I bought the ZTS1 46" 2 minutes after test driving one. I mow about an acre outside my property as the factory that owns it only mows once the grass gets to about 6 inches high, which is not ideal to keep snakes away from our yard here in Australia. I had never driven a lap bar model, but the dealer said try the steering wheel model and it felt so comfortable, and could literally turn on its own axis, so I was hooked. While I did want a 42", they did not have one in stock, and it would have been well into the new year before we got one, so the 46" it was.
I bought the ZTS2 50” model back in March ‘22. Now it’s September and here’s a few thoughts about the mower… Firstly, the Ultima series mowers seem to be really well designed in general, whether a lap bar model or with Synchro-Steer wheel. One thing to consider is the S2 models have a heavier grade Hydro-Drive transmission (ZT-2800), which might be advantageous if you’re planning to do any hauling or a lot of mowing on steep hills. I had previously been using a 20 year old John Deere SST16 zero turn mower with steering wheel, so I was already accustomed to the basic operating system…. But of course the John Deere did not have steerable front wheels. (that JD design has been discontinued for many years now). With that being said, the Cub Cadet Synchro-Steer is nothing short of amazing. It really is the best of both worlds… variable counter rotating hydraulic rear transmissions and steerable front wheels. But what I didn’t anticipate was how useful this would be with only one arm to steer with. Early in July, I was in an accident that dislocated my shoulder and severely tore my rotator cuff, requiring surgery. With my arm tied up in a sling, there was no way I would’ve been able to safely use a lap bar mower. The Synchro-Steer steering wheel system was easily usable with one arm allowing me to continue mowing my lawn following shoulder surgery. Overall, the mower, along with its Kohler 7000 Pro series engine has been performing flawlessly. Very highly recommended!
Going to pick up my ZTS2 tomorrow.. I was one of the first to get the Toro SW4200 with the steering wheel. It took two hands to steer, unlike the current ZTS2. I Wore it out.. not well designed, light duty replaced everything except the Hydro's and Engine itself. Starter, Every Switch, Clutch, Spindle, Brake Controller, Belt All were crap. Bent the stamped deck. Got into welding and kept fixing/reinforcing it, Added X-Blades, Added super suction, Dump Basket, Big Tires, Spacers. It would climb a wall of Mud pulling a 600Lb roller! One thing to note is often the commercial part will fit the residential product with very simple mods if any. Worthy of a check if you're replacing a part anyway. I believe the Toro/MTD/CCadet all had SW versions, but CCadet is where it landed and was perfected. I got the Toro like 12 years ago? Ready to upgrade. Wish they had the S2 in a narrower deck that would/could fit in a pickup truck, but ready for a trailer and 3 spindles is better than two I guess. More Toys!!
This is mower the for me. Best of both worlds. I like to relax with music and a cold beverage while mowing. With traditional ZT, I feel you have to be a little more aware of steering than with a tractor style. Glad to see someone try this.
Love the steering wheel model. I would never go back to sticks. I have had two Cubs. I keep upgrading the width. Started with 50' now I am at 54' and I will someday get a 60'. I mow straight across a 25 degree slope. I have absolutely no problem. Try that with sticks. I am running at 7 mph.
Hey Mark! Congrats on getting to use that fine piece of machinery. Cub Cadet is where it’s at. My late Brother in law wouldn’t own anything else. They are built well, cut great, and are reliable and long lasting. I’m a little ‘upset’ about your yard! It’s lush and green! I’m so jealous! 😆 My yard is looking rough this year. It does look really nice Mark. I think I would prefer the steering wheel, less coordination required on my part! 😂 But since I mainly push mow my grass, a mower like this would be overkill, so I don't see one of these in my immediate future? Take care Mark! 👍👍👍✌🤜🏻😊
Thanks George, we're getting a lot of rain lately and sun too, so things are growing fast. I've been a Cub Cadet fan growing up seeing my grandpa use his for many many years. He even drove it into town often when he couldn't drive his car anymore.
Very well done brother. Great editing, music, the whole 9 yards! Love how you incorporated the family, the grill, everything about it Mark. Nice job my man👊
No option it was ZTS1 46" because it was all the dealer had and I live on a hill. Found it tackles the slopes, tight turns, tall grass (+2 ft) and rough ground. Added a 2.25" wood foot rest under right pedal to give the leg a rest when going slow (1 to 2 mph) on the rough ground. Worth the 6 month wait for backordered mowers to arrive.
I've owned both lap bar and wheel Cubs........the wheel cub is slower, but more stable........it's also easier on your arms if you have arthritis or other medical issues. The lap bar is a faster machine, but not as comfortable. The " reverse issue " is a non-issue....you can go just as fast in reverse.
The last time I was on a riding mower was probably 55 years ago so I can't really comment on your question which type would I choose for steering. I'd have to try them out first. The glaring deal breaker for me however is the 3-step process just to mow in reverse. Backing up a combine is easier. Good video though. Can't wait to see the follow up.
That's a funny comparison to know a combine is easier to back up. I wish there was a toggle switch that I could leave in one position, but after using the mower a bit, the process just takes a couple seconds and once you position the key, it will mow in reverse the entire time you have it running.
So for me I love the design but have one major problem. That would be the gas pedal design and that is due to leg problem. Would be 100 percent sold if it had a paddle shift on steering wheel for forward and reverse control.
That would be a nice option too. My foot is fine for about an hour at a time mowing. If I go longer than that, I'll stop for a few minutes and get a drink of water and take a quick break.
I live on a very hilly property with lots of trees and landscaping features, my zero turn struggles if the grass is even slightly wet in some areas. It's very difficult to slow down and/or steer in several spots. The biggest downside to zero turns is that the drive wheels also do the steering, and braking, this looks to have solved that problem
This definitely gives me some added confidence on hilly property. When I first started mowing with zero turns, I realized that I needed to mow with the least amount of turning on hills as possible.
Great overview. This is the direction I’m leaning toward for my next mower. Coming from a lawn tractor, the steering wheel just makes more sense than the lap bars.
Ive been kicking around the idea of one getting one. id prefer to run one before i pull the trigger. currently have sticks steer but i like the idea of these.
Could I get the ZTS2 54" on and off a 60" wide trailer? It looks like the 54" deck dimension is slightly wider than the back wheels on both sides if you flip the chute up and out of the way. Trying to confirm before I order one. Thanks.
I have a lot of hours using a lap bar mower the past 10 years, but the steering wheel works has some nice features, especially turning in tight spots and on hills.
Would someone that has this get me the measurement of the width measured outside the rear tires (not the width of the deck). I am curious if it is wider than my old riding mower. Thanks.
When I first started using this mower, I was doing the 3 point turn from habit. I find it does a nice 180 degree turn with minimal turf tearing. My lawn is growing so fast now that it's hard to see how if there's any damage to the turf or not.
Mark - turf tearing is what I am Wondering about. I have cutting a soft Bermuda lawn now. Flat and no obstacles. Just back and forth in straight lines with 180 Degree turns and wondering between this and lap Bar 50”.
I have been seeing these around or several years. A steering wheel makes the cup holder a needed feature. I’m on the fence since I gave up my riding mower over six years ago. A friend didn’t have good luck with his Cub Cadet. He traded it off after one season after the belt PTO fell off. I do like the new frames on all of the newer mowers. The safety switch for the backup is a no go for me. I’m hanging with the zero turn handle.
I've had good luck with the Cub Cadet Ultimas. I've been using the lap bar style 50" deck for 3 years now and it's going strong. This mower with the steering wheel isn't for everyone, but it definitely does well on the hills. Once you practice with it a bit, the turns are quick. I think that back up safety is required on residential mowers. I heard the commercial grade versions don't have that.
@@MarkThomasBuilder I do enjoy the color. I have the Ariens ikon 42 inch. Traded for a new model this spring. Works great my smaller yards. I am an older Cub Cadet fan…….
Can the parking brake be used for active braking when going straight down a steep grade? That's going to be critical to me as I have a few portions of my yard I can't easily just crosscut across the gradient but almost have to go straight downhill.
It seems like the mower brakes when you take your foot off the pedal. I haven't gone straight down a big hill though where I needed extra breaking power.
Their other bigger mower like this doesn't have that feature, I'm pretty sure. I'm guessing in a matter of time, you'll see some videos out there on how to bypass that feature. I was recently coming across some hacks and upgrades on the ZT1 that was launched in 2019. When I use the mower now, I automatically push the reverse button at startup which takes about 2 seconds while the engine is warming up.
@@MarkThomasBuilderHome Depot ?!? Why would you EVER buy from someone who Can't and WON'T provide you with service ???? I will be supporting a well-established dealership with my purchase, Thank You !!
I have a 3-acre lot with lots of hills. I measured my steepest incline at 27 degrees. will this Cub Cadet zero turn with steering wheel handle the hills SAFELY?? Thank you!
I was very impressed with this mower on the hills. I can only recommend mowing within the 20 degree manufacturers limit. In the past, I've heard people say to mow steep hills only going uphill on a zero turn. Cub cadet makes a commercial mower rated for grades up to 46%.
With the wider tires it only helps sideways, and should easily do more than 20 degrees. Do a Test. You can always add wheel spacers as well. Careful climbing hills, that's where you tip backwards. Looks like they increases the tail overhang which may cause it to slide backwards instead of roll backwards. No roll bar, someone must of tested it. I know what my modified Toro SW4200 steering wheel can do, and it's way more than 20 degrees, never flipped, but I know it's limits.
My concern is the complexity of the steering system with a lot more linkages and moving parts to fail. That “reverse mow” feature is the dumbest system I’ve ever seen. I fail to understand how that is going to make you mow safer in reverse. A Dealer mechanic friend of mine told me to avoid any Cubby at all costs.
I've seen lots of excellent reviews on the Ultima mowers. I'm not sure how complicated that linkage is if it ever fails. I'm hoping if anything ever went wrong, it would be within the 3 year warranty.
Its not complicated to fix if the linkages break. The 2007 i1046 model uses the same trademarked linkage system and on these mowers the gearing is so much more accessible if you were to ever need a repair.
QUESTION OF THE DAY: Would you choose a zero-turn mower with a steering wheel or lap bar? And why?
I bought the ZTS1 46" 2 minutes after test driving one. I mow about an acre outside my property as the factory that owns it only mows once the grass gets to about 6 inches high, which is not ideal to keep snakes away from our yard here in Australia. I had never driven a lap bar model, but the dealer said try the steering wheel model and it felt so comfortable, and could literally turn on its own axis, so I was hooked. While I did want a 42", they did not have one in stock, and it would have been well into the new year before we got one, so the 46" it was.
This mower works great on the hills and ditches. The lap bar wants to slide down the ditch and this one, you can steer out of the ditch.
I bought the ZTS2 50” model back in March ‘22. Now it’s September and here’s a few thoughts about the mower…
Firstly, the Ultima series mowers seem to be really well designed in general, whether a lap bar model or with Synchro-Steer wheel. One thing to consider is the S2 models have a heavier grade Hydro-Drive transmission (ZT-2800), which might be advantageous if you’re planning to do any hauling or a lot of mowing on steep hills.
I had previously been using a 20 year old John Deere SST16 zero turn mower with steering wheel, so I was already accustomed to the basic operating system…. But of course the John Deere did not have steerable front wheels. (that JD design has been discontinued for many years now).
With that being said, the Cub Cadet Synchro-Steer is nothing short of amazing. It really is the best of both worlds… variable counter rotating hydraulic rear transmissions and steerable front wheels.
But what I didn’t anticipate was how useful this would be with only one arm to steer with. Early in July, I was in an accident that dislocated my shoulder and severely tore my rotator cuff, requiring surgery. With my arm tied up in a sling, there was no way I would’ve been able to safely use a lap bar mower. The Synchro-Steer steering wheel system was easily usable with one arm allowing me to continue mowing my lawn following shoulder surgery.
Overall, the mower, along with its Kohler 7000
Pro series engine has been performing flawlessly. Very highly recommended!
Going to pick up my ZTS2 tomorrow.. I was one of the first to get the Toro SW4200 with the steering wheel. It took two hands to steer, unlike the current ZTS2. I Wore it out.. not well designed, light duty replaced everything except the Hydro's and Engine itself. Starter, Every Switch, Clutch, Spindle, Brake Controller, Belt All were crap. Bent the stamped deck. Got into welding and kept fixing/reinforcing it, Added X-Blades, Added super suction, Dump Basket, Big Tires, Spacers. It would climb a wall of Mud pulling a 600Lb roller! One thing to note is often the commercial part will fit the residential product with very simple mods if any. Worthy of a check if you're replacing a part anyway. I believe the Toro/MTD/CCadet all had SW versions, but CCadet is where it landed and was perfected. I got the Toro like 12 years ago? Ready to upgrade. Wish they had the S2 in a narrower deck that would/could fit in a pickup truck, but ready for a trailer and 3 spindles is better than two I guess. More Toys!!
This is mower the for me. Best of both worlds. I like to relax with music and a cold beverage while mowing. With traditional ZT, I feel you have to be a little more aware of steering than with a tractor style. Glad to see someone try this.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Stuart. Most mowers with a steering wheel can't turn on a dime like this one.
I got a 2014 cub cadet z force sx 60 with steering wheel and I love it and it’s like driving a go cart
That's cool! I like the steering wheel to mow the hilly areas.
Love the steering wheel model. I would never go back to sticks. I have had two Cubs. I keep upgrading the width. Started with 50' now I am at 54' and I will someday get a 60'. I mow straight across a 25 degree slope. I have absolutely no problem. Try that with sticks. I am running at 7 mph.
Good to hear your experience with this style mower. Thanks!
Hey Mark! Congrats on getting to use that fine piece of machinery. Cub Cadet is where it’s at. My late Brother in law wouldn’t own anything else. They are built well, cut great, and are reliable and long lasting.
I’m a little ‘upset’ about your yard! It’s lush and green! I’m so jealous! 😆 My yard is looking rough this year. It does look really nice Mark.
I think I would prefer the steering wheel, less coordination required on my part! 😂 But since I mainly push mow my grass, a mower like this would be overkill, so I don't see one of these in my immediate future?
Take care Mark! 👍👍👍✌🤜🏻😊
Thanks George, we're getting a lot of rain lately and sun too, so things are growing fast. I've been a Cub Cadet fan growing up seeing my grandpa use his for many many years. He even drove it into town often when he couldn't drive his car anymore.
Very well done brother. Great editing, music, the whole 9 yards! Love how you incorporated the family, the grill, everything about it Mark. Nice job my man👊
I couldn’t have summed it up any better myself! Great comment! Thanks! 👍✌😊
@@georgedavall9449 thanks man. He seems like a great guy. Love this channel
Thanks man, glad to hear it. I definitely enjoy spending time outdoors and on the lawn.
No option it was ZTS1 46" because it was all the dealer had and I live on a hill. Found it tackles the slopes, tight turns, tall grass (+2 ft) and rough ground. Added a 2.25" wood foot rest under right pedal to give the leg a rest when going slow (1 to 2 mph) on the rough ground. Worth the 6 month wait for backordered mowers to arrive.
That's good to hear. I haven't seen the ZTS2's around Michigan yet, but guess they'll be in stock for the next mowing season.
I've owned both lap bar and wheel Cubs........the wheel cub is slower, but more stable........it's also easier on your arms if you have arthritis or other medical issues. The lap bar is a faster machine, but not as comfortable. The " reverse issue " is a non-issue....you can go just as fast in reverse.
Thanks for your sharing. I can see the steering wheel being more friendly for those with medical issues. Good point.
Steering for sure. Ordered mine today. Ships after the 4th
That's cool! I should do a follow up video on it to answer the most common questions I get on it.
The last time I was on a riding mower was probably 55 years ago so I can't really comment on your question which type would I choose for steering. I'd have to try them out first. The glaring deal breaker for me however is the 3-step process just to mow in reverse. Backing up a combine is easier. Good video though. Can't wait to see the follow up.
That's a funny comparison to know a combine is easier to back up. I wish there was a toggle switch that I could leave in one position, but after using the mower a bit, the process just takes a couple seconds and once you position the key, it will mow in reverse the entire time you have it running.
Yeah, I defeated the reverse disable "Feature" on my Toro SW4200. It never worked right anyway with that second key crap.
So for me I love the design but have one major problem. That would be the gas pedal design and that is due to leg problem. Would be 100 percent sold if it had a paddle shift on steering wheel for forward and reverse control.
That would be a nice option too. My foot is fine for about an hour at a time mowing. If I go longer than that, I'll stop for a few minutes and get a drink of water and take a quick break.
Steering wheel most definitely
👍
I live on a very hilly property with lots of trees and landscaping features, my zero turn struggles if the grass is even slightly wet in some areas. It's very difficult to slow down and/or steer in several spots. The biggest downside to zero turns is that the drive wheels also do the steering, and braking, this looks to have solved that problem
This definitely gives me some added confidence on hilly property. When I first started mowing with zero turns, I realized that I needed to mow with the least amount of turning on hills as possible.
Great overview. This is the direction I’m leaning toward for my next mower. Coming from a lawn tractor, the steering wheel just makes more sense than the lap bars.
Thanks, This steering wheel version has it's benefits while mowing hills and having those front wheels to steer.
The steering wheel is great if you're around trees or something that could bump a normal zero turn handle.
Good point. I also like this model for going in and out of ditches.
Pick up my new zts2 50 Monday. Can't wait.
That's awesome, this mower can really turn on a dime and handles the hills well. The controls take a little getting used to, but easy to master.
Definitely steering wheel good job explaining the model.
Thanks, man appreciate it!😎👍
Bought the ZTS1 50 yesterday! Love the steering wheel!
That’s great, glad to hear it!
Like steering wheel
Awesome, thanks for sharing.
Ive been kicking around the idea of one getting one. id prefer to run one before i pull the trigger. currently have sticks steer but i like the idea of these.
I am considering a steering wheel zero turn mower. I have just acquired a new property with slopes to mow.
This feels nice and stable on the hills.
I got one and love it.
That's awesome, glad to hear it. I haven't seen this model yet in my local Home Depot store or Tractor Supply.
Could I get the ZTS2 54" on and off a 60" wide trailer? It looks like the 54" deck dimension is slightly wider than the back wheels on both sides if you flip the chute up and out of the way. Trying to confirm before I order one. Thanks.
Lap bar so far but willing to try
I have a lot of hours using a lap bar mower the past 10 years, but the steering wheel works has some nice features, especially turning in tight spots and on hills.
Great video. Looking forward to the next one.
Sounds good, thanks!🙌
Would someone that has this get me the measurement of the width measured outside the rear tires (not the width of the deck). I am curious if it is wider than my old riding mower. Thanks.
good video! I can tell you put in a lot of work on this one.
I appreciate it!
Hi, could you please let me know the procedure for replacing the blades on this cub cadet ? also , is it very difficult to remove the deck ?
Do you have to always have your foot pressed down on the gas peddle to keep mowing for this mower in the video?
Yes, that's correct.
@@MarkThomasBuilder Thank you so much for responding! That was a great video. Hope you and your family have a blessed day!
@@soblessed6438 I really appreciate that! Blessings to you too! 😊
Steering wheel, my wife hates the lap bar, and I like to let her mow the lawn.
Nice!
I want that mower
💯🙌
I’m purchasing this exact mower tomorrow. Do you by chance if it is easy to switch to a mulching kit for leaves in the fall?
Definitely the lat bar
Thanks for voting🙌
@@MarkThomasBuilder choose a stand on lawn mower
I'd like to demo one for a few weeks. I've driven a few, but only on flat ground.
@@MarkThomasBuilder hi mark
Hi, what size stand on mower do you like best? I haven't driven them that much, but they look interesting.
Why are you still doing 3 point turn I was understanding that with wheel setup ko turf tearing when doing 3 point turn can you show if true?
When I first started using this mower, I was doing the 3 point turn from habit. I find it does a nice 180 degree turn with minimal turf tearing. My lawn is growing so fast now that it's hard to see how if there's any damage to the turf or not.
Mark - turf tearing is what I am
Wondering about. I have cutting a soft Bermuda lawn now. Flat and no obstacles. Just back and forth in straight lines with 180
Degree turns and wondering between this and lap
Bar 50”.
@@bendoyle829 watch
Doing A Zero Turn CubCadet ZTS2
By
David Wilmoth
I have been seeing these around or several years. A steering wheel makes the cup holder a needed feature. I’m on the fence since I gave up my riding mower over six years ago. A friend didn’t have good luck with his Cub Cadet. He traded it off after one season after the belt PTO fell off. I do like the new frames on all of the newer mowers. The safety switch for the backup is a no go for me. I’m hanging with the zero turn handle.
I've had good luck with the Cub Cadet Ultimas. I've been using the lap bar style 50" deck for 3 years now and it's going strong. This mower with the steering wheel isn't for everyone, but it definitely does well on the hills. Once you practice with it a bit, the turns are quick. I think that back up safety is required on residential mowers. I heard the commercial grade versions don't have that.
@@MarkThomasBuilder I do enjoy the color. I have the Ariens ikon 42 inch. Traded for a new model this spring. Works great my smaller yards. I am an older Cub Cadet fan…….
Turn the key and press the button. Mower will mow in reverse until you shut it off.
very nice video, good details, really appreciate no bad language
Glad you like it and yes, you'l find all the videos on my channel to be family friendly.😀👍
Looks great...send me one!
That would be an awesome giveaway contest.
Hi Mark. Hope all is well with you and family.
Thanks Larry, we're doing well thanks. Just busy mowing the lawn all the time now, lol. Have a great day!
Sterling wheel
Cool!
Can the parking brake be used for active braking when going straight down a steep grade? That's going to be critical to me as I have a few portions of my yard I can't easily just crosscut across the gradient but almost have to go straight downhill.
It seems like the mower brakes when you take your foot off the pedal. I haven't gone straight down a big hill though where I needed extra breaking power.
Is there reason for ultima zts2 over pro s 100 series?
Reverse safety feature would be a deal breaker for me.
Otherwise looks like a great mower.
Their other bigger mower like this doesn't have that feature, I'm pretty sure. I'm guessing in a matter of time, you'll see some videos out there on how to bypass that feature. I was recently coming across some hacks and upgrades on the ZT1 that was launched in 2019.
When I use the mower now, I automatically push the reverse button at startup which takes about 2 seconds while the engine is warming up.
Thinking of getting one what do you think it’s beautiful thank you for showing it you got a new sub thank you 🙏
I've been very happy with this mower. Thanks!
@@MarkThomasBuilder your welcome where did you get yours ? And where do you recommend me getting one of these I really want one thank you 🙏
Here's a link to The Home Depot, where you can have one of these delivered.... homedepot.sjv.io/21a4Xa
@@MarkThomasBuilder ok thank you
@@MarkThomasBuilderHome Depot ?!? Why would you EVER buy from someone who Can't and WON'T provide you with service ???? I will be supporting a well-established dealership with my purchase, Thank You !!
I have a 3-acre lot with lots of hills. I measured my steepest incline at 27 degrees. will this Cub Cadet zero turn with steering wheel handle the hills SAFELY?? Thank you!
I was very impressed with this mower on the hills. I can only recommend mowing within the 20 degree manufacturers limit. In the past, I've heard people say to mow steep hills only going uphill on a zero turn. Cub cadet makes a commercial mower rated for grades up to 46%.
With the wider tires it only helps sideways, and should easily do more than 20 degrees. Do a Test. You can always add wheel spacers as well. Careful climbing hills, that's where you tip backwards. Looks like they increases the tail overhang which may cause it to slide backwards instead of roll backwards. No roll bar, someone must of tested it. I know what my modified Toro SW4200 steering wheel can do, and it's way more than 20 degrees, never flipped, but I know it's limits.
Прикольная штука)
😀
Does it have a stripe kit on it?
This one doesn't have a stripe kit, but I think they make one.
My concern is the complexity of the steering system with a lot more linkages and moving parts to fail. That “reverse mow” feature is the dumbest system I’ve ever seen. I fail to understand how that is going to make you mow safer in reverse. A Dealer mechanic friend of mine told me to avoid any Cubby at all costs.
I've seen lots of excellent reviews on the Ultima mowers. I'm not sure how complicated that linkage is if it ever fails. I'm hoping if anything ever went wrong, it would be within the 3 year warranty.
@@MarkThomasBuilder It’s a good residential mower for the price. Evidently the most popular choice.
Its not complicated to fix if the linkages break. The 2007 i1046 model uses the same trademarked linkage system and on these mowers the gearing is so much more accessible if you were to ever need a repair.