Top 5 Questions on Conventional Versus Zero-Turn Mowers
Here are the top five most frequently asked questions on the subject of conventional verses zero-turn lawnmowers.
1.
Are zero-turn mowers more expensive than conventional mowers? This is one of those very difficult questions to answer because you are not really comparing like with like.
At one time, if all other things were roughly equal, zero-turn mowers would have been typically considerably more expensive than their conventional mid-frame mounted cousins.
Today though, those differentials have been eroded and although they may still be a little more expensive, the price differences may be lower than you would imagine.
2.
Which is the best type of mower? Both pieces of equipment have their respective pros and cons.
As a general rule, zero-turn mowers are more manoeuvrable and can get up much closer to things such as hedges and fences than conventional mowers.
Conventional mowers though tend to be rather easier to learn to drive / handle and they require less familiarisation than zero-turn technology.
They also may haveslightly greater forward visibility at ground level and some people would argue that they are rather more stable in slightly more demanding terrain conditions.
It depends very much upon your requirements and your own personal preferences.
3.
Where can I get honest and objective advice about different models and types? Many, though not all, professional dealers will be more interested in understanding your requirements and giving you appropriate advice than in simply selling you equipment.
So, look around, take recommendations and go to an established and well-regarded expert farm machinery trader.
Most will usually be only too happy to have an entirely non-committal chat with you upfront.
4.
Why do I hear talk of zero-turn mowers being unstable? This is something of an old story that goes way back and should now be forgotten but it does occasionally rear its head.
In the old days, when zero-turn mowers were relatively new, there were some stabilisation and engineering issues that meant they weren't always recommended for use mowing inclines or over uneven ground.
These issues have been solved for some considerable time now though there are many who would argue that mid-frame mounted mowers are still better if your garden or grounds includes hilly areas etc.
Of course, any sit-on a lawnmower (or tractor) can potentially be dangerous if you use it outside of the manufacturer's recommended performance envelopes.
5.
Are there any pros and cons between the two types of mower in terms of which one is the better second-hand buy? No.
The advisability or otherwise of purchasing a second-hand lawnmower will relate to issues such as condition, maintenance history and age.
Those things may be good or bad on any mower, be it a conventional or zero-turn model.
That's another powerful reason for only purchasing second-hand lawnmowers from an established dealer.
Of course, some lawnmowers may have a higher residual value potential (i.
e.
they have a tendency to keep their value more) than others.
This is a complicated subject and includes considerations such as build quality and therefore the manufacturer.
Yet again, to find out more about how much your lawnmower might be worth after say two or three years, assuming it is well maintained, speak to a professional dealer.
1.
Are zero-turn mowers more expensive than conventional mowers? This is one of those very difficult questions to answer because you are not really comparing like with like.
At one time, if all other things were roughly equal, zero-turn mowers would have been typically considerably more expensive than their conventional mid-frame mounted cousins.
Today though, those differentials have been eroded and although they may still be a little more expensive, the price differences may be lower than you would imagine.
2.
Which is the best type of mower? Both pieces of equipment have their respective pros and cons.
As a general rule, zero-turn mowers are more manoeuvrable and can get up much closer to things such as hedges and fences than conventional mowers.
Conventional mowers though tend to be rather easier to learn to drive / handle and they require less familiarisation than zero-turn technology.
They also may haveslightly greater forward visibility at ground level and some people would argue that they are rather more stable in slightly more demanding terrain conditions.
It depends very much upon your requirements and your own personal preferences.
3.
Where can I get honest and objective advice about different models and types? Many, though not all, professional dealers will be more interested in understanding your requirements and giving you appropriate advice than in simply selling you equipment.
So, look around, take recommendations and go to an established and well-regarded expert farm machinery trader.
Most will usually be only too happy to have an entirely non-committal chat with you upfront.
4.
Why do I hear talk of zero-turn mowers being unstable? This is something of an old story that goes way back and should now be forgotten but it does occasionally rear its head.
In the old days, when zero-turn mowers were relatively new, there were some stabilisation and engineering issues that meant they weren't always recommended for use mowing inclines or over uneven ground.
These issues have been solved for some considerable time now though there are many who would argue that mid-frame mounted mowers are still better if your garden or grounds includes hilly areas etc.
Of course, any sit-on a lawnmower (or tractor) can potentially be dangerous if you use it outside of the manufacturer's recommended performance envelopes.
5.
Are there any pros and cons between the two types of mower in terms of which one is the better second-hand buy? No.
The advisability or otherwise of purchasing a second-hand lawnmower will relate to issues such as condition, maintenance history and age.
Those things may be good or bad on any mower, be it a conventional or zero-turn model.
That's another powerful reason for only purchasing second-hand lawnmowers from an established dealer.
Of course, some lawnmowers may have a higher residual value potential (i.
e.
they have a tendency to keep their value more) than others.
This is a complicated subject and includes considerations such as build quality and therefore the manufacturer.
Yet again, to find out more about how much your lawnmower might be worth after say two or three years, assuming it is well maintained, speak to a professional dealer.
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