A well-trimmed lawn is easily appreciated, but try your hand at it, and you’ll understand how much work it involves. Riding lawn mowers are heavy-duty machines that turn an hour-long lawn-trimming mission into a motor-powered 15-minutes one.
These machines make the task of mowing down your lawn remarkably easy, depending on which one you’re using anyway. From punctured tires to hot metal seats and low-powered motors, not all mowers can hit that comfort sweet spot. However, some riding lawnmowers do perform a superb task all-around. Here are some of them.
1. XT1 Enduro Series LT
When it comes to riding lawn mowers, CUB Cadet doesn’t joke around in quality. We especially like it for its uninterrupted high-performance on uneven terrains and affordability. The design is reliable, and there’s no design flop we’ve noticed, as you’ll often find in other models. However, the seat padding isn’t the thickest, so watch out for excessively rough lawns.
Features
- 46” cutting deck
- 22HP Kohler V-twin engine
- Hydro transmission
- Slopped adjustable seats
- Cutting height adjustments from 1.5-4”
- 16” turn radius
- 600lbs
Pros
- Easy-to-understand manual
- Versatile and reliable build
- Hassle-free driving
- Neat turns
- Long-lasting performance
Cons
- Too loud
- The seat gets too hot in the sun
Price: View on Amazon
2. Troy-Bilt 540cc 2018-edition
Its reliable Briggs and Stratton Intek engine that can deliver 19HP of power to the machine. Troy-Bilt also includes the traditional automobile automatic transmission and soft-touch steering into the design. The side discharge capability of the unit is impressive, and so is its mow-in-reverse ability.
Features
- 19HP Intek engine
- 46” steel deck
- Foot-pedal transmission
- Max speed is 5.2mph
- Single-cylinder setup
- Two-year warranty
Pros
- Can mow in reverse
- Five cutting height positions
- Powerful engine
- Soft-touch steering for better control
- Comfortable padded saddle
- Amazing resale value
Cons
- Not ideal for ultra-tough lawns
- Max speed isn’t fast enough
Price: View on Amazon
3. Ariens 915213
It has anti-scalp wheels and 19HP output, but Ariens 915213 uses a Kohler engine instead of Briggs and Stratton. However, despite the lower engine power, this riding lawn mower is surprisingly expensive.
Features
- 42” cutting deck
- Stamped-steel construction
- 3mph mow-in-reverse
- Two-gallon fuel tank
- Four height adjustments
Pros
- 6mph max speed is fast
- Durable and long-lasting
- Quality construction
- Easy to use and maintain
- Zero-turn radius
- Comfortable
Cons
- Pricy
- Not for wet lawns
Price: View on Amazon
4. Husqvarna 960450057 GTH52XLS
If you’re looking for a unit with insane engine power and heavy-duty performance, this mower is yours. It has an ergonomic design, with extensive seat padding, and a long list of components. Some of its more attractive are the three-year warranty, auto transmission, electric engagement, and 243HP engine.
Features
- 52” stamped-steel deck
- Hydrostatic transmission
- Five-year frame warranty
- V-Twin 24HP output
- 815lbs
Pros
- Ergonomic
- Pre-mounted deck level
- Sleek look
- Ergonomic and comfortable
- Versatile application across all terrain types
- Extreme durability
Cons
- Expensive repairs
- No pre-greasing
Price: View on Amazon
5. Husqvarna YTH18542
Despite its bargain price, this riding lawn mower comes with a powerful 18.5HP Briggs and Stratton engine. It also features a very tight 16” turn radius and air induction technology to make the mowing experience easier. Husqvarna YTH18542 also includes a reverse mowing system that promises a superb speed performance.
Features
- Manual pump
- Intek engine 18.5HP
- Pedal-operated transmission
- Adjustable seat
- 42” reinforced deck
- Mow-in-reverse
- 490lbs
Pros
- Surprising speed
- Ergonomic steering wheel
- Tow capabilities
- Durable and long-lasting
- Affordable
- Relatively silent operation
Cons
- Weak warranty coverage
- Not the best engine power
Price: View on Amazon