Troy-Bilt 20 HP Automatic 42 in. Riding Mower Review
A strong 20 HP engine, 42-inch cutting width, two blades, and top forward speed of 5.5 mph would seem to mark this Troy-Bilt as a good buy, but users complain about parts that give out within a season or two, maintenance headaches, and a chronic need for servicing.
Troy-Bilt 13AX78KS011 reviews are mixed, with some posted at Lowe's saying this low-cost lawn tractor bursts with power, mows with ease, and starts right up. Other Troy-Bilt 13AX78KS011 reviews, however, groan about a bevy of problems, from rusting parts to dead batteries, busted cables, bent decks, broken belts, and more. More than four dozen Troy-Bilt 13AX78KS011 reviews award this model an average 2.7 stars out of five.
Still, the Troy-Bilt 13AX78KS011 boasts some standard features for lawn tractors in this price range, like a 20 HP single-cylinder Kohler engine, automatic transmission, two anti-scalp wheels, and a 1.5-gallon fuel tank. It moves forward faster than other lawn tractors we looked at -- 5.5 mph compared to the more common 5.2 mph or 5 mph -- and features an 18-inch turning radius. Unlike some other low-cost lawn tractors, the Troy-Bilt 13AX78KS011 does not mow in reverse.
The price of this model is certainly attractive, but the critical comments found in Troy-Bilt 13AX78KS011 reviews give us pause. You might want to consider your options carefully before plowing ahead.
Other Recommended Riding Mowers
Craftsman YT 3000
The Craftsman YT 3000 features a 21hp engine with hydrostatic automatic transmission, two cutting blades, a 46-inch cutting deck, spring- loaded deck-lift system, and 16-inch turning radius. Users like the even cut, powerful engine, and all-around nimble performance. Read more »
Ariens 42 in. Riding Lawn Mower
An expert reviewer prefers this new 42-inch Ariens, with its 19 HP single-cylinder Kohler engine, automatic transmission, 16-inch turning radius, and wash-out port over the highly-rated model it replaces. This is a basic riding mower that does its best work on grass that's not too dense or long and in yards without many obstacles; at 483 pounds, it's fine for light hauling. Read more »
Weed Eater One
The Weed Eater One is about the cheapest riding mower on the market and appeals to users with small-ish, flat yards who prefer sitting to walking as they mow. This compact, lightweight mower features a 190CC engine, 26-inch cutting deck, a 3-in-1 single blade system that mulches or side discharges, and a relatively wide 31-inch turning radius; many users are satisfied but a few report mediocre performance. Read more »
John Deere D100
The new D100, an entry-level lawn tractor from John Deere, features a gear-driven manual transmission with a 17.5 HP engine, two blades, 42-inch cutting deck, and what the company claims is superior fuel economy and ergonomics compared to the previous model. Users like the quick and easy cut and comfortable ride; a few report flaking paint on the deck but it's unclear from the reviews whether this problem affects the older or newer model. Read more »
