Whether or not you possess a yard in hilly terrain, laying your hands on the best zero-turn mower for hills always works wonders. Lawn maintenance is no mean feat and you would relate to that, once you’ve started doing this complex job.
Going by the verdict of most lawnmower experts, the leaf blade of the grass or lawn on steep slopes shouldn’t be cut more than a third of it and that certainly means it’s an easy job, at least it looks so!
But imagine mowing the lawn even once a week to ensure the healthy growth of the grass- that’s definitely a lot of work.
This is precisely the reason why you must always invest in the best zero turn for the hillside.
Before we proceed to know the varieties, let’s learn what exactly qualifies for the best zero-turn mowers for hills.
Some of the best zero turn mowers for hills are listed below:
Best Zero Turn Mowers For Hills In 2022
Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 Lawn Mower
Planning to mow those slopes toward the back countryside? Dreading the rides up and down those slight but precarious-looking undulations? Imagining all sorts of weird rolling-over scenarios?
Wait, just calm your mind. And let’s talk about the Cub Cadet Ultima that will, um, ultimately erase all your anxieties! With a 25 HP 720 cc Kohler 7000 series Twin Cylinder engine, the Ultima provides 2200 Hydrostatic Transmission. And according to these technologies, this is bound to give you a smooth and efficient mowing experience.
It has a triple-blade system with an s-hole pattern. That means the cuts are faster and much cleaner than ordinary blades that just chop the poor grass instead of just trimming them! Its forward speed rests at 7.5 Mph while in the reverse it goes at 3.5 mph.
The shadows at dusk and dawn or on cloudy days are combated with the well-placed LED headlights that help you work overtime letting you finish your work on time. The 3.5 gal tank capacity further allows you to complete the job faster without wasting time refueling.
Pros
- Electronic fingertip control system for better operation.
- Corrosion-resistant mower body.
- Easy user control.
- 3-way lap bar design.
Cons
- Required to be assembled.
Titan Max HAVOC Zero-Turn Riding Mower
Powered by a 26 HP Kohler engine, this bad boy is the epitome of power and reliability. Rugged, hardy, and durable it uses a 10 Gauge steel deck with a bull-nose bumper. This earthshaker of a Mower is designed to absorb all the shocks you get from rides on uneven grounds.
In Spite of its beastly aura, the Titan doesn’t really demand any High-end maintenance which is a plus in your convenience category. The cuts achieved by this mower are precise, sharp and of the right height. With its rubber discharge chute, the damage caused to the terrain is much lesser than you’d imagine in such a Titan Mower.
Talking about the comfort offered to the rider is impeccable. With safety belts and adjustable seats and armrests, it is one of the luxurious zero turns for slopes.
Pros
- Easy maintenance.
- Durable and hardy.
- Shock absorbers.
- Comfortable seating.
Cons
- Maybe a bit loud.
TimeCutter Zero-Turn Mower
With the operational power of a 26 HP Kawasaki V Twin engine, the Toro TimeCutter is one of the best options as you decide to trim the slopes. So if you are looking for a residential lawn mower that can give you commercial benefits, this is one good option for you.
The features of the mower are multi-pronged. It has a 50-inch deck that has an iron-forged cutting system. The best part of this is its cutting speed which is 50% faster than most zero-turn mowers.
Along with speed it also offers a classy maneuverability that makes bypassing obstacles easier and going down the slopes smoother, all thanks to the rear and front tires. It can be used on 4 acres of land for mowing and its speed can be adjusted by riders from 4 mph to 7.5 mph. Not so excellent speed but work great and with efficiency.
Pros
- Holders to keep things on board.
- Durable and easily maintained.
- Does away with debris and obstacles.
- Features protective fenders.
Cons
- May get tricky to handle.
Troy Bilt Mustang Zero-Turn Mower
If you have a larger tract of land and you are required to mow frequently, the whirring sounds and vibrations can be pretty annoying. To prevent that you’d require a mower that can be a beast on the grass but is a delicate beast that growls less and instead of chopping them mercilessly is gentle enough to trim them as required. This powerful 22 HP 725 cc Kohler engine is one of its kind in damping the vibration and noise while mowing.
The rugged and hardy 42 inches deck is featured anti-scalp wheels that prevent turf damage to an extent. For your comfort, there is the Hugh back seat with bars as safety holds that are responsible for the comfort while working without feeling much of the vibrations. The dual hydrostatic transmission is there to improve maneuverability so that you don’t end up stuck on a slope unable to maneuver your way out.
There is an Electric PTO system that quickly engages the cutting blades making your work faster and the 3.5 gal capacity ensures you don’t waste much time.in refueling.
Pros
- Integrated parking brake for instant stop.
- Has a mulch kit and bagger attachments.
- Integrated deck wash ports for removing stubborn clippings.
- Durable.
- Quicker mow time.
Cons
- May require assembly upon arrival.
DEWALT Z260 Zero-Turn Lawn Mower
New upcoming mowing job? Have at least 10 acres of professional mowing to do? Want a mower specifically built for larger tracts?
All these can and are answered by DEWALT Z260. Its performance is something to be held in High esteem with its ability to mow 4-10 acres of land easily. With a 24 HP Kawasaki FS pro series and a ZT- 34000 up to 500 feet torque.
This ensures the mower gives you the right level of maneuverability when going down the slopes, especially around an obstacle. You can keep using it as much as you like since the deck is 10 guards of iron-forged heavy-duty material. The cuts are pretty original in the sens4 they don’t destroy the look of the garden or the place.
The height adjustments for the grass cutting have 17 settings that give you a lot of range if you want your cut.
Pros
- Have tough tubular steel.
- Adjustable settings.
- Trimming on the first trip is possible.
- 11-bushel capacity bagger for clippings.
Cons
- May get time to get used to that.
RYOBI Zero-Turn Mower
A bit different than the other mowers, the RYOBI operates through 100 Ah lead acid rechargeable batteries. These are not only user-friendly in their control systems but they are almost soundless while working emitting only around 70dB of noise. So if you are hoping for a soundless meant annoying mowing experience this is your best bet.
All you have to do is recharge it fully after one use. A fully charged RYOBI mower can mow at most three acres of land which is personally think is enough as a residential lawn mower. It is powered by 4 high-power brushless motors that make the working efficient and smooth on the slopes.
It has 42 inches heavy-duty steel deck that is responsible for durability and ruggedness. It is featured 2 precision-cut blades that give your grass a neat and clean cut. The 13-position manual deck adjustments allow all to be according to your customization.
Pros
- Side discharge and mulching capable.
- Low maintenance.
- Convenient control panel display warning of less battery.
- Comes with towing hardware
Cons
- May be difficult on uneven ground.
Husqvarna Z254F
| Specifications | Husqvarna Z254F |
|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 54 Inches |
| Blades | 3 Pieces |
| Speed | 6.5MPH |
| Cutting Deck Material | 11 Gauge Steel |
| Transmission Type | Hydrostatic |
| Motor Type | Kawasaki |
When looking for performance and style, the Z200 series makes for the best zero-turn lawnmower for hills.
At first, it might appear to you like a slow and less robust machine, but you need to use it to vouch for its capability in enhancing lawn maintenance.
The tool features a 23HP engine, and the zero-turn ability of Z254 is all about good turf-cutting muscle.
The 54 inches ClearCut deck is always in position and you can work up with it, as and when you want- but secure the deck lift first.
Made of welded 11-gauge steel, the mower promises a good amount of durability.
To ensure safety, the Husqvarna Z254F 54 in. 23 HP Kawasaki zero hydrostatic turn riding mower has proper ergonomic control and an anti-slip foot area too.
One of the biggest advantages of the mower is that it provides comfort and plenty of power at the time of use, which is a plus point among many of its competitors.
The Kawasaki engine allows reliable startups, with a 6.5 MPH speed at its most. Thanks to the hydrostatic, no-maintenance transmission- the mower can take on multiple cutting conditions.
Once you have used the tool, simply move the steering levels outward so as to keep it parked. It is only with time you will gradually explore the functionalities of the Z254F machine.
If you intend to buy the best lawn mower for slopes, be prepared to get a 3-year limited bumper-to-bumper warranty for homeowners’ use. Besides, the optional bagger and mulch kit are equally useful.
Husqvarna Z248F
| Specifications | Husqvarna Z248F |
|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 48 Inches |
| Blades | 3 Pieces |
| Top Speed | 6.5 MPH |
| Cutting Deck Material | Steel |
| Transmission Type | Hydrostatic |
| Motor Type | Kohler |
For obtaining reliable startups and at a speed not exceeding 6.5 MPH, the Kawasaki monster is the one to bank upon.
With proven performance and high-end, innovative features- the best part about the machine is the simplicity with which it operates.
Once you start operating with this best zero-turn for hilly terrain, lawn maintenance will no longer be a chore or a drag.
Coming from Kohler manufacturer, the tool has ClearCut deck technology (much like its predecessor) that allows proper designing, good performance blades, airflow control baffles, and the top discharge; all of which allow for superior cutting, regardless of bagging, mulching, and discharging.
Additionally, the automatic park brake system is the new thing that activates or deactivates the tool, as the steering levers are either moved inward or outward. This way, the user stays free from slogging!
Even at the time of sitting, the thick-cushioned, deluxe seats are extra high at the back and the soft outer cover offers exceptional comfort.
Husqvarna means ergonomics rank high. So if you wish to have a positive experience with grass-cutting in hilly terrains, there’s no way you should look beyond the best zero-turn mower for rough hilly terrain.
There are bold cast iron blade housings to ensure added durability.
The sealed ball bearings give an extra dose of strength.
If you opt for this one, the optional bagger and mulch kit will also be provided, which means added value! Buyers can also benefit from using the company’s 3-year and 4-year extended protection plans for the mower.
Husqvarna New RedMax RZT54
| Specifications | Husqvarna New RedMax RZT54 |
|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 54 Inches |
| Blades | 3 Pieces |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Cutting Deck Material | 10 Gauge Fabricated Steel |
| Transmission Type | Hydro-Gear |
| Motor Type | Kawasaki |
For lawnmowers, ease of use should be one of the foremost criteria to decide if it’s worth the purchase or not.
The new RedMax wins the deal for its easy operations, servicing, and design and especially, for long-term use.
Talk to homeowners who use this mower for hills and they will tell you how mowing happens like a pro with the residential unit featured like professional mowers.
The engines are high-performance named FR series, and the cylinder displacement (for 2 cylinders) is close to 44.3 cubic inches.
The engine cooling system is also facilitated within, which implies that unnecessary heating doesn’t occur.
Thanks to the 10 gauge fabricated steel decks; the RZT can be made for use, regardless of the mowing purpose and season after season.
With 54 inches of cutting width and staying enclosed in a sturdy frame having highly durable caster wheels, the mower’s chassis flex is reduced considerably as a result. Naturally, the speed and proficiency are increased.
Talking about the ergonomic control panel, almost everything can be handled by the user. For added convenience, the footrest area ensures that non-slip surfaces exist and usage is safer and comfortable too.
Coming from the house of Kawasaki, this is indeed the best mower for hills. So if you ever feel like rotating the mower on its own axis, there’s the individual, hydraulic wheel drive that takes care of it likewise.
Now you know why it makes so much sense to invest in this product. If nothing else, Husqvarna itself is a trustworthy brand for your much-needed lawnmower.
Swisher Z-MAX XTR
| Specifications | Swisher Z-MAX XTR |
|---|---|
| Cutting Width | 54 Inches |
| Blades | 3 Pieces |
| Power Output | 24 HP |
| Engine Speed | upto 6 MPH |
| Cutting Deck Material | Steel |
| Motor Type | Briggs & Stratton |
Once you choose the Swisher rising mower, the experience of having both the power and control is nothing short of sheer pleasure.
What most really look out for at the time of investing in the top zero-turn for hills, is the 60-years rich legacy of design that Swisher maintains, and is built with a 360-degree turning radius.
The ZT2454 delivers a power-packed performance, largely because of the tough 24HP Briggs and Stratton LS V-Twin OHV engine. Replete with an absolute lubrication system and a spin-on oil filter, the mower checks to see it’s accessible for maintenance.
The dual Eaton hydrostatic transmission, which is of commercial-grade offers speeds no less than 6MPH, both forward and in reverse. As a result, you obtain greater control and flexibility.
In addition to that, the 54-inch cutting deck takes care of large and complex cutting jobs, as a result of having the 11-gauge fabricated welded built.
The next time you cut grass with this machine, the three Gator Mulcher blades make fine clippings to help you find a cleaner look on the lawn.
On the other hand, the bumper rollers at the front and rear of the deck prevent scalping.
As stated earlier too, easy and user-friendly, this mower is feature-rich and makes outdoor chores a pleasant and fun ride.
In order to save your time, there are dual two-gallon fuel tanks and a lever deck lift, assisted by springs to make way for adjustable heights.
You can purchase this mower for hills and get your three-year transmission limited warranty; two-year engine limited warranty and the instruction manual, along with the mower.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Despite the best of commercial-grade zero turn mower reviews we gain from users who are based in hilly zones, or via the internet- questions and doubts keep popping up.
That’s not unnatural actually. You deserve to know before you invest your hard-earned money on these massive machines and tools. Here are a few common questions that most customers are likely to ask:
What is the Best Zero Turn Mower for the Price?
Almost any good model works fine if the grass cutting speed and ease of use factors are well maintained. However, we would always recommend choosing high-quality brands that have stood the test of time.
The Husqvarna Z248F 48 in. 21.5 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower is indeed a preferable option for most.
Budget-friendly and suitable for operations in mountainous places, the lawns are well maintained using this. Besides, as Kawasaki is the prime manufacturer, there is certain trustworthiness that customers would always think of, before planning for another brand or perhaps something cheaper.
What’s the Best Zero Turn Commercial Mower?
Among the multiple options, rely on the Husqvarna Z248F 48 in. 21.5 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower. The ClearCut technology is a must-have in most lawnmowers, which is unfortunately absent in a few cases.
This feature makes it one of the best-in-class at present among the mowers used in hills, thereby aiding in good airflow and high performance.
The engine generates a power of about 21.5 HP and that’s truly appreciable. Imagine finishing the task for the day and you just need to move the steering levers outward if you wish to park the lawnmower. Can it get simpler?
Are Zero Turns Worth the Money?
Frankly speaking, the top zero-turn lawnmowers gain speeds of up to 7 MPH. Besides, these aid in closely cutting around the barriers, sans causing any further issue. In the hills, lawns are maintained somewhat differently.
So even if you have to shell out some bit of expenses for the same, it’s worth the buy. The expensive upgrades occur from a rear-engine riding model or even tractors meant for lawns and that is how the price gets justified.
For those having larger lawns and are hard-pressed for time, this is the way to go. However, check for the reviews, compare prices, and then find the best buy.
What Mowers do Professionals Use?
Professionals look for mowers that allow them to be flexible, yet cut the grass efficiently. Ideally, zero-turn might not be the best fit in terms of hills. Yet, professionals do considerable research before zeroing on the best one.
For example, the Husqvarna Z248F 48 in. 21.5 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower is one of the finest that the mowing industry chooses to rely upon. Maximum grass cutting, smooth operations, minimum time, and comfort factor guides professionals when choosing the most appropriate one.
Asking a few who have been in this field and have worked with several designs can help you make a decision.
What is the Most Comfortable Riding Zero Turn Mower for Hills?
Even when there’s a shortage of quality zero-turn lawnmowers, in comparison to several of its counterparts- the Husqvarna Z248F 48 in. 21.5 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower is a bankable option.
After all, you would not like to spend your money where the comfort factor is something you would have to give up on. Ergonomic control panels, adequate footrest region, and the tight grip at the time of mowing make this model a great fit for those having lesser time in hand.
After all, no one likes the idea of spending an entire day doing nothing but mowing lawns!
Are Zero Turn Mowers Good On Hills?
To be honest, no zero-turns would be considered worthy in hills. The built and capacity of a few models are good enough and have started incorporating many features that would render them apt for hills.
Yet, to be realistic enough, one must check to see the type of grass, size of lawn, and maneuverability of the model that is chosen.
You can find a number of models that are not only exceptional in terms of design but score well on grounds of functions and costs. Choose the most befitting one after you have spoken to experts or have evaluated well enough that the mower would do justice to the type of lawn you have.
The Ultimate Buying Guide For Best Zero-Turn Mowers For Hills
While the idea of having a lawn at the house is an incredible one, but it’s quite tough to check for the upkeep and maintenance of the same.
Suppose you stay in a hilly place or have some bumps and hills in the backyard.
The very process of moving and rotating your mower would differ markedly from how you would accomplish the work at some plain region.
The cutting times, efficiency, user-friendliness, high-tech power, and control are a few of the characteristics that would choose to emphasize when thinking of lawnmowers.
One unfortunate reality is most zero-turn machines have become practically obsolete.
But thanks to a few international manufacturers who’ve stepped into the scenario and helped many to lay their hands on such incredible tools.
What is more interesting to note is that the prices are slashed and you can avail them, without having to burn a hole in your pocket.
However, picking the best of the lot can be a cumbersome process. You might be flooded with options, yet confusions know no end.
Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are a few more specifications that you should be wary of and this buying guide will throw light upon the selection process, in detail.
Things to know before choosing. First things first, we have enlisted some guidelines on the choice of your zero-turn riding lawnmowers.
Quality Grade
There are in general five different quality grades- economy, estate/midgrade, commercial, semi-pro, industrial and commercial. Choose carefully after you’ve analyzed each.
Type of Mower
Four types of lawnmowers exist here- lap bar, the commonest one; stand-on mowers, which the professional contractors swear by; steering wheel, where you drive the tool exactly as you do with a car; and joy-stick models, that is akin to a video game!
Fuel Tanks
Make your choice wisely; for you surely want to invest in a product that has a super small fuel tank and the area you work must be larger.
Specific Needs Must be Known:
Weeds or grass extending from 12 inches to 6 feet tall do not need zero-turns. Here you would need something like a rotary cutter.
It won’t be logical to blame the brush cutter blade if it fails to chop off those long grasses. The purpose of these mowers is to mow your lawns and that’s what they were created for in the first place.
Mower Style
This can be either the mid-deck or front-deck ones (front mount or mid-mount). While the mid-mount ones are quite popular in the US, front-mound ones are common to European zones.
Comfort
There’s no forsaking on this! Check for the footrest regions and your posture when seated and you can gauge the comfort factor, particularly for seats.
Compatibility at the Hills:
The simple fact is zero-turns are not really meant for hills. In several situations, it can be quite dangerous.
Hence, you must look for only those that support use at the hills. And this is highly dependent on the next aspect.
Engine:
After hydraulics, the engine is the second most expensive part of a zero-turn lawnmower. Commoners often cannot gauge the working principle of hydraulics and that’s understandable.
It is important to note that these two literally drive the mower, so any replacement can cost you quite a significant portion of what you spent on the machine.
Ways To Maintain The Best Zero Turn Mower For Hills
This is a tad hard we know, but you must know how to maintain your best zero-turn lawnmower for hills well.
First, fuel the mower properly. You can try fueling them with gasoline having an ethanol content of not more than 10%. At the time of the season coming to an end, store your mower well using a fuel stabilizer.
Second, store the tool in the correct way. You should not even leave it exposed to outside weather conditions overnight. When storing, check to see that excess water is drained off.
Third, to ensure the longevity of the equipment, be a little cautious with your tire pressure. This is rather important if you’re planning for its upkeep.
Fourth, the mower deck must always be kept clean. If you fail to do so, there’s a possibility of rust building up. And imagine what you would land into with the ‘gunk’ under the deck!
Lastly, stop acting miserly. Yes, budget is no doubt a vital concern. But in order to reap the fruits of a good purchase, invest some more on a proper battery, bagging and mulching kits, and such.
Final Words
There’s no particular zero-turn lawnmower for hills which is best. You have to consider wide-ranging issues before you hit upon the most appropriate unit.
It will take you some time to choose the one that would be considered the topmost mower for hills.
But do not make the mistake of seeing someone else’s model and purchasing the same. After all, your lawn or budget or any other requirement might not be in the same line as his or her.
The goal is to invest in a proper tool and not flaunt something that would in the end, fail to live up to your expectations.
Our definite guide and reviews will surely help you to purchase the right one.
Do let us know in the comments what is your opinion.
Happy mowing!
