Riding Lawn Mowers vs. Zero-Turn Mowers

If you’re trying to maintain a large lawn or property, you’re going to need the right mower for the job. To get it done fast, efficiently, and without too much effort, your best bet is either a riding lawn mower or a zero-turn mower. We here at Nova International know that the hunt for the right tool can be a hassle, so we’ve put together some tips on deciding between those two options, below. To learn more, or to see the mowers we can get you, contact one of our stores in Windsor or Aylesford, Nova Scotia, or in Salisbury, New Brunswick, today!

Riding Lawn Mowers

Some of the most powerful lawn mowers on the market, riding lawn mowers—also sometimes called lawn tractors—have a number of distinct advantages over their zero-turn cousins.

Won’t Decline an Incline

Riding lawn mowers have a sturdy steering system and, though their more traditional turn radius can impede your mowing accuracy, it means they’re the best bet when you have to mow on an incline. Hills, slopes, and any other terrain that’s steeper than flat are no trouble at all for riding lawn mowers, though zero-turn mowers may struggle to go in a straight line.

Won’t Steer You Wrong

Speaking of steering, a riding lawn mower is less likely to drive you crazy when you’re first learning to control it. Every riding mower out there is equipped with a steering wheel like you’d find in any consumer vehicle. While other, more mower-specific controls will still take a bit of time to get the hang of, you won’t be wondering how to aim the mower itself. Most zero-turn models employ a double-lever system, which enhances precision but can be tricky to learn.

Zero-Turn Mowers

That said, zero-turn mowers have their own fair share of advantageous features.

Specs

In terms of size, speed, and power, a zero-turn mower wins hands-down. Not only can the fastest zero-turn mowers move at around 13 mph while riding mowers are closer to 10, but the cutting decks are wider to boot. The larger the property, the more this will factor into your day, allowing you to cut more grass while moving faster at the same time.

Precision

And of course, we can’t forget the whole reason zero-turn mowers exist. As the name implies, these mowers can turn on a dime, allowing them to cut more precisely and get much closer to obstacles like trees, rocks, and planting beds. You get exactly the cut you need with a zero-turn model.

Ready to see which is best for you? Contact us at Nova International for more information, or to see the lawn mowers we can get you. We proudly serve the people of Atlantic Canada—let us serve you today!