Best Riding Lawn Mowers For Hills 2020: Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
A well-maintained lawn adds to the value and beauty of the property, especially if the lawn is mowed to follow those natural contours of the hilly slopes. It can be more challenging to mow a sloping landscape, and the whole experience indeed is very exasperating if you do not have the right kind of lawnmower for your hilly and sloping lawn area.
Today, there is an endless range of models and make of lawn mowers available in the market. What you need to focus on is to get the best lawn care tools. Before purchasing, one should be aware of the essential features to look for, how to use those mowers, and get the best results. Go through this guide to remove any confusion and make the right decisions with confidence.
Have a look at the best riding lawn mower for steep hills that are already very popular among the customers.
Top 10 Best Riding Lawn Mowers For Hills 2020
1. Husqvarna MZ61 Briggs & Stratton Hydrostatic Mower
Husqvarna zero-turn mower boasts of a commercial-rated power and some impressive ergonomics. There is much lesser fatigue while using this mower. It comes with comfortable steering as those rubber isolators keep the rider separates from the frame.
You will be surprised to see the level of comfort as you sit on those ergonomic seats and ride for longer shifts. The simple and easy on-the-go adjustments from the operator’s seat make the whole experience like a breeze. What makes mowing a lot more comfortable for hours are the foam-padded hand grips, high-back seat with armrests, and vibration dampeners.
You can count on the 27 HP Briggs engine for reliable startups and greater speeds. Other features include an 11-gauge steel cutting deck and an ergonomically designed deck lifting system. A 9-bushel triple bag collects the clippings that can be discharged, mulched, or bagged later.
Pros
- 0-degree turn radius
- Impressive ergonomics
- Comfortable steering
- Easy on-the-go adjustments
- 9-bushel triple bag collector
Cons
- One might take time to get accustomed to the steering
2. Husqvarna MZ61 Kawasaki Hydrostatic Mower
Discover the best riding lawn mower, which is known for its superior performance and zero-turn. Husqvarna’s MZ series can take care of professional lawn maintenance and are known for safer operation in all conditions. Take advantage of the MZ61 mower that features a 61-inches cutting deck, and boasts of a heavy-duty steel frame.
The commercial hydraulics with a roll-over protection system creates an ultimate mowing experience. The oversized chassis, large wheels, and a comfortable seat go on to create a smooth and safe ride on any terrain.
The 24 HP Kawasaki engine has enough power for high ground speeds and consistent startups. The ergonomically designed deck offers fast and easy adjustments. Use the 9-bushel triple bag for the collection of clippings. This is a highly recommended mower for those who have an uneven lawn or a large yard. It is going to make the task of clearing the grass as easy as ABC.
Pros
- Zero-turn mower
- Superior performance
- Ergonomically designed
- 9-bushel triple bag
- Great value for money
Cons
- Roll Over Protection System is difficult to install
3. Husqvana YTH18542 Hydrostatic Riding Mower
Husqvarna’s YTH18542 mower is known for its quality performance and consistent results. The compact size means lesser spaces for storage and easy maneuvering. Other features that enhance its performance and capabilities are the adjustable seat and ergonomic steering wheel.
The mower is known for smooth, variable forward and reverse speed based on hydrostatic transmissions. What ensures a clean, consistent cut and an improved airflow within the deck is the induction mowing technology. You can easily reverse with a simple turn of a switch because of the reverse operating system.
YTH18542 model is equipped with a series tow-able accessory and a mulch kit that promises effective lawn fertilization. Expect powerful performance every time with the foot pedal-operated hydrostatic transmission and enjoy optimum driving control on the steering wheel. You can easily navigate around obstacles because of the tighter radius for turning.
Loaded with 18.5hp Briggs and Stratton engine, this is a powerful mower that can help you easily mow the yard. It comes with a 42” cutting deck that makes the task of mowing even more precise. Overall, it’s a powerful mowing machine for your yard.
Pros
- Power-packed performance
- Easy step-through design
- Comfortable and easy to operate
- Air Induction mowing technology
- Reverse operating system
Cons
- Husqvarna doesn’t back up the warranty
4. Troy-Bilt Premium Riding Lawn Mower
Another best lawn mower for steep slopes is the premium model from Troy-Bilt. This machine is powered by a 382cc OHV engine and offers the speed of 4.25 MPH and a 6-speed transmission. The Troy-Bilt model certainly adds to the benefits of standard mowers.
The 30-Inch cutting deck carries five adjustable settings, and the model is designed with an 18-Inch turning radius. The compact size means easy storage and maneuvering with the neighborhood mower. Because of the cutting deck, now you can navigate easily around your yard.
The study model is built to last and offers clean performance, and one can enjoy fast and easy blade engagement because of the manual power take-off. The mower is ideal for standard users with a medium-sized landscape and an even terrain. The company offers a 2-year limited warranty, and that should give you peace of mind.
Pros
- Study model
- Comfortable, mid-back seat
- 18-inch turning radius
- 5 adjustable settings
- Top-quality and durability
- Very easy to steer
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- A few users faced the issue of warranty coverage
5. Raven MPV7100 Hybrid Lawnmower
The Raven MPV7100 is based on gas/electric hybrid technology that allows it to swath from mower to multi-purpose device to generator in minutes. So, it is not just a 3-in-1, but a serious workhorse that can be fun to work with. The on-board generator gets powered by the 420-cc gasoline engine, and the generator powers the outlets as well as charges the batteries.
Fitted with off-road style shocks and suspension, the mower comes with a removable fabricated deck that allows enhanced vacuum and discharge. Because of the 14″ turning radius, it is easier to maneuver the mower that can reach the speed of 17 mpg in gas or electric.
It also has a 550 LB towing and storage bed, which makes it easier to take those supplies to the worksite. Customers who have bought the model have recommended it to others and have really enjoyed its performance so far.
Pros
- Gas/electric hybrid technology
- 420-cc gasoline engine
- Off-road style shocks and suspension
- removable fabricated deck
- 14″ turning radius
- 550 LB towing capacity
Cons
- Poor customer care
6. Husqvarna Z254 Kohler Hydrostatic Mower
Husqvarna Z254 mower is another riding lawn mower that you should certainly check out. Best known for both performance and style, the Husqvarna’s Z200 series comes with cutting-edge design and boasts of innovative features. These zero-turn mowers are well known for their proven performance and feature a 54 in. reinforced steel cutting deck that promises maximum durability.
This mower is powered by a 26 HP Kohler engine, the model ensures reliable startups, and creates a max speed of 6.5 MPH. The patent brake system gets activated or deactivated as the steering levers move outward or inward.
Get a superior cut of your lawn with the induction mowing technology that this mower has to offer. This is an easy mower to work with, and you are sure to keep using the cutting machine season after season. You can get the mulching kit and bagger attachment, that are sold separately to collect and mulch the clippings.
Pros
- Zero-turn mowers
- Cutting-edge design
- 54 in. reinforced steel cutting deck
- 26 HP Kohler engine
- Induction mowing technology
- Patent brake system
Cons
- Husqvarna warranty problems
7. Greenworks Electric Lawn Mower MO09B01
Greenworks Electric mower may be small and compact in size, but it is powerful when it comes to performance. It is very easy to assemble, and it is very easy to use. With an easy push start and two-in-one design for bagging and mulching, the 14-inch deck with larger front and rear wheels allow maximum maneuverability.
The folding handles ensure compact storage while the five-height adjustment makes perfect cutting in all kinds of lawns. As it is a little bit decent mower, it is simply perfect for taking care of your small yard.
Customers love working with is as it is so easy to work with, lightweight and noiseless. Moreover, as there are just two wing nuts and bolts to work with, it is super simple to set up.
So, if you are looking for an easy-to-use mower that offers maximum efficiency and performance, then you must consider buying this mower by Greenworks.
Pros
- Powerful and compact
- Noiseless smooth operation
- Constant and dependable power
- Easy plug and go
- Maximum maneuverability
- Five-height adjustment
Cons
- Not suitable for larger lawns
8. Troy-Bilt Pony 42X Riding Lawn Mower
For those looking for the best lawn mower for steep hills, must have a look at the Pony 42X Riding Lawn Mower by Troy-Bilt. This machine is powered by 420cc Troy Bilt OHV engine. The mower switches from one mode to another within minutes and is well equipped with front off-road shocks and suspension.
Troy-Bilt is a great utility vehicle for mowing the lawns or yards. Customers who have bought this model highly recommend it as it is simple and easy to use.
It offers 7-speed transmission, along with 42-inch steel deck. This mower is perfect catering to the mowing requirements of large fields and residential yards. The company also offers a 2-year warranty.
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Perfect for big residential yards
- 420 cc double cylinder engine
- 42-inch deck size
Cons
- The transmission shifter is not seamless
9. Husqvarna YTA22V46 Fast Mower
Husqvarna lawn mowers are well known for their great value and reliability. This well-built model promises to be outstanding and comes with the best warranty ever. Enjoy maintenance-free operation because of the fast auto transmission.
The air induction mowing technology ensures a consistent cut every time because of the improves airflow within the deck. A wide variety of accessories makes the mower both useful and versatile.
Just turn the key, and you are set to go because of the automatic choke. The convenient fender that is placed on the deck lever makes it easy to operate. You get a 5-year warranty for the frame/chassis and front axle and 3-year limited warranty on the model. The Husqvarna lawn mower will keep on working for you reliably and efficiently for years.
Pros
- Outstanding and reliable
- Chokeless start
- Induction mowing technology
- Useful and versatile
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Owner & operator manual could improve
10. Craftsman R105 Lawn Mower
This is one of the best riding lawn mowers for hills that is just perfect for your lawn. The gas-powered riding lawn mower from Craftsman features a powerful 382cc gas engine and can take care of larger yard jobs. Pick from 6 different speed options as per your needs and use the wide 30-inch cutting deck to clip the grass in one sweep.
Enjoy a smooth ride every time when you sit on the supportive mid-back seat. This compact mower is easy to work with and comes with mulching, bagging, and hauling attachments.
The included deck wash means easier underside cleaning while the durable turf saver wheels make for easy and long-lasting maneuvering. The company offers a 2-year limited warranty on the mower.
Pros
- Compact and powerful mower
- Gas-powered riding
- 6 different speed options
- 30-inch cutting deck
- Supportive mid-back seat
- Included deck wash
- Durable turf saver wheels
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- The battery is not very good
Factors To Look For When Buying The Best Riding Lawn Mower For Hills
Having a hilly terrain around your house is indeed very charming and adds to the overall beauty of the house. However, it can be difficult and dangerous to mow the grass on the slopes, especially if you do not have the right equipment. All you need to do is look for the right machine based on your needs.
Buying the best riding lawn mower need not be confusing anymore. We are sure that the info provided on this page is sure to steer you in the right direction and help you buy the right product. Now you will look forward to spending more time on the lawn and working on it as the riding lawn mower young just bought is so easy to set up and work with.
Operating on hilly terrain would be like a breeze as the powerful and user-friendly lawn mower will help you to tackle those vast and hilly landscapes with ease.
When buying a lawnmower for hills, one is likely to face many options in the market. And it can indeed be a daunting task to find out the best riding lawn mower for hills, especially if it’s your first one. After all, there are so many brands, models, attachments, sizes, and kinds.
Well, you can get rid of all those doubts, and all you need to do is go through the following section on the important aspects to focus on when shopping for the lawnmower.
1. The Size Location And Condition Of Lawn
Before you step out to purchase the equipment have a look at the size and condition of the lawn. Pay attention to the slope angle and the turning radius you would need in your machine as well as the kind of vegetation in the lawn.
The size of the lawn will dictate the power of the mower. If the lawn size is less than 10,000 square feet, you can do with a standard model of the lawnmower. For medium-sized lawns between 10,000 and 14,000 square feet, you will need a heavy-duty mower, and for those laws that exceed 15,000 square feet in size, a large heavy-duty model would be needed.
The mower needs to have a powerful engine as it would be working against gravity. The engine sizes can range from 190 to 800 cc, and the power of the engine will depend on the slope and size of your yard. The larger the lawn and more slanting the slope, the more powerful it should be the engine.
For a large-sized lawn, it is recommended that you must spend in a ride-on mower, which is going to simplify your task.
2. The Slope Angle
Consider the angle of slope of your lawn, and it can indeed be very challenging to work on a lawn with a steep slope. Most of the best lawn tractor for hills are designed to work on slopes not more than 15 degrees and may topple over if they are used to work on steep slopes because of high center-of-gravity.
If the lawn has an inclination greater than 15 degrees, one would need a walk-behind powered mower to prevent any overturning. In case the yard is very sloped, one will have to be careful with their choices and carefully balance the functions of power with safety, based on the lawn.
3. The Rear-Wheel Drive
When working on uneven terrain or slope, mowers with rear-wheel drive are known to carry better capabilities when compared to the all-wheel-drive models.
While the mower with front-wheel drive is great for use on level ground, they are not effective when working on the sloping ground. All-wheel-drive mowers can slip the grip on the slopes because of their tires with a smaller diameter.
Another added advantage of rear-mounted engines when working on uneven grounds is the lower centers-of-gravity or CoG. The lower the CoG, the more stable it is. These lawn mowers provide better traction as they have larger rear wheels, and tugs will work more efficiently on those slopes.
So, look for rear-wheel-drive models when buying the best lawn mower for hills as traction and vehicle stability are a major concern here.
4. The Cutting Deck Size
While having mowers with a large cutting-deck size is an attractive option, but it is more suitable when mowing an unobstructed lawn. However, such mowers can be risky when working on hilly slopes with trees or other obstruction. The best riding lawn mower for hills would be the one with a smaller deck size and hydrostatic transmission.
The idea is to mow efficiently on the slopes and steer around obstructions like trees. The mower deck size should be as per the kind of the property you will be working on.
While larger decks can cover larger areas in a shorter time, they are not easy to maneuver or suitable when working on slopes. Mowers with smaller decks offer better stability and maneuverability on a hilly slope with obstructions.
5. The Ease Of Use
The maneuverability of the lawn mowers for hills is another key factor to focus on. Zero-turn mowers, also known as ZTR, are great for maneuvering around their axis because of the hydrostatic gear transmission. As those drive wheels can turn independently of each other, the ZTR mowers are very suitable for lawns with multiple trees.
As your comfort is important, look for features like adjustable steering levers, high back seat, and armrests with proper support in the best riding lawn mower for hills. A comfort grip steering wheel and seat mean that one can ride the mower for extended periods and work for longer hours without discomfort. A zero-turn mower is the right choice for hills because of the ease of use as well as powerful engine and greater durability.
The weight will be a major factor when looking for ease, and one would not want a mower that is heavy when working on hilly slopes. Avoid models that are not easy to use and difficult to maintain because of their weight and design flaws and unsuitability. To avoid such issues, read reviews and learn more about the machine and test it before buying it.
6. Customer Support
Even if you have bought the best riding lawn mower for hills, you will not have the best experience if the model is not backed by good customer care and warranties. You will need technical and after-sales support for spare parts and maintenance.
This is an important aspect when it comes to the decision-making process, and it is always better to have access to a reputable local service for the routine maintenance of the mower.
You are likely to come across several brands competing with each other on the market when looking for the best lawn mowers for hills. And each of them will claim to be the best in terms of quality and functionality. However, there is no need to get confused, and all you need to do is keep the above guidelines in mind and look for the qualities and features based on your needs. Don’t make choices that you will regret later and buy the right model.
FAQs
1. How To Work With A Riding Lawn Mower?
Riding lawn mower is easy, the working is similar to that of a car. It is incredibly easy to ride and work with a lawnmower for hills. Today, there are electronic systems, smooth automatic transmissions, and powerful engines to pick from on most models on the market today.
These models allow you to adjust this setting easily and press the start button. These mowers do not need the use of clutch or shifting gears when changing speeds. All you need to do is use the foot pedal to increase and decrease your speed. So, working with these best riding lawn mowers for hills is only getting easier than before.
2. What Is the Proper Footwear And Clothing When Using A Lawn Mower?
One should always wear proper footwear and clothing when mowing the lawn. As the mowers can trip or slip if one is not careful, it is essential to wear close-fitting clothes and long pants for protection. Wear proper shoes and avoid sandals as these can raise the chance of getting your toe stubbed.
While using the lawn mower, its always good that you wear ear plugs and eye protection. Along with buying the best riding lawn mower for hills, pay attention to your footwear and clothing.
3. How Do Zero Turn Mowers Work On Slopes?
Zero-turn mowers mean there is no turning radius, or it is zero. These models can turn in their own footprint and are generally more expensive. This is because they have more powerful engines and stronger frames and carry two single hydrostatic transmissions instead of one.
These models are meant for slopes less than ten degrees, and one should move slowly and avoid moving sideways or turning on the slope. Also, avoid mowing wet grass when working with Zero turn mowers.
4. Who Are The Leading Manufacturers Of The Riding Lawn Mower For Hills?
Some prominent names in the market are Husqvarna, Troy-Bilt, Raven, Craftsman, and some more. A major advantage of buying from these manufactures is that you get quality products with innovative features and backed by professional customer support.