Checklist

When shopping around for a ride-on mower, here's what you should consider.

Engine

Single-cylinder engines are fine for mowing smaller areas. Twin-cylinder engines – usually 16 horse power and greater – have more power. They're also cooler running and are likely to last longer.

Transmission

For straightforward mowing, a manual transmission is a good budget choice. Where there's a lot of stopping and starting, working around trees, or backing up, an automatic/hydrostatic transmission will allow you to speed up, slow down and reverse without changing gears. You can even get cruise control on some models, to make long mowing sessions more comfortable.

If you will have to back up, look for models that either automatically stop the blades when you select reverse or have a reverse safety switch.

Blade system

Most have two rotating blades to provide a cut of 950 to 1100 mm (38 – 42”). Wider cuts require three separate blades, but tests in the US by Consumer Reports found they don't cut as evenly so they're less suitable for lawns.

Offset cutting deck

This overhangs the line of the wheels on one side - so it allows you to mow along the edge of the lawn without falling into the garden, or to mow closely to trees or buildings.

Turning circle

This matters if you have awkward shapes to negotiate. Rear-steering models have a claimed “zero-turn radius” for easy manoeuvring. This means the mower leaves no grass uncut on the inside of the tightest circle that can be turned. Some tractor-style models now claim “zero-turn” capability.

Shut-off switch

A seat shut-off switch that stops the blades as you get off the mower is an essential safety feature.