That Deere price seems high to me, but they may be charging a lot more for the mower than I expect.
If ground clearance is important, I question the desire for a SCUT. Based on previous discussion, maybe you should have a dedicated mower and a CUT. That's what I do, and many other folks here too. It's hard to get a machine that mows well and also is capable in the woods and for heavy work.
R4 tires are intended for worksite/construction use and for supporting heavy loads. The don't have the traction of an R1 or the turf-friendliness of turfs. So they aren't really a compromise between the two factors you cited at all -- they are just worse at both things. My R4 tires tear up my lawn considerably unless it's bone dry. I'd never want to mow with them. I chose them because they were the best option for loader work and general construction work.
That's good to know on the R4 tires. I could swear I read a threat where a fellow said they were fine on his lawn. As for 2 machines, I was really hoping to get down to 1. I'm afraid I couldn't justify the expense for a CUT dedicated only to "tractor" work. Perhaps I am trying to convince myself I can justify a purchase when a rental would suffice? Food for thought.
I have received 2 quotes now via email that are within $100 of each other for the JD. When I replied to one dealer asking if the price was firm or if they would work with me on the sale I received the following reply just minutes ago. Seemed pretty abrupt to me:
"Thanks for your update and where you are at with your
purchase process.I agree with most of what you have said and
yes the proof is in the pudding so come on over and spend
sometime on our product and you will see the difference.And
by the way im the boss and i gave a awesome deal to start
with.I dont like to play around with prices.I will be
staurday i look forward to meeting you and going over our
product."