Here is a glossary of terms you’ll likely encounter when making a buying decision.

Hourmeter: Like an odometer on a car, the hour meter measures the usage of a riding mower in terms of the number of hours in operation.

Cutting Deck: The metal housing which covers the spinning grass cutting blades.

Washout Port: The outlet on the side of the cutting deck where freshly cut grass blows out.

Hydrostatic Transmission: A type of CVT (continuous variable transmission) built for increased torque power common on riding mowers and garden tractors.

V-twin: A two cylinder engines with pistons in the formation of a “V” for more power.

OHV: An acronym standing for “overhead valve”. Engines with overhead valves tend to be more efficient that those with intake and exhaust valves on the side of the piston cylinder.

Zero turning radius: Riding mowers with zero turning radius are able to swing the front of the mower left or right while the rear wheels stay planted - this allows you to swivel the mower as it remains stationary. This is handy when your mowing area has a lot of obstacles and tight areas with grass to be mowed.

Mulching: Riding mowers with this feature cut the grass clippings much finer to prevent clumps which sit on the lawn and kill the grass.

Scalping: This happens when the mower cuts the grass too short as you drive up and down slopes in your mowing area. This problem is caused by cutting decks that don’t have leveling wheels. If your mowing area is uneven be sure to buy a mower with scalping prevention.

Torque: This refers to the amount of twisting force the engine produces. More torque allows you to climb steeper hills and use riding mower attachments more easily.