thoughts on comparing ZTR

[Mad Mackie]

From reading this thread, I have several suggestions for you.
The folks that have bought Scag Cheetahs either love them or hate them, as they have hydrostatic drives, some folks don't like the way they handle. The drives have two ground speed settings, 10 MPH and 16 MPH.
I've found that JD has too many models to choose from and this is confusing to some folks.
I do recommend that you consider a Hustler X-ONE, 60" side discharge deck with a mulching kit and an operator controllable side plate. Most of the X-ONEs have an operator adjustable suspension seat which I highly recommend. Flex forks are another option that would smooth the ride some.
When it comes to basic ride quality of a ZTR, the heavier machines generally ride better and have the largest diameter and widest tires which contribute greatly to ride quality.
A few thoughts from
Mad Mackie in CT:laughing::biggrin::smile:

 

[bertsmobile1]

I'm going to be buying my first ZTR in the next couple of months. I've got narrowed down to 3 mowers
60" Hustler X One with Kaw motor
60" John Deere Z925m
60" Scag Cheetah.
I really like the Cheetah but for the $$$ not so sure. Like the looks of the JD looks heavy duty but never owned any JD products and the Hustler looks really heavy duty but a more simple design. From everything I've researched all 3 cut well, I'm more interested in in the build and comfort of the ride. My property is 6 acres and flat as a board but as it is old corn fields it's fairly rough. Currently use a BX25 with 60" belly mower and it takes roughly 5 hours and the tractor beats me to death. Need a ride where I can stretch out. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Well actually I would suggest getting a rotary hoe and running it down the old irrigation ditches to flatten them out a bit if the field is now going to be pasture or playground.
If you do it in strips with 2 hoe widths between each row you work, you will have it comfortable in a season or two and will have left enough ground cover to get good regrowth with minimal weed infestation.

Other than that look for the mower with the longest wheel base but not one that is equal to an exact number of drainage channels or you will feel like Pep'e Le Pew bouncing across your field.

 

[Chugbug]

Thanks everyone for your responses. Thought I had it all figured out lol. Too many models not enough time.