I like to think of myself as the Bond of the backyard, that is if yard work ever became sexy. Although it is normal for any vehicle to slow down slightly when ascending a grade, there are a few things to check if this seems to be excessive. If you look at zero-turn mowers in a higher price range, youll find that they all use a hydrostatic transmission. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 is a zero-turn mower packed with features that will make your life easier. Still, the mower has an open frame design that makes its different components easy to access. We are in the middle of our 4th. Powerful Kawasaki 23hp engine, big 20-inch rear tires, under $4,000. Their maneuverability, build quality, and reliability play a huge part in my decision-making, and then of course all of them are designed to handle uneven ground. Its important to select a mower that is easy and comfortable to operate, especially if you will operate it for long periods. Did this begin before or after the oil change? You will also have to look at the maximum speed of the mower, both going forward and in reverse. 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. The seat, which automatically levels 15 degrees in each direction side to side, offers a full 30 . This makes them ideal for mowing on hills. These cost . The above techniques is what is recommended by the manufacturers. Secondly, youll want to make sure you arent making any drastic turns while youre traveling up or down the hill. x 2 in. As a rule of thumb, for anything up to 1/2-acre, a 40-inch deck side should have you covered. A 22 HP/725cc Kohler 7000 series V-twin OHV engine delivers high-performance power and exceptionally smooth, quiet operation. While stamped decks tend to be lighter, a fabricated deck can use heavier steel plates suitable for commercial and heavy-duty uses. The best zero turn for mowing hills is the Cub Cadet steering wheel zero turn mower PRO Z 972 SD Don't miss a thing! If youre stuck in the predicament of owning a zero turn mower, make sure you can accurately and properly look after your land and lawn without breaking anything. Watch the video below for some tips and tricks on how to control a zero-turn mower on hills, in order to minimize sliding and prevent rolling. You should control your speed with the transmission instead of relying on the brakes. . The Husqvarna TS 354XD garden tractor has more than enough power and stability for small yards with hilly terrain. I think the quality motor and hydrostatic transmission will significantly reduce the need for maintenance. With your mower parked on a flat-level surface, measure from the ground to the end of the blade. 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. In Store Pickup Only or Local Delivery. First, if youre over the 15-degree mark, youre probably going to want to think about getting another mower. Would it perform better than mowers designed for residential use? Cub Cadet Zero-Turn Mowers ZT2 54 Cub Cadet zero-turns give you steering options for the control you want with outstanding comfort. The 2 tubes feel sturdy, and there is a special coating that will prevent corrosion. DeWalt Z148 48 in. Best Lawn Care Tools for Beginners (What You Need and How to Use Them). The Ikon XD ships with 11-inch front and 20-inch rear tires to provide excellent traction over uneven terrain even in wet conditions. How to Make Grass Thicker, Greener and Fuller The Essential Guide. However, these bars arent as high as other RPOS systems. Wisconsin-based Ariens enter the fray now with one of their very reliable zero-turn mowers from their IKON range. Remember, it needs to have a hydrostatic transmission, large tires with good lug to offer traction, and enough power under the hood when you need it. Features like the performing engine, large tires, and heavy deck will give you the stability you need. 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. Make sure youre traveling off the hill and onto flat ground before you make a turn. Step up to the ultimate all-around mowing experience. In this video we test mowing up and down the hill. Theyre fast, furious, and easily help you get the job done. Superior control and steering over hills and uneven terrain. Operating a zero-turn mower can get tiring after a while. Year: 2022 Make: Cub Cadet Model: Zero-Turn Mowers Trim: ZTX4 54 Condition: New Hours: 0. Then comes the hydrostatic walk behind mower which uses hydraulics to power the wheels - but you are still walking behind it. It will hardly go up a hill, especially if you are trying to traverse . 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. This Cub Cadet mower feels like a smaller version of the other product I tested from this manufacturer. The chassis is 11-gauge tubular steel with a high-quality 52-inch fabricated deck with casters. Record your measurement. SUBSCRIBE!! . Big 20-inch rear tires. It takes everything that model offers and makes it large, with a 60-inch fabricated cutting deck, and a 24 HP V-twin Kohler pro series engine. Now in retirement, hes taken a step back from that. This is a commercial-standard machine designed for the homeowner, with a 42-inch deck and a 22 HP Kohler engine. So, wheres the middle ground? Below, youll find a handy, in-depth guide on all the things you should be considering before buying a zero-turn mower. As such, they can slide easily or even tip over in a worst-case scenario. You should also watch out for bumps and holes. Description: . 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 first impression I got while testing the mower was one of comfort. make / manufacturer: Cub Cadet model name / number: Zero-Turn MowersZero-Turn Mowers Jamey Kramar is a certified Lawn Care Manager (NALP) and a Mechanical Engineer by trade. We replaced the 'drive' belt. Rolling a riding lawnmower is not unheard of, nor is sliding the vehicle down the hill and into the duck pond. The seat is extremely comfortable and features armrests. 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. Hydrostatic transmissions use fluids and pumps and provide smooth gear changes. 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. However, its essential to watch your speed, avoid obstacles when possible, and always keep your front wheels perpendicular to the slope. Measure from the same point on the ground up to the blade end. The deck is a little narrower at 48 instead of 50, but the V-twin motor is similar. The belts are fairly new. 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. Has anyone had any experience with Cub. The Cub Cadet ULTIMA Series ZT1 50 features a 23 HP Kawasaki FR691V series Twin-cylinder OHV Engine, 2 in. Proceed with rotating the blade 180 degrees. By keeping your zero turn mower slow and steady, youll maximize the amount of traction youll have. The RZT SX mowers are available in different size widths from 42 on up to 54 inch mowing widths. Best Small Riding Lawn Mower for Hills: Husqvarna TS 354XD. 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. And check out this article when they go up against Cub Cadet and John Deere in a lawn tractor standoff. These commercial-duty models are rated up to 25 hills. Step up to the ultimate all-around mowing experience with the Ultima Series from Cub Cadet. Cub Cadet RZT SX zero turn riders come standard with armrests for comfort. 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. The mowing deck of these mowers has been independently assessed and found to deliver a superior cut for a residential mower. $6,999 at Amazon. The tubular steel construction made me feel safe. For just under $16,000 this mower gets the job done . Zero-turn mowers have a lot of advantages that tend to play in the favor of most homeowners. The left side of the mover does not pull efficiently. The 48 deck features 10-gauge steel construction. A 52-inch deck is ideal for handling larger properties, with hydrostatic transaxles that ensure a super-smooth ride when you need to change speed and direction essential for tackling hilly terrain. Different Types of Lawn Aerators Explained Holy Lawns, Batman! The ultimate all-around mowing experience now comes with professional-grade Synchro-Steer technology, providing 4-wheel control for unrivaled stability while mowing on hillsides and slopes up to 20. Its not the fastest machine at 7mph flat speed, but it is very comfortable and extremely well-built for hills and rough terrain. The Cub Cadet CC30E is a top-rated electric lawn mower that offers homeowners a range of features and benefits. Take a look below at the 10 main dangers when using a zero turn mower on hills. Check the Cub Cadet 48 ZT1 price here at Home Depot. They are fitted with comfortable 18 high-back seat with unique seat . VALLEY CITY, Ohio Cub Cadet unveiled an addition to its PRO Z Series of commercial zero-turn lawn mowers. The Cub Cadet XT1's overall construction both looks and feels sturdy. From our research all zero turns are rated for 15. You dont ever want to scalp your turf, as it can cause serious damage to the grass so make sure your choice of zero-turn mower comes with a good selection of cutting heights. tubular steel frame, comfortable high back seat and much more. This Cub Cadet lawn mower has excellent capacity on its gas tank and uses the fuel efficiently. Their big selling point is that theyre the best machines for negotiating obstacles, or mowing unusually-shaped and/or particularly large lawns. The wheels and steering system gives you precise control. And surely it must to match that eye-watering price tag. The front wheels feature a smooth tread and pivot with ease without digging into the turf. You can even choose one with a cargo bed for transporting anything you need around your yard. 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. 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. Are Any Hills Suitable for Zero Turn Mowers? 24 HP Kohler KT-Pro7000 Series Twin-Cylinder Zero-Turn Riding We are a participant in the Amazon.com Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Types of Weed Killers How to Choose the Right One. I liked the deck of this mower because the design allows for excellent airflow. You have a choice of clipping disposal, with side discharge, bag, and mulch capabilities, and the roll bar is on hand for extra peace-of-mind when tackling unruly landscapes. 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. Death, taxes, and a Husqvarna product being in an outdoor power equipment review you know its pretty much guaranteed. So the answer is Yes, Cub Cadet zero turn mowers are very good on hills. The first commercially available zero-turn mower came onto the market back in 1949. Mower doesn't steer correctly. -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. 8. And at 7.5 MPH, its also one of the fastest zero turn mowers out there, and well worthy of anyones consideration. Introducing the ULTIMA ZT1 SERIES. We will define hills by the angle they would make with flat ground. And for anyone who struggles to top things up, a wide-mouth gas tank helps prevent costly spills. The best cheap riding lawn mower for . New features and updates for 2021. You can also check out this article on the best lawnmowers for smaller yards if thats more suitable for your needs. 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. A Strong Experience at Every Turn. Zero turn mowers have a wider base and much lower centre of gravity than other ride-on mowers. Are zero-turn mowers good for steep hills? Operating a zero-turn mower on wet and hilly terrain isnt safe. If this is the case, make sure youre judging the conditions. Perhaps hold off the mowing until a nicer, drier day. The proper way to operate one of our ZTR rear-steer mowers on slopes is to start at the bottom of the slope and go side-to side rather than up and down. Just remember that zero-turn mowers are not suitable for handling hills with a gradient over 10-15 degrees. (One of the models is the most searched for ZTR on Google*) This article will cover the Heavy-Duty Ultima ZTX4, ZTX5, ZTX6 series mowers. Check Store Inventory. 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. 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). The wide tires provided the power and stability I needed to mow the lawn with speed and precision. Available in a choice of 48 or 54-inch deck sizes, it can tackle just about anything, designed for use on all kinds of terrain. This control rod connects to the hydrostatic transmission at a regulator valve, which determines the rate of fluid flow through the transmission and the output speed to the wheels. The military called they want their tank back. My name's Gibson. Synchro-Steer Technology offers 4-wheel control and provides unrivaled stability for straight-line mowing on hillsides and slopes up to 20 Deg. How to Protect Grass From Frost & What to Do. . (Best Zero Turn) Check Price On Home Depot. The Ultima ZTS zero-turn mower features advanced Cub Cadet Synchro-Stear technology combined with the proven Ultima Series platform for enhanced . This can mow hills like a tractor. However, the engine is similar to what youll find on the Cub Cadet mower I reviewed above. The twin-cylinder 23 hp engine from Kawasaki is an impressive piece of machinery. This mower has a 35 Horsepower Kawasaki engine, 72\" mowing deck, power steering, air ride seat, electric lift and offers a smooth and safe ride on the hills.Share this video:Zero Turn mowing on hills - Cub Cadet PRO Z 972 SD https://youtu.be/llt4qbkAjII************************************************************FACEBOOK GROUP:TractorTread - Used tractors for saleEMAIL:tractortreadteam@gmail.com#steeringwheelzeroturn#zeroturnonhills#mowinghills Also, their weight is well balanced front-to-back so when mowing up the hill or down the hill (as long as you stay within what incline the mower is rated to) it wont flip over. Small hills and low gradients wont cause much of an issue. I recommend choosing a zero-turn mower with a safety roll bar, also known as a rollover protective structure or RPOS, that will prevent the mower from crushing you if it were to tip backward. A 42-inch deck offers a selection of cutting heights, with a 22 tubular steel frame for added strength and durability. It makes the mower heavy, but its a durable part that is suitable for commercial uses. Its not just about how heavy-duty a machine is or if it comes with a roll bar, and I wont sit here and write that you can use any old mower to tackle any kind of yard. All three mowers are different and unique when operating on hills. Gas Zero Turn Mower, 3. Still: A great hydro walk behind needs to be in the arsenal of every serious lawn care company. Verdict: Best Riding Lawn Mower for Hills. 12cc commercial-grade transmission ensures optimal blade tip speed and superior quality of cut at speeds up to 9.5 mph. As such, Ive not just included a random selection of the best zero-turn mowers in this review every single one is marketed as being suitable for hills and slopes. You have a reliable Dewalt drill so it stands to reason theyll make a reliable zero-turn mower, right? Here are some of the most important things to look for if youre dealing with hilly terrain on a zero-turn mower. By rotating the threaded linkage connector ferrules, the length . This procedure provides the least risk of . Cut quality. Its where youll find the blades. What could be causing a left transmisson to stop pulling after 45 minutes of m. i have a cub cadet rzt 50, the left transmisson quits pulling after 45 minutes of mowing changed the oil and purgered it what could be the problem??????????/. They will offer the most control and power, all while ensuring the smoothest ride possible while tackling challenging terrain. It will make the mowing experience far more dangerous, especially on steeper hills. 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. Here is a tier list of the best and worst lawn mowers on hills. In addition to hills, you may find yourself dealing with rough terrain. They have big tires and a wide base making them the best for hills hands down. They want to flip over and crush you if you mow steep hills going across or perpendicular to the incline. Like all power tool brands, it will probably just come down to personal preference and/or brand loyalty. Change the mower deck belt on your Cub Cadet zero-turn mower with these helpful tips. The 30 cutting deck is perfect for small to medium-sized yards. Riding lawnmowers come with three types of transmission manual, automatic, and hydrostatic. Its smaller and lighter than the other mowers I tested. Wear you personal protective equipment and hearing protection headphones. Solution. There are a few tips to keep in mind when mowing slopes. Yes and no. Ideal for mowing slight rolling hills and several obstacles up to 5 acres; . You can get a feel for how steep those angles are and begin to understand how the dangers of zero turn mowers on different hills is serious by looking at the chart we put together below: Zero turn mower manufacturers will tell you in their User Manual what slope rating the zero turn mower is rated for. Andy Gibson. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 in. Today we will focus on the dangers of zero turn mowers on hills and talk about how to mow hills safe with one. Check the latest price for the Cub Cadet mower here at Home Depot. The best zero turn mower to reduce dangers on hills. The SW4200 feature solid construction . It has a powerful engine that can handle any terrain, even the toughest ones. You can find the Ultima ZTS at local Cub Cadet dealerships, select Tractor Supply Co. locations, and online at HomeDepot.com. Technician: PK. 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 . For 1/2-acre to two acres, look for models that offer a 40-50-inch cutting deck. Toro TimeCutter SW4200. You can find the latest prices for the Cub Cadet ZT1 here at Home Depot online. All engines on Cub Cadet machines have undergone a rigorous certification, and now you can choose between three powerful options: Cub Cadet, Kawasaki and Kohler. How to Choose the Best Zero-turn Lawnmower for Hills. 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. A high back seat and armrests make for a comfortable ride, as you work allowing a full day of cutting without any discomfort or fatigue. The seat is one of the most comfortable I tested. Check out this article for the best lawnmowers for hills or browse back through this piece for the best zero-turn models capable of doing the job. You need something with grippy tires, hydrostatic transmission, and enough horsepower to tackle a challenging landscape. Home. The 42 cutting width is convenient for getting into those hard-to-reach spots. Menu. This really is a great mower to ride in. Some areas are too steep for you to operate a zero-turn mower safely. 8. Use a regular walk behind mower or string trimmer that is much safer on very steep hills. They work by having a hydraulic system that can independently control each drive wheel, enabling the machine to spin on the spot, and are controlled by two levers as opposed to a traditional steering wheel. Weak Hydrostatic Transmission. This mower comes with a performing Kohler motor, a smooth hydrostatic transmission, and some 20 rear wheels to give you plenty of traction. The best Cub Cadet zero turn mowers comparison table. This mower is built to last and is designed to handle hills and slopes up to 15 degrees, with ease. Please read our affiliatesdisclosurepage to find out more. Dont get over confident and take risks you dont need to. 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. 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. Most zero-turn mowers are gas-powered machines, but rechargeable battery options are becoming more popular and accessible. . Cub Cadet has created the industry's strongest lineup of zero-turn riders- all designed to deliver ultimate manueverability. 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. The RYOBI 48V Brushless 38 in. Cub Cadet Ultima Series Zero Turn Mowers. Does not chew up the grass. About your guide: Uneven cut. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 is a sturdy and durable zero-turn mower perfect for medium and large-sized yards. My experience with this Cub Cadet mower is that it produces fine clippings and even results. The cutting deck is fully adjustable with no less than 13 height options and designed with advanced airflow technology, so you can get a better lift on the grass for an improved cut and finish. Its best to go slow, especially if youre not familiar with the terrain. Theres no denying that zero turn mowers are becoming more and more popular as proper lawn care becomes increasingly mainstream and easily accessible. Cub Cadet. (A 10-degree slope rises roughly 20 inches over every 10 feet.) As I learned more about its different features, I found that my first impression was right. Of course, the speed of zero turn mowers is one of the highlight features. 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. 1. Capable of handling hills and uneven terrain. Also adding roll-over protection, CC recognizes what this animal is going to be used for and has equipped it accordingly. 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. Spectracide vs Roundup Which is the Best Weed Killer? Zero-turn mowers sometimes have smaller casters to increase speed and maneuverability. Click the link! . But then, if you sent one down an incredibly steep slope, youre probably going to have some problems. The reason I am considering Cub is because of the steering wheel zero turn. One of the things you have to worry about when mowing the lawn on an uphill surface is that the steep terrain could cause your mower to roll over. The fuel tank is smaller than on other models. Pro Rating 9.5. The safety roll bar made me feel more confident about riding uphill. (33) Synchro-Steer technology offers 4-wheel control and provides unrivaled stability for straight-line mowing on hillsides and slopes up to 20-degrees. While this has revolutionized grass cutting, it has been at the sacrifice of stability. It's capable of mowing slopes up to 25 degrees. So, look for machines that are on the higher end of the horsepower scale, with reliable engines that wont let you down when you most need them. Deck Width and Height. 27 HP B&S Eng. 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. The blade speed on zero-turn mowers is faster than on a lawn tractor so you can travel over the lawn faster and still get . Troy-Bilt Mustang Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower. 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. And read on to discover the best zero turn mower for steep hills if one exists at all. 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. Its one of the fastest mowers out there with a top speed of nine miles per hour, all with a 10-gauge steel deck that has been welded and reinforced for longevity. When choosing a zero-turn, you need to consider its power capabilities, cutting deck size, safety features, and seating, comfort, and control options. Its easy to get it running with the electric start feature, and I liked how the engine maintains an even speed. If youre not sure what mower is best for you maybe take a look at Best Riding Lawn Mowers For Hills And Slopes. The features of the mower are multi-pronged. Smoke coming out of the mower. It also comes with a Synchro Steer feature that enables you to control the front and rear wheels simultaneously. The Cub Cadet ULTIMA Series ZTX4 54 in. The mower features some protective bars behind the operator seat to protect you in case the mower tips backward. Make fair judgments accordingly. It shows only 33 hours on the hour meter but the previous owner said they put it back to zero when he bought it from his local dealer. We put it through the test mowing side ways on the steep hill. 7. Lets start with the engine. We are an affiliate of Amazon.com. Cub Cadet Pro Z. We currently have 2xHRNs and 1xHRX stored in the garage under lawn mower covers that we love to use all the time. These push mowers are great on hills because they are light and have a very low risk of tipping over and hurting you. This Husqvarna MZ61 is more than a comfortable ride. At the front of the mower, youll find a caster wheel that helps the mower move incredibly quickly. Cub Cadet offers a few zero turn mowers under 3000 in their Ultima series. Zero turn mowers are renowned for their effortless cutting times and awe-inspiring levels of power. BEST BUDGET: Toro TimeCutter V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower. This is due to all the stability reasons weve already spoken about. This heavy-duty mower was the most comfortable product I tested. Join the reviewers commenting that this beast handles hills with no problems and pick yourself up a Husky today. Some zero turn mowers are designed for hills with 4-wheel steering and dual rear tires. Of course, this means youre going to have to plan your route in some gardens or on some land, so you can save fuel and stay as safe as possible. I like the smooth feel and simple controls of this mower. A 725 cc Kohler 7000 Series PRO V-twin OHV engine delivers high-performance power and exceptionally smooth, quiet operation. When you're traveling at high speeds, the mower will have far less traction than . You just have to recognize that iconic yellow and black livery to know youre getting a quality machine here. 4.6. In general, they are not wrong or right. Some purchasers have said that the lawn mower cuts evenly, even if the grass is long, wet, dry, or dense. Description. Cub Cadet Ultima Series Zero Turn Rider ZT1 42. You could save money by buying a used one though. This is what you need to be looking out for. However, the powerful rear-wheel drive can handle slopes and hills as well. The tubular steel frame was another feature I liked right away. I liked the high lift deck with its sturdy edges and the convenient pedal and kob control to adjust it from 1 to 4.5.. The big brother was my top pick, but this 42-inch model is every bit as goodjust smaller, meaning mowing takes longer. The fact that they have a zero turn radius makes them perfect for mowing on hilly terrain. The deck adjusts through 13 height settings between 1.2 and -4.5. The rear-wheel dual hydrostatic transmission feels very smooth when riding up and down hills, and it allowed me to nail my zero turns effortlessly. Take a moment to think about how zero turn mowers are designed. Ariens IKON XD Zero Turn Mower. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 54 Zero Turn Mower. Do a walk around before mowing to see for holes, rocks etc.