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Lawnmowers are machines used to conveniently cut grass. Aside from that, they’re also great for racing around on a dirt track.
Even great and popular F1 racers like Finnish racing driver Kimi Raikkonen join in lawn mower racing!
For those who mow their lawns and imagine joining races with it, put your dreams into reality with the best lawn mower for racing.
Driving the right lawnmower should give you a better chance of winning races.
Apart from having high wheels, amazing tire treads, and excellent engine, learn about other features you must look for in a lawn mower and discover the best models in the market. Ready? On your mark. Get set, MOW!
Top-Rated Lawn Mowers Comparison 2020
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
| Craftsman Z525 Zero Turn Gas Powered Lawn Mower, Red | 9 Reviews | $2,699.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
| Husqvarna YTH18542 42 in 18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Hydrostatic Riding Mower | 12 Reviews | $1,999.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
| Craftsman T225 19 HP Briggs & Stratton Gold 46-Inch Gas Powered Riding Lawn Mower | 10 Reviews | $2,401.69 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
| Snapper 2911525BVE Classic RER 28 inch 11.5 HP 344cc Rear Engine Riding Mower 2691525 | 16 Reviews | $2,499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
| Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower | 35 Reviews | $3,149.90 | Buy on Amazon |
10 Best Lawn Mowers for Racing Reviews 2020
Here we gathered some of the lawn mowers to help you in your decision making.
Carefully examine each to identify which fits your preferences and needs. Soon enough, you will have the best ride to join the motorsports across towns!
Ariens IKON-X 52” Zero Turn Mower 23hp Kawasaki FR691 Series
First on the list is a powerful zero turn mower. The IKON-X by Ariens is a commercial-grade zero turn mower that can get your lawn cut in almost half the amount of time you do when you use a lawn tractor.
It is the perfect lawn mower to mow your lawn as well as a suitable z-turn machine to compete in races!
The mower uses a 23.0 HP at 3,600 RPM Kawasaki FR691 series V-twin engine.
It is a 726 CC 4-cyle engine that features an automatic compression release as well as an internally vented carburetor.
In addition to all that, the engine also boasts of its electronic spark ignition, which prevents any dangerous build-up of un-ignited gas.
When it comes to mowing lawns, a 52-inch cutting deck can mow an acre of lawn in about an hour — considering that there are not many obstacles like trees and flowerbeds to avoid.
Whereas in racing, the size of the deck and the horsepower of the engine allow the lawn mower to move smoothly with stability and great speed.
Speaking of its deck, it also uses a 4-point dual arm deck hanging system that allows for stability and even cuts.
For ease of use and enhanced comfort, the mower features a padded high seat with armrests, as well as padded control levers. You can easily select the height that is most suitable for you.
When it comes to racing, the padded parts that come in contact with your body allow for extra protection, especially for bumpy tracks.
To top all of that, the lawn mower is made of 10-gauge tubular steel frames that ensure durability, stain-resistance, and capacity to drive through any type of soil conditions.
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Troy-Bilt Super Mustang XP Riding Lawn Mower with 50-Inch Deck and 724cc Briggs & Stratton
Another zero-turn lawn mower included in the list is the Troy-Bilt Super Mustang. With its 50-inch deck, you can cover an acre of land much faster than any other tractor.
Conversely, the 724 CC Briggs & Stratton engine that powers the mower allows it to roll with great and smooth speed.
In particular, its engine is a v-twin Intek series with a gross HP between 16.0 and 24.0.
The engine uses an advanced management system so that the lawn mower stays clean by deflecting and ejecting grass as well as debris.
In addition to that, it is a no-choke, easy-start engine that allows you to start rolling with a turn of key or push of a button.
To make things even more exciting, the engine works with a dual EZT transmission, or so what is normally called EZT tranny for a quiet and smooth transmission.
For a mower, it is indeed packed with power, stability, and excellent maneuverability that makes it the perfect companion for joining lawn mower racing categories.
Modify the steering wheels, increase the engine capacity, and enhance its anti-scalp wheels to make it more powerful in the off-tracks.
Finally, the mower has an enhanced padded high-back seat and lap bar steering for extra comfort. It is made of a durable, heavy-duty frame that is slim-type for long-lasting use.
Indeed, the lawn mower is one of the best machines for cutting the lawn with its 8-position height adjustment
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Here is the guide of Tires for Grasshopper Mower.
Husqvarna YTH18542 42 in 18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Hydrostatic Riding Mower
Similar to the previous lawn mower with hydro tranny, this Husqvarna with 18.5 HP engine also offers a wide range of speeds compared to other lawn mowers that operate at preset gear speeds.
For a more controlled and powerful performance, the mower uses a Briggs & Stratton 18.5 HP single-cylinder engine.
It has an anti-vibration system that provides a smooth ride. In addition to that, the engine has an advanced debris management system that keeps the engine clean.
When it comes to the tranny, the mower uses hydrostatic transmission that is controlled by the hydraulic pump.
With this, you can drive with your preferred gear without moving your hands off the wheel and move in directions you wish to.
It is controlled by a foot pedal, which allows you for great control of the variable speed.
Being included in the list of lawn mowers for racing, it does not mean the mower is short of being a reliable machine for cutting grass.
Its tight, 16-inch turning radius enables you to mow through tighter spaces and navigate through trees as well as flowerbeds.
With the air induction mowing technology, a clean air is drawn from the top and bottom of the deck.
This improves grass lifting and delivers superior cuts when you are not riding on dirt tracks and competing in races.
Moreover, the mower enhances comfort for the rider with its padded, adjustable mid-back seat, ergonomic steering wheel, and easy step-through designed pedal.
Aside from that, it has a reverse-operating system that allows you to have easy backing with a simple turn on/off switch.
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Husqvarna TS354XD 54” 26 HP Kohler Lawn Tractor 960430290
Another lawn mower on the list with the pedal-operated hydrostatic transmission is the 54-inch cutting deck Husqvarna, which uses a 2 HP Kohler engine.
It boasts of its service failure alerts, tilt warning, as well as fuel level gauges. All of which enhances productivity while reducing maintenance.
If you are searching for a heavy-duty garden tractor that can ride through dirt tracks, you are already looking at it!
The best thing about the tractor is its electric-locked differential that essentially locks both wheels on a single axle.
This forces both wheels to turn towards the same direction in unison regardless of the traction available to either wheel. It is best used in wet conditions.
Another amazing feature the tractor showcases is its 26 HP V-twin engine. It employs a patented smart-choke technology that enables for a reliable start, regardless of the environment’s temperature.
For lawn use, it has a 54-inch cutting deck on top of wide rear tires, which enables you to cover a wider area with ease and enhanced maneuverability. Of course, thanks to its locking wheels.
It is ultimately made of durable, heavy-duty, 10-gauge steel construction for long-lasting use. Prop on its padded high-back seat with armrests for a comfortable ride.
Indeed, the lawn tractor delivers improved quality of ride, ergonomic comfort, and smart optimal driving experience.
Takedown grass in your lawn or opponents in the race tracks with this beast of a machine!
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Craftsman Z560 24 HP Briggs & Stratton Platinum 54-Inch Gas-Powered Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower
This zero-turn riding lawn mower is amazing for racing off-track and for mowing lawns!
The Craftsman Z560 lawn mower uses a Briggs & Stratton 24 HP V-twin engine that comes with electronic fuel management to allow the vehicle to start consistently.
Apart from that, the engine has an advanced debris management system like most Briggs & Stratton engines have.
It is enhanced engine maintenance that deflects and ejects grass as well as debris. Indeed, the engine on the lawn mower provides commercial-grade power and long-lasting, reliable performance.
Working alongside the engine is its low maintenance EZT hydro-gear for an enhanced driving system.
With the engine’s patented Ready-Start technology and dual hydro-gear, the lawn mower operates efficiently, smoothly, and ever-reliable.
For enhanced riding experience and extreme comfort, the mower has a supportive high-back seat.
Alleviate any back-pain and lower back cramps for sitting on the mower for a while. Regardless of whether you are racing or mowing your lawn, you will do it with no ache at all!
In addition to that, the mower rolls through its durable 11-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels.
When reversed, the mower can still cut grass and operate like it would when moving forward.
It is easy to operate, thanks to its dual levers that enable you to turn around swiftly and with stability.
Last but definitely not least, it has a deck wash that allows for efficient and quick underside cleaning for when you just finished mowing or racing!
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Husqvarna Z254F 26 HP 747 CC Kohler Engine 54” Z-Turn Mower 967844901
Regarded as one of the most popular residential-level lawn mowers, the Husqvarna Z254F runs on a 747 CC Kohler 26 HP engine with a 54-inch cutting deck. It is yet another excellent zero-turn lawn mower that is just as suitable for off-track races.
This engine is the right fit for the 54-inch deck to sail through the lawn and run flawlessly on any terrain, especially dirt tracks.
The patented Command Pro Commercial Engine Design uses a filtration package to increase air, oil, and fuel filter capacity for the lawn mower’s protection.
What’s more? There is no choke in the engine so that the mower can be started at any throttle position.
The best part about the engine on the mower is that it maintains the speed even in tough mowing conditions or the race track.
For ease of use and comfort, the lawn mower has a high-back seat, padded controls, and amazing suspension, which means vibration is felt less, no matter the ground’s conditions.
Indeed, this lawn mower strikes the perfect balance between quality and price.
At its value, you already have the essentials of a lawn mower including a cutting height adjustment and hydrostatic trannies.
Finally, the construction of the lawn mower is meant for harsh conditions. Not only for front yard or backyard use but for the tracks as well.
It features a durable, long-lasting steel frame that can endure bumps and hits.
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Troy-Bilt 382 CC 30-Inch Premium Neighborhood Riding Lawn Mower
Branded as the best neighborhood mower, this Troy-Bilt lawn mower is the most suitable for medium-sized landscapes with relatively even terrain or grounds.
It boasts a 382 CC auto-choke OHV engine that is both reliable and powerful. The 6-speed transmission works efficiently to support its top forward speed of 4.25 mph.
Furthermore, it has a fuel tank capacity of at least a gallon. Apart from that, you can easily spot gas levels through its fuel sight window.
This 30-inch cutting deck is easy to maneuver across a lawn with trees and flowerbeds.
With its 5 adjustable cut height settings, you can easily sweep through grasses and cut them down to the shortest centimeter.
For ease of use and comfort, the lawn mower offers a padded mid-back seat. It also has an 18-inch turning radius as well as manual Power Take-Off or PTO to engage the blades more easily and faster. Its durable front and rear wheels allow smooth and quick turning.
Apart from that, the mower’s 13-inch steering wheel has a soft grip and an adjustable steering column to fit your height requirements and achieve maximum comfort.
This mid-sized lawn mower is a warrior in cutting grass as well as in the race tracks.
Many lawn mower racers would modify this mower to include parts and pieces that would make it faster, sturdier, and more efficient.
Indeed, it is one of those mowers in the market that are easy to customize according to preferred speed, maneuverability, and looks.
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Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
With a maximum speed of 6.5 mph, the Husqvarna Z254 runs on a 747 CC Kohler 26 HP engine with a 54-inch cutting deck.
It is regarded as one of the best zero turn lawn mowers that are popular for off-track races.
It boasts a park brake system that automatically activates and deactivates as the steering levers are maneuvered outward or inward. Talk about ease of use and added comfort!
Both Husqvarna Z254 and Z254F uses the same engine. The patented Command Pro Commercial Engine Design, which uses a filtration package to increase air, oil, and fuel filter capacity, is made to protect the lawn mower for long-lasting use.
Apart from that, there is no need to choke the engine. With that, the mower can be started at any throttle position.
For ease of use and comfort, the lawn mower has a high-back seat, padded controls, and amazing suspension as well as enough leg space.
Also, it has an open or bare front area, but no worries! The foot area has a rough grip that is anti-slip.
Similar to the Z254F, this lawn mower also strikes the perfect balance between quality and price.
It consists of the essentials of a lawn mower including a cutting height adjustment and hydrostatic transmission.
On a final note, the mower uses a reinforced steel stamped cutting deck made of heavy flat-stock steel for durability and long-lasting use.
They are great for mowing lawns and for driving through off-track races, ensuring wins for both applications!
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Ariens APEX 60 Lawn Tractor, Zero Turn Radius, 25-HP Engine 991157
Also popularly known as Ariens 25HP ZTR, this lawn tractor is yet another reliable beast of a machine! It is excellent at cutting grass and can course through dirt tracks. Despite its heavy-duty components, its maneuverability is not sacrificed.
The 60-inch cutting deck lawn mower consists of hydro-gear transmission with steel-cut gear. Working alongside the engine is its Ogura GT1A electric clutch.
This kind of clutch connects drive shafts and is controlled by a toggle switch. It takes energy from the mower’s engine and transfers it to the mower blade.
With the help of the electric clutch, it is easier to use the brake function to stop the blades, especially when the PTO gets turned off.
Indeed, there is so much about the lawnmower that makes it one of the most efficient models in the market.
It is designed with a mounted 4 -point deck that allows you to evenly cut through the grass. What’s more? The deck shell has a 5-inch commercial depth for enhanced cutting operation in tough conditions.
When it comes to racing, this allows for just the right height to roll over obstacles and any kind of terrain.
In addition to all of that, the lawnmower has an adjustable high-back seat with padded armrests for extra comfort.
If you are looking for a heavy-duty lawn tractor that can be modified to compete in motorsports, search no more!
This Ariens model should be able to deliver you smooth power output, quieter operation, and outstanding durability.
Join heavy categories in lawn mower racing with this machine and, at the same time, trim grass in your lawn efficiently!
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Ariens Edge 34 inch 19 HP Kohler Zero Turn Mower 915243
Last but not least, the final zero turn mower on the list is the Ariens Edge with a 34-inch cutting deck. This means it is stamped out of a single piece of strong 12-gauge steel.
Apart from that, it uses hydro-gear EZT transaxles. It is an integrated unit that is commonly used on most lawn mowers for efficiency in transferring power.
This hydrostatic transmission combines the hydraulic pump and motor in one housing for great control and power transfer.
It allows you to mow at all speeds and in all directions without having to shift gears.
Roll over whatever terrain and even the toughest and hardest to traverse. With this, the lawn mower is indeed one of the best models you can find in the market.
For its engine, it is driven by a powerful, professional-grade 19 HP 660 CC Kohler V-twin engine that boasts of in-class speed.
It has SmartChoke technology that allows for easy and reliable starts. Working alongside this engine is an overhead-valve designed for cooler and cleaner operation.
With a forward speed of 6 mph and reverse speed of up to 3 mph, you can quickly and easily mow your lawn.
To make it race-ready, simply perform the removal of the governor for replacement and modification.
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Features to Look for Before Buying Racing Mower
If you are wondering what is the best lawn mower for racing, read through to learn about the features that you must look for before making a purchase.
Tire Treads
When it comes to tire treads, you want something that has the right grip, especially for races that are held on dirt tracks.
There are three types of treads you should be aware of: turf treads, all-terrain treads, and ribbed treads.
Turf treads are designed to provide traction on slick grass while preventing any damage to the turf.
Meanwhile, all-terrain and ribbed tread patterns allow the tires to roll over loose surfaces like dirt, sand, or mud.
The only advantage the ribbed treads have compared to the others is its patterns that allow for lateral stability. This keeps the tires from sliding sideways.
Amongst the three tire treads, knobby all-terrain tire treads are the most suitable for racing as they offer more traction.
Easy to Control
Of course, ease of control is what you need in order to race down any kind of track.
This has a lot to do with the position of the transmission and the steering wheel. They should be strategically located to achieve maximum control.
Size and Built
Determine which type of lawn mower racing categories you wish to participate in before finally making a purchase.
For the most part, Group 3 racing lawn mowers offer a large amount of power despite being a small ride. They are considered the best riding lawn mower for racing.
Engine
Most lawnmower engines are typically governed to go at a single speed of about 3,650 RMP. For this reason, you should consider one having at least 28 cubic inch with 12 HP engine.
But then, it will be easier for you to perform some modifications or beef up your engine to more than 20 HP that tops out at almost 6,500 RMP.
Frequently Asked Questions
It all began in the United Kingdom in 1973. Today, the official association that sanctions legitimate lawnmowers racing across towns in the U.S. Lawn Mower Racing Association (USLMRA).
It was created in 1992 and included local chapters as well as affiliated clubs. With this, you will have to travel to areas where racing meets are being held to participate.
Zero-turn mowers have more speed and maneuverability compared to lawn tractors.
The mowing deck of lawnmowers allows them to operate on tight areas and get closer to obstacles to which a lawn tractor cannot.
The tethered kill switch is a modification essential for the safety of the rider.
Basically, it shuts the engine down in the event of the rider being thrown off the saddle or the vehicle.
The first step is to examine your lawnmower and look into all the replacement parts you wish to upgrade.
While others would suggest you strip down mowers to look for usable components, watch out for models with unique builds.
They might limit your upgrade options. On a final note, the part that offers the most upgrade is the engine.
The answer is definitely a big yes! Mowers used for racing should never have blades for the safety of the rider as well as the other participants.
The presence of blades entails danger, and they are not eligible for racing.
Final Words
Just like in race car driving, lawn mower racing also has categories. The categories depend on the size of the lawn mowers and engines, as well as whether they are modified or unmodified.
When looking for the best lawn mower for racing, you must greatly consider which category you wish to participate in.
From that, you will know which lawn mower to purchase, and it will be easier for you to look for mods to customize your vehicle.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases
Last update on 2020-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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