Hustler zero turn lawnmower. Are Commercial Hustler Mowers Worth the Cost

Are Commercial Hustler Mowers Worth the Cost?

As a commercial property owner or manager, maintaining the appearance of your outdoor space is crucial – but so is maintaining your budget.

While commercial Hustler mowers are some of the best commercial zero turns on the market today, they can cost an average of anywhere between 4,000 – 12,000! At that price point, you may be wondering if this powerhouse of a lawn mower is worth the investment.

As your trusted friends in the outdoor power equipment industry, we’re happy to affirm that commercial Hustler mowers are worth every penny. In today’s blog, we’ll discuss what makes Hustler one of the best commercial zero turn brands available, as well as calling-out a few of their very best models. Stay tuned to learn more – or contact your nearest PowerPro Equipment location now for competitive Hustler mower pricing!

What Makes Hustler the Best Commercial Zero Turn Mower Brand?

If you’re searching for a commercial zero turn mower that is a worthwhile investment, look no further than Hustler. This brand delivers unmatched durability, efficiency, and precision, proving that its price tag is money well spent.

Here are 6 unique advantages that make commercial Hustler mowers some of the most valuable tools money can buy…

• SmoothTrak Steering: One of the key advantages of Hustler mowers (both residential and commercial models) is their superior SmoothTrak engineering, developed over decades of experience. This innovative design allows for smoother, more precise steering, making it easier to maneuver around obstacles and create precise lines when mowing.
• Integrated Park Brake: Another standout feature of Hustler mowers is their integrated park brake system. Unlike traditional mowers, which require a separate parking brake to be engaged before turning off the engine, commercial Hustler mowers feature an integrated park brake in their twin-lever design. This patented design ensures that the brake is engaged automatically when the levers are moved outward, providing a safe and reliable way to secure the mower in place.
• Fabricated Decks: Only the best commercial zero turn mowers feature high-quality welded-steel decks, designed to withstand even the harshest conditions. Commercial Hustler mowers are made from heavy-gauge steel and reinforced with impact areas, so these decks are built to last and can help prolong the life of your mower. Whether you are dealing with rough terrain, thick grass, or other challenging conditions, Hustler’s fabricated decks can handle it all with ease!
• Tough Frames: With all the of commercial models including the Hustler Fastrack, Z-Series and X-one, you’ll appreciate an ultra-tough frame that has been tested for thousands of hours on concrete test tracks. They feature flawlessly fabricated welded-steel frames, thick front axels and forks with heavy-duty caster yokes to help every mower last for years!
• Simple Design: As one of the best commercial zero turn names in the industry, Hustler is known for designing equipment that their customers can work on themselves, without the need for costly repairs or complicated maintenance procedures. That’s why Hustler engineers both their residential and commercial mowers with easy serviceability in mind, featuring flip-up seat pans and other user-friendly design elements.
• Precision Cut Quality: With decks that are engineered to create clean, crisp cuts, Hustler mowers stand out from the competition. This precision comes from decades of learning about how the airflow inside the deck can stand grass blades up during the cut, resulting in an even trim and defined stripes!

Top-Rated Commercial Hustler Models: Fastrak, Super

If you’re looking for a commercial zero turn mower that offers exceptional value for your investment, Hustler should be at the top of your list. The Hustler Super Z mowers, Fastrak series and X-one are all phenomenal options providing unmatched performance.

Hustler Fastrak Mower Series

The Hustler Fastrak Mower is the perfect choice for homeowners and landscapers alike who are looking for a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-use zero turn mower. With a cutting width of up to 60 inches, a powerful engine, and a comfortable seat, this mower makes quick work of any lawn, leaving you with a professional-looking finish every time.

Hustler Super Z Mower Series

The Hustler Super Z Series is the ultimate commercial zero turn mower, designed for professionals who demand the very best. With cutting widths ranging from 60 to 104 inches, a top speed of 14 mph, and a variety of engine options to choose from, this mower delivers unmatched power, precision, and speed.

Hustler X-One Mower

A true workhorse, the Hustler X-One mower is built to handle the toughest mowing jobs with ease. Featuring a welded steel frame, powerful engine, and hydro-gear transmission, this mower delivers maximum durability, efficiency, and precision. With a cutting width of up to 60 inches and a comfortable seat, the Hustler X-One is the perfect choice for homeowners and landscapers who need a reliable and high-performing zero turn mower.

Shop ALL The Best Commercial Zero Turn Mowers from Hustler!

At the end of the day, when it comes to commercial zero turn mowers, there’s only one brand that can truly hold its own – Hustler. These mowers aren’t just worth their cost – they’re worth every moment you’ll spend using them.

At PowerPro Equipment, we’re proud to offer the Hustler commercial mowers. From powerful engines to unbeatable maneuverability, our selection has it all. So why wait? Say goodbye to subpar mowing experiences and hello to the best commercial zero turn mowers in the business – shop Hustler at PowerPro Equipment today!

Best Riding Lawn Mower Reviews 2023

Tired of spending the best part of your Saturday walking behind a lawn mower? You’re not alone and our team has pulled together our recommendations for the best riding lawn mower in 2023. Whether you’re a homeowner or commercial Pro, or you’re on the hunt for a lawn tractor or zero-turn mower, we have you covered. Thinking about making the switch to battery power? We have thoughts on electric riding lawnmowers as well.

Considering walk-behind mowers? Check out our Best Lawn Mower main page.

• Best Commercial Riding Mower (Find a Dealer)
• Best Residential Riding Lawn Mower (Buy at Tractor Supply)
• Best Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower (Buy at Acme Tools)
• Best Lawn Tractor (Buy at Tractor Supply)
• Best Consumer Electric Riding Lawn Mower (available at Lowes or Home Depot)
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For Small Lawns (Buy at Lowes)
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For Medium Lawns
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For Large Properties
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For Hills
• Best Riding Lawn Mower For The Money (Buy at Tractor Supply)
• What We Look For In The Best Riding Lawn Mower
• Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Best Commercial Riding Lawn Mower

Hustler Hyperdrive Series Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

Professional lawn care crews who FOCUS on residential lawns (affectionately known aa “mow and blow” crews) have to hit a lot of lawns every day during the mowing season and they’re tough on their equipment. Exmark, Hustler, and Scag all come up frequently in conversations about the best commercial mower, and our top choice is the Hustler Hyperdrive series.

While the Super Z series is likely more popular, the Hyperdrive series adds additional durability to the transmission system, keeping your downtime to a minimum.

Deck sizes range from 60 to 72 inches and there are 35 to 40 HP engine options from Kawasaki and Vanguard. For those of you who like to mow at speed, you can run up to 16 MPH on this model. No matter what your mowing style is, Hustler has a 3,000-hour warranty on the hydraulic system and a 5-year/1200-hour warranty on the full mower.

Price: Contact your local dealer

Best Residential Riding Lawn Mower

Toro Timecutter Series Zero-Turn Lawn Mowers

For residential use, we recommend Toro’s TimeCutter as the best residential riding lawn mower for a variety of reasons. What it boils down to is that you get an excellent balance of performance, comfort, and reliability for the price.

The line currently includes 17 models (including CARB-friendly options). Deck sizes start at 34 inches for small lawns and run up to 60 inches for those of you with acreage to maintain. The base-level models are an excellent value for most people, but if comfort is a high priority, step up to the MyDrive models to get an upgraded suspension and easier ride.

Best Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower

Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX6 Series Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

While Toro earns our pick as the best overall riding mower for residential use, Cub Cadet’s Ultima ZTX6 series is the creme de la creme for those of you with a bigger budget. Earning our choice as the best residential zero-turn riding lawn mower, the ZTX6 is at the top of Cub Cadet’s residential-focuses Ultima line.

These mowers bridge the gap between residential and Pro needs, giving you a ride and performance that feels more professional while keeping the overall price down from premium professional mowers. The ZTX6 comes with a 25HP Kawasaki commercial-grade engine and either a 54 or 60-inch deck size. If you prefer a steering wheel over lap bars, there’s now a ZTXS6 option that has you covered.

Price: 8999.00 – 9299.00 (10299.00 for the 60-inch ZTXS6)

Best Lawn Tractor

Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro FAB Series Lawn Tractor

Cub Cadet lawn tractors are very popular and consistently earn high ratings from owners. If you’re looking for the best lawn tractor among them, we recommend the XT1 Enduro FAB series. They’re a bit more expensive than others in the XT1 line, but they upgrade from a 13-gauge stamped steel deck to an 11-gauge fabricated steel one, improving the long-term durability.

Available with a 50 or 54-inch deck, these mowers are suitable for covering larger lawns than lawn tractors in the 30 – 48-inch range. Thanks to a Kohler 24HP engine, they have better overall performance than most of its competition as well. While they don’t turn as tight as a zero-turn, they do have a 16-inch turning radius that gives them a tighter turn than others.

Best Electric Riding Lawn Mower

Try as we may, we couldn’t pick just one electric ride-on lawn mower as the best. However, we do have three that stand out from the rest.

Commercial: Greenworks Commercial 82V OptimusZ Series Zero-Turn Lawn Mowers

Greenworks was one of the first to push into the commercial electric zero-turn lawn mower market and they have learned a lot over the years. The culmination of that experience and the best of today’s technology come together in the Greenworks OptimusZ zero-turn and earns our recommendation as the best electric commercial riding lawn mower.

The line includes both ride-on and stand-on models, and we even got to see an operational prototype of a fully-autonomous version. Focusing on the ride-on models, there are 48 – 60-inch deck sizes with either 18KWh or 24KWh battery packages. On the 60-inch mower, the larger battery bank can run up to 8 hours on a charge.

The top speed is impressive, reaching up to 16 MPH with the blades on. Security is already onboard thanks to the combination of 4G and GPS connections. If all that sounds great, but you’re still not sure it can hold up, keep in mind that Greenworks backs these mowers with a 5-year/2,000-hour warranty.

Residential: EGO 56V E-Steer Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

EGO is making it easier to transition from gas to battery power and into the zero-turn market with the 56V E-Steer riding lawn mower. It takes the lap bars and exchanges them for a steering wheel, making for a much more approachable mower if you’re not used to traditional ZT steering. Beyond that, the design team shifted the controls/info screen onto the steering wheel where they’re easy to keep an eye on while you’re mowing.

The mower sports a 42-inch deck with cutting speeds between 4 and 8 MPH and matches the power of a 22HP gas engine. For the power source, EGO uses the same 556V batteries that power its other mowers and handheld tools. With a full load of six 12.0Ah batteries, expect to cut nearly four acres on a charge. With the four batteries that come with the mower, there’s enough juice to cover 2.5 acres.

Price: 5999.00 with four 12.0Ah batteries and onboard charger (scheduled for May 2023 launch)

Residential: Ryobi 80V iDrive Series Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

Ryobi’s iDrive zero-turn lawn mowers break the mold of lap bars, but not with a steering wheel. It uses joystick controls, making you feel a bit more like a lawn-cutting fighter pilot (without the missiles, of course). While it certainly breaks the norm, our crew was able to adjust to the steering quickly.

There are three deck sizes covering 30 to 54 inches and they primarily use 80V suitcase-style batteries for power. These mowers also have slots to use Ryobi’s 40V batteries if you need to extend your runtime beyond what the 80V packs offer.

The power ranges from a 28HP – 42HP gas equivalent with runtime covering 1 – 4 acres, depending on which model you go with. Plus, this mower uses the CrossCut stacked blade system to give you better cut quality than you’d get with single blades.

Price: 5999.00 – 7999.00 ready to mow

Take a look through our full list of Best Electric Lawn Mower recommendations!

Best Riding Lawn Mower For Small Lawns

John Deere S130 Lawn Tractor

Lawn tractors are great for small to medium-sized lawns and the John Deere S130 lawn tractor is our choice as the best riding lawn mower for small lawns. The S100 comes in at a lower price, but moving up to the S130 is worth it in our opinion.

Both feature a 42-inch mowing deck, but the S130 has a significantly stronger 22HP V-twin engine and it has John Deere’s super-easy 30-Second Oil Change system. The S130 also upgrades with cruise control and an electronic PTO system. Overall, it balances ease of ownership and performance well while keeping a safe distance away from the price of zero-turn mowers.

Best Riding Lawn Mower For Medium Lawns 1 Acre to 5 Acres

Husqvarna Xcite Zero-Turn Lawn Mowers

The best riding lawn mower for medium-sized lawns is the Husqvarna Xcite. There are two models available featuring a 54-inch 10-gauge deck that’s a great size for those 1 – 5–acre properties.

What’s exciting about the Xcite is a combination of innovative features and a design that feels more Pro even though these target residential users. Starting from the top, your start/stop and blade engagement controls are on the lap bar ends where you can easily reach them with your thumbs. Then there’s the suspension system. 4 bar links and 10 adjustment settings let you customize the setup based on your size, weight, and preferences to dial in a comfortable ride.

Depending on the model, you get either a 24HP or 26HP Kohler engine with a top speed of either 7 or 9 MPH. On the business end, Husqvarna puts stock blades that can go up to 5 years without needing to be sharpened. Husqvarna targeted a Pro feel with the convenience and ease of ownership homeowners crave with the Xcite and they nailed it.

Best Riding Lawn Mower For Large Properties

Exmark Lazer Z Series Deisel Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

When it comes to maintaining large areas where you need a cleaner cut than a bush hog leaves behind, there are a few large-deck options. Leading the pack in size and with a robust professional resume’, the Exmark Lazer Z Deisel is our choice as the best riding lawn mower for large properties.

When we say large, we mean it. The Lazer Z diesel line includes 60, 72, and 96-inch options along with a monstrous 144-inch model. Ang get this—Exmark rates the largest mower’s cutting rate at up to 11.5 acres per hour! In terms of productivity, that’s going to be tough to beat.

These mowers aren’t cheap, though. They start at just over 27,000 and the 144-inch model is over 35,000.

Price: Starting at 27,099.00

Best Riding Lawn Mower For Hills

Cub Cadet Pro Z 972 Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

If you have hills, you need both power and traction to mow effectively. In our team’s opinion, the best riding lawn mower for hills is the Cub Cadet Pro Z 972 series SD/SDL models. What sets these mowers apart is a combination of their dually rear wheel and steering wheel designs.

Four rear wheels help prevent the back end from slipping, even in wet conditions. The steering wheel makes it easier to manage on slopes and there’s an option for a pivoting seat that keeps you more upright on those hills. As part of Cub Cadet’s commercial mower lineup, you can expect a commercial-level build and high-end comfort features as part of the package.

Best Riding Lawn Mower For The Money

Toro Timecutter 42-Inch Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

What’s the best riding lawn mower for the money? For that, we return to the Toro TimeCutter series. Specifically, it’s the 42-inch 75746. This isn’t the least expensive 42-inch in the line, and it’s not the most expensive, either. By upgrading from the entry-level version (3299), you’re moving from a 15.5 HP Briggs Stratton engine to a much stronger 22HP Kohler engine. up to a more durable 10-gauge fabricated steel deck.

If your lawn is 2 acres or less, this model offers the best balance of performance, durability, comfort, and price. But what if you have more then 2 acres? Stick with the Toro TimeCutter and move up in deck size to match your lawn.

What We Look For In The Best Riding Lawn Mower

Lawn Tractor or Zero Turn?

When you’re choosing the best riding lawn mower for your lawn, the first thing to decide is which style you want.

Lawn tractors have several advantages. They tend to be a smaller overall size, are less expensive, and are easy to use with their steering wheel/pedal control systems. The downsides are that they tend to be slower and don’t reach larger deck sizes. They also aren’t as efficient in your mowing pattern because they require a larger turning radius.

Zero-turn lawn mowers make it easier to efficiently mow straight lines. While they’re more expensive, larger, and can take some time to get used to lap bar controls, you can get larger deck sizes, they have higher speeds, and they’re better for large properties. If comfort is a high priority for you, you’ll find better options with ZTs and lawn tractors.

Gas or Battery?

Now that battery-powered riding lawn mowers are at a point where they really can replace gas, the conversation is shifting away from just power and runtime.

Gas mowers tend to be less expensive and you can usually find someone to service/repair them within a reasonable drive of your home. The trade-off is the noise, emissions, managing fuel and oil, and more required maintenance.

Battery-powered mowers have a push-button start system that’s ready when you are, assuming you charged the batteries. They’re remarkably quiet compared to gas, have no emissions, and your HOA isn’t going to suddenly rewrite the rules to eliminate them. Maintenance primarily boils down to blowing off the deck and maybe rinsing under the deck. The primary downsides at this stage are that you don’t have as wide of a selection as gas, they’re more expensive, the batteries need replacing every 3 – 5 years, and there aren’t nearly as many service centers close by.

Durability and Reliability

As you go up in price from entry-level riding lawn mowers to mid-range and high-end models, there are significant changes. A more powerful engine is only part of it. The design of the engine and its quality typically improves as you move up the line, giving you a more reliable engine to go along with the higher performance of more horsepower.

You also see the strength of the build improve. Some of it is the thickness of the metal or moving from stamped steel to fabricated steel on the deck. Other components come into play as well, with higher quality transmissions and electronics packages improving.

Generally speaking, if you’re looking at an entry-level model, see if your budget has room to move up into the middle or even high end of the line. The durability and reliability you gain are worth it in the long run.

Deck Size

The deck size you need depends on the property you’re mowing. 42-inch riding lawn mowers are a good starting point for lawns up to an acre or where you need to squeeze through a narrow gate. If you have more than an acre, go ahead and look at models up to 60 inches.

Realistically, it’s a matter of finding the right balance between how much lawn you have to cut, how much storage space you have available, and what your budget is.

Speed

Speed is primarily a concern for professional lawn crews who need to move from one property to the next quickly or on campuses with significant travel distance between the shop and where they’re mowing. They usually want a mower with a top speed over 10 MPH.

Even homeowners can make their mowing chores more efficient with some decent top-end speed, though. 7 MPH or more is a good benchmark for those models. If you tend to take your mowing more casually, 5 – 6 MPH is just fine.

Comfort

The larger your lawn, the more time you need to spend in the driver’s seat of your riding lawn mower, and the more comfort comes into play. Entry-level mowers are going to bounce you around more than mid-range and high-end models. Look for a seat with plenty of cushioning, an adjustable tension knob, and enough travel for you to sit without having to scrunch up.

Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if they actually tested anything or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers? That’s not us. We won’t recommend anything unless we’d actually use it ourselves, and we don’t really care who the primary retailer is. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.

We’ve been in business since 2008 covering tools, writing reviews, and reporting on industry news in the construction and lawn care industries. Our Pro reviewers work in the trades and have the skills and experience to know whether tools can perform well in the field.

Each year, we bring in and review more than 350 individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.

Pro Tool Reviews consults with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work.

We work with more than two dozen professional contractors around the United States who review products for us on real job sites. We consult with them extensively on testing methods, categories, and practical applications.

Our site will provide more than 500 pieces of new content this year absolutely free for our readers. That includes objective evaluations of individual tools and products.

The end result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool.

Hustler Zero-Turn Mower Reviews | Worth Considering?

A feat of stunning innovation to meet your lawn care requirements while cutting down the time you spend on it is what a zero-turn mower has to offer. So it should be no surprise as to why it has become increasingly popular over the last few decades. Hustler mowers are quite popular in the market as per some Hustler zero-turn mower reviews.

The great build quality in these mowers is complemented by its trademark feature of a zero-degree turning radius so you can turn over a dime in a lawn as crammed as you can imagine. These highly maneuverable beasts can give your lawn a pristine cut and finish in one go and are becoming mainstream among homeowners or commercial landscapers.

Amongst several brands that are manufacturing these mowers on top of other riding or walk-behind models, we chose Hustler Turf for its exclusivity in the zero-turn market and the large variety of options available for you to choose from. From varied deck sizes to engine brands, you can find the mower that strikes that perfect balance for your lawn. We have some trustworthy Hustler zero-turn mower reviews so let us jump straight to it.

Hustler Zero-Turn Mower Reviews

Hustler Turf was incorporated in 1964, becoming one of the first brands to mass-produce a zero-turn mower. An inventor called John Reiger is credited with having designed the first zero-turn mower when he took the initiative to create the most maneuverable mower out there and resorted to a zero-turning radius to serve the purpose. This product quickly became a hit, and production demands skyrocketed to the point where John Reiger sold his design to Excel Industries.

This, in turn, led to the establishment of Hustler Turf with its initial production unit in Hesston, Kansas. And the brand is one of the leading manufacturers of the best zero-turn mowers to this day, with superior quality and performance and a dedicated team of professionals that ensure keep these standards intact.

Residential Models

Residential zero-turn mowers are for homeowners with a relatively shorter acreage who wish to mow their lawns infrequently. These models do not feature the most extraordinary build, blade speed, or engine output to keep costs low for homeowners to be able to afford them, but the quality is not entirely compromised as the features in a residential mower suffice for the purpose it is intended for. Residential mowers are also available in smaller deck sizes for smaller yards and storage facilities in a home.

Hustler Zevo

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Ideal for up to 3 acres.
• Product weight: 655 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 18 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 11 inches.
• Cutting width: 42 inches.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 11 gauge steel.
• Number of blades: Two.
• Blade tip speed: 16,637.
• Maximum cutting height: 4.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1.5 inches.
• Transmission type: Dual brushless motor with gear reduction.
• Top ground speed: 7 mph.
• Warranty: 3 Year/ 300 Hour Residential.

Even though zero turn and other riding mowers are primarily gas-powered, we selected a battery-powered one as the introductory model to set a precedent for diversity within the brand. As much as homeowners love the aesthetic appeal of their gardens, they do not always have the time to achieve it. A battery-powered mower takes away all the usage and maintenance hassle of a gas-powered mower and will produce lesser emissions and vibrations.

This comfort is complemented by a great build and cut quality with a 42-inch fabricated steel deck that will fit seamlessly into yards and will be perfect for smaller storages while being a heavy-duty unit. Two drive speeds can be observed of 5 and 7 mph for trimming and regular mowing, respectively. The batteries are claimed to have a 90-minute run time or cover 3.6 acres per charge, but the results may vary.

• Heavy-duty build and design.
• Sealed AGM batteries.
• A compact design of 42 inches deck width for gated yards and limited storage space.
• Premium bolstered seat with built-in lumbar support.
• Cup holder.
• Does not use the more popular Lithium-ion batteries.
• Batteries may discharge at different depending on your mowing actions like bagging or mulching.

Hustler Dash

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Ideal for up to 1 acre.
• Product weight: 390 lbs; 400lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 16 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 11 inches.
• Cutting width: 34 inches; 42 inches.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 11 gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Briggs Stratton PowerBuilt.
• Horsepower: 10.5 HP.
• Engine displacement: 344 ccs.
• Fuel tank capacity: 2.8 qts.
• Number of blades: Two.
• Maximum cutting height: 4.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1.5 inches.
• Transmission type: Dual Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 5 mph.
• Warranty: 2 Year/200 Hours (2nd-year parts only).
• Great build quality.
• Automatic parking brakes.
• Easy foot-operated deck lifts.
• Smaller compact deck sizes for gated yards and limited storage capacity.
• Flip up seats for an accessible design.
• Toolless oil change system.
• It might not be ideal for hilly terrain.
• A smaller mower comes with a smaller fuel tank, so that refilling might be an issue.

Hustler Raptor

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Ideal for up to 3 acres.
• Product weight: Kawasaki FR600 – 537 lbs; Kawasaki FR651 – 564 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 18 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 11 inches.
• Cutting width: Kawasaki FR600 – 42 inches; Kawasaki FR651 – 54 inches.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 11 gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Kawasaki FR600, Kawasaki FR651.
• Horsepower: Kawasaki FR600 – 18 HP; Kawasaki FR651 – 21.5 HP.
• Engine displacement: Kawasaki FR600 – 603 cc; Kawasaki FR651 – 726 cc.
• Fuel tank capacity: 3 gallons.
• Number of cylinders: V twin.
• Number of blades: Kawasaki FR600 – Two; Kawasaki FR651 – Three.
• Maximum cutting height: 4.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1.5 inches.
• Transmission type: Dual Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 7 mph.
• Warranty: 3 Year/300 hour residential.

The Hustler Raptor attempts to bring a truly standard zero-turn experience that you cannot go wrong with. The build and design of a fabricated steel deck are standard within the brand, the only difference being slightly larger deck sizes of 42 and 54 inches. A significant change can be observed in the engine as the Raptor offers a V twin Kawasaki engine for reliable performance and power outputs of 18 and 21.5 HP for the two-deck sizes.

Now, if you wish to have the simplicity of the model but want bigger deck sizes and better engine outputs, then you can upgrade to the Raptor XL, the Raptor XD, or the Raptor XDX. These upgrades tick a few more boxes.

• V twin Kawasaki engines.
• Flip-up seat pan, removable floor pan, and vented pulley cover all credit to easy servicing.
• SmoothTrak steering for seamless steering.
• Rubber floor mats.
• Easy foot-operated deck lift.
• The fuel tank design is not optimized to be user-friendly.
• The legroom is insufficient, according to some buyers.
• The steerings are not properly dampened.
• The rear tires have some traction issues.

Hustler Flip Up

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Ideal for up to 1 acre.
• Product weight: 755 lbs; 770 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 20 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 11 inches.
• Cutting width: 48 inches; 54 inches.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 11 gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Kawasaki FR691.
• Horsepower: 23 HP.
• Engine displacement: 726 ccs.
• Fuel tank capacity: 3 gallons.
• Number of cylinders: V twin.
• Number of blades: Three.
• Maximum cutting height: 4.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1.5 inches.
• Transmission type: Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 7 mph.
• Warranty: 3 Year/300-hour limit.

Some nifty features click right for many customers, and the Hustler Flip Up might be just the model for you. If cleaning and maintaining a zero-turn mower is your main concern, as you do not want to deal with several tools for one job, then you would love this mower. The star of the show is in the name of the mower, as Quick Flip Technology allows you to fold the frame up to 90 degrees, and that, combined with the Push Button deck lift, allows you to change blades or service your mower with ease.

And additionally, this may help you store the mower in lesser space as well. A fabricated deck, several cutting heights, and a comfortable bolstered seat are all the features you get in this unit.

• The deck can be adjusted by pressing a button.
• Cleaning and maintenance are a breeze as the frame can fold 90 degrees to enhance accessibility.
• The operator’s comfort is ensured with a premium bolstered seat with built-in lumbar support.
• SmoothTrak Steering.
• Customers have had issues with the flip-up feature regards to it being difficult to pin and unpin or the failure of the parts that are costly to replace.
• Small fuel tank.
• The seating and floor space are not optimized for taller people.

Commercial Models

Built with professional landscapers in mind who can spend hours on end for consecutive days on the zero-turn mower, it is only natural to offer best-in-class performance and features. Commercial mowers feature a very durable build with bigger tires to handle different kinds of terrain. significant engines and deck sizes to reduce the working hours are also commonly seen, along with more comfort and safety for the operator to avoid fatigue.

Hustler FasTrak

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Product weight: 910 lbs, 924 lbs, 925 lbs, 933 lbs, 944 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 23 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 13 inches.
• Cutting width: 48 inches, 54 inches, 60 inches.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 10 gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Kawasaki FT691, Kawasaki FT730, Kohler 7500 EFI.
• Horsepower: Kawasaki FT691 – 22 HP, Kawasaki FT730 – 24 HP, Kohler 7500 EFI – 27 HP.
• Engine displacement: Kawasaki FT691 – 726 cc, Kawasaki FT730 – 726 cc, Kohler 7500 EFI – 747 cc.
• Fuel tank capacity: 8.5 gallons.
• Number of blades: Three.
• Maximum cutting height: 4.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1.5 inches.
• Transmission type: Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 10 mph.
• Warranty: 4 years or 750 hours.

A great introductory commercial mower from Hustler featuring a commercial-grade Kawasaki engine and Hydro-Gear transmission. The combination, along with the medium to large deck size, can soar at a top ground speed of up to 10 mph to effectively cut down mowing time.

Several models are available in the ranges, namely FasTrak and FasTrak SDX, which under the 2022 upgrades, has added several features to enhance your mowing experiences, like dual USB charger ports, premium seats, rubber floor mats, and many more.

• The seat pan can be flipped, making the model very accessible.
• Easy maintenance with toolless removable pulley covers.
• SmoothTrak steering.
• Suspension high back seat with EVC cushions.
• Rubber floor mats for enhanced comfort.
• Dual USB ports.
• Many customers had issues with the left steering arm being loose.
• Several cases of oil leaks as well.

Hustler X-One

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Product weight: 1240 lbs, 1275 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 24 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 13 inches.
• Cutting width: 52 inches, 54 inches.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 7 gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Kawasaki FX730, Kawasaki FX850, Kohler Command Pro
• Horsepower: Kawasaki FX730 – 23.5 HP, Kawasaki FX850 – 27 HP, Kohler Command Pro – 25 HP.
• Engine displacement: Kawasaki FX730 – 726 cc, Kawasaki FX850 – 852 cc, Kohler Command Pro – 725 cc.
• Fuel tank capacity: 11.7 gallons.
• Number of blades: Three.
• Maximum cutting height: 5.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1 inch.
• Transmission type: Dual Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 10.5 mph.
• Warranty: 5 Years / 1200 Hours (First 2 Years No Hour Limit).

As we move on to the X One model, we can see some significant changes in the build quality as we move up to a 7 gauge fabricated steel deck with 7 gauge wrappers, a reinforced 7 gauge stamped disc, and the front of the deck made out of 11 gauge formed channel with rolled edge.

A testament to its commercial grade quality is the Kawasaki and Kohler Command Pro engines used in these units, along with the Parker unitized 12cc/rev pump with a 15.9ci/rev wheel motors transmission system that delivers a top mowing speed of up to 10.5 mph. Cutting height ranges have also increased as now you can choose between 1 to 5.5 inches of grass length according to your preferences.

• The deck creates a vacuum that directs the grass upward, leading to excellent cut quality.
• Large fuel tank.
• I3M suspension seat with 3-inch travel range.
• SmoothTrak steering.
• It might not work very well in less-than-ideal conditions in regard to the grass being excessively dry or tall and thick.
• Clogged fuel line with one buyer.
• Very heavy.

Hustler Super

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Product weight: 1420 lbs, 1451 lbs, 1566 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 24 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 13 inches.
• Cutting width: 54 inches, 60 inches.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 7 gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Kawasaki FX850, FX1000, FX1000 EFI, and Vanguard Big Block.
• Horsepower: Kawasaki FX850 – 27 HP, FX1000 – 35 HP, FX1000 EFI – 38.5 HP, Vanguard Big Block – 36 HP.
• Engine displacement: Kawasaki FX850 – 852 cc, FX1000 – 999 cc, FX1000 EFI – 999 cc, Vanguard Big Block – 999 cc.
• Fuel tank capacity: 11.7 gallons.
• Number of blades: 3.
• Maximum cutting height: 5.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1 inch.
• Transmission type: Dual Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 14 mph.
• Warranty: 5 Year / 1200 Hour (First 2 Years No Hour Limit).

What more could you ask for in a commercial grade zero turn mower than an unrivaled cut quality? The Super Z model, which uses the patented VX4 deck technology, tops the list for superior effectiveness in cut quality. Additionally, this model has a variety of engine choices, including Kawasaki and Vanguard, with power outputs ranging from 27 HP to 38 HP, as well as a range of deck sizes that can reach up to 72 inches, all of which help to shorten the cut time.

Superior transmission is ensured by Hydro-Gear and Stainless steel Parker Seal-Loc hydraulic lines, as well as hydraulic cooling and commercial-grade build quality with a fabricated deck and reinforced discs. This device has an impressive top speed of 14 mph. The Super also has several upgraded models with bigger deck sizes reaching up to 104 inches in the Super 104, so be sure to check those out as well.

• VX4 deck technology.
• Heavy-duty canister air cleaner.
• Stainless steel Parker Seal-Loc Technology hydraulic lines.
• Oil Cooler w/8″ fan.
• I3M suspension seat.
• It might be very noisy if you wish to operate at full throttle.
• Grass or debris might get blown straight to the operator on certain cutting heights.
• Not very fuel efficient.

Hustler HyperDrive

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Product weight: 1536 lbs, 1551 lbs, 1596 lbs, 1606 lbs, 1676 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 26 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 13 inches.
• Cutting width: 60”, 66”, and 72”.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 7 gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Vanguard Big Block EFI, Kawasaki FX1000, Kawasaki FX1000 EFI.
• Horsepower: Vanguard Big Block EFI – 40 HP, Kawasaki FX1000 – 35 HP, Kawasaki FX1000 EFI – 38.5 HP.
• Engine displacement: Vanguard Big Block EFI – 993 cc, Kawasaki FX1000 – 999 cc, Kawasaki FX1000 EFI – 999 cc.
• Fuel tank capacity: 11.7 gallons.
• Number of blades: Three.
• Maximum cutting height: 5.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1 inch.
• Transmission type: Dual Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 16 mph.
• Warranty: 5 Year / 1200 Hour (First 2 Years No Hour Limit).

A common theme among the Hustler zero-turn lineup is how they build further on existing technologies to create something either relatively better or just features that appeal to certain buyers. The HyperDrive is no different as it features the VX4 deck that we introduced already, along with many additional features like the Vanguard Big Block engine options that come with an oil guard and offer an unmatched 500-hour oil engine.

The name HyperDrive is also not entirely coincidental as this mower features the best in class and largest transmission system for a commercial grade torque with the Danfoss DDC-20 pumps and Parker TG280 wheel motors for you to soar at high speeds of up to 16 mph. And to make things better, you also get a 3000-hour hydraulic system warranty which is unlike anything we have seen. 26-inch rear tires offer excellent traction and make the ride smooth, and the build quality is kept pretty much alike the commercial-grade units we have seen so far.

• Largest transmission with Danfoss DDC-20 pumps and Parker TG280 wheel motors.
• VX4 deck.
• Oil cooler.
• 3-gallon reservoir tank.
• 13M suspension seat.
• Optional Vanguard Big Block EFI engine.
• Hydraulic system warranty.

Hustler TrimStar

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Product weight: 560 lbs, 635 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 20 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 11 inches.
• Cutting width: 36”, 48”.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 7 gauge or 10 gauge reinforced steel.
• Engine Make: Kawasaki FS541, Kawasaki FS600.
• Horsepower: Kawasaki FS541 – 15 HP, Kawasaki FS600 – 18.5 HP.
• Engine displacement: Kawasaki FS541 – 603 cc, Kawasaki FS600 – 603 cc.
• Fuel tank capacity: 3.4 gallons.
• Number of blades: Two and Three.
• Maximum cutting height: 4.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1.5 inches.
• Transmission type: Dual Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 6.3 mph.
• Warranty: 5 Year / 1200 Hour (First 2 Years No Hour Limit).

The Hustler TrimStar is quite literally in a league of its own for being the only walk-behind model in the lineup. Therefore, it is only natural that, in contrast to the other commercial-grade mowers we have seen so far, the TrimStar features a lighter design with smaller decks and engines. However, their expertise in accessing every nook and cranny and giving the lawn a finished look cannot be overlooked.

This model also has one-handed deck lifting options and an ergonomic design, making it one of the simplest to use. One excellent example of that is the H bar steering, which consolidates all the controls in one location. No compromises are made in the build or cut quality, and the Hydro Gear transmission guarantees a smooth drive.

• H Bar steering for the most ergonomic steering in the walk-behind models.
• The design makes usage and maintenance simple.
• Dual hydro system.
• Great traction on hills.

Hustler Surfer Pro

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Product weight: 470 lbs, 490 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 18 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 11 inches.
• Cutting width: 34”, 48”.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 7 or 11-gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Kawasaki FS541.
• Horsepower: 15 HP.
• Engine displacement: 603 cc.
• Fuel tank capacity: 2 gallons.
• Number of blades: Two and Three.
• Maximum cutting height: 4.75 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 2 inches.
• Transmission type: Dual Hydrostatic.
• Top ground speed: 6 mph.
• Warranty: 3 Year / 300 Hour Residential or 2 Year / 300 Hour Commercial Warranty.

The Hustler Surfer Pro is another distinctive model that, as the only stand-on model in the lineup, is quite literally in a class of its own. Although the model is part of the commercial lineup, homeowners may still use it because it has a number of features that they might find appealing.

The first one is the highly compact design amassing a total length of 58.9 inches which is ideal not only for minimal storage facilities and gated lawns but also for navigating tight spaces for a pristine lawn, an attribute cherished by newbies or professionals. With a fabricated deck and frame and a smooth drive provided by a hydrostatic transmission, the unit still possesses a commercial-grade build quality.

• Extremely compact design, it makes up a total of 58.9 inches in length.
• A V twin Kawasaki engine.
• Hydro-Gear Transmission.
• Will work on hilly terrains and less-than-ideal conditions.
• Budget-friendly.
• Limited power and performance.
• Mowing the edges might be a challenge with the small deck sizes.

Hustler Diesel Z

Manufacturer Specifications:

• Product weight: 1656 lbs, 1711 lbs, 1766 lbs, 1816 lbs.
• Rear wheel size: 24 inches.
• Front-wheel size: 13 inches.
• Cutting width: 60”, 72”.
• Deck type: Fabricated.
• Deck material: 7 gauge steel.
• Engine Make: Perkins.
• Horsepower: 25 HP.
• Engine displacement: 1130 cc.
• Fuel tank capacity: 14.4 gallons.
• Number of blades: Three.
• Maximum cutting height: 5.5 inches.
• Minimum cutting height: 1 inch.
• Transmission type: Dual Hydrostatic.
• Maximum ground speed: 11.5 mph.
• Warranty: 5 Year / 1200 Hour (First 2 Years No Hour Limit)

Hustler is at it with the self-explanatory naming of the models, and as you may have guessed by now, the Hustler Diesel Z is a zero-turn mower that runs on diesel. An excellent fuel economy is paired with a 25 HP Perkins engine and dual hydrostatic transmission, which provides plenty of power and performance and a remarkable top speed of 11.5 mph.

This mower also features a large fuel tank with a capacity of 14.4 gallons, so you do not have to worry about refueling. The build and cut quality and other attributes of a Hustler zero-turn mower stay intact in the diesel variant as well.

• I3M Suspension Seat.
• Cup holder.
• With a trademarked belt drive system, you can get up to three times the usual service life.
• Easy service and maintenance.
• With the current price hikes of petrol and diesel, this might not be the most economically sound decision.

Customer Feedback | Hustler Zero-Turn Mower Reviews

To give you a better sense and understanding of the products from the experiences of past buyers, we have included some mixed reviews of the most popular models in the residential and commercial lineups. Read on to find out.

A homeowner shares their delight in owning a Hustler Raptor and describes its maneuverability. They say, ”I purchased the 54″ Raptor X as my first zero-turn mower. Last year, my wife and I moved to a house on a 3-acre lot. I can mow my front yard in an hour and my backyard in another hour. The backyard has lots of small pines I have to maneuver around. I absolutely love the mower and anticipate getting many years out of it. I would highly recommend it.”

Another happy customer takes their time to talk about all the features they like about the mower. They mention, “Superb power and seamless control. Not over-engineered with too many substandard electronics. A little bit of a gas guzzler, but it can be difficult to avoid in a commercial non-diesel vehicle with respectable power. A very stable deck that barely moves at all. I occasionally read outside in the yard from a very comfortable seat that feels like a motorized recliner. Fantastic machine.

A lawncare professional talks about how Hustler has been a great addition to their decades of legacy in the business. In their own words, “Purchased earlier this year. For context, I’ve been operating a commercial lawn care company for at least two decades. I have years of experience driving a Ferris belt drive and an Encore hydro walk behind. I sold the others and purchased the 36″ Trimstar using fleet pricing. Beautifully constructed and laid out. Especially as I get older, I love the electric start.

I also appreciate the substantial front tires and big drive wheels. In my opinion, a remotely adjusted deck is a bit much but a great feature. I’ll get a lot done with this device. While T-bar steering still requires some getting used to, it appears to be effective. Matches are another bonus! Bravo, Hustler!”

On the other hand, one customer received damaged equipment and expressed their rightful dissatisfaction. They say, “I received my lawnmower with bent arms, and the dealer is now trying to blame me for it. This is abhorrent customer service. The vehicle was delivered while I was away and was parked in my garage when I got home. The dealer claimed it was my fault, so I contacted Hustler. After a week of no response, they said it was between the dealer and me. Here you are if you want to spend four thousand dollars on something only to arrive broke.”

And this customer goes into detail about the design flaws and incapabilities of the model as they mention, “Despite having a lot of speed and power, the cut quality suffers in dryer environments. As soon as I brought it home, the stickers started to fall off. One day the fuel line clogged, and I assumed it was plastic from the tank stuck at the tank switch valve. I doubt I’ll purchase any more Hustler products after this, even though my dealer was great to work with, and it’s not their fault the factory can’t produce a quality product. The biggest problem was the tensioner pulley was tilting and cutting a 1/4″ deep groove in the tensioner guide within the first 10 hours of owning it.”

FAQs | Hustler Zero-Turn Mower

Where are Hustler mowers made?

Excel Industries started producing the zero-turn mowers in Hesston, Kansas, where it still is produced to this day.

What engine is used in a Hustler zero-turn mower?

Hustler zero-turn mowers feature engines from different brands throughout their lineup, including Briggs and Stratton, Vanguard, Kawasaki, and Kohler engines. The diesel variant, on the other hand, features a Perkins engine.

Closure | Hustler Zero-Turn Mower Reviews

Hustler’s unique approach toward the lawncare industry is evident in the fact that despite a large number of models, the features are not repetitive. Seeing something new and exciting with every model is a testament to the endless hours of research and development that have gone into crafting these mowers. We have seen everything from folding frames to flip-up seats and a walk-behind or stand-on model, and with this, we have reached the end of this article.

We hope we built your understanding of the brand and zero-turn mowers in general, along with what they do right and the places where they miss. And as these machines clock in at a higher cost, we certainly want you to make an informed decision. Please reach out to us for any further queries. Happy shopping!