The ride on mowers powered by rear engines are divided into two classes.  One type are called the conventional riders.  These are nimble machines but waste movement at both ends of their cutting path because they can take 4 to 28 inches to turn 180 degrees.  The other type, called zero-turn ride on mowers (ZTRs), are more efficient because, as their name suggests, these mowers are designed to turn around in their own track with no wasted movement at the end lines of grass cutting.  Another advantage of zero-turn riders is that these mowers can run at double the speed of conventional riders. It is a possibility that these types of ride on mowers are the most useful tools to be used to mow lawn. Tractor mowers in general are meant for larger lawns so you should not need one for your small garden.

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The steering system is where ZTRs and conventional riders markedly differ.  ZTRs are designed to have two steering handles that control the two rear wheels separately.  If one handle is moved forward and the other is moved in reverse, the zero-turn rider would rotate in place.  Conventional riders, on the other hand, are manuevered through a steering wheel which controls the front wheels to turn within a radius specific to the vehicles’ design. Brigs & Stratton lawnmowers have been quite a pinnacle in developing this equipment and if you are looking forward to ride tractor mowers then you could try out their models.

Cost is one of the factors that will come into play when deciding on which of these ride on mowers would be ideal for purchase.  Conventional riders are generally less expensive than ZTRs.  Although more expensive, ZTRs however are more enjoyable to operate and drive; these machines are nimble and particularly able to circle around trees with much ease.  Speed is another factor to consider.  The top speed of conventional riders is only about 4 mph.  ZTRs, on the other hand, can mow a lawn at a faster clip of as fast as 9 mph.  There are even super ZTR models that can cut grass at 15 mph and mow an entire football pitch in less than 10 minutes.

With the distinct advantage of ZTR ride on mowers, it is not surprising that there are now fewer and fewer conventional riders being introduced.  Zero-turn riding mowers have become hot items among residential lawn care equipment, and introductions of new ZTR models have been increasing.  Because of the rising popularity of ZTRs and the resulting intense competition, lawnmower manufacturers are trying to outdo each other in terms of design improvements and adding product features.  Warranties are also being extended with some manufacturers offering a three-year limited warranty.  The standard warranty for ZTRs is two years and is limited to the parts and labor.  In any case, it would be ideal to purchase ride lawn mowers from an equipment dealer which has its own service department. Adequate equipment servicing may not be provided by a big-box retail store selling ride on mowers.