Ride On Lawnmowers

Ride-on Lawnmowers

For really large areas of grass, a ride-on mower or lawn tractor is the most sensible maintenance option. If you’ve ever tried to cut half an acre of grass using a standard walk-behind mower, you will appreciate the work involved. Not only will a ride-on lawnmower save you time, they can also be highly enjoyable!

Ride-on lawnmower and Lawn tractors - The Differences

A ride-on lawnmower has a rear mounted engine which is normally positioned underneath the drivers seat. Depending on the engine size, ride-on lawnmowers are suitable for lawns up to an acre in size and will accept a range of attachments such as the Agri-Fab range.

A lawn tractor (or garden tractor) has a front mounted engine similar to a conventional tractor. These machines are better suited to mowing larger areas between 1 and 10 acres in size. Lawn tractors also offer the option of adding a variety of attachments such a trailers, sprayers, rollers and scarifying equipment.

Different types of Ride-on Lawnmower

Smaller models of ride-on lawnmower have engine sizes of around 6.5hp rising to 15hp+ for the largest models. Cutting widths are typically between 25-33 inches. Ride-on mowers usually have 3-5 forward gears and a reverse although some brands do offer a variable transmission whereby you just select forward or reverse and put your foot down. Even the cheapest models will usually feature an electric key start so you’ll have no problems starting the mower.

Some models are classed as ‘3 in 1’ mowers. This basically means that you have the option of either collecting the grass clippings, discharging the clippings back onto the lawn, or mulching and discharging the clippings. This is a good option for the often unpredictable UK weather. Some ride-on lawnmower and lawn tractor models offer a mulching kit as an add-on.

Ride-on mowers nearly always use the rotary method of cutting and the steering can be via either the front or rear wheels.

Out Front Deck Ride on Lawn mowers

If your garden has lots of trees, flower beds and other obstructions, you may be better off buying an out front deck ride on lawn mower. These machines offer a much better view of the cutting deck and are better suited to difficult lawns containing lots of borders, fences and trees.

Hydrostatic drive

Many ride-on lawnmowers and lawn tractors feature a hydrostatic drive. This allows you to maintain a consistent power supply to the cutting deck even though the actual engine revs and machine speed may vary.

Ride on Lawnmower Grass Collection

In addition to mulching lawnmowers, there are two basic methods of grass collection.

Rear collection. The airflow created by the cutting blades forces the grass clippings into a collection container mounted on the mower. The rear collect ride-on mower or lawn tractor is by far the most popular type in the UK and is available in a huge variety of engine sizes and specifications. Many regard the fan assisted Lawnflite “Direct Collect” as the most effective collection system.

Rear Sweeper. This method involves towing a powered sweeper behind the mower which collects the clippings from the turf. This method of collection is well suited to damp or lush grass. Powered sweepers are found on lawn tractors and are more expensive than their rear collection counterparts. Lawn tractor manufacturer Westwood are well known for their powered rear sweepers.

Ride On Lawnmower Discounts

See our discount voucher code page for a selection of offers at some of the best online lawnmower and garden machinery suppliers. To get your discount, simply enter the code at the checkout stage of your chosen store.

Ride On Lawnmowers