When it comes to taming your lawn, few outdoor chores are more satisfying than mowing with a high-quality ride-on mower. And if you‘re looking for a machine that combines power, performance, and premium features, Cub Cadet is a brand that consistently delivers.
In this comprehensive review, we‘ll take a close look at Cub Cadet‘s lineup of ride-on lawn mowers. We‘ll explore the company‘s history and reputation, highlight key models and features, share insights from real customers, and offer an honest assessment to help you decide if a Cub Cadet is right for you. Let‘s dig in!
About Cub Cadet: A Legacy of Quality and Innovation
Founded in 1961, Cub Cadet has been a leading name in outdoor power equipment for over 60 years. The company got its start producing rugged, compact tractors for the agricultural market. But it wasn‘t long before Cub Cadet‘s signature yellow-and-black machines started showing up in suburban garages and sheds across America.
Today, Cub Cadet is owned by MTD Products, a global manufacturer of outdoor gear. But the brand has stayed true to its roots, focusing on high-performance, smartly-designed equipment for homeowners and landscaping pros alike. From walk-behind mowers to zero-turn behemoths, snow blowers to utility vehicles, Cub Cadet covers the full spectrum of outdoor power products.
The company‘s ride-on mowers have long been a particular point of pride. Cub Cadet introduced its first hydrostatic drive garden tractor in 1963 and has remained at the forefront of engineering and design ever since. With a reputation for power, durability, and cut quality, Cub Cadet riding mowers are consistently ranked among the best in class by both experts and owners.
Cub Cadet‘s Riding Mower Lineup: Something for Every Lawn
One of the strengths of the Cub Cadet brand is the sheer breadth of its product offerings. The company makes a ride-on mower for just about every size yard and every type of terrain. Let‘s take a look at some of the most popular categories and models:
Lawn and Garden Tractors
Cub Cadet‘s XT Enduro Series lawn tractors are the entry point to the company‘s ride-on lineup. Don‘t let the term "entry-level" fool you, though. These are seriously capable machines. Models like the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro LT 42 pack a 22 HP engine, hydrostatic transmission, and a 42-inch cutting deck into a surprisingly nimble package.
For bigger yards, the XT2 and XT3 lines offer beefier builds, wider decks (up to 60 inches), and handy features like electronic cutting height adjustment. If you have a few acres to mow, an Enduro Series tractor is more than up to the task.
Zero-Turn Mowers
If you demand the ultimate in mowing speed and maneuverability, Cub Cadet‘s Ultima Series zero-turn mowers are tough to beat. From the entry-priced ZT1 42 to the top-of-the-line ZTX6, these mowers boast commercial-grade components and precision cutting performance.
The RZT Series, which starts with the RZT L 34, is another popular choice for residential zero-turn mowing. Steering wheel control and a smaller footprint make these more intuitive and easier to store than a full-size ZTR. But you still get the zero-turn precision and time-saving efficiency.
Electric Ride-On Mowers
For eco-conscious homeowners looking to ditch the gas can, Cub Cadet has been expanding its electric mower offerings. The company now has both electric lawn tractors and zero-turns at several price points.
The Ultima ZT1 42E is the battery-powered cousin of Cub Cadet‘s popular ZT1 42-inch zero-turn. It packs a 56V 30AH battery system and dual direct-drive motors for up to 2 hours of continuous mowing. Like the gas model, the 42E features a fabricated steel deck, adjustable lap bars, and a plush high-back seat.
For smaller yards, the CC 30E mini-rider provides 30-inch cut in a remarkably compact package. The rider itself takes up about as much space as a walk mower but delivers the cutting ease of a ride-on. Its 56V lithium-ion battery is good for up to 1 acre on a single charge.
Performance and Cut Quality: How Cub Cadet Mowers Stack Up
Of course, the real test of any mower is how well it tackles your lawn. And this is where Cub Cadet riding mowers consistently earn high marks from both experts and owners.
Cub Cadet equips the majority of its mowers with powerful Kohler or Kawasaki engines ranging from 21 to 25 horsepower. When paired with a rugged hydrostatic transmission, these power plants deliver smooth, consistent cutting performance, even on hilly terrain or in thick grass. Several Cub Cadet models also feature electronic fuel injection for easy starting and optimal fuel efficiency.
The brand is also known for its advanced cutting technology. Cub Cadet‘s signature AeroForce, Triple-Blade, and Quattro-Cut decks are engineered to create powerful air flow and finely mulched clippings for a clean, professional-looking cut.
Many Cub Cadet mowers come with a 3-in-1 cutting system, allowing you to choose between bagging, mulching, or side discharge. High-capacity baggers and bushel collection systems make collecting clippings a breeze.
On the zero-turn side, Cub Cadet‘s lap bar control system and Hydro-Gear EZT transmission deliver smooth, precise maneuverability around trees, fences, and landscaping. The zero-turns‘ low center of gravity and wide stance also provide confidence-inspiring stability on slopes and uneven ground.
Comfort and Convenience: Mowing Made Easy
Beyond pure cutting performance, Cub Cadet also designs its ride-on mowers with operator comfort and convenience in mind. High-back seats with arm rests and ample padding come standard on most models. Some, like the Ultima Series zero-turns, even feature a fully-adjustable suspension seat for all-day riding comfort.
Intuitive controls are another Cub Cadet hallmark. From the responsive lap bars and steering wheels to the logically arranged gauges and switches, everything is positioned for easy access and operation. Several models even boast creature comforts like cruise control, USB charging ports, and built-in LED headlights.
Cub Cadet has also been a pioneer in the area of smart lawn technology. The company‘s innovative SmartJet™ Connect system, available on select XT3 tractors, allows you to control your mower from your smartphone. You can view real-time performance data, set maintenance reminders, and even geo-fence your property for added security.
When it comes to maintenance, Cub Cadet makes upkeep easy with tool-less oil changes, quick-release cutting decks, and greaseless spindles. The brand‘s knowledgeable dealer network is also a major plus, providing expert service and a ready supply of OEM parts.
Customer Reviews and Ratings: What Owners Are Saying
Cub Cadet consistently earns positive reviews from owners across its riding mower lineup. On the Cub Cadet website, the XT1 Enduro Series lawn tractors have an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on over 2,000 reviews. Owners praise the mowers‘ power, cut quality, and overall value.
The Ultima Series zero-turns fare similarly well, with the ZT1 54 notching a 4.6 out of 5 rating from more than 1,200 reviewers. Customers frequently comment on the mowers‘ commercial-grade construction, comfortable ride, and time-saving efficiency.
Even Cub Cadet‘s newer electric models are already racking up positive feedback. The CC 30E electric rider has a 4.2 out of 5 rating on Home Depot, with owners loving its compact size, quiet operation, and surprising power.
Of course, no product is perfect, and Cub Cadet mowers do have a few common complaints. Some owners report issues with the plastic fuel tanks on certain models cracking or leaking over time. Others note that the mowers‘ cutting decks can be prone to rusting if not properly cleaned and maintained.
A handful of reviewers have also experienced problems with the hydrostatic transmissions on some models, particularly in extreme temperatures. However, these issues seem to be the exception rather than the rule, and Cub Cadet‘s warranty and customer support are generally responsive in addressing them.
Pricing and Value: Are Cub Cadet Mowers Worth the Investment?
There‘s no denying that Cub Cadet riding mowers are a significant investment. The brand positions itself as a premium choice for discerning homeowners and landscapers, and its prices reflect that.
Cub Cadet‘s entry-level ride-on models typically start around $1,500, with the top-end zero-turns climbing well above $5,000. For comparison, budget-oriented brands like Troy-Bilt and Craftsman offer riding mowers for under $1,000.
That said, with Cub Cadet, you are getting a lot of mower for your money. The brand‘s focus on professional-grade components, advanced engineering, and first-class customer support sets it apart from lower-priced competitors. Cub Cadet mowers are built to last, with many models delivering dependable performance for 15+ years with proper maintenance.
In terms of features and capabilities, Cub Cadet matches up favorably with other high-end brands like John Deere and Toro. In fact, in many cases, Cub Cadet delivers comparable or even superior specs at a lower price point.
For instance, the Cub Cadet XT1 LT42 lawn tractor retails for around $1,799 with a 42-inch deck and 18 HP engine. The similarly-sized John Deere S120, by contrast, starts at $2,399 with a slightly smaller 36-inch deck and 22 HP engine. So while Cub Cadet is by no means cheap, it does offer compelling value within its class.
The Bottom Line: Is a Cub Cadet Riding Mower Right for You?
If you‘re in the market for a high-performance, feature-rich riding mower and are willing to invest in quality, Cub Cadet is a brand that should absolutely be on your radar. With a wide range of models and price points, there‘s a good chance you can find a Cub Cadet mower that fits both your lawn and your budget.
In particular, if you have a larger property (1/2 acre or more), frequently mow thick grass or tough terrain, or simply want the best cut quality and comfort, Cub Cadet riding mowers are among the top choices on the market. The brand‘s powerful engines, precision cutting decks, and ergonomic designs make quick, easy work of even the most challenging lawns.
Cub Cadet‘s expanding line of electric ride-on mowers is also an appealing option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and fuel costs. While battery-powered models still have some limitations in terms of runtime and power compared to gas mowers, Cub Cadet‘s offerings are closing the gap quickly.
Of course, no mower is a magic bullet, and Cub Cadet models do have a few potential drawbacks to consider. The higher upfront cost may be a stretch for some budgets. And as with any complex machine, proper maintenance and occasional repairs are a must to keep a Cub Cadet mower running at its best.
But for many homeowners and lawn care professionals, the long-term durability, performance, and premium features of a Cub Cadet riding mower more than justify the investment. With a little research and regular TLC, a Cub Cadet could be the key to achieving the lawn of your dreams for years to come.
