

Taylor Clemons is a tech writer and reviewer based near Cleveland, OH. After graduating from Tiffin University in 2011, they spent several years in lawn and garden manufacturing before working on their own (now defunct) game review site, Steam Shovel.

Riding mowers are a popular mower choice for homeowners, especially if you have a big property to maintain every summer. They have cutting decks measuring from 42 to 72 inches, so you can make short work of everything from typical lawns to large properties, like sports complexes and golf courses.

Unlike their push mower counterparts, riding mowers have more features to consider in order to find the right fit for your yard. You can choose either a manual or hydrostatic transmission, so you can set and forget your speed or operate your mower like a car. You can even get riding mowers with cruise control or all-wheel drive for better traction.

While gas engines are far more common among riding mowers, there is a wide selection of battery-powered models if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly solution for lawn care. My pick for the best overall riding mower is the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP for its 24HP engine, 54-inch cutting deck, and ability to mow up to four acres with a full gas tank. You can keep reading below to find out more about the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP as well as our other top picks.

Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP

Best riding mower overall

• 24HP engine
• 54-inch cutting deck
• Automatic transmission
• Attachments and accessories available

Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP tech specs: Engine: 24HP Kohler | Cutting width: 54 inches | Transmission: Hydrostatic/Automatic | Max yard size: 4 acres

The Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP riding mower is an excellent choice for a variety of lawns. It’s built with a 24HP Kohler engine and a 54-inch cutting deck to let you handle inclines and rough terrain or haul tools, mulch, and potting soil around your property.

The hydrostatic, automatic transmission makes operation similar to a typical car, so you can spend more time actually cutting your grass and less time learning how to drive your mower. With a 3-gallon tank, you’ll be able to mow up to 4 acres at a time.

Ryobi 80V electric riding lawn tractor

Best electric riding mower

• 2.5 acre max range
• Quick-charge batteries
• LCD heads-up display
• USB charging ports

Ryobi 80V electric lawn tractor tech specs: Engine: 80V brushless electric | Cutting width: 46 inches | Transmission: Hydrostatic/Automatic | Max yard size: 2.5 acres

Electric riding mowers have become more popular in recent years as homeowners and landscaping professionals look for ways to make lawn care more eco-friendly. The Ryobi 80V electric lawn tractor features a 46-inch cutting deck and enough power to let you mow up to 2.5 acres on a single charge, and you can recharge your mower batteries in as little as 2.5 hours.

This means you can take care of other tasks, like weeding or landscaping, while you’re waiting for your mower to recharge. An LCD screen gives you a heads-up display of run time, battery levels, and reminders to inspect and sharpen your mower blades. It even has two USB ports for charging your phone while you mow.

Toro Titan Max

Best zero-turn riding mower

• Mows up to 7 acres at once
• Highly maneuverable
• 10-gauge steel construction
• Tool-free air filters

Toro Titan Max tech specs: Engine: 26HP Kohler 7000 | Cutting width: 60 inches | Transmission: Dual hydrostatic/automatic | Max yard size: 7 acres

Zero-turn riding mowers are popular with homeowners who have larger properties or lots of obstacles like trees or specialized landscaping. The Toro Titan Max’s exceptional maneuverability and larger cutting decks make quick work of yards up to 7 acres in size, while the 26HP Kohler 7000 engine uses a dual hydrostatic drive for smooth, intuitive operation.

Toro also made regular maintenance a bit more streamlined with tool-free air filters. The deck and mower body are made from tough, 10-gauge steel to stand up to dings, rocks, run-ins, and anything else your lawn can throw at it.

Cub Cadet CC30E

Best compact riding mower

• Battery-powered
• Great for yards up to 1 acre
• Compact design great for small storage areas and narrow spaces
• Push-button cruise control

Cub Cadet CC30E tech specs: Engine: 56V electric | Cutting width: 30 inches | Transmission: Hydrostatic/Automatic | Max yard size: 1 acre

Compact riding mowers like the Cub Caded CC30E are great for suburban lawns on the smaller side. The CC30E features a smaller design that is perfect for storing in multi-use sheds and garages or maneuvering through gates and narrow spaces. The 30-inch cutting deck and 56V battery let you mow up to 1 acre (or one hour) at once.

It uses a hydrostatic drive for smooth, intuitive driving while the 18-inch turning radius lets you easily mow around trees and other obstacles. It even features a push-button cruise control, so you can set-and-forget your forward speed and concentrate on mowing around obstacles, as well as staying aware of your surroundings.

DeWALT Z160 Commercial

Best riding mower for large properties

• Mow up to 10 acres
• 5.5 gallon gas tank
• Dual hydrostatic drive
• Great for hills and inclines

DeWALT Z160 Commercial tech specs: Engine: 24HP Kawasaki V-Twin | Cutting width: 60 inches | Transmission: Dual hydrostatic/automatic | Max yard size: 10 acres

The DeWALT Z160 Commercial zero-turn riding mower is designed from the ground up to handle large properties. The 60-inch cutting deck and 24HP Kawasaki V-Twin engine let you mow up to 10 acres at once, making it an almost perfect choice for rural properties or landscaping professionals. The dual hydrostatic drive makes operation smoother, though the twin-stick steering does take some getting used to.

With 22-inch rear wheels, you can easily take on inclines and rolling hills that may be on your property. A 5.5-gallon fuel tank means you’ll spend more time actually mowing and less time refueling. And if you opt for the bagger attachment, you’ll be able to gather up to 11 bushels of clippings before you need to empty.

What is the best riding mower?

I chose the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP as the best riding mower you can buy. It features a 54-inch cutting deck and 3-gallon fuel tank, letting you mow up to 4 acres in a single go. The 24 horsepower engine also lets you take on steeper inclines and rough terrain or haul tools and gardening supplies around your property. The hydrostatic drive makes operation similar to a typical car, while an LED display gives you accurate usage hours for streamlined maintenance.

Best riding mower

Cutting width

Transmission type

Ryobi 80V electric riding lawn tractor

Which is the right riding mower for you?

Other than your budget, there are a lot of features and scenarios you have to consider while shopping for a new riding mower. The size of your yard will determine how wide the cutting deck should be, though either a 42 or 46-inch version will be more than enough for most yards.

You can choose either a manual or hydrostatic transmission. A manual model lets you set and forget your speed so you can FOCUS, while hydrostatic models operate more like cars, going faster the harder you press the pedal. This makes them more intuitive to operate but also more expensive.

Zero-turn mowers are designed for mowing in oddly-shaped areas or around lots of obstacles like trees, lamp posts, and lawn ornaments. They’re called zero-turn because they have a zero-inch turn radius; you pivot around either rear wheel for ultra-tight turning.

Buy this best riding mower.

If you need.

A well-rounded riding mower. The 54-inch cutting deck and 24HP engine let you mow up to 4 acres at a time.

Ryobi 80V electric riding lawn tractor

An all-electric riding mower. The electric engine requires less maintenance than gas models, making your lawn-care routine more eco-friendly.

An excellent zero-turn riding mower. Precision maneuvering lets you mow around trees, landscaping, and other obstacles with ease.

A compact riding mower. The 30-inch deck and smaller build make this riding mower perfect for smaller suburban lawns.

A riding mower that can handle larger properties. This commercial-grade, zero-turn riding mower lets you cut up to 10 acres at once.

How did we choose these riding mowers?

I used to work for MTD Products (now owned by BlackDecker), which assembles a variety of lawn mowers, snow blowers, and other powered lawn equipment. Using the expertise and knowledge I gained during my time there, I looked for riding mowers with these qualities:

• Motor size: You’ll want a riding mower with at least a 10HP engine to give you enough power to handle minor inclines and lawns up to half an acre. Larger riding mowers like the John Deere Z530M have more powerful engines, often topping out over 20HP to let you tackle rough terrain and even haul equipment.
• Cutting width: Many riding mowers have either a 42 or 46-inch cutting deck, which is great for lawns between.5 and 1.5 acres. However, if you have a large, multi-acre property, you’ll want to choose a larger cutting deck. Many brands have options between 50 and 72-inch cutting decks.
• Transmission type: The less expensive riding mowers will have either a 6 or 7-speed manual transmission. This means you will use a dedicated lever to set your engine’s forward and reverse speeds, with a single brake pedal for stop control. The more expensive models feature a hydrostatic drive, which operates in a similar way to an automatic transmission in a typical car or truck.
• Accessories: Lawn care goes beyond regular mowing. I chose riding mowers that have the ability to hitch small trailers or wagons for hauling tools, mulch, or potting soil. I also chose mowers from brands that make after-market add-ons, like rear bagging units for collecting grass clippings, mulching kits for re-feeding lawns, and snow plows for year-round use.

How do you decide which riding mower to buy?

Assuming you have a budget in mind, the first thing you need to do is find out how big your lawn is. You can either find your lot size on your memorandum deeds if you’ve bought your house, or you can check your city’s website to see if you can request lot measurements if you’re renting. If your lot measures about an acre, you’ll be able to use a 30 or 42-inch cutting deck without any issues. For lawns up to two acres, a 42 or 46-inch deck is ideal. And if your lot is over two acres, you can get a mower with up to a 72-inch cutting deck to handle larger areas.

The transmission type is also important. Many newer models have what is known as a hydrostatic drive. This means that they operate similarly to how a car drives: You push the pedal and it moves forward or backward. And the harder you push, the faster you go. This makes it easier to learn how to drive, but that also makes the mower more expensive. stripped-back models have variable speed manual transmissions, which allow you to set and forget your speed so you can FOCUS on paying attention to obstacles and people who may be nearby.

And finally, you’ll want to consider the power source for your new riding mower. Gasoline engines are far more common, but there is now a wider variety of battery-powered models to choose from. The perks of a gas engine are that you’ll get near-infinite run times (as long as you have enough fuel to keep the engine going) and a bit more power for handling steep inclines and rough terrain. The downsides are dealing with exhaust emissions and maintenance that can be a time and money sink. Electric models don’t need engine maintenance, so you save a bit of money in the long run. But they usually have a maximum run time of about an hour, which means that you may have to plan your mowing over several days if you have a larger yard.

How big of a yard do I need for a riding mower?

Riding mowers are best suited for yards measuring one acre or larger. A model with a 42-inch cutting deck is great for mowing up to two acres, so if you have more land than that, you’ll want to spring for a 46, 54, 60, or 72-inch cutting deck.

If you’re right on the threshold, you can get what’s known as a mini rider. They usually have compact bodies for easier storage and 30-inch cutting decks to make short work of lawns that are just a touch too large for a push mower.

How long should a riding mower last?

No matter if you choose a gas or battery-powered riding mower, proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your mower. For gas engines, you should change the oil and filters, clean the spark plugs, and sharpen the blades before you mow for the first time in the spring. And you should use fuel treatments like STA-BIL to prevent gas in the tank or extra jerry cans from going bad from moisture contamination. This prevents buildup of gunk that can ruin your engine, improves engine performance, and gives you a cleaner cut for a healthier lawn.

Electric mowers don’t need engine maintenance, but you should perform thorough inspections at the start of mowing season to check for battery damage, corrosion on battery contacts, damage to the battery housing, and also to sharpen the blades. If you do regular maintenance, not only will you save money by avoiding big repairs from worn-out parts, but you can also expect your riding mower to last 10 years or more.- which is great news, since they can be an expensive investment.

What is the cheapest riding mower?

Unfortunately, riding mowers aren’t ever really what we consider budget-friendly. However, there are models like the Murray MT100 that retail for less than 2000 without sacrificing power or cutting width.

Are there alternative riding mowers worth considering?

Whether you’re shopping at a big-name DIY store like Lowe’s, a local hardware store, or an authorized brand dealer, there are tons of options for a new riding mower. You can choose either gas or battery-powered models, cutting deck widths from as small as 30 inches to as wide as six feet.

Here’s a short list of other riding mowers I thought were great choices:

John Deere Z530M

The John Deere Z530M features a 60-inch cutting deck for making quick work of large properties. Exceptional maneuverability lets you mow around trees, lawn decor, and other obstacles with ease.

Husqvarna YTH1942

The Husqvarna YTH1942 features an updated, 19 horsepower engine and 42-inch cutting deck to take on inclines and haul dirt, mulch, and gardening equipment.

Murray MT100

For under 2000, you’ll get a 13.5 horsepower engine, a 42-inch cutting deck, and a 6-speed manual transmission with the Murray MT100.