Jazee One Zero Turn Radius Mower: What to Expect From This ZTR Mower

Zero turn radius mowers, ZTRs, are revolutionizing the residential lawn mowing industry. Long the purview of commercial landscapers, ZTRs are now within the reach of homeowners, offering cleaner cuts, faster mowing, and greater maneuverability than traditional lawn tractors.

After mowing an acre of lawn for many years with lawn tractor mowers, this writer took the plunge to a ZTR. This review is based on a full mowing season with a 42" mowing deck, Country Clipper Jazee One ZTR mower.

Jazee One ZTR Features

Forward Seating

There is a definite learning curve to any ZTR, and the Jazee One is no exception. Unlike a lawn tractor, where the driver sits well back behind the engine, the Jazee One driver sits forward with a view of the approaching lawn just inches ahead.

Initially, this felt uncomfortable, but after a couple of mowings the advantages were clear. With good sight to the lawn ahead, you can easily avoid debris that might damage the mower or become a dangerous flying object.

Joy Stick Control

The learning curve associated with driving a joy stick controlled vehicle was even more pronounced. The Jazee One's steering mechanism is sensitive, requiring only a light touch for direction and speed adjustments. After wrestling with a steering wheel for several years, it took some time to get used to a gentle movement of the joy stick. But once mastered, joy stick control takes little effort and leaves one hand free.

The operator's manual cautions the new owner to avoid attempting close trimming until you gain experience controlling the mower. Take this caution seriously, or you risk decapitating the flower bed that you've nurtured for years.

The Stand Up Deck

A major attraction of the Jazee One is the articulated deck, which promises easy deck maintenance. Country Clipper's web site features a short video of a woman demonstrating this feature. It looks easy, but takes more strength and effort than initially apparent. After a very shaky start, this writer mastered the technique for smoothly shifting the deck from under the frame to a vertical position in front of the frame.

The stand up deck is a great feature. A major downside to ZTRs is that the decks are difficult to remove, requiring a hoist or ramps to elevate the entire mower for deck service. With the Jazee One an individual with moderate strength and flexibility can transform the deck to its vertical position for maintenance.

Advice: Before purchasing a Jazee One make sure you practice the stand up process several times under the watchful eye of your dealer.

Stability

With the majority of weight toward the back, the Jazee One front end can lift on uneven or hilly terrain. Take extreme care when mowing slopes as it tends to "crab" sideways.

Recommendation

The Jazee One is fun to drive and cuts mowing time and effort. The mowed lawn is uniform and smooth, giving your lawn a professional landscaping look. The machine is rugged and appears to be built for easy maintainability. The first oil change was easy as the oil drain, filter, and filler tube are readily accessible.

The copyright of the article Jazee One Zero Turn Radius Mower in Landscaping is owned by Jerry Lopper. Permission to republish Jazee One Zero Turn Radius Mower in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Apr 28, 2008 3:17 AM

Jerry Lopper :

Into my second mowing season, I'm starting to master the art of reversing direction without digging up turf. A ZTR can literally turn on a dime. But, in doing so, one wheel stays in place and the mower turns by pivoting around the stationery wheel. This quick turn is fun and fast, but if your turf is wet, or you apply too much power you'll tear away the sod under the stationery wheel. Practice and slowing down your turning motion solves the problem.

Nov 4, 2008 7:04 PM

Guest :

I found your review after purchasing one. My local dealer was sloppy in the assembly, and had to take it back to finish some connections. Once on the machine, my experience was much like yours. It took me quite awhile to get used to the joy stick. For the first few mows, I regretted not getting a regular lawn tractor. I'm mowing about 2 acres, with many trees, with water, and rock hazards, and a couple of steep slopes. The hills are tricky, and require real care. The rest is much easier with the ZTR. My main criticism is that the front tires should have a rounded shoulder, like a balloon tire. This would prevent it digging in on sharp turns. I also think the tilt deck is a farce as far as ease. I didn't get a demonstration, but watched the video, and read the manual. I couldn't do it. I'm a small guy, but used to moving heavy things. I plan on using a block and tackle to assist me. I don't let anyone drive it without a lesson first. It is too dangerous otherwise. I understand why the commercial models have roll bars. I do love the thing now. Thanks for your review!