New or Used riding mower?

[Groo]

I'll be mowing 2 lawns, neither quite big enough on its own to justify a ridinding mower, both with hill and trees, and a couple slopes between the 2 houses

I can either get a new, small, cheap riding mower. (leaning towards the Deere LA115)

or pick up something used, but higher end and hopefully not too much bigger for hopefully not too much more. maybe something like the Deere 320, SST18 or F525 at about 8-10 years of age

ps. its not like I have a thing for Deere, its just that the Deere fit me best at HD, and the others I found a Deere dealership closer than most other sellers on eBay.

I'm not looking for more than a mower.

 

[bp fick]

If I had slopes and some elevation changes, I might honestly look at an inexpensive, $900 gear lawn tractor from either MTD or AYS. Lots of brand names under those two manufacturers.

Here's why.

The hydros from all makers of lower priced riders (say, under 2500 bucks) are going to use a rather weak hydro without much cart pulling power or hill climbing power. You really cannot expect a great transmission in a lower priced unit.

A straight trans, with 6-8 gears will get you a more direct drive hook up. If you watch sales ads or talk to stores like TSC and use one of their coupons, or a smaller store looking to clear out the end of year inventory, you could find a mower at less than $900 that'll more than do the job. Spending $1500-$1900 on a budget hydro isn't necessary unless you really, really got to have green.

Just something to think about.

 

[bp fick]

Of course, finding a used, top quality, well cared for Deere like an X320 type would be awesome. I've been watching Craigs and most owners are pretty proud of them. Given the new price, I might be as well.