Buyers Guide for the Best Riding Mowers for Hills in 2022

Mowers are machines that cut grass to an even length using one or more spinning blades. The shaver employs a quickly revolving blade or blades to shave the surface of your lawn’s grass. As a result, finding the best mower for mowing hills is critical.

It’s one thing to mow a regular lawn without tricky curves and steps, but it’s quite another to mow a steep slope. Mowing the hills has a number of obstacles; not only are they difficult, but they also require equipment that can function on steep hills and get the job done.

That implies that if you don’t spend enough time researching mowers, especially for slopes, you may have a more difficult time selecting the proper ones. We made your life easy by conducting the research to identify the finest riding mowers for hills for you.

Best Riding Mowers for Hills 2022 Review

You can make an informed decision after reviewing the models listed below.

1. Husqvarna MZ61 61 in. 27 HP Briggs & Stratton Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower

Husqvarna’s MZ range of zero-turn mowers are ideal for improved performance. The MZ 61 lawnmower, with its 61-inch cutting deck, is ideal for household or commercial property maintenance. Husqvarna’s 61.1-inch MZ series single-blade zero-turn lawn mower has commercial-grade power and great maneuverability.

Briggs Endurance 27 HP engine

Its 27 HP Briggs Endurance engine ensures dependable start-ups and great ground speed. The steel cutting deck allows for a 54-inch cut and the deck-lifting system provides for quick and easy adjustment from the operator’s seat.

9-bushel triple bag

It includes a 9-bushel triple bag collection system and can discharge, mulch, or bag clippings. It also comes with a mulching kit and a bagger attachment, both of which can be purchased separately.

Hydraulic System with Commercial Approval

The professionally approved hydraulic system and heavy-duty steel frame deliver a premium mowing experience. Furthermore, the high-back seat with armrests and adjustable steering levers may provide a smooth and pleasant ride.

The high back seat with armrests, foam-padded hand grips, and vibration dampeners are designed to last for hours.

Pros

• With a hydrostatic transmission and zero-turn technology, you can easily move around obstructions.
• With a high back and easy access to all of your levers, you will not only feel comfortable when using the mower, but you will also notice that you do not need to continually adjust yourself.
• You can either bag or mulch your grass clippings.
• Keep the grass cuttings on your yard.

Cons

• Expensive
• This mower isn’t very different from the competitors.

Verdict

The Husqvarna MZ61 zero turn mower boasts outstanding power and efficiency, making it ideal for gardening. Anything is possible with complete control over where the mower goes and ultimate comfort while driving. Briggs and Stratton engines are dependable and have features such as hydrostatic gear transmissions that allow you to mow vast lawns fast and easily.

2. Husqvarna YTA24V48 24V Fast Continuously Variable Transmission Pedal Tractor Mower

Husqvarna riding mowers provide exceptional performance and results. It is excellent for 2-3 acre flat and irregular terrain yards. It is easier to manage and requires less storage room than larger lawn tractors due to its compact size.

These tractors have features that make them easy to operate, such as a height adjustable cutting blade on the fender and an ergonomic steering wheel. All riding lawn tractors have hydrostatic gearboxes that provide smooth forward and reverse speed control.

Induction technology allows for increased airflow through the deck, ensuring a clean, uniform cut with each pass through the deck. All types are adjustable in a variety of ways and come with optional towable accessories and mulch kits for fertilizing your grass effectively.

24-hp, 724cc Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin engine

Its Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin engine produces 24% more horsepower and comes with ReadyStart for easy starting and full pressure lubrication.

Pedal-operated Automatic Transmission

The pedal-activated automatic transmission includes cruise control for stable speed even in tough terrain.

Electric Cutting Blade Engagement

The electric cutting blade is readily activated by a switch on the control panel, and when using the deck lever, the fender mounts on the machine’s side for a more convenient position.

Reinforced 48-in cutting Deck with 4 anti-scalp Deck Wheels

The 48-inch reinforced cutting deck is combined with four anti-scalp deck wheels to preserve the turf from wear and tear.

Adjustable High-Back Seat

Its high back seats can be adjusted to your liking. To keep you comfortable during your daily commute, the car also has armrests, a superior comfort steering wheel, and an easy step-through construction.

Pros

• Simple to use
• Choke-free start
• The mower with a sturdy deck is ideal for small hills.
• The deck is simply removed.
• Air induction technology that increases cut quality
• Six deck spots varying in size from 1.5 to 4 inches
• It can be outfitted with trailers, brushes, and other accessories to be used for a number of purposes.
• Power CVT transmission (automatic) engines that ensure consistent engine speed

Cons

• When switching between forward and reverse, transmission mods feel jerky.
• The foot pedals are of poor quality.
• Poor performance in snowy conditions
• The gas tank level indicator is difficult to notice.

Verdict

This equipment should not be used in a hilly yard or lawn. However, we have no concerns in suggesting it to those who have a wide area to mow that is mostly flat with a few variations here and there. It can also be acquired for a reasonable price.

3. Ryobi 38 inches 100 Ah Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower RY48111

The Ryobi Lawn Mower RY48111 is a 48-Volt alternative to a regular riding lawn mower. Instead of typical gas, a 100AH lead acid battery drives the device, allowing it to run for two and a half hours.

This mower is quiet and emits 70dB to avoid disturbing your neighbors. This vehicle also has LED headlights, a USB phone charger, and the option of cruise control. The 38-inch 6-blade deck and 12-position inclination allow you to cut cleanly and levelly whenever you desire. You can also adjust this lawn mower manually. When you’re through, you can conveniently charge your motorcycle via the back charging port.

38 inches 100 Ah Battery with Electric Rear Engine

This model comes with a Ryobi 38-inch 100 Ah Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower to keep it running.

3 Brushless Motors

It includes three brushless motors that provide higher power and performance.

Low-Maintenance Nature

This lawnmower is fantastic since it requires very little maintenance. When you’re finished mowing with the device, there’s no big mess to clean up.

LED Lights

It includes a high-efficiency LED light that may be used at any time of day. You may tow trailers or lawn carts with the integrated hitch.

2.5 Hours of Runtime

It has a runtime of up to 2.5 hours and can mow 2.5 acres without stopping.

Pros

• Dual blades on a 38-inch cutting deck
• Cruise management
• The operation was carried out in complete silence.
• 12 mower deck height positions
• Batteries with a capacity of 100 Ah MP3 player charging port

Cons

• The blade switch’s close closeness and the reverse
• It struggles with rough lawns
• Lacks a smart charging feature.
• Lawns larger than two acres are not advised.

Verdict

This is a great lawn mower for anyone searching for an eco-friendly riding lawn mower with a lot of functions. It differs from traditional lawnmowers in its ability to generate amazing results for an extended period of time on a single charge.

4. Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower

The Husqvarna Z254 Zero Turn Mower combines cutting-edge design, performance, and features to make lawn mowing enjoyable but not uncomfortable. The Z254 mower has a 54-inch reinforced steel cutting deck and a 26-horsepower Kohler engine.

A maintenance-free transmission and an innovative design make this a simple mower to own season after season.

Air Induction Mowing Technology

With its air induction technology, the deck is meant to suck air from the top and bottom to improve grass lift.

Maintenance-Free Transmission

The maintenance-free, integrated zero-turn transmissions provide pure performance without the worry of maintenance.

Rugged Frame and Casters

The strong frame and casters ensure that the chassis does not twist in addition to being durable.

Convenient Deck Lift

The deck lift has spring support for simplicity of operation and is conveniently situated at the top of the lift for simple operator access.

Reinforced Steel Cutting Deck

The stamped cutting deck is strengthened on the leading edge and trim side with thick flat stock steel for further strength and durability.

Pros

• The engine produces 21.5 horsepower
• Has a 52-inch cutting deck.
• Outstanding in terms of performance.
• More durable than standard mowers
• Warranty included.

Cons

• A little pricey.
• Not suitable for smaller lawns.

Verdict

The Husqvarna Z254 is one of the most durable and powerful mowers on the market. The hydrostatic transmission makes handling simple and allows you to mow acres of grass swiftly and easily. Overall, this hydrostatic zero turn mower is a great buy.

5. Ariens 915223 IKON-X 52″ Zero Turn Mower 23hp Kawasaki FR691 Series

Because of its high-end residential quality components, the Ariens IKON X 52-in provides excellent power and performance. This zero-turn mower is more durable and long-lasting because to its powerful 23 HP Kawasaki FR V-Twin engine and 52-inch 11-gauge steel manufactured deck. This machine has three cutting blades and a 52-inch cutting diameter and is built with a heavy-duty, completely welded steel tube frame for durability and reliability. Ariens prioritizes the development of low-maintenance machinery.

The Ariens IKON X 52-in zero-turn riding mower has a plethora of premium features and is designed to offer Professional results, making it one of the best zero-turn mowers on the market. The FR series engine has iron cylinder liners for optimal durability, as well as an automated compression release for simpler starting and an internally ventilated carburetor for improved fuel efficiency.

Twin EZT hydrostatic Transaxles

This mower is equipped with Twin EZT hydrostatic transaxles, which are designed to give precise, effortless, and responsive control, ensuring that no accidents occur.

18 hp Kawasaki or 22 hp Kohler Engine

The 52-inch deck type is available with two engine options: a 24 horsepower Kohler and a 23 hp Kawasaki. Furthermore, both of these engines are extremely user-friendly. The Kawasaki FR series has a reputation for durability.

52-In 11-Gauge Steel Fabricated Deck

It has an integrated 52-inch 11-gauge steel manufactured deck with three blades that provides a superb cut every time, so you won’t have to mow as frequently.

Dial-Operated Cutting Height Selector

This feature eliminates the need for pins and levers to adjust cutting height; it is a foot-operated deck lift with 13 cutting height options ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 inches for unique cuts.

Dual Arm Deck Lift

This mower’s deck has a 4-point attachment mechanism that assures deck stability and straight cuts.

Extra Strength and Stability

It is extra sturdy and stable due to its full welded tubular steel frame with 3-in by 1.5-in frame rails that are not bolted at every joint.

High Back Seat and Armrests

The Ariens IKON-X 52′′ Zero Turn Mower boasts a high back comfort seat with standard armrests, which offers the rider with excellent operator comfort. Furthermore, the control arms are rubber-padded to reduce vibrations while using the machine.

Pros

• The Ariens 915223 IKON-X is a rigid mower that cuts grass well.
• This mower features a powerful engine that allows it to deliver tremendous torque even at low speeds.
• A piece of its deck protrudes more on one side, allowing you to cut grass along curb edges.
• The Kawasaki engine is powerful enough to cut huge yards of grass with ease.
• The 52-inch Zero-Turn Mower has outstanding handling and is simple to use.
• Finally, this mower is a fantastic mower at an affordable price.

Cons

• The mower’s narrow wheelbase enables it to wheelie while climbing a slight hill or delivering big trailer loads.
• The springs under the seat might cause a bumpy ride.
• The purchasing price does not include headlights.

Verdict

In general, the Ariens IKON-X is one of the greatest zero-turn mowers on the market. It’s unquestionably one of the best. This product is packed with useful features and is reasonably priced. If you’re in the market for a mower, we strongly advise you to look into this model.

6. Ryobi Battery Electric Rear Engine (Coming)

The Ryobi 38-inch Lawn Mower has a 38-inch twin blade cutting deck with 12 adjustable positions that allow you to tailor the grass height based on the conditions. If the previous few months were especially dry, you might leave your grass longer than 2.5 inches long. Their goal is to assist the lawn in retaining moisture. Such covers are especially useful if your grass is larger than usual or if your irrigation system has yet to function.

Simultaneously, the summer season has been a mixed bag of rain and sunshine. If you use this strategy on your lawn, it will increase grass growth. In this case, you lower the 38-inch dual blade deck to break up the thatch that is choking the grass.

100 Ah Battery

This Ryobi model has matured into a reliable riding mower. The machine is powered by a 100 Ah lead-acid battery. On a full charge, the battery will provide the machine with a maximum runtime of 2.5 hours or 2.5 acres.

3-brushless Electric Motors

It has three brushless motors in its rear-mounted engine, which makes it much quieter to operate than a normal gasoline engine. This product emits 70 decibels, making it a fantastic choice for homeowners with a large yard but live close to neighbors because it will not irritate them at all.

Dual Blade Deck

This 38-inch dual-blade deck features 12 manually adjustable cutting heights for precise results. It is useful for leaving the grass longer during dry periods and mowing it short during wet periods. Aside from its size, this grass cutter can also mow a large yard.

LED Headlights

In addition to the above listed features, the Ryobi RY48111 includes a USB recharge port, cruise control, and LED lights. On paper, the LED lights may not appear to be all that “Special.” On paper, they may appear to be a standard feature. However, when you strive to complete cutting the lawn as the sun sets, the energy efficiency of LED is excellent.

Music Options

Its unique feature is that you can link your smartphone or MP3 player to it and listen to music while mowing with it. This feature is available with this remarkably quiet electric lawnmower.

Built-in Seat Suspension

Trimming tough grass is simple with the Ryobi RY48111. Although it has been tested and confirmed to perform effectively, the suspension of the Ryobi RY48111 is a little bumpy due to the seat suspension, especially when the cruise control is activated. A hilly or uneven lawn might be difficult to cut for extended periods of time.

Easy usage

The Ryobi RY48111 is well-liked for its ease of use. Nonetheless, it can handle slopes of up to 15%.

Maintenance

Electric lawn mowers have the advantage of being both pleasant and simple to maintain. The RY48111’s lead-acid batteries, on the other hand, may be recharged using a standard household outlet. It’s worth noting that the gadget lacks a built-in smart charging feature. Overcharging can be dangerous, so don’t leave it for too long once it’s been fully charged.

Cleaning

After mowing, this efficient electric lawnmower is simple to clean. At most, you’ll want to use an air cannon or an air canister to blow off any stray grass clippings after cranking the blade height to the proper height.

Built-in hitch

The Ryobi RY48111 comes with a built-in hitch, which should not be disregarded. This hitch enables you to use other accessories, such as a lawn cart or aerator, to wake up your grass for the day.

Cautions 

If it is particularly cold in your location, it may be a good idea to remove the lead-acid batteries and store them somewhere warm. In extreme temperatures, fully charged batteries are recommended to prevent the chances of the batteries freezing and cracking.

Safety Feature

Ryobi riding mowers include all of the safety features of a standard lawnmower, such as blade discharge and a reverse switch. You should be aware that the blade discharge and reverse switch are close together, and you may want to shift your focus away from the grass when changing gears.

Pros

• The Ryobi RY48111 features an excellent turning radius and steering, making it easy to use.
• The RY48111 has several advantages that many other similar riding mowers do not have since it mops cleanly, unlike many other mowers that can get their operators muddy when mowing.
• Mowing in reverse is simple with a single switch.
• Most experts believe the lawnmower’s quality to be one of its most crucial characteristics.
• Users generally rate the mower as simple to maintain.
• Some folks may like a battery gauge that shows how long the mower has been running and the condition of charge.
• The lawnmower includes LED headlights to make it easier to mow at night.
• The speed of this mower is one of its main advantages.
• It has an extremely low noise level, which makes it suitable for customers who want to mow early in the morning or late at night.
• With the power of the mower, it is simple to traverse tiny ditches.

Cons

• It is less efficient than a gas-powered riding mower and should be slowed down for taller materials.
• You can’t hit the switch and travel forward or backward without looking down and at the board, and pressing the button disengages the blade.
• There are occasions when you can sense bumps in the mower.
• It lacks smart charging capabilities.
• The reverse and blade switches are close together, so the journey backward can be abrupt at times.

Verdict

So, if you want the greatest features at a fair price, the Ryobi 38 inches 100 Lawn Mower RY48111 is a great option.

7. RYOBI RY48ZTR100-1A 42 in. 100 Ah Battery Electric Riding Zero Turn Mower and Bagging Kit

The RYOBI RY48ZTR100 is a riding lawnmower with an electric engine in the rear. It also has numerous other advantages. You can mow while reducing pollutants and gas from mowing lawns with Ryobi 48-Volt Riding Lawn Mowers. The mower is powered by 75Ah batteries to save fuel, making it an excellent option for gas-powered lawn mowers.

This Ryobi 48-Volt Riding Mower includes a 38 x 2-Blade Deck as well as 4 Adjustable Manual Deck for an excellent level cut. To improve cutting efficiency, the Ryobi 48V mower has wireless charging, an LED light, and cruise control technology.

Low maintenance

This mower requires no belts, spark plugs, or filters to operate, making maintenance a breeze.

Battery

This mower’s battery alternative is especially convenient because it does not emit any gas fumes. Because the motor is powered by a 48V 75Ah battery, it emits no pollution. It includes three brushes for increased power and performance. It can comfortably run for around 2 hours or 2 acres. You only need to charge its battery to get it going.

Dual high powered brushless motors

It has dual-powered brushless motors that can run for hours on end.

Quiet cutting

You won’t have to worry about your neighbors complaining about the loud noise this mower makes while cutting grass on your lawn because it works extremely quietly.

Cruise control

It has cruise control, which makes the control system simple.

USB charging

It supports USB charging.

LED headlights

Its LED headlights make it conspicuous at night and help to avoid accidents.

38 in. 2-blade deck

Its 38-inch 2-blade deck cuts the grass so cleanly that you won’t have to repeat the same track.

Pros

• Working quietly
• It has headlights.
• Has a USB charging port
• A pleasant ride
• Easy to maintain
• There is no need to replenish fuel or oil.
• Time efficient

Cons

• Not suitable for huge lawns.
• The seat is insufficiently secured.
• There are no passenger seats.

Verdict

This model stands apart from the crowd not only because it lacks an engine and a petrol tank, but also because it has three high-performance batteries. Also included is a USB port for charging your phone while cutting lawn with your cord.

8. Husqvarna Z142 42 in. 17 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower

The Husqvarna Z142 is intended to be the best mower for vast areas that require speedy mowing. The machine’s performance is enhanced with a conveniently accessible control panel and a hydrostatic transmission controlled by steering controls.

Husqvarna’s Z142 zero-turn lawn mower provides customers with compact power to take care of their lawns swiftly and conveniently. The Z142 has a 42-inch stamped cutting deck and a 17-horsepower Kohler engine that can handle residential turf management. This machine has unrivaled mobility, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t upgrade to a zero-turn mower sooner.

Kohler Engine

This mower has a 17 HP Kohler engine that assures dependable starts and a top speed of 6.5 MPH. It boasts a commercial grade engine from Kohler that has a long life and quality components for optimal mowing performance.

Durability

It has a reinforced steel stamped cutting deck made of heavy-gauge flat-stock steel, which ensures a long-lasting machine.

Air Induction Mowing Technology

This mower employs sophisticated Air induction mowing technology to draw air from the top and bottom of the deck, which both improves and cuts the grass.

Rugged Frame and Casters

This mower’s robust frame and casters provide longevity and reduce chassis flex.

Convenient Deck Lift

This mower’s deck lift system is spring-assisted, making it simple to use and conveniently located within easy reach of the operator.

Ergonomic Control Panel

This mower has an intuitive control panel with everything right at your fingertips.

Zero Maintenance

In terms of maintenance, the zero-turn transmission is worry-free, allowing the mower to face a wide range of cutting challenges.

Separate Accessories

Clippings can be dumped as mulch, bagged, or manually mulched (mulching kit, bagging attachment accessible separately).

Pros

• Long-lasting construction ensures that it will stay working for years to come.
• Features Kohler engine, which guarantees quality
• It takes less time to mow than standard mowers.
• Service with no upkeep It saves time and effort by providing a smooth and comfortable ride.
• Can withstand severe weather
• The seat is quite comfy, making all of the job more enjoyable.

Cons

• There is no passenger seat
• Insufficient efficient lighting to work at night
• The absence of night lighting raises the likelihood of nighttime accidents.
• The mulching kit and the bagging attachment are both offered separately.
• It can be used on hills, but it is not ideal.
• It may be too large for tiny lawns.

Verdict

You can certainly go for this mower if you want to save time and do things smoothly because it has advanced technology of air induction cut.

What Do You Need to Know About Best Riding Mowers for Hills?

You may have been using the proper fertilizers, herbicides, and seeds; however, a zero-turn mower is required to keep your property healthy and vibrant. This machine functions as a link between a standard push lawn mower and a tractor, giving you the freedom to keep your lawn tidy. Furthermore, it is extremely maneuverable, with sharp turns and the ability to cut in tight spaces.

Recent technological advancements have enabled brilliant advancements in the field of lawn mowers. Today’s lawn mowers come in a variety of styles, ranging from riding mowers to hill mowers.

If you need to buy a lawn mower, this buying guide should help you figure out what you should look for when looking for a lawnmower for your landscaping needs.

1. Powerful Engine

The first thing you should look for is a powerful engine in the mower you intend to purchase. If you intend to mow uphill, you should get a mower with enough power to balance the weight of the mower at ground level. The best riding mowers have powerful engines from reputable manufacturers such as Kohler, Yamaha, and Briggs and Stratton. You must select a commercial mower with a power capacity of at least 21-25 horsepower. It is critical because the entire weight of the component will act against the motion when mowing uphill. As a result, a powerful engine is required to ensure that the job is completed successfully.

2. Cutting Deck Size

Second, you must assess its suitability for its intended purpose. A large cutting deck is the most important feature of any lawnmower. The mower will cover a larger surface area while mowing due to its larger deck area. Nonetheless, the deck cutting size should be determined by the location of your mower. A full-deck should always be used on a large landscape, such as a golf course. If you’re looking for a home mower, opt for something with a smaller deck size. The cutting deck should be height adjustable with multiple height settings so that you can properly trim grass based on the terrain and required requirements.

3. The Turning Radius

Turning the mower is more difficult on hilly terrain. There is always the risk of falling and being injured if the mower is not properly controlled while turning. As a result, it is preferable to purchase lawn mowers with a small turning radius rather than a large one. A smaller turning radius allows the mower to maneuver more easily around obstacles. The size of the mower determines the turning radius. A large mower’s turning radius may be greater.

4. Cutting Width

The cutting width must then be checked. A lawn mower’s cutting width is the width of the strip that the blades can cut. As a result, if you have a large lawn or want to mow it faster, a lawn mower 60 inches wide or wider will do the job effectively. Medium-sized lawn mowers typically have a cutting width of 50-60 inches, whereas small lawn mowers have a cutting width of less than 50 inches.

5. Cutting Height Adjusting

You should also check to see if the cutting height is adjustable, as different lawns require different-sized cutters. The grass height must be set appropriately because the grass must be a certain height in order to achieve a perfect cut with any type of lawnmower. The best landscaping mowers are those with height-adjustable blades. Depending on how tall the grass is, you should be able to change the height incrementally. The percentage could be in 1/4 to 1/2-inch increments.

6. Durability

Of course, you should look into the mower’s durability and construction. Because it is quite expensive, you must ensure that it is suitable for long-term use. You should look for a powerful, tough machine with a long-lasting frame. Look for models with a strong frame made of corrosion-resistant metal, a powerful blade, and a comfortable seat for long hours of work.

7. Easy Operation

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a lawn mower is its ease of use. Operating a lawn mower can be a difficult task. Riding mowers for hours can be exhausting, so make sure all seats are comfortable and have a proper backrest and armrest. It is also critical to ensure that the machine is simple to use and start. You don’t want to feel stupid for wasting so much money on a piece of junk.

8. Purpose

Consider whether you will be using the mower for residential or commercial purposes. In comparison to a commercial-grade lawn mower, a residential mower will cover smaller residential yards and will be more difficult to maintain and service. Commercial lawn mowers, on the other hand, are typically larger, more serviceable, and offer faster mowing speeds. This makes them ideal for mowing large areas of land. As a result, you must select your lawn mower carefully.

9. Comfort

It is critical to consider whether your mower is comfortable enough for you because you will be spending a lot of time in it while working in your garden or backyard. If you intend to work in the garden for several hours, make sure you buy a lawnmower with an optional comfortable seat and armrests. Seats with cup holders are a huge plus. So you can have a cup of coffee while working or simply drink water to avoid dehydration.

Q&A

Final Thoughts

We hope that this comprehensive buying guide will assist you in making an informed decision on the mowers you have chosen. Because this is a review based on extensive research, you can trust it completely. Of course, there are numerous other models on the market, but these are the ones that have been tested and will provide the best performance.