re: Recommend a riding mower that doesn't suck

Cub cadet, Troy bilt, Husqvarna, John Deere and just about every other mower is junk. I have had a Troybilt Colt 46" ZTR going on 5 years now. I bought it as a repaired return from Lowes. I paid $2000 for it and it has been ok. I recently had to change the PTO clutch and pulley out. If I was you I would just look for a decent Exmark or Dixie Chopper that is used at a decent price and go that route. If it holds up, your kid could use it later to earn cash from the neighbors. I used to mow lawns for $20 with a pushmower when I was 12. I BET i cleared $200 every weekend at 12 years of age.