One of the most essential things to consider before purchasing a zero-turn lawn mower for your lawn is its weight. Why? The weight determines the machine’s cost, mowing efficacy, and maintenance, among other things. So, the pertinent question remains, “How much does a zero-turn mower weigh?”
The weight of most zero-turn mowers ranges between 425 and 1,383 pounds (192.78 and 627.32 kg), based on the model and brand. Regardless, some mowers weigh below or above this range and are considered lightweight or heavyweight.
In the rest of this article, I’ll discuss the weights of different zero-turn mower models, why weight is essential when choosing a ZTR mower, and what causes these weight differences. Keep reading!
20 Examples of Zero-Turn Mowers and Their Weights
We shall look at examples of zero-turn mowers and their weights in the following categories:
- Lightweight
- Heavyweight
Lightweight Zero-Turn Mowers
Any ZTR mower below 700 lbs (317.52 kg) qualifies as a lightweight. These mowers are best suited for home use on small to medium-sized lawns. This can be anywhere up to the size of two tennis courts.
Lightweight, zero-turn mowers move faster, cover more ground quickly, and navigate obstacles more easily. They usually come with small-sized engines, meaning they are pocket-friendly, fuel-efficient, and heat up slower than their heavyweight counterparts.
However, these machines lack sufficient grip due to their lightweight and can be challenging when working over smooth, wet, or uneven surfaces. Also, because of their low center of gravity, they can easily overturn when working uphill on a steep slope.
The table below shows a few examples of lightweight zero-turn mowers.
| Model | Weight |
| Toro TimeCutter SS3225 | 425 lbs |
| Ariens Edge 34 Briggs | 447 lbs |
| Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42 | 515 lbs |
| Kubota Z231KW – 42 | 621 lbs |
| John Deere Z335E | 491 lbs |
| Ariens Zoom 34 | 425 lbs |
| Troy-Bilt Mustang Z42 | 580 lbs |
| Craftsman Z5200 20-HP | 600 lbs |
| Ryobi RY48ZTR100 42 in. 100 Ah | 700 lbs |
| Exmark Quest S-Series | 616 lbs |
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Heavyweight Zero Turn Mowers
ZTR mowers over 700 pounds (317.52 kg) fall in the heavyweight category. Those weighing between 700 and 1200 lbs (317.52 and 544.31 kg) are best suited for large residential properties or small-scale landscaping enterprises.
On the other hand, mowers weighing above 1200 lbs (544.31 kg) are designed mainly for large-scale commercial purposes.
These machines come with larger engines, meaning more cutting power. They have big wheels which provide a firmer grip, allowing them to work on various terrains. Plus, they’re more stable with a stronger center of gravity, making them great for hilly places.
Conversely, heavyweight zero-turn mowers are more expensive than their counterparts in purchasing and maintaining. They’re not as agile and can be challenging to navigate turns and obstacles. Also, these machines are prone to sinking or getting stuck in waterlogged areas, such as marshes.
That said, the table below shows a few examples of heavyweight zero-turn mower models.
| Model | Weight |
| Cub Cadet ZT2-60 | 752 lbs |
| Bad Boy ZT Elite | 839 lbs |
| Toro Titan Max 76601 | 876 lbs |
| Ariens Zenith 60 Kawasaki | 900 lbs |
| Kubota Z422KWT-60 | 954 lbs |
| John Deere Z740M ZTrack | 1040 lbs |
| Beast 62 in. 25 HP | 1100 lbs |
| Dewalt Z260 Commercial 60 in. 24 HP | 1130 lbs |
| John Deere Z950M | 1275 lbs |
| Swisher Big Mow 66 in. 31-HP | 1380 lbs |
4 Causes of Weight Variations in Zero Turn Mowers
As you’ve seen, ZTR mower weights differ significantly across the board. You can find lighter mowers as low as 400 lbs (181.44 kg) and heavier ones, up to 2000 lbs (907.18 kg).
You may then wonder what causes the weight variation.
Several elements influence the overall weight of a ZTR mower. Knowing them will help you understand why specific models are heavier or lighter than others.
Let’s take a look at the factors affecting the weight of zero-turn mowers.
Type and Size of the Cutting Deck
A cutting (mower) deck is the metal part underneath the machine that accommodates the cutting blades. It also shields you and the engine from the blades and stops debris from flying all over during mowing.
Zero-turn mower cutting decks come in various sizes, ranging from 36 – 72 inches. The larger the size of the cutting deck, the more construction materials it requires to support its size and shape. Consequently, the bigger and heavier the mower.
Also, it’s noteworthy that a zero-turn mower can have a fabricated or stamped deck. A fabricated deck is constructed by blending multiple sheets of heavy-gauge steel, whereas a stamped deck is built from a single sheet of steel stamped in a press.
Mowers with fabricated decks are generally heavier than those with stamped decks.
Type of Frame and Materials Employed in Construction
The frame and materials incorporated when constructing a zero-turn mower greatly influence its weight. Machines built with heavy-duty metals like steel and cast iron are usually heavier than the ones made with lighter materials, such as aluminum and plastic.
Furthermore, the frame design of a zero-turn mower can also affect its weight. Some models may include extra structural components and reinforcements that contribute to the final weight of the machine.
Type and Size of Engine
Another major factor that can significantly affect the overall weight of a ZTR mower is the engine. Larger engines are generally heavier than their smaller counterparts. This means that a mower with a larger engine will tend to be heavier, regardless of size.
Similarly, how the engine operates also impacts a zero-turn mower’s weight. If the engine is electric-driven, the size and type of battery used can make one machine heavier or lighter than another.
If the engine is fuel-driven, the tank size and amount of fuel will add to the machine’s weight. The type of fuel the engine uses may also contribute to the mower’s overall weight. Generally, diesel is denser (0.84kg per liter) than petrol (0.74kg per liter).
Accessory Add-Ons
Zero-turn mowers are usually compact, especially those meant for private use. However, some machines can come with extra features and attachments that can add to the overall weight of the mower. These can include:
- Mulching kits
- Snow plows
- Bagging systems
Why Is the Weight of a Zero Turn Mower Important?
The weight of a zero-turn mower is important because it determines the cost, performance, storage, and maneuverability.
The weight of a zero-turn lawn mower determines the following:
Shipping/Transportation
Weight is an important consideration when shipping or transporting your ZTR mower from one place to another. It is a no-brainer that the heavier the machine, the more challenging it is to transport.
If you intend to move your mower regularly from one location to another, you must determine the most suitable method to handle its weight. Moreover, the heavier the mower, the more space it will take up and the more costly it will be to transport.
Storage
The weight of your prospective purchase will impact where you’ll store it. You’ll need a storage area that will not only fit the mower’s size but also carry its weight. You’ll want to ensure the storage floor doesn’t cave in due to the machine’s weight.
A heavier mower will require a more robust floor than a lighter mower.
Mowing Efficiency and Safety
Weight also affects the mowing efficiency and safety of the machine on different terrains.
As earlier said, heavier mowers are more stable and have better traction even on rough terrains. They can move over pebbles, bumps, and inclines more easily than lighter mowers and cut more efficiently.
Contrastingly, lightweight mowers do well in flat lawns with less than 15-degree inclines. They struggle to maintain grip on rough and sloppy surfaces. They tip over or bounce around more frequently, affecting their cutting height consistency.
In other words, the nature of your lawn’s terrain will determine the weight of the mower you’ll need.
Towing Power
The weight of a ZTR mower also influences its towing capabilities. If you intend to move about your property with heavy loads like gardening equipment, you’ll need a heavy mower to tow the weight.
As you can see, it’s crucial to consider the mower’s weight before purchasing one. Choose a machine that will offer better stability, traction, and cutting power and one that you can afford to buy, transport, and maintain.
How Much Does a 54-Inch Zero-Turn Mower Weigh?
The weight of a 54-inch zero-turn mower ranges between 590 and 1383 lbs (267.62 and 627.32 kg) depending on the manufacturer and model. For example, a 54-inch Kubota Z724KH model weighs 1182 lbs, whereas another 54-inch Kubota Z251BR model weighs 749 lbs.
Below is a table showing various 54-inch zero-turn mower models and their weights by different manufacturers.
| Model | Weight in Pounds | Weight in Kilograms |
| Husqvarna Z254F | 590 | 267.62 |
| Husqvarna Z554L | 1215 | 551.11 |
| Kubota Z724H | 1182 | 536.15 |
| Kubota Z422KW | 882 | 400.07 |
| John Deere Z545R | 832 | 377.39 |
| John Deere 1930M | 1383 | 627.32 |
| Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 | 600 | 272.16 |
| Cub Cader Ultima Zt2 | 615 | 278.96 |
| Cub Cadet ZTX4 | 925 | 419.57 |
| Bad Boy MZ Magnum | 687 | 311.62 |
| Bad Boy Maverick HD | 1084 | 491.69 |
| Bad Boy Rebel Commercial | 1259 | 571.07 |
How Much Does a 52-Inch Zero-Turn Mower Weigh?
The weight of a 52-inch zero-turn mower ranges between 515 and 1250 lbs (233.6 and 566.99 kg) depending on the manufacturer and model. For instance, Ariens has several 52-inch, zero-turn mower models, including Apex 52 Kawasaki weighing 661 lbs and Edge 52 Kawasaki weighing 560 lbs.
Here are a few examples of 52-inch zero-turn mowers and their weights from various manufacturers.
| Model | Weight in Pounds | Weight in Kilograms |
|---|---|---|
| Ariens Apex 52 Kawasaki | 661 | 299.83 |
| Ariens Ikon–XD 52 Kawasaki | 681 | 399.62 |
| Ariens Ikon–XD 52 Kohler | 681 | 399.62 |
| Ariens Edge 52 Kawasaki | 560 | 254.01 |
| Kubota SZ26-52 | 997 | 452.23 |
| Toro ZMaster 2000 HDX | 1012 | 459.04 |
| Wright ZXL | 1250 | 566.99 |
| Toro Titan HD 2500 | 750 | 340.19 |
| Big Dog Alpha 52” | 515 | 233.6 |
How Much Does Husqvarna Zero Turn Mower Weigh?
The weight of a Husqvarna zero-turn mower ranges between 474 and 1,359 lbs (215 and 616.43 kg) depending on the model. There are numerous models of Husqvarna zero-turn mowers with weights varying across the board.
Here’s a table showing some of the models with their weights. The weights consist of heavy, light, and average options.
| Husqvarna Model | Weight in Pounds | Weight in Kilograms |
| Z142 | 474 | 215.00 |
| Z242 | 551 | 249.93 |
| Z146 | 474 | 215.00 |
| Z246 | 504 | 228.61 |
| MZ48 | 595 | 269.89 |
| Z248F | 581 | 263.54 |
| Z448 | 725 | 328.85 |
| Z548 | 1100 | 498.95 |
| Z254 | 542 | 245.85 |
| Z254F | 595 | 269.89 |
| Z454 | 745 | 337.93 |
| Z454XS | 961 | 435.90 |
| Z554L | 1215 | 551.11 |
| Z554X | 1250 | 566.99 |
| MZ54 | 770 | 349.27 |
| Z460 | 823 | 373.31 |
| Z460XS | 973 | 441.35 |
| Z560L | 1250 | 566.99 |
| Z560X | 1309 | 593.75 |
| MZ61 | 770 | 349.27 |
| Z572X | 1359 | 616.43 |
Final Notes
If you were wondering, “How much does a zero-turn mower weigh?’ you now have an answer. The weights of these machines differ significantly, as shown in the examples I have provided.
Also, bear in mind that the weight of a zero-turn mower will impact its buying cost, storage, transportation, mowing efficiency, and towing ability. So, it’s crucial to find one that suits your needs best. To achieve this, conduct extensive research and compare mowers of various weights before settling on one.
