Zero turn radius mowers (ZTRs) emerged mainly as a tool aimed at the commercial mower market. With their speed, agility and ability to turn on a dime they soon became a valued tool for contractors and commercial users.
It was not long before manufacturers, realizing the huge potential of the market, introduced models specifically aimed at homeowners.
In terms of pure speed models aimed at homeowners will go around 5mph, whilst the models aimed at landscape professionals will average around 7mph.
One of the primary advantages of zero turn mowers is that they can mow very close to fences and obstacles. For many people this eliminates the need to use a weed whacker. The time savings from this aspect alone can be very substantial. For the commercial user this means a huge productivity boost.
In terms of time-savings many users report that their purchase of a zero turn mower has (at least) halved their cutting times. For homeowners with a large yard this can result in countless hours of saved time over the year, which can be better spent elsewhere. For commercial operators the time saved can be put to use elsewhere.
In terms of operation steering a ZTR mower is achieved via levers rather than a steering wheel. Whilst this feels a little awkward at first, one soon realizes just what an effective steering system it is. After a while even the most novice user will be pirouetting around obstacles and cutting their mowing times by impressive margins.
For those people who suffer from leg problems after prolonged periods operating traditional mowers, a zero turn mower may just be the answer. With no clutch or gas pedal operator fatigue is vastly reduced. Everything, even starting the blade, can be achieved with the hands, and there is no need to leave the comfort of the operator's chair. This reduction in operator fatigue is extremely beneficial for the commercial user, or homeowner with a large property to mow.
Zero turn mowers are also often shorter than their conventional ride-on counterparts. This much reduced footprint means much better maneuverability as well as easier transportation. A side-benefit of this is that a ZTR mower will often require a shorter (and usually less expensive) trailer.
A wide range of mower manufacturers now offer zero turn models. Some of the more popular manufacturers are Exmark, Kubota, Husqvarna, Toro, Dixie-Chopper, Cub Cadet, Ariens, Craftsman, Gravely, Simplicity, Scag and Snapper. Exmark zero turn mowers in particular come with glowing reviews from users so can be heartily recommended.
The choice of whether to go for a new or used zero turn mower is ultimately up to the individual. There is a thriving market in used zero turn mowers, many of which have had low operating hours and careful owners. In most cases a used ZTR will offer substantial savings.
In terms of cutting deck size the choice will largely depend on what you need the mower for. For the homeowner a 36"-50" deck will often suffice (Indeed, a larger mower might be impractical given the constraints of a smaller yard). A commercial user will often require a 50"- 72" cutting deck.
Zero turn mowers are a great solution to trimming your mowing times whether you are a commercial or home user. With a zero turn mower your only problem will be keeping others out of your operator's chair!
