Hi everyone
Moved to a larger property which is too much for the old victa to mow. Looking to get a large self propelled mower. I have about 1000sq of lawn but it's on terrain that I don't think suits a ride on
Anybody know what I should be looking at? Ideally want something that mulches with a 20"+ deck
Maximum budget of $1000 but less is always the goal
If you decide to go electric, I agree with EGO. No 'pesky' spark plugs (etc.), low cost power, low noise, simpler motor, lighter unit to push around, battery can be used for other tools (chainsaw, blower, etc.) …
Honda HRU216. You will need to increase budget though unless you're willing to buy used. Could also consider Toro Timemaster 30".
Honda HRU216.
Great mower.
I had a 196 for twenty years before it died.
I am using a 196 which is over twenty years old. Bought it for $250 a few years ago, still starts first time and does a beautiful cut. Can't beat Honda for quality and longevity.
The new Hondas aren't nearly as good I hear.
The Toro ride ons I’ve used are pretty ordinary. I’ve also heard others saying Toro is bottom of the barrel.
I have a brand new HRU216, not that happy
It's so heavy the wheels leave ruts in the grass and it isn't cutting evenly
Yes they are heavy. Personally I prefer push mowers for most situations. Self propelled only worthwhile if you have a large expanse without too many turns/obstacles.
HRU216 is great in flat, straight lines - but is that the OPs property type? I have had a Timemaster, nice mowers but have a very consumer grade transmission thats a tad brittle with plastic parts - the HRX Turfmaster has an upgraded one - but these are all well outside of budget.
As someone who lives on an acre and mows nearly every m2 of it it by a push mower, as like the OP my terrain does not suit a rideon - I have an opinion or two on this matter.
OP seems to be in MEL, colder climate - so thankfully you'll dodge the Summer growing of kikuyu (is your lawn made of this or another grass variety? It's important to have a mower that works with the type of grass you have) which needs mowing weekly for me at peak times.
Terrain is an issue how? Steep/sloping? Lots of tight turns and tricky spots?
SP is fine, for some yards - but others it makes harder as it won't work well engaged when turning etc and will turn the mowers weight into a bugger. So I can brag that I do without any SP at all, no mean feat at near 50yrs of age if you see how hard my yard is. ;-)
Do you want/prefer to bag? Mulch? Or sidethrow?
You've stated your max. budget, so are you insisting on new or open to 2nd hand?
A flock of sheep
or a couple of ram?
Or if steeper goats will suit!
A flock of sheep on 1000m2? Might suffice for 2 and you'll still need feed in winter plus supplements all year round.
Livestock for pasture maintenance is a nice idea - but you're going to wear significant vet costs and also have a different type of maintenance tending them as well.
Buy an 82V Victa and mortgage your property to keep them batteries replaced.
which is too much for the old victa to mow.
not true.. just takes longer and more effort..
Back in the good old days I used to help my parents mow the lawn. 3 of us with 3 ancient victas took an hour (plus up to 30min to get 2 of the stupid things to start).
Needless to say, when my old man inherited a ride on it was a significant improvement. Still took an hour, but a one person job.
Petrol - Honda
Electric - EGO