Maintaining your backyard to the standard you love can be hard work – and it becomes even harder the larger the yard. If you’re sick and tired of dedicating full weekends to keeping your property looking it’s best, then you may be looking for a solution that cuts your time in half. Whilst pulling a push mower up and down your backyard doesn’t sound appealing, hopping on a ride on mower offers a far different experience.
If you’re considering investing in a rider, then there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you make your purchase.
· Shop for your yard
It’s no good buying the same ride on mower as everyone else, when your backyard is unique to your property. A lawn that has lots of trees and garden beds will need a significantly different model to a yard that sits on a slope – think about your property before you look at anything else, that way you know what specifications are a must!
· Zero Turn can be an excellent idea
As we mentioned above, it isn’t unusual for backyards to have a myriad of compact spaces to maintain. If that sounds like your yard, then a zero-turn mower is the perfect choice. With a rear mounted engine and steering system, you can take advantage of their tight turning circle – no more inefficient three (or more) point turns for you!
· Mowing and mulching options
Ride on machines can do a lot more than simply mow your lawn – and before you invest in a model you should ensure it does exactly what you need. Generally, a mower has two discharge options: side (ideal for long grass) or rear (perfect for finer grasses). Many models can also mulch your grass as they go, fertilising your lawn in the process.
· Power and performance
Tempting though it is to get the most powerful mower on the market, if your property doesn’t need that level of performance then you’re wasting your money. The bigger your yard, the more horsepower you’ll need – 16 to 21hp is perfect for anything between 1 to 3 acres. On top of that, if your lawn is mostly flat, then a single speed machine will let you get the job done quickly. For property that’s more of an obstacle course than a rolling lawn, then a multi-speed system will ensure you always have the power you need.
· Choose a driving system
Is this your first ride on mower? If that’s the case, a lawn tractor could be an excellent choice. Designed to drive like a car, they use a pedal for acceleration and another for break, and the machine itself is controlled via a steering wheel. Otherwise, lever steering is often used with traditional mowers, with the push of the lever turning the wheel. Ask your dealer if you can take your mower for a test drive to ensure you choose the option you’re most comfortable with.
And of course, one of the most important things you should consider is your budget. Mowers can range between $2000 and $25,000 depending on the size, power, and a range of other factors – whilst you want the best machine on the market, it’s important that you don’t spend more than you can afford. Contact your local mowing experts to find out how to get the most bang for your buck, and you’re sure to walk away with a ride on mower that you love.
