Factors to Consider When Buying a New Riding Lawn Mower

If you are in the market for a new riding lawn mower, there are several factors to consider. Your mower should suit its job; it should be the right height, weight, width, etc. Consider, for example, the deck. For most jobs in the typical suburban yard a deck 30-40 inches should be sufficient. If you have a large expanse of yard with few obstacles, you may want to consider a deck that is slightly larger.

Another factor to consider when buying a new riding lawn mower is the motor. If you intend on cutting high grass or broom sage, you may want to opt for a higher horsepower model. If you do not need much power, you should go with the standard. The position of the motor in the riding mower is also important. If the motor is in front, typically, it will give you more power. If the motor is in the back, you will have better visibility.

Riding lawn mowers also come with different speed controls. Some mowers come with a clutch, a clutch brake combination, a standard gearshift, or an automatic transmission. Prices will vary depending on the make and model, but expect to pay a little more for the automatic riding lawn mowers.

You should also consider adding a few options to your new riding lawn mower. Some mowers can be equipped with automatic mulchers, which chew up the grass clipping and deposit them in a storage bag, which you can later dispose of or broadcast back into your yard, returning important nutrients to your lawn. A warranty may also prove to be a good idea, especially if you are buying an off-brand riding lawn mower. Compare the warranty to others on similar models to make sure you are not getting the run-around.