John Deere D100 Review
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.
John Deere is a well-regarded brand with a big following for its riding mowers. The D100 was introduced this year and replaces the LA105 on our list of best cheap riding mowers, but John Deere D100 reviews are still few and far between. On the Lowe's site users say good things about this low-cost riding mower -- e.g., it gives an excellent cut and a soft ride, makes mowing fun, hauls light loads, and sports a powerful engine -- but it seems as though some comments refer to an earlier model. (We did read a few gripes about paint problems on the hood but are unsure if this is an issue for the D100.) Last year's LA105 garnered dozens of reviews at Lowe's that earned it four out of five stars. John Deere LA105 reviews include positive comments about its design, power, and speed and its ability to negotiate reasonable slopes. One reviewer on MyTractorForum.com says the biggest difference between the LA105 and the D100 is reduced horsepower in the latter, which another reviewer claims makes no difference except in the eyes of the beholder.
According to the company, the John Deere D100 incorporates improvements over previous incarnations. For example, fuel economy with the 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton single-cylinder engine is apparently better, as is emission control; noise levels have been reduced; and the capacity of the fuel tank was boosted to 2.4 gallons. The D100 sports a five-speed manual transmission, two anti-scalp wheels, and headlights. The John Deere D100 lets you mow in reverse, and the 42-inch deck accommodates bagging, mulching, or side-discharge.
John Deere D100 reviews are beginning to show up for this entry-level lawn tractor, and early reviews suggest it will prove as good a buy as its predecessor.
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 »
