Zero Turning Radius Mowers: Polish Market Review

Want to buy a new zero-turn radius mower? Zero turning radius means that when you reach the end of the mowing lane, no blade of grass will be left uncut, and when you make a 180° turn, you can start the next lane. Zero turn radius mowers are ideal for fast and efficient mowing in all types of areas, providing precise and reliable results.

1. Introduction to Zero Turning Radius Mowers

   Zero-turn radius mowers are a specialized category of self-propelled lawn mowers that have gained popularity for their exceptional maneuverability and performance. Their distinctive feature is the ability to rotate 360 degrees in place, which radically differentiates them from traditional front-turning axle mowers.¹ This unique feature is made possible by the use of two independent hydrostatic transmissions that separately drive each of the rear wheels.¹

   The control system on zero-turn radius mowers is based on two levers, one for each drive wheel. The operator, by manipulating these levers, can precisely control the speed and direction of rotation of each wheel. Pushing both levers forward at the same time results in driving the machine in the same direction, while pulling them backward results in reversing. The twist is achieved by applying different force or direction to each lever. In a situation where one lever is pushed forward and the other is pulled backward, the mower rotates around its own axis, leaving no uncut area.³ This fundamental difference in the steering mechanism is the key element that defines zero-turn radius mowers and contributes to their exceptional maneuverability.

2. Advantages and disadvantages compared to other types of mowers

   Zero turn radius mowers offer a number of significant advantages over other types of mowers on the market. One of the key benefits is their performance. With the ability to reach high operating speeds, often exceeding 15 km/h and even 30 km/h on some models ¹, and a cutting width of up to 1.8 meters ⁵, these mowers allow you to mow large areas of lawn quickly and efficiently. Mowing capacity can reach up to 2 hectares per hour under optimal conditions.⁵

   Another significant advantage is their maneuverability. The ability to make a 360-degree turn in place makes them extremely effective when mowing around a variety of obstacles, such as trees, shrubs, flower beds and garden features.¹ This eliminates the need to make wide turns and minimizes the need to finish hard-to-reach areas later with a trimmer.

   Mowing precision is another strength of these machines. The zero turning radius ensures that no uncut blades of grass remain when you reach the end of a mowing lane, and the start of the next lane can be made immediately after the turn.¹ Many models also offer versatility in terms of mowing methods, allowing you to choose between side discharge, rear discharge, mulching (shredding the swath and leaving it on the lawn as a natural fertilizer) and collecting the grass into a special basket.²

   For operators who spend many hours mowing, the following are also important work comfort. Manufacturers are increasingly equipping zero-turn radius mowers with advanced suspension systems, such as Ferris' patented solutions ¹¹, and ergonomically designed seats with adjustment and armrests ⁶, which significantly reduces fatigue during prolonged use. In addition, the low center of gravity on many models contributes to better grip and stability on uneven terrain.¹

   Despite the numerous advantages, zero-turn radius mowers also have some disadvantages. One of the main ones is their higher purchase price compared to traditional push mowers, ride-on mowers with handlebars or garden tractors.⁴ More advanced design, including hydraulic systems and other specialized components, can also generate higher operating and service costs.¹¹ It is also worth noting that these mowers can be less effective on very steep slopes compared to all-wheel drive mowers, due to their design and weight distribution.²¹ In addition, some models, especially those of larger size, may be less compact and more difficult to transport.²²

3. Factors to consider when buying

   When deciding whether to purchase a zero-turn radius mower, prospective buyers should consider a number of key factors to choose the model that best suits their individual needs. The first and most important aspect is the surface and shape of the lawn.⁵ The size of the lawn (small, medium, large) and its topography (flat, hilly, with numerous obstacles) will determine the required engine power, mowing width and level of maneuverability.

   Type of grass and preferred mowing height are other important issues. Different grass species may require different cutting heights, and some mower models offer a wider range of cutting height adjustments than others.¹¹ Also extremely important is the budget intended for the purchase of. Determining the maximum amount you can invest will help narrow down your choices to models within your price range.²³

   Before making a final decision, it is also worth checking availability of service and spare parts for the brand and model of your choice in your area.²³ Easy access to authorized service and spare parts will ensure trouble-free operation and maintenance of the mower in the future. Not insignificant are also brand and model preferences. Some users may already have formed opinions about specific manufacturers or be interested in specific models because of their specifications or reviews by other users.⁷

   It is also worth considering additional features, that can come in handy, such as mulching, grass collection into a basket, cruise control, LED lighting for easy operation after dark, and a comfortable seat with armrests.¹¹ Engine type and power (gasoline, diesel, battery-powered) and mowing width ² are other technical parameters to consider, adapting them to the size and characteristics of the mowed area. Most zero-turn radius mowers are equipped with a hydrostatic transmission ², which provides a smooth ride and precise control. Last but not least are opinions of other users ¹⁹, that can provide valuable information about the real-world operation and reliability of a given model.

4. Overview of Available Brands and Models in Poland

   There is a wide range of zero-turn radius mowers offered by various manufacturers on the Polish market. Each brand is characterized by its unique technologies, features and models, tailored to meet the diverse needs of users.

   Ferris Mowers, with a Polish website ferrismowers.com/eu/en_en/home.html ¹⁴, specializes in the production of commercial mowers, including zero-turn radius models that feature a patented suspension system. This unique solution is designed to significantly improve operator comfort and increase productivity by effectively dampening shocks and vibrations generated when mowing on uneven terrain.¹¹ Ferris' offerings in the Polish market include the IS® 6200 and IS® 2600 diesel models, as well as the ISX™ series, which includes the ISX™ 3300, ISX™ 2200 and ISX™ 800 models.¹⁴ In addition, a compact IS® 600 model is also available ³³ and the 500S and 400S series.¹⁴ Ferris' key technologies include the innovative iCD™ mowing system for a high-quality cut, TRIPLE mowing technology that offers versatile mowing configurations, powerful Vanguard® engines with electronic fuel injection (EFI) and electronic throttle control (ETC), and the revolutionary Oil Guard™ system that extends engine oil change intervals to an impressive 500 hours.¹¹

   Cedrus, with the offer available on cedrus.com.en ², offers a wide selection of zero-turn radius mowers from the brand Simplicity, which are a practical alternative to traditional garden tractors and work well on both smaller and larger lawn areas.⁵ Among the available Simplicity Courier models are the SZT275, featuring independent wheel suspension, the SZT110, the smallest model in the series, equipped with a professional drive and suspension, and the SZT150, ideal for owners of extensive gardens with abundant vegetation.² Simplicity mowers are distinguished by a driving speed of more than 15 km/h and a cutting width of up to 1.8 meters, which guarantees fast and efficient mowing of even large areas.⁵

   John Deere, with the polish side of deere.en ¹², offers professional zero-turn radius mowers from the ZTrak™ series, which are prized for their performance, maneuverability and durability.⁷ Popular models include the Z740R, equipped with a gasoline engine and ideal for smaller parks and squares, with a mowing width of 122 or 137 cm and a speed of up to 13.7 km/h ⁷; Z950R, with gasoline engine, 152 or 183 cm mowing width and speed up to 19.3 km/h, designed for large parks ⁷; Z994R, powered by a diesel engine, with a cutting width of 137 or 152 cm and a speed of up to 17 km/h, characterized by fuel economy ⁷; and the Z997R, the most powerful model in the range, with a diesel engine, a mowing width of 152 or 183 cm and a speed of up to 18 km/h, ideal for the largest green spaces.⁷ John Deere stands out with ZTrak technology, optional airless Michelin X Tweel Turf tires, intuitive controls and high operator comfort.⁷ The manufacturer also emphasizes the ease of servicing its machines.¹²

   Husqvarna, with an offer ¹⁰, has a wide range of zero turn radius mowers for both home and professional use.⁹ Popular models include the Z242F, featuring a 106.7cm mowing width and an FR series engine, available from £29,900 ¹⁰; professional model Z448, with 122 cm mowing width and FR series engine, available from £44,900 ¹⁰; professional model Z454X, with 137 cm cutting width and FR series engine, available from £58,900 ¹⁰; and the professional model Z560X, with a mowing width of 152 cm and FX V-Twin engine, available from £81,900.¹⁰ Husqvarna zero-turn radius mowers provide precise and efficient mowing, and many models feature the advanced ClearCut™ cutting device.¹⁵

   Ariens, with offerings available on ewimax, among others.en ⁸, garden-service.com.en ⁷¹ i pajm.en ⁷², offers zero-turn tractors valued for precision mowing and ease of maneuverability.⁸ Among the popular models are the Ariens Ikon XD 42", with a mowing width of 107 cm and a Kawasaki engine, available for around £25,999 - £28,900 ⁶⁶; Ariens Apex, available in various mowing widths, such as 52" (132 cm) with Kawasaki engine ⁶⁹; and Ariens Edge 42", with a cutting width of 107 cm and a Loncin engine, available for around £23,599.⁸ Ariens works with reputable engine manufacturers such as Kawasaki and Loncin.⁸

   Kubota, with an offer for tractorcubot.en ⁷⁸, offers professional zero-turn radius mowers with attractive 0% financing options.⁷⁸ More than 12 models of Kubota professional mowers are available, with engines ranging from 13 to 26 hp and cutting widths from 107 to 183 cm.⁷⁸ The range includes models such as the Kubota Z122R, equipped with a gasoline engine and a 107 cm wide mower deck ¹⁹, and the GZD series, with 15 and 21 hp diesel engines and a mowing and grass collection system for baskets.⁷⁹ Kubota mowers are available with mulching, side or rear discharge, and large capacity baskets.⁷⁸

   Table 1: Comparison of key specifications of selected zero-turn radius mower models

5. Where to Buy and Service in Poland

   There are many options for buying and servicing zero-turn radius mowers in Poland. There are both online stores, offering a wide selection of makes and models, as well as stationary outlets and authorized service centers.

   Among the popular online stores those offering zero-turn radius mowers include garden-pro.en ⁵, e-entra.en ^{8e296a067a37563370ded05f5a3bf3ec}, store.lasogrod.en ⁶¹, ewimax.en ⁸, tomex-gardens.en ¹⁵, gardenlandsc.en ⁵², store.caldrew.en ⁶³, one-mowers.en ⁵⁹, e-fortech.en ⁵¹, for greens.en ⁸¹, store.serviceszymanow.en ⁵³, store.protechsc.en ⁵⁴, store.universal.net.pl ⁵⁵, nezo.en ¹⁷, pajm.en ⁷², shopmaro.en ⁸⁴ and perfekto.com.en.⁸⁵ Mowers can also be found in traditional retail stores and DIY markets.⁴⁵

   Most manufacturers provide on their websites dealer search engines, that make it easy to find local sales and service points. For example, Ferris offers such an option on its website ¹⁴, just like Husqvarna ⁸⁶ and John Deere.⁴³ Poland has an extensive network of of authorized dealers and service centers many brands. Examples include Agro-Net Machines (John Deere dealer) ⁸⁸, Rol-Invest (Kubota dealer) ⁷⁹, EWIMAX.pl (Ariens and Ferris dealer) ⁸, Tomex Gardens (dealer Husqvarna, Ariens, Cub Cadet, Ferris) ¹⁵, Caldrew (dealer Husqvarna, Stiga, Al-ko, Cedrus, Oleo-Mac, Toro, Billy Goat) ⁶³, e-greenhouse.pl (Husqvarna dealer) ⁹², Service Szymanow (Husqvarna dealer) ⁵³, Paralush.pl (Husqvarna dealer) ⁹³, Protechsc.pl (Husqvarna dealer) ⁵⁴, Universal.net.pl (Husqvarna dealer) ⁵⁵, Nezo.pl (Husqvarna dealer) ¹⁷, Gardenland s.c. (Husqvarna dealer) ⁸⁶, Agroefekt (John Deere dealer) ⁹⁴, Wanicki (John Deere dealer) ⁹⁵, AJM AGRO (John Deere service) ⁹⁶, Service Ogrod Poznań (service of various brands) ⁹⁷ and KT-24 (service of various brands).⁹⁸ Husqvarna has a particularly extensive network of authorized sales and service outlets throughout Poland.⁸⁷

   W greater Poland region the availability of zero-turn radius mowers is also significant. Kubota's authorized dealer, Rol-Invest, is located in Skórzewo near Poznan.⁷⁹ Husqvarna dealers in Greater Poland are m.in. Caldrew with numerous locations ⁶³, e-greenhouse.pl in Swarzędz ⁹², Tips Plus in Poznan ¹⁰¹ and Forest and Garden in Kepno.¹⁰² John Deere dealers in Greater Poland are Agro-Sieć Maszyny in Budzyn ⁸⁸ and Agroefekt with branches in various localities.⁹⁴ EWIMAX online store.pl, which offers Ariens and Ferris, is based in Opalenica, Wielkopolska.⁶⁷

6. Prices and Promotions on the Polish Market

   Prices of zero-turn radius mowers on the Polish market vary and depend on the brand, model, technical specifications and intended use (home or professional use). Husqvarna Z242F lawnmowers can be found starting at around $29,900, while the brand's professional models, such as the Z448, cost from $44,900 and the Z560X from over $80,000.¹⁰ Simplicity Courier SZT110 mowers are available from around £16,890.⁵ A 42" Ariens Ikon XD tractor typically costs between £25,999 and £28,900.⁶⁶ In general, the prices of garden tractors (not necessarily with zero turning radius) start at about 9 thousand zlotys, and the most advanced models can cost up to 30-50 thousand zlotys.³⁰ Brand-name zero-turn radius mowers designed for intensive professional use can reach prices of 50 to 60 thousand zlotys and more.⁴

   On the Polish market regularly appear various promotions and sales on zero-turn radius mowers. Store tomex-gardens.pl offers a vintage sale on some Husqvarna models ¹⁵ and other models with discounts.⁶⁰ You can also find special offers on Husqvarna mower kits with an extra battery.⁵⁹ EWIMAX.pl often offers promotional prices on Ariens tractors.⁸ Kubota professional mowers are available with 0% financing option.⁷⁸ It is worthwhile to regularly monitor the offers of online stores ⁵⁹ and online auctions ⁵⁶ in search of the most current promotions for the models of interest. Caldrew store also has a dedicated section with promotions.⁸²

7. User feedback and reviews

   Analysis of user feedback and product reviews provides valuable information on the real-world operation of zero-turn radius mowers of various makes and models available in Poland. In general, users praise these machines for their high productivity and maneuverability, that significantly reduce the time it takes to mow a lawn.⁴ Also often emphasized is the precision of mowing and the ability to easily maneuver around obstacles. The main disadvantage highlighted by users is the following higher purchase price compared to other types of mowers.⁴

   Reviews of specific models also provide detailed information. For example, the Husqvarna Z242F is often rated favorably for its good value for money and mowing performance, especially on models equipped with the Kawasaki engine.¹⁸ Users praise its robust construction and ease of use. Ariens Ikon XD 42" tractors, on the other hand, receive positive reviews for their ease of use, maneuverability and solidity of construction in its price category.⁷⁰ However, some users have reported some problems with the mulching efficiency of this model.⁷⁶ Reviews of the John Deere Z740R are often about driving comfort (especially with optional Tweel tires), mowing speeds i cutting quality.⁴⁶ However, there are also comments about potential reliability problems in some units and about insufficient power when mulching dense grass.⁴⁷ The Simplicity Courier SZT110 is described as compact and maneuverable tractor with professional drive.³⁸

   On gardening forums, you can find numerous discussions and exchanges of opinions on various makes and models of zero-turn radius mowers.²² Users share their experiences of reliability, performance, operating costs and service, and brands such as Husqvarna, John Deere, Kubota and Stiga often appear in a positive context.

8. Maintenance and Operation Tips

   To ensure long-term and trouble-free operation of the zero-turn radius mower, it is crucial to follow the recommendations for regular maintenance. One of the basic steps is to regularly checking the engine oil level and its replacement according to the manufacturer's instructions.¹¹ On some Ferris models, thanks to the Oil Guard™ system, the oil change interval can be significantly extended.¹¹ After each use it is recommended to cleaning the mower from grass remnants and other debris.¹³¹ You should also regularly inspect and clean or replace the air filter, especially under dusty conditions ⁴¹, and check the condition of spark plugs and replace them if necessary.¹³¹ It is also important to checking the sharpness of the cutting knives and their regular sharpening or replacement.¹³¹ Do not forget to lubrication of moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer ¹² and about regular checking the fuel system.¹³¹ Before the winter season, it is a good idea to carry out seasonal maintenance.⁷⁷ Regular maintenance at authorized service centers also contributes to keeping the mower in good working order.⁹⁹

   Effective and safe operation of a zero-turn radius mower requires adherence to a few basic rules. It is recommended to mowing of dry grass ¹³² i not mowing it too low (application of the 1/3 rule).¹³² Adjust the cutting speed according to the height and density of the grass.⁵ Use extreme caution when working on uneven terrain and slopes.¹ You should also avoid running into obstacles that can damage the mower ²³, and properly prepare and store the mower during the off-season.⁷⁷

9. Summary and Recommendations

   Zero-turn radius mowers provide an efficient and maneuverable solution for extensive lawns in Poland. A wide range of makes and models are available on the market, offering a variety of features and technical specifications, allowing you to tailor the machine to your individual needs and budget. Before making a choice, potential buyers should carefully analyze the size and characteristics of their site, determine their preferences for features and branding, and set a budget for the purchase. It is also important to check the availability of local dealers and service centers, as well as to read the reviews of other users. Regular maintenance and proper operation are key to ensuring long-lasting and trouble-free operation of the mower.

   For owners of smaller gardens with few obstacles, more compact and affordable models such as the CEDRUS Z103 or CEDRUS Z132, which offer good maneuverability and performance, may be a good choice. In the case of larger gardens with numerous obstacles, models with more power and a wider mowing range are recommended, such as Ariens Edge or Arienz IKON. Professionals and owners of very large estates should consider professional models of brands ARIENS ZENITH , Ferris (such as ISX™ 3300), which are characterized by high performance, durability and advanced features. Before making a final decision, it's always a good idea to consult local dealers, compare prices and offers, and read reviews from other users.