This mower would suit a commercial landscaper wanting to service municipalities or other large spaces that feature uneven terrain and lots of hills. Snapper 560Z Zero Turn Lawn Mower. I have a 2004 Cub Cadet Z-Force 48" 22 HP B&S zero turn mower. W. XT1 question regarding bagger and trailer cart. Its worth pointing out that a zero-turn mower is a slightly different machine in terms of its general handling of terrain than more general lawn tractors and riding mowers. If you find that mower isnt right for you, consider the others on this list there is definitely one on there that will be a good fit for you. A slow speed will help you get a clean and even cut. They want to flip over and crush you if you mow steep hills going across or perpendicular to the incline. The best zero-turn mower for hills should be a product that features a performing motor, a strong transmission, and wheels that deliver plenty of traction. FREE Cub Cadet Zero-Turn Vibrates. Zero turn mowers are renowned for their effortless cutting times and awe-inspiring levels of power. If you look at zero-turn mowers in a higher price range, youll find that they all use a hydrostatic transmission. Its not the fastest machine at 7mph flat speed, but it is very comfortable and extremely well-built for hills and rough terrain. The deck width isnt larger than most residential models. -Gear ZT-3100 hydrostatic rear-wheel transmissions for quick and effortless up to 7.5 MPH forward and 3.5 MPH reverse zero-turn controlled ground speeds. Description: . make / manufacturer: Cub Cadet model name / number: Zero-Turn MowersZero-Turn Mowers The best Cub Cadet zero turn mowers comparison table. Thoughtful ergonomics and convenient maintenance features ensure you're satisfied with your mower and lawn Features may include: Built with strength. The Cub Cadet Pro Z 972 SD zero-turn mower cuts on inclines up to 25 degrees and rides like you're sitting on a cushion of air. So, Why are Hills a Problem for Zero Turn Mowers? In general, they are not wrong or right. The 27-hp Briggs & Stratton engine is a little more powerful than the other mowers I tested. The Cub Cadet XT1 LT42E is perfect for people with hills to climb. The twin-cylinder 23 hp engine from Kawasaki is an impressive piece of machinery. Then carry on with what you have to do. This is due to all the stability reasons weve already spoken about. The size of the fuel tank is an important consideration. He has been writing about outdoor power equipment for 11 years and has been quoted in NYTimes, Popular Mechanics, HowStuffWorks, iFixit, Realtor.com, and more. Cub Cadet RZT SX zero turn riders come standard with armrests for comfort. Cub Cadet Ultima Series Zero Turn Mowers. New features and updates for 2021. Simply put: Dont mow with a zero turn mower if your specific model is not rated for how steep the hill is. Best Budget: Troy-Bilt TB 30. The cutting deck is the main body of your mower. Its smaller and lighter than the other mowers I tested. Zero-turn mowers typically have faster ground speed, smaller wheels, and obviously zero-turn capabilities usually by way of the steering controls. Equipping this mower with a hydrostatic transmission results in a smooth feeling and reduces the need for maintenance. Join the reviewers commenting that this beast handles hills with no problems and pick yourself up a Husky today. When it comes to power tools, Dewalt is one of the best in the business, synonymous with job-sites, professionals, and DIY-enthusiasts alike all over the world. You will pay for it though. Electric Lawn Tractor! But . Step up to the ultimate all-around mowing experience with the Ultima Series from Cub Cadet. Cutting the grass on large, uneven, or hilly terrain can be a bit of a headache, and you need to make sure you have the right machine to do the job safely and effectively. Electric Riding Lawn Mower is a top choice among riding lawn mowers thanks to its two-and-a-half-hour runtime, powerful performance, and ease of maintenance. All riding and walk-behind mowers can be dangerous on hills if the right safety methods are not followed. As per the company's direction, 42 - 54 decks are ideal for 2-4 acres while 54 60 decks are recommended for 4 acres and over. Ideal for mowing slight rolling hills and several obstacles from 4 to 12 acres. Husqvarna MZ61 61 in. Are Zero-Turn Lawnmowers Suitable for Hills? . They will offer the most control and power, all while ensuring the smoothest ride possible while tackling challenging terrain. With the caster wheel design at the front, you can fly off at any angle if you were to hit something or accidentally turn sharply. Battery Type: Lead-Acid vs Lithium-Ion. When turning to go back the other way, turn uphill by keeping the uphill lever generally fixed while using the down hill lever to execute the turn. Superior control and steering over hills and uneven terrain. Hydrostatic transmissions use fluids and pumps and provide smooth gear changes. Andy Gibson. The 61 cutting width allows you to cover a lot of ground. Backed by an impressive 25 HP engine from Briggs & Stratton (who purchased Snapper back in 2004), this commercial-grade zero-turn lawnmower has got a lot of muscle under the hood. For more information, read this article on the different types of lawnmowers and find out if a zero-turn model is right for you. How to Choose the Best Zero-turn Lawnmower for Hills. The reason I am considering Cub is because of the steering wheel zero turn. Whether youre on a zero turn mower, walking behind a push mower or riding a garden tractor there are only 3 options to mow a big hill: Lets look at the pros and cons of each technique and which lawn mowers are recommended for each technique: The reason is because lawn and garden tractors have a high centre of gravity. You will also have to look at the maximum speed of the mower, both going forward and in reverse. They are high-quality blades with an anti-corrosion system to protect them. Note that engine horsepower can be high, but a heavy frame can limit the maximum speed of the mower. There are fewer moving parts, and the smooth transmission increases comfort. But dont let this detail fool you. If youre shopping for the best zero-turn mower for hills and rough terrain, youll want to choose a hydrostatic machine. Just remember that zero-turn mowers are not suitable for handling hills with a gradient over 10-15 degrees. However, some are better than others at handling tricky terrain, so make sure you do your research depending on your own set of circumstances. And surely it must to match that eye-watering price tag. Solution. The high back seat offers all-day-long comfort, while the large tires provide excellent traction for tackling all kinds of terrain as smooth as possible. The features of the mower are multi-pronged. Stand On VS Zero-Turn VS Walk Behind for Hills. My experience with this Cub Cadet mower is that it produces fine clippings and even results. This is an essential requirement so dont settle for anything less if you want to safely negotiate anything other than a flat yard. Wait until the grass dries since damp grass wont give you enough traction. 5 Best Zero Turn Mower for Hills and Steep Slopes, Choosing a Zero Turn Mower for Hilly Terrain, Best Zero Turn Mowers for Hills and Slopes Reviews, 1. This zero-turn mower is smaller and more affordable than other options. I write about everything about lawn care and gardening and the dread-it-but-still-need-to-do-it chores around the yard, like cleaning out the gutter guards. By rotating the threaded linkage connector ferrules, the length . (33) Synchro-Steer technology offers 4-wheel control and provides unrivaled stability for straight-line mowing on hillsides and slopes up to 20-degrees. Looking at the maximum speed gives you an idea of how powerful the mower is, but keep in mind that youll get a more precise cut if you drive slowly. SUBSCRIBE!! I like to think of myself as the Bond of the backyard, that is if yard work ever became sexy. Shopping for the Best Electric Zero Turn Mower: Pro Tips. You can also find mowers with a fabricated deck. A 22 HP/725cc Kohler 7000 series V-twin OHV engine delivers high-performance power and exceptionally smooth, quiet operation. Cub Cadet Pro Z. The fact is, zero-turn mowers are not generally designed to tackle hills, with the vast majority aimed at flat or near-flat terrain. The 8 Best Zero-turn Mowers for Hilly Terrain 2023, Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 Gas Zero Turn Lawn Mower, Dewalt Z260 Commercial Gas Zero Turn Lawn Mower, Troy-Bilt Mustang Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower, Dewalt X548 Commercial Gas Zero Turn Lawn Mower, How to Choose the Best Zero-turn Lawnmower for Hills. Specifically designed to tackle hills and obstacles, this is capable of taking 4-10 acres in its stride, and comfort is at a premium with a cockpit you can fully adjust to your needs. An ergonomic seat will reduce fatigue and prevent issues like back pain. I always recommend suiting the purchase to the job its being bought for that way youll have a sound investment that you will last even if it means spending a little more cash to begin with. I highly recommend this model if you are looking for a zero turn to mow with on hills. There are a few tips to keep in mind when mowing slopes. The ZTX4 from the Cub Cadet Ultima range is for anyone looking for a more commercial ride than the machine we featured at the top of this review. Check for a bent mower blade with it installed on your zero turn. However, it will help you cover a large surface, which means you could finish mowing the lawn faster. The Ultima ZTS brings Cub Cadet's innovative and proprietary Synchro-Stear technology to the proven Ultima Series platform for enhanced precision and confident control on challenging hillsall backed by the superior strength, comfort and cut quality of the category-leading zero-turn. Of course, you can watch plenty of YouTube videos on these mowers handling slopes with ease (as well as a fair few cautionary tales of them not being so successful). Toro TimeCutter SW4200. BEST FOR HILLS: John Deere Z375R Gas Dual Zero-Turn Riding Mower . Death, taxes, and a Husqvarna product being in an outdoor power equipment review you know its pretty much guaranteed. A 48-52 inch zero-turn will mow between 2 1/2 and 4 acres an hour at 6-9 MPH. Were talking some serious power and performance with this stand-on, commercial-grade zero-turn mower from Dewalt, and every inch of it smacks of quality. But if youre traveling down a steep slope at high speeds, one little move and you and your mower could end up tumbling down after one another. Yes and no. The Cub Cadet XT3 GS is another model with the highest power output. The horsepower rating reflects how much power the engine can produce, while the engine displacement rating will tell you how much fuel the motor can potentially burn. The left side of the mover does not pull efficiently. So, which is the best and who do you go for? Choose a front-steering tractor over a zero-turn-radius rider if you're mowing slopes 10 to 15 degrees or greater. I think the quality motor and hydrostatic transmission will significantly reduce the need for maintenance. Gas Zero Turn Mower, 2. It makes the mower heavy, but its a durable part that is suitable for commercial uses. As I learned more about its different features, I found that my first impression was right. Allows capable lawn and garden tractors to mow up to 15 hills, Horrible traction with steeper heals and less than ideal conditions, Low risk of losing control because not going downhill, Tipping risk is still there although made small by low centre of gravity of zero turn mower, Allows zero turns to get around obstacles while still maintaining safety, Allows riding mowers to get around obstacles while still maintaining the preferable aligned up/down the hill, Zero turn mowers without 4-wheel steering should only turn on hills less than 10 hills. While its commonly more advantageous to look for the fastest zero-turn mower out there, when negotiating hills, speed isnt always your friend. The 4-year/500-hour product . Its best to go slow, especially if youre not familiar with the terrain. It will mow up to 2 acres without power fade and recharges in 4 hours. The wide tires provided the power and stability I needed to mow the lawn with speed and precision. 12cc commercial-grade transmission ensures optimal blade tip speed and superior quality of cut at speeds up to 9.5 mph. Signs of Lawn Heat Stress & How to Treat It? Most of us love long hot summers, where we can get our vitamin D fix, and enjoy barbecue and pool season to the max.I wish I could say the same for our lawns.Blazing sun, coupled with little Dormant Grass vs Dead Grass How to Tell the Difference & What to Do? I think Cub Cadet in particular seem to be pulling away from the competition when it comes to top-quality (and affordable) zero-turn lawnmowers their recent award-winning designs and reviews speak for themselves. Synchro-Steer Technology offers 4-wheel control and provides unrivaled stability for straight-line mowing on hillsides and slopes up to 20 Deg. Cub Cadet has created the industry's strongest lineup of zero-turn riders- all designed to deliver ultimate manueverability. Change the mower deck belt on your Cub Cadet zero-turn mower with these helpful tips. Its a performing zero-turn mower with an impressive cutting width of 61, which is ideal for stadiums and other large areas. Im just covering my bases by suggesting you should err on the side of caution, and dont go beyond your own limits, or the limits of the machine. Secondly, youll want to make sure you arent making any drastic turns while youre traveling up or down the hill. Clean 52 cutting path. You can find the latest prices for the Cub Cadet ZT1 here at Home Depot online. Take a moment to think about how zero turn mowers are designed. In basic terminology, this means that we make a few percents of each sale we refer to them. The best cheap riding lawn mower for . And you can always check out this article on the best budget-friendly zero-turn mowers if you cant quite stretch to commercially-priced machines. Thoughtful ergonomics and convenient maintenance features ensure you're satisfied with your mower and lawn . Zero-turn mowers typically use heavy metal decks that lower their center of gravity and provide you with the stability you need to mow slopes. All items on the best zero-turn mowers shortlist are recommended for use on hills or slopes by the manufacturer. As the name suggests, they are designed to turn with zero radius, which can save so much time when negotiating obstacles, tackling curved garden designs, or cutting larger lawns. DeWalt offers an excellent warranty and additional services to reduce downtime. Sitemap | About Us | Affiliate Disclosure | Contact Me | Privacy Policy. This regulated travel limits the range of the transmission valve. This can mow hills like a tractor. Step up to the ultimate all-around mowing experience. Some manufacturers use a single piece of steel and mold it into a stamped deck. There are plenty of review websites out there that will tell you that mowing hills with zero-turns is perfectly acceptable and safe without backing it up with any evidence. Record your measurement. Zero-turn lawnmower are designed for flat terrain with obstacles, or yards and gardens that have an unusual design, as they offer the best possible control and maneuverability for such needs. It will hardly go up a hill, especially if you are trying to traverse . Ego ZT5207L Zero-Turn Lawn Mower. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWDUB1Ov3kEEyTGahxnbczA?sub_confirmation=1This Cub Cadet PRO Z 972 SD steering wheel zero turn is the best zero turn mower for hills. 2021 The Sixteen Best 54-72 Inch Residential Zero Turn Mowers; Cub Cadet ZT1, ZT2, ZT3 Zero-Turn Mowers; Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX Zero-Turn Mowers - Better, Bigger, Badder! We will define hills by the angle they would make with flat ground. Take a look below at the 10 main dangers when using a zero turn mower on hills. And for anyone who struggles to top things up, a wide-mouth gas tank helps prevent costly spills. Zero-turn mowers are becoming more affordable and accessible to the homeowner. Cub Cadet Ultima Series ZTS2 Zero Turn Lawn Mower 50" 23HP. I loved the smooth feel of the hydrostatic transmission. The Cub Cadet Ultima Series has the largest selection of affordably priced, best value residential zero-turn mowers. https://www. Can You Use Zero Turn Mowers Properly on Hills? Is there some kind of adjustment that takes care of this issue? Best Small Riding Lawn Mower for Hills: Husqvarna TS 354XD. 27 HP B&S Eng. At the front of the mower, youll find a caster wheel that helps the mower move incredibly quickly. The Cub Cadet RZT SX 50 inch is powered by Cub Cadet's EFI, electronic fuel injection, engine and is a Cub Cadet engine designed for their products. This is a commercial-standard machine designed for the homeowner, with a 42-inch deck and a 22 HP Kohler engine. Lets look at some other riding mowers and their slope ratings: Now we have defined what we are calling steep hills lets move on to how it is recommended you mow a hill with a zero turn mower. We are an affiliate of Amazon.com. Good terrain handling: Several Cub Cadet riding mower models focus on powerful engines capable of dealing with slopes and hilly terrain. The military called they want their tank back. As such, they can slide easily or even tip over in a worst-case scenario. The rear-wheel-drive propels the mower forward at up to 7 mph. Take a look at this piece on the best commercial zero-turn lawnmowers if you have an industrial-sized area of land you need to cover. The tractor handles wonderfully on hills. It uses handles as controls, which can cause arm fatigue after a while. BEST BUDGET: Toro TimeCutter V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower. Different Types of Lawn Aerators Explained Holy Lawns, Batman! Troy-Bilt Mustang Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower. x 2 in. Not only is this Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 deemed suitable for tackling slight rolling hills, but its also one of the cheapest zero-turn lawn mowers out there and you can follow that link for more. Besides, smooth gear changes translate into an even cut for your lawn. Wisconsin-based Ariens enter the fray now with one of their very reliable zero-turn mowers from their IKON range. 5. $6,999 at Amazon. There are some slight precautionary measures youre going to want to think about, such as taking it much slower and much easier. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 54 Zero Turn Mower. Awesome on hills, it keeps up with the Cub Cadet XZ2 in many ways including in the quality of cut and operator comfort. Rugged and durable, youll see many seasons of use from this highly-rated beast, perfect for lawns that are four or more acres in size. I think this product could be the best zero-turn mower for hills for novice operators because its so easy to drive. Constructed around the brilliant Kawasaki 726cc engine this mower is designed to offer plenty of horsepowers to take command of your hills and slopes, but moreover, it is built for reliability. This really is a great mower to ride in. PRO Z 100 S SERIES. The 2 tubes feel sturdy, and there is a special coating that will prevent corrosion. What mower is best for cutting uneven or hilly terrain? My criteria are based primarily on my experience using these mowers across a variety of applications, from flat to hilly terrain. The front casters were a feature that impressed me because they give you excellent control over the orientation of your front wheels, no matter what the terrain throws at you. Still, the mower has an open frame design that makes its different components easy to access. Check the latest price for the Cub Cadet mower here at Home Depot. Its easy to lose traction on sloping terrain with any riding lawnmower, and so great care must be taken if youre attempting to use these machines on such a landscape. The tubular steel construction made me feel safe. I like to think of myself as the Bond of the backyard, that is if yard work ever became sexy. One of the best zero-turn mowers on the market today hills or no hills. If you shop through the links on YardThyme, we may earn an affiliate's commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. It can turn at very sharp angles while minimizing the loss in speed. Theres no denying that zero turn mowers are becoming more and more popular as proper lawn care becomes increasingly mainstream and easily accessible. So the answer is Yes, Cub Cadet zero turn mowers are very good on hills. If youre in a hurry then I can say with a high level of confidence that the Ariens Ikon XD below is the place to start looking. Truth be told theyre not the best. What kind of mower is best for steep hills? Youll get access to a service called Pro Support Hub that helps you find replacement parts or troubleshooting information. A zero-turn mower is a significant investment, and there are a few features you should consider to pick a product adapted to your needs and budget. . Introducing the ULTIMA ZT1 SERIES. You just have to recognize that iconic yellow and black livery to know youre getting a quality machine here. Spectracide vs Roundup Which is the Best Weed Killer? Its important to select a mower that is easy and comfortable to operate, especially if you will operate it for long periods. Best Lawn Care Tools for Beginners (What You Need and How to Use Them). My name's Gibson. Its a reliable mower suitable for commercial use. As a rule of thumb, for anything up to 1/2-acre, a 40-inch deck side should have you covered. Operating a zero-turn mower can get tiring after a while. These push mowers are great on hills because they are light and have a very low risk of tipping over and hurting you. Are Any Hills Suitable for Zero Turn Mowers? link to Dormant Grass vs Dead Grass How to Tell the Difference & What to Do? The seat is extremely comfortable and features armrests. Whereas once there was only one or two, now there are several manufacturers offering this technology to potential buyers. Unfortunately they are expensive as you could probably guess from what they look like. Dont get over confident and take risks you dont need to. The ZTS1 is also available with a 42" or 46" deck. 2022 Cub Cadet Zero-Turn Mowers ZTX4 54 Price: $6,999.00. Home. The zero-turn mower comes with features such as a high back seat for extra comfort, 20-inch rear tires for maximum traction. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1. The 48 deck features 10-gauge steel construction. I also appreciated the extras and attention to detail. (Answered!). Driven by a 22-horsepower Kohler engine, this machine can reach a forward speed of 7.5 mph. If you have an air pressure pump the float should be able to hold back 10 psi if it is working properly. Cub Cadet Z 972 SDL Wright ZXT (Dual Wheels) Wright ZK (Dual Wheels) Altoz Track Mowers Ferris Z3X Hustler Super 88; Cut Width: 72 52, 61 & 72 Begin by checking to see if the belt that drives the pulley on top of the transaxle is worn or glazed*. The Cub Cadet XT2 GX54 D FAB is powered by a 26 hp KOHLER 7000 Series twin-cylinder engine. The new PRO Z 972 SDL can mow up to a 25-degree hillside, or 46 percent of grade, and comes equipped with a self-leveling air-ride seat. And when you start looking at the larger, more powerful machines that are capable of handling hills, then the price tag really shoots up, as theyre designed for more commercial-grade use. This isnt the manufacture recommended hill mowing technique but it can be a great technique for some situations. This smaller ZT1 mower is ideal for yards up to two acres. Out of the different products I tested, these five options stood out as the best zero-turn mowers for hills. It is likely out of reach for most but the largest of lawn care companies near mecosting nearly $20k. Reducing fatigue is essential because, as an operator, you need to be alert and aware of your surroundings when operating a mower. Their wheels and castors are designed for turning on a dime and negotiating obstacles, not really for handling hills. Ultima ZT2 50 lawnmower. As zero-turn mowers have become more popular for the homeowner market and not just for the school groundskeeper, power-tool brands have been falling over themselves to get on board. Motor Power and Performance. Its important you learn how to mow hills with any kind of riding lawnmower, so do your research, watch some videos, take your time and practice in order to achieve a nice finish safely. Its a heavy mower weighing over 1,000 lbs. We currently have 2xHRNs and 1xHRX stored in the garage under lawn mower covers that we love to use all the time. But, lets be real, traveling 15 miles per hour down a 12-degree hill is not going to be safe in any sense of the word, so you need to use common sense and judge each hill accordingly. season and have replaced 15 belts (at about $35 a piece) that power the blades. Check out the video below for a demonstration, but remember that its not recommended to drive a zero-turn mower on hills that are over 10-15 degrees. Its a durable polymer seat with a built-in suspension. Its a feature that can reduce downtime, and DeWalt offers a comprehensive four-year warranty. If you would like assistance with attachment compatibility, please contact us at 1 (877) 428-2349, with the model and serial IDs found on a white tag under the mower's . Technician: PK. 8. You need something with grippy tires, hydrostatic transmission, and enough horsepower to tackle a challenging landscape. Please read our affiliatesdisclosurepage to find out more. The sturdy frame makes this mower an excellent investment. You should inspect the blade after each use and clean any remaining debris caught in it. I feel confident in claiming that this product is the best zero-turn mower for hills for professional landscapers because DeWalt truly stands behind its products. Cutting width: 42". Ideal for mowing slight rolling hills and several obstacles up to 5 acres; . Powerful Kawasaki 23hp engine. Perhaps hold off the mowing until a nicer, drier day. Best Riding Lawn Mowers For Hills And Slopes, Best Zero Turn Mowers For 3 or 5 Acres | No 1. is Under $3000, Best Electric Zero Turn Mowers 2022 | Battery Power, Features 11-inch front and 20-inch rear tires capable of handling hills and uneven ground comfortably, Robust 52-inch fabricated cutting deck, constructed with 11-gauge tubular steel chassis, Features the excellent Kawasaki 726cc engine, 23hp. Its where youll find the blades. Maintaining a low speed will help you get an even cut and will give you plenty of time to react if you run into an obstacle and feel the mower becoming unstable. A 42-inch deck offers a selection of cutting heights, with a 22 tubular steel frame for added strength and durability. However, zero-turn mowers do have one weakness that can't be avoided - hills. Then comes the hydrostatic walk behind mower which uses hydraulics to power the wheels - but you are still walking behind it. . The Cub Cadet ZTS1 46 zero-turn mower was engineered to be every bit as strong as its Ultima Series counterparts and features a 22 HP/725cc Kohler twin-cylinder engine that delivers high . And theres no doubting their benefits, saving you time and money in the long run especially if you have a lot of obstacles to negotiate in your yard. And if you have to maintain anything above two acres, you should pick up a zero-turn lawnmower with a cutting deck over 50-inches. Pic below of what I am considering. The seat is one of the most comfortable I tested. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 is a sturdy and durable zero-turn mower perfect for medium and large-sized yards. The gas and brake pedals feel very intuitive. In bold is the danger and after how to reduce the risk of an accident. The Ultima Zero-Turn Riding Mower was built to raise the bar for enhanced strength, durability, redefined comfort and uncompromised . Measure from the same point on the ground up to the blade end. At these speeds, even a little knock of the steering wheel can make a big difference directionally. With your mower parked on a flat-level surface, measure from the ground to the end of the blade. The seat feels very comfortable. All the above units qualify as the best riding lawn mowers for hills, but the Husqvarna Riding Mower 46-Inch stands out due to its broad 46-inch deck, and powerful Briggs & Stratton Engine. Top best Cub Cadet zero turn mowers. Check the latest price of the DeWalt Z148 here at Home Depot. The Cub Cadet ULTIMA Series ZT1 50 features a 25 HP Kohler 7000 Series Twin-cylinder OHV Engine, 2 in. The big brother was my top pick, but this 42-inch model is every bit as goodjust smaller, meaning mowing takes longer. You should also look for larger rear wheels with deep grooves that can propel the mower forward. Types of Weed Killers How to Choose the Right One. This refers to land, including hills and slopes, but maybe also lots of bumps and dips basically, a very uneven surface. This is what you need to be looking out for. This is more efficient because you are not having to go up hills (losing traction) or break going down hills (added transmission and break wear). Put it this way theyre not ideal. The first impression I got when trying the Cub Cadet Ultimate ZT1 was overwhelmingly positive. The wheels and steering system gives you precise control. Finally, a common issue that many people overlook is the weather conditions of wherever youre cutting the grass. They have big tires and a wide base making them the best for hills hands down. So long as you choose a machine that has been designed to handle rough or hilly terrain, then you should be fine. Are zero-turn mowers good on rough terrain? Youll find 12 different settings for adjusting the deck height. The seat should feature a seat belt or lap bar. And speaking of rolling, a safety bar comes as standard, just in case you decide to push it beyond its pretty extensive limits.