Best Riding Lawn Mowers

Due to its admirable popularity, we may be sold out before you're done reading this review as this is one of the bestselling Husqvarna zero turn models I've seen in my many years in the industry. I will say that this zero turn is not for the faint of heart and may be considered an overkill for properties less than an acre or two. However, if you do have some serious acreage, or just prefer to get your work done fast, then this 54" heavy duty mower is just for you. To have your mower perform well, and perform well for a very long time, you'll want to periodically inspect and maintain it. To encourage operators to perform maintenance and clean-up, Husqvarna has made accessing pulleys and spindles a BREEZE by incorporating a removable foot pan. That said, no tools are required to grease spindles, adjust/replace pulleys, or clear grass clippings. This is an incredibly useful feature that is not found on all zero turns (and a personal favorite). Responsible for its seamless and easy drive is the incredible Kohler 7000 series 26 HP engine. Though this model does not feature headlights (sold separately), it does have an electric PTO blade engagement and hand operated cut height adjustment. The electric blade engagement reduces shock load on the engine, spindles, and pulleys while the hand-operated cut height lever is one of the most simple, quick, and effective ways to adjust the height of your cut. This is much more convenient than fiddling around with pins or playing footsy with a stiff foot lever. Got hills? The Husqvarna Z254 is capable of handling them. If you do have uneven terrain, I recommend turning up and into hills, not down as the differential works far better fighting gravity. Regardless, it's always a good idea to proceed with caution (no matter the style mower) as mowing on uneven terrain can be dangerous to you and your mower. User-friendly features, a highly-regarded engine, and a solid frame make this Husky one of the most popular zero turns out there.

The Cub Cadet LT46 lawn tractor represents the next generation of lawn tractor. The LT46 lets you enjoy caring for your lawn with confidence. This tractor combines top-performance, a professional grade engine and remarkable maneuverability and comfort. The Cub Cadet LT46 is powered by a 22HP Kohler V-twin professional grade engine. This unit offers great fuel economy as well as smooth operation. Equipped with a Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission, the Cub Cadet LT46 provides a smooth, comfortable ride with cruise control and handy foot pedals for forward and reverse control. Another feature provided with this tractor is RevTEK™, which is the ability to mow in reverse as well as going forward. This is not something always found on lawn tractors. The Cub Cadet LT46 lawn tractor is also capable of towing non-ground engaging attachments like a cart, a lawn sweeper, an aerator or a dethatcher, which makes it a versatile option when it comes to yard care. You can even attach a plow blade to it for plowing snow. The Cub Cadet LT46 offers strength and durability from a cast iron front axle to a professional grade engine. This is a mower which should last for years to come.

Garden tractors aren't known for being light and nimble. True to the category, the Husqvarna TS 254XG is made with some heavy-duty components for long hours of use. However, Husqvarna also made this large lawn tractor easy to operate and maneuver. The TS 254XG has a 16" turning radius. That means that it can turn in a pretty narrow arc, so you can confidently steer around features in your yard, like trees or hardscapes. The sturdy cast iron front axle gives it superior balance when making those turns, too. Even the tires are made for a smooth ride and are designed to minimize scalping when you're riding over ground that's wet or uneven. Behind all this maneuverability is the Tuff Torq K58 hydrostatic transmission. It shifts fluidly from one speed to the next, and all you have to do is press a foot pedal. It also provides the traction you need to tow attachments like carts. Add the 24 HP Kawasaki V-Twin engine for incredible power, large 54" welded steel deck that lets you mow more in less time, and 15" seat that's shaped for comfort, and you've got a tractor that's made for the long haul. The TS 254XG isn't a zero turn mower, but thanks to its design, this big, beefy workhorse will still let you navigate the tight spots in your large or mid-sized lawn with ease.