A few thoughts... I would not be afraid of plastic fenders on any model, but I wouldn't want a tractor without a telescoping hitch. Also, I would pay the extra up front and get 2 or 3 remotes (whichever is max). You will never have a chance to get them at a lower price, and I've never seen a post on here by someone saying they wished they had fewer remotes. I got 2 with mine, and soon realized I should have got all 3.