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Buying Guide for Riding Lawn Mowers at Tractor Supply

What is a riding mower, and why should you consider one for your yard maintenance? Riding mowers are powerful enough to effortlessly tackle large yards, yet user-friendly for homeowners and professional landscapers alike. Sometimes called tractor-style mowers, most riding lawn mowers can handle properties up to 10 acres, though certain terrains and circumstances might be better served by a zero-turn riding lawn mower.

If you're ready to make lawn maintenance a breeze, Tractor Supply has a selection of riding lawn mowers available in-store and online. Our riding lawn mowers feature comfortable seating and efficient cutting capabilities, giving you a convenient, time-saving way to keep your yard looking its best. Learn more about the riding mowers for sale at Tractor Supply.

Gas Riding Mowers vs. Electric Riding Mowers

Riding lawn mowers and zero-turn riding mowers come in two main types: gas and electric. Gas riding mowers are far more common than electric riding mowers, as they feature familiar driving features to an automobile. However, electric models have benefits that might make them ideal for certain situations.

When deciding which riding mower type is best for you, remember that it ultimately comes down to your budget, preferences and specific needs of your lawn. Find out more about gas riding mowers vs. electric riding mowers:

Gas Riding Mowers

Gas riding lawn mowers feature the traditional riding design we're familiar with and operate similarly to a car, using a steering wheel and foot pedal. They provide a reliable solution for large areas, can chop through thicker grass and have longer-lasting mowing times than electric models. Here are some of the key pros and cons about gas riding mowers:

Gas Riding Mower Pros

  • Powerful: Whether your lawn is covered in leaves, has damp areas or grows high grass, gas-powered riding mowers are powerful enough to handle virtually any residential mowing job. The majority of gas riding mowers are more powerful than most electric riding mowers.
  • Long run times: Many gas riding mowers can cut up to 14,000 sq. ft. on a single tank of fuel, whereas electric mowers may need to be charged or plugged in sooner. Avoid refueling breaks on larger mowing jobs by carrying a portable gas can for easy refills.
  • Lower short-term costs: Gas riding mowers tend to be less expensive upfront compared to investing in a new electric mower model, which requires expensive batteries to be replaced every few years.
  • More maintenance assistance: Gas riding mowers are an established sector of the industry, and electric mowers are still emerging. This means there are more gas mower maintenance providers around to assist you if you need a repair.

Gas Riding Mower Cons

  • More care and maintenance: Gas riding mowers need more upkeep than electric riding mowers. There are common gas mower fixes that will need to be addressed as soon as issues arise. You'll also have special care and maintenance to perform after a long cutting season. Before storing riding mowers for winter, you should winterize your lawn mower by cleaning the mower, changing the oil, replacing the air filter and using a fuel stabilizer.
  • Higher long-term costs: Gas riding mowers tend to be less expensive upfront, but the ongoing fuel costs and motor maintenance can result in more spending during the machine's lifetime. Fuel, oil and lubricants for gas mowers can also be costly if they spill, as they can ruin clothing, stain landscaping features and foul grass.

Electric Riding Mowers

Electric riding lawn mowers have zero emissions and are whisper-quiet when in use, making them an eco-friendly option that both you and your neighbors will love. These battery-operated mowers give you a pristine lawn without the hassle of fuel, while still providing enough power to cut large areas. Here are some of the key pros and cons about electric riding mowers:

Electric Riding Mower Pros

  • Lightweight for maneuverability: Because electric riding lawn mowers run on batteries, they weigh less than gas models with heavy engines and transmissions. The lighter weight of electric riding mowers can make them easier to maneuver, as well.
  • Less noise: Whereas gas mowers can produce around 95 dB of sound, electric mowers are usually about 20 dB quieter. Compare it to the sound of a motorcycle vs. running your washing machine – your neighbors will thank you, especially if you are an early-morning or late-night mower.
  • Simpler maintenance: With electric riding mowers, the main maintenance involves charging the battery, cleaning the mower and sharpening the blade when needed. This is much simpler than the maintenance involved with gas mowers, which require oil changes, spark plugs, air filters, fuel stabilizers, transaxles, belts and regular gasoline purchases.
  • Long lifespan: When it comes to lawn mowers, electric models have some of the longest lifespans – up to 10 years longer than gas mowers.
  • Sustainable: Because there is no fuel required, there are zero emissions produced when operating electric riding mowers, making them a greener and more eco-friendly way to maintain your lawn.
  • More pleasant ride: With no vibration due to gas-related components, electric riding mowers can be more comfortable during use. It's also a more pleasant mowing experience when there is no strong-smelling exhaust or other pollutants that could harm your health.

Electric Riding Mower Cons

  • Higher short-term costs: Electric riding mowers tend to be more expensive upfront, but require less maintenance than gas mowers and no fuel costs during the machine's lifetime.
  • Shorter run times: Electric mower batteries typically last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes per charge. If you have a larger yard, you can mitigate this issue by investing in additional batteries so you can avoid taking a break to recharge.
  • Not as powerful: Compared to gas mowers, electric models don't produce as much torque, so they may not provide enough power in thicker grass or other types of challenging terrain.

Traditional Riding Mowers vs. Zero-Turn Riding Mowers

Once you decide whether you want a gas-powered riding mower or an electric riding mower, you should then consider traditional riding mowers vs. zero-turn riding mowers. Both types operate similarly yet have vast differences when it comes to features and capabilities. Here's a comparison of traditional and zero-turn riding mowers:

Traditional Riding Mowers

Riding mowers are four-wheeled vehicles that are easy to drive with a steering wheel and pedal, much like a standard automobile. For homeowners, investing in a riding lawn mower can replace the need to hire a professional lawn mowing service. This investment can also cut down on cutting time if you are currently using a walk-behind mower.

If you have a small to mid-sized yard with flat terrain and thinner grass, a traditional riding mower should provide all of the power needed to complete most jobs. Here are some of the main pros and cons about traditional riding lawn mowers:

Traditional Riding Mower Pros

  • Lower upfront costs: Traditional riding mowers tend to be less expensive than zero-turn mowers, making them a more affordable option for those looking to upgrade from a push mower.
  • Gas and electric models: While most riding mowers are gas-powered, there are some electric riding mowers models available as sustainability initiatives become more widespread in the lawn mower industry. Choose the type that best suits your needs and budget.

Traditional Riding Mower Cons

  • Slower and less efficient: Due to design differences compared to zero-turn mowers, traditional riders typically top out at lower speeds around 5 MPH. This could result in mowing jobs taking longer than with a speedier zero-turn model.
  • Not as powerful as zero-turn mowers: If you have damp grass or other challenges, a traditional riding mower may have difficulty powering through rough spots or hills.
  • Difficulty cutting around obstacles: Without zero-turn capabilities, it can be tough to mow around obstacles in your yard with precision, such as garden beds, pathways, tree lines, bird baths, shrubbery and other features.

Zero-Turn Riding Mowers

Zero-turn riding lawn mowers are a type of riding mower with more features and capabilities. Zero-turn mowers can pivot 180° with no circle of uncut grass left behind.

If your property has lots of obstacles, or if you have a medium- to large-sized lawn, consider zero-turn riding lawn mowers. These operate with lap bars or levers and can make quick, narrow turns that allow you to nimbly navigate around flower beds, trees and other landscape features. A zero-turn riding mower is also ideal for those who want to upgrade from their current traditional riding mower, but first-time mower owners may prefer to learn on a zero-turn model. Here are some of the main pros and cons about zero-turn riding mowers:

Zero-Turn Riding Mower Pros

  • User-friendly maneuverability: To operate a zero-turn mower, the driver sits in a seat over the deck and uses two push and pull handles. These handles control the front wheels, which are on casters and provide complete mobility when turning.
  • Faster: Zero-turn riding mowers yield less time mowing thanks to their efficient design, which navigates tricky spots like garden beds, pathways, tree lines and other obstacles with ease. Plus, the larger fuel tanks save time on refueling or recharging.
  • More powerful: Many zero-turn mower models have large fuel tanks and more horsepower to handle larger yards with more difficult grass types.
  • Gas and electric models: There are many zero-turn riding mowers available at Tractor Supply that run on gas or electric, so you can choose the best type for your needs and goals. Gas-operated zero-turn riding mowers are known for their fuel efficiency compared to traditional riding mowers.

Zero-Turn Riding Mower Cons

  • Terrain compatibility: Due to their design, zero-turn riding mowers may have difficulty mowing on hills or damp terrain. They are ideal for large, flat lawns, but those with smaller yards may still benefit from choosing a zero-turn mower.
  • Price: Zero-turn mowers are typically more expensive than other riding mowers due to their more advanced features. Plus, if you get a gas zero-turn mower, you'll have to account for fuel costs and maintenance over the long term.

How to Find the Best Riding Lawn Mower

A riding lawn mower should be a long-term investment, and with a plethora of riding lawn mower options available, it can be tough to know where to begin. To find the right riding lawn mower for you, your top considerations should include:

  • Riding mower comfort: You'll be using your new riding mower for a long time, so make sure you like the way it feels to sit in it and operate the controls. There are various seat types and supports to help prevent discomfort while mowing. Ensure the seat back height is tall enough for you, and decide whether you need armrests.
  • Riding mower cutting deck material: Mower decks, or cutting decks, are where the mower's blades are housed. Mower cutting decks are usually produced from stamped or fabricated metal. Stamped mower decks are lightweight and ideal for simple mowing jobs and other tasks, like mulching and bagging. On the other hand, fabricated decks are sturdier and better suited for tougher jobs and even commercial use.
  • Riding mower durability: What is the mower comprised of? How is the cutting deck constructed? Are the mower engines from trusted manufacturers? Riding mower durability is arguably the most important consideration, as you expect your mower to last and work great for years to come.
  • Riding mower efficiency: The riding mower should not only be dependable but also able to efficiently handle the demands of your yard. Choosing the right model is crucial in making the right investment for your unique property.
  • Riding mower power: Horsepower output and engine size are two more factors that should not be overlooked. The more powerful a riding lawn mower is, the more expensive it will be. Your ideal mower will have an engine and horsepower range that can cut through your specific grass and terrain type. If you need mower attachments to complete other jobs, like mulching or snowplowing, you'll need a riding mower with higher power.
  • Riding mower tire type and width: The wider the tires are, the more evenly the mower's weight will be distributed. This can help to reduce the rate of wear and tear in the long term, as well as improve traction and decrease the stress placed on grass while in use.
  • Riding mower turning radius: While traditional lawn mowers have a wider turning radius and can be tougher to maneuver, zero-turn mowers can turn with ease using a 180° turning radius.

Streamline your search for the ideal riding mower for your needs at Tractor Supply. Our inventory is easy to navigate based on riding lawn mower specifications and features like:

Deck Size (Cutting Width)

Sometimes referred to as a mower cutting deck, the deck size indicates how many passes it takes to mow grass to the desired length. In simplest terms, the wider the mower's deck the less passes it will take to cut your lawn. Wider cutting decks mow more grass with every pass, offering a faster way to cut your yard. Meanwhile, narrower cutting decks cut less grass per pass, taking more time to mow the lawn.

Browse Tractor Supply's selection to find the best riding mower cutting width for your needs. We generally recommend these mower yard size ranges:

The cutting deck size you are considering should be equivalent to the size of your lawn. For example, smaller cutting decks are ideal for small yards due to the way the entire machine is built around the smaller deck. Larger cutting decks are typically used on large properties, especially those with spacious, open grassy areas or fields.

Cutting Height

Riding mower cutting height refers to how long the grass will be after it is cut. For instance, grass is typically kept at 3" to 4" high during the cooler months and 2" to 2.5" high in the warmer months. Tractor Supply offers riding mowers with various cutting height options so you can keep your grass at a healthy length year-round.

Drive Type

Your ideal riding lawn mower drive type depends on the size of the yard, typical grass conditions and other factors. Tractor Supply offers all mower drive types, including:

  • Front-wheel-drive (FWD) riding mowers: FWD riding lawn mowers send power from the engine to two front wheels. These models are easy to drive, and they turn simply when the front wheels tip back and lift off the ground. FWD mowers are best for flat terrains.
  • Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) riding mowers: RWD riding lawn mowers send power from the engine to the two rear wheels, giving these models better traction on sloped and uneven terrains. All zero-turn riding mowers are RWD mowers.
  • All-wheel-drive (AWD) riding mowers: AWD riding lawn mowers send power from the engine to all of the mower's wheels. AWD models provide better handling on wet, slippery areas, as well as sloped and uneven terrains.

Engine Brand

Riding lawn mowers are usually built with V-twin or single-cylinder engines. V-twin mower engines are known for their power output and less vibration during operation, which reduces the rate of wear in the long run. Because V-twin engines also have cooler operating temperatures and burn cleaner, their lifespans are longer than single-cylinder mower engines. V-twin engines also offer better gas mileage, longer lifespans and faster speeds.

A single-cylinder mower engine might be suitable for those with small, flat yards and thinner grass. Single-cylinder engine models are usually less expensive but don't provide torque powerful enough for more complex jobs.

Find top riding mower engine brands featured in our selection at Tractor Supply, including:

Features

Tractor Supply's selection includes manual riding mower transmissions, automatic riding mower transmissions and hydrostatic riding mower transmissions, as well as powerful engines to handle any mowing job. Choose riding mower models with headlights to operate day and night. For user comfort and convenience, many riding mowers come with features like cup holders, adjustable cutting heights, cruise control and so much more.

Horsepower

Whether cutting a small, flat yard or a large, hilly field, Tractor Supply has a range of riding mower horsepower options available to meet your needs. V-twin engines provide more horsepower output than single-cylinder engines. If you have tall or thick grass, or if you will be using mower attachments like snow plows and mulching tools, look for a riding lawn mower with higher engine torque. For smaller yards needing only simple mowing jobs done, a riding lawn mower with a lower power output should be sufficient.

It's important to note that more powerful riding lawn mowers will be pricier than their less powerful counterparts. Decide which horsepower output is right for you by considering your yard size, terrain type and any challenge areas in your lawn.

Terrain Type

The lawn size and type of terrain are key considerations for lawn maintenance equipment. This is because some mower models are designed for certain types of yards over others. For example, small-to-mid-sized yards with flat terrains and thinner grass are served well by electric riding mowers or smaller gas-operated riding mowers.

At Tractor Supply, we offer mower riding models ideal for a range of terrains and grass types, including flat, most terrains, uneven and sloped. We're here to help you determine the best type of riding lawn mower for your specific terrain and grass conditions.

Mower Attachments and Accessories

More than a mower, these machines are compatible with a variety of mower attachments and mower accessories. These attachments are designed to address specific lawn care needs and streamline lawn maintenance, and they can turn the riding lawn mower into a year-round tool. Some popular riding mower attachments include:

  • Dump carts for hauling debris, landscaping materials, plants and more
  • Snow plows and snow blowers , which clear snow from driveways and walkways in a cinch
  • Bagging and mulching kits to effectively manage clippings and leaves

Shop Our Riding Lawn Mowers from Leading Brands

When it comes to lawn mowers, it matters which manufacturer you choose. Tractor Supply is committed to bringing high-quality products to those who love Life Out Here. That's why we carefully vet every brand we offer, including the following riding mower brands:

Bad Boy

Bad Boy makes zero-turn riding lawn mowers designed to meet the needs of the rural community across the United States. Since releasing its first mower in 2002, Bad Boy has become known for its reasonably priced yet high-quality lawn maintenance equipment. Browse Tractor Supply's selection of Bad Boy zero-turn riding mowers.

Cub Cadet

Cub Cadet has been a recognized name in the mower industry since the 1960s. An expert in all things mowers, Cub Cadet is known for its high-quality construction tactics, high-strength materials and enjoyable operator experiences. Browse Tractor Supply's selection of Cub Cadet riding mowers and Cub Cadet zero-turn mowers.

Greenworks

Greenworks and Greenworks Pro, brands under the Greenworks Tools umbrella, are synonymous with eco-friendly approaches to lawn maintenance and care. All riding mowers are battery-operated and produce zero emissions. Browse Tractor Supply's selection of Greenworks zero-turn mowers and Greenworks traditional riding mowers.

Husqvarna

Husqvarna Group traces its roots back to 1689 when it was tasked with musket production for the Swedish army. By the early 1900s, Husqvarna motorized bicycles were born, eventually turning into motorcycles and eventually turning its focus to power tools and outdoor equipment. Browse Tractor Supply's selection of Husqvarna zero-turn mowers and Husqvarna riding lawn mowers.

Toro

Toro is based in Bloomington, Minnesota, manufacturing zero-turn lawn and garden mowers and other power tools for yard maintenance. With over 110 years of experience, Toro continues to innovate to satisfy the needs of landowners. Browse Tractor Supply's selection of Toro zero-turn riding mowers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Riding Lawn Mowers

How does a riding lawn mower work?
Riding lawn mowers provide a faster and more effective alternative to push mowers and other manual mowing options. Riding lawn mowers feature strong engines that propel you and the mower forward while you steer. Underneath the mower is a mowing deck, which houses the blades that trim the grass as you ride.

What are the benefits of riding lawn mowers?
The advantages of riding lawn mowers are evident in their ability to cover more ground quickly, reducing the time and effort required for yard maintenance. Riding mowers also prioritize comfort by providing the driver with a place to comfortably sit so that you can further enjoy your time living Life Out Here.

Can I use a riding lawn mower on uneven terrain?
While riding lawn mowers are generally designed for flat or gently sloping terrain, some models are equipped to handle uneven ground. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific riding mower.

What riding mower deck size do I need?
When selecting a mower based on the size of your lawn, it is important to know which size of mowing deck your lawn requires. Certain riding mower models have wider mowing decks and can more efficiently trim your grass, while those with smaller blade decks or zero-turn capabilities may be better suited for lawns with trees and bushes that require easier maneuverability. Again, our general mower yard size range guidelines are:

What is the ideal mowing height for my grass?
The ideal riding mower cutting height varies depending on the grass type and the current season. Here are some general rules of thumb:

  • Warmer months: Keep grass between 2' to 2.5' high.
  • Cooler months: Keep grass between 3' to 4' high.

Should I get a gas riding mower or an electric riding mower?
Choosing between a gas and electric riding lawn mower depends on your preferences, as well as your specific lawn care needs. Gas riding mowers are great for powering through large areas with thicker grass, while electric mowers have zero emissions and are quiet to use.

What are the main gas riding mower benefits?
Gas riding lawn mowers are typically more affordable and convenient, as you don't need to wait for batteries to charge. While regular maintenance and fueling are required, you also won't have to worry about replacing expensive lithium batteries likewith electric mowers.

What are the main electric riding mower benefits?
Giving you a chance to cut down on fuel costs, electric riding lawn mowers require less maintenance with no oil changes or filter replacements needed. They are quieter to operate with less vibration, and they are environmentally friendly to use. That being said, there are higher upfront costs, and batteries aren't cheap to replace. Electric riding mower models are also capable of less acreage per charge, whereas gas riding mowers can cover more land on one tank.

What lawn size is ideal for riding lawn mowers?
Ride-and-mow models are great for any yard size depending on your needs. They are typically purchased by homeowners who have at least .5 acres of land or more to mow. Riding mowers and zero-turn mowers have wider decks than push lawn mowers, and because they're full-size vehicles, riding and zero-turn mowers ultimately save you time and effort.

Which riding lawn mower should I buy?
If you need help choosing the right lawn mower, rely on the knowledge and experience of Tractor Supply. You want to invest in the best mower for your yard depending on its grass type, terrain, size and other factors. You also have to consider your budget for a new mower, future maintenance and fuel costs for gas models. Allow us to help you compare mowers so you can battle any unique lawn challenges you have with ease.

What should I know about riding lawn mower maintenance?
When maintained properly, riding lawn mowers can work effectively for years to come. Some maintenance tasks should be performed routinely, including:

  • Sharpening blades
  • Checking air filters
  • Cleaning the mower (especially the deck)
  • Checking tire pressure
  • Refueling or recharging the battery
  • Protecting from the elements with proper storage

Get Your New Riding Lawn Mower at Tractor Supply

In addition to other lawn and garden tools, riding lawn mowers from Tractor Supply can help to make living Life Out Here even more enjoyable. To find the right riding mower and mower attachments for you and your lawn, head to your local Tractor Supply store, where you can get help from a trusted team member. Or, you can explore the lawn mowers for sale online through Tractor Supply.