Robert,
I use two riding mowers for my work, an L130 Deere and the x749 Deere, between the two they accomplish all the tasks I have for them. The L130 I use for most of my mowing because it is very light and simply put is good enough for the task and cheaper at less than $3000. The x749 handles mowing on steep terrain and 3ph implements for building and maintenance of new lawns and fully equipped was about $13,000. Having these two riders I just don't see the need to waste time looking at stuff in between.
I did my homework before I made my last purchase and have been satisfied with the choices I made. For my business needs the x749 was a better choice than a zero turn on subcompact tractor but for others depending on their needs they may find they need something else. I needed something smaller than my Deere 4520 cab tractor and Deere 110tlb to work the tight spots and the x749 fills the bill perfectly for me.
Now if what I needed was a mowing machine as the main use and had enough level ground to work with I would definately consider a zero turn mower over any two wheel drive-two wheel steer rider such as my L130 or your CC 2000. Reason being way faster and more manuerable with a good cut quality. The guys that live in other areas of the US where the grass grows fast and have plenty of mowing to do have good reason to choose a zero turn mower. It fits their needs perfectly, and does a great job, I am not foolish enough to think my L130 can compete with a zero turn mower and not about to think your CC 2000 can either. I already have the L130 and it is paid for, when it dies I will likely replace it with a zero turn mower, it will likely cost alot more than a 100 series Deere. You get what you pay for whether you choose a conventional rider or zero turn model and the abilities of the machines vs. cost has to be weighed in on a needs basis. I will do the research when needed to insure I get one with a good quality drivetrain, good deck and other features I deem worthwhile.
