Mowing the lawn can be much more than just a chore: it’s my personal motorsport. Approaching forty and having recently become a homeowner, I discovered an unexpected passion for mowing, not for the lawn’s appearance, but for the expert piloting of my zero-turn riding mower.
The Thrills of a Driver on Their Tractor
Using a riding mower stimulates the same senses as sports driving. You need to find the perfect balance between speed and control, anticipate the terrain, and develop a symbiosis with your machine. Our several-acre property includes a fenced area for the dogs and a grassy strip before the forest. Navigating along fences requires surgical precision, while the mowing strategy becomes a real puzzle: is it more effective to divide the terrain into sections or to make large, complete laps?
My Cub Cadet ZT1 42E Electric
After starting with an old manual mower, I inherited a nearly new Cub Cadet ZT1 42E electric. This was my first experience with an electric vehicle, and the choice proved perfect for residential maintenance. Sufficient range for our 3.3 acres, fast charging in a few hours, quiet operation, and no emissions: electric is ideal for mowing.
Mastering the Technique of a High-Performance Machine
The unique feature of the zero-turn lies in its independent drive wheels, allowing for on-the-spot turns like a tank. I even developed a controlled-slide technique by playing with the speed levers, adding style and efficiency to my maneuvers. Progress is measurable: I reduced my mowing time from two hours to under 1 hour 30 minutes, always seeking to optimize my path as if on a racetrack.
The Advantages and Challenges of Electric Mowing
While I probably wouldn’t have bought an electric mower myself, I’m not complaining about the pleasure it brings. The only notable drawbacks: some difficulty in very tall grass (which forces me to mow more regularly) and the need to store it indoors in winter, which takes up considerable space in my garage.
Conclusion: An Accessible Mechanical Hobby
Mowing has become much more than a household task: it’s a technical, rewarding, and measurable hobby. Between the route strategy, mastering the machine, and the personal challenge of constant improvement, I’ve turned an obligation into one of my favorite mechanical activities.