New John Deere ride-on mowers

By Alistair May 18, 2021 06:59 Updated

Among a host of new additions to the company’s lawn tractor and zero-turn mower ranges for 2021, John Deere has expanded its commercial ZTrak ZTR range to include two new petrol models and two rear-discharge decks to meet customer demand.

Offering a high-output yet compact solution for groundscare professionals, particularly when working in restricted spaces, John Deere zero-turn mowers are based on a robust, heavy-duty frame including a ROPS. The high-gauge PRO steel rotary cutting decks feature a deep mowing chamber designed to handle more grass for increased capacity. This increases airflow so that a quality cut can be achieved even when mowing at maximum speed.

The new Z740R semi-commercial mower is powered by a Kawasaki 23.5hp commercial grade petrol engine, while the Z950R commercial machine has a larger Kawasaki 27hp petrol engine and is equipped with Michelin Tweel X Turf airless radial tyres as standard (these are optional on the smaller model). Both mowers feature an adjustable operator platform and ComfortGlide suspension seat with armrests, with easy access to a quick-change height-of-cut dial and on-the-go tracking adjustments to maximise mowing performance.

The Z740R offers a choice of high-capacity 122 or 137cm (48 or 54in) side-discharge decks, while the larger Z950R is available with 137 or 152cm (54 or 60in) side-discharge and new 152cm (60in) rear-discharge decks. John Deere’s existing Stage V diesel engine zero-turn mowers, the Z994R 24.7hp and Z997R 37.4hp models, can now be fitted with a choice of 152cm (60in) side-discharge and new 152 or 183cm (60 or 72in) rear-discharge decks in addition to the previously available side-discharge options, depending on model.

The new heavy-duty rear-discharge decks employ a single-belt deck design for easy maintenance, and are mulching enabled for a cleaner finish. These have been introduced to the John Deere zero-turn mower range for the first time, specifically for those customers who require this particular configuration to meet contract requirements.

All these new zero-turn mowers also provide easy access for servicing and on-board diagnostics, while available attachments include a tool carrier, striping brush and storage tray.

Available in Europe since 2019, when they were introduced on John Deere’s ZTrak 900 Series commercial ZTR mowers, the Michelin X Tweel Turf airless radial tyre virtually eliminates tyre downtime from punctures when compared to traditional pneumatic tyres, and is almost maintenance free.

It has the same dimensions and bolt pattern as a standard tyre, but features automotive rubber technology that allows the tread to last up to three times longer. The Tweel also reduces ground compaction and increases ride quality, which is enhanced by the mowers’ ComfortGlide seat.