If you’re considering a rear engine riding lawn mower in 2025, you’ll find modern options blend power, maneuverability, and eco-friendliness, tailored for everything from small yards to sprawling landscapes. Expert reviews highlight models like the quiet, emission-free Ryobi 38-Inch Battery Mower, the robust Craftsman 42 Gas model with its 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine, and the versatile Ryobi RY48110 Electric mower with advanced features. Choosing the right one depends on your yard size and preferences—so, let’s explore what makes each stand out.
Ryobi 38-Inch 100Ah Battery Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower
- Includes: (1) Ryobi 38 inches 100 Ah Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower RY48111
- 3 Brushless motors for superior power and performance
- Up to 2.5 hours of runtime or 2.5 acres of mowing
If you want a lawn mower that is good for the environment, quiet, and easy to care for, the Ryobi 38-Inch 100Ah Battery Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower might be a good choice. It runs on three brushless motors that give it strong power and make it efficient. This means it can cut your grass smoothly and evenly. With a full charge, it can run for about 2.5 hours. That’s enough to mow about 2.5 acres of land.
You can recharge the mower easily by plugging it into a regular 120-volt outlet, just like you do with your phone. It doesn’t make fumes or loud noises, so mowing feels less like a chore and more like a quiet activity.
This mower is best for homeowners who have medium or large lawns. It is eco-friendly and quiet, making it better for the environment and your peace of mind. However, if your lawn is bigger than 2.5 acres, you might need to charge it more than once. The mower is heavier than smaller models, so it might be a bit harder to turn around. And since it uses batteries, you may worry about how long the batteries will last over time.
Craftsman 42 Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton Engine
- 42" GAS RIDE ON MOWER: Provides the optimized power and performance that reduces the amount of time and labor needed to maintain the beauty of your yard
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENGINE: Powered by a reliable 17.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine that delivers easy starting and superior results every time
- DURABLE AND EFFICIENT: Rugged 42" stamped steel deck cuts up to 2 acres of grass, and the optional mulching kit allows you to cut and finish like a professional
The Craftsman 42 Gas Riding Lawn Mower is a great choice if you want a mower that you can rely on. It is easy to use and works well on yards up to two acres. It has a 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine. This engine starts easily and runs smoothly. The mower has a 42-inch steel deck. This helps you cut the grass faster. The mower turns easily with an 18-inch turning radius. It has 7 gears you can shift manually. The seat is low and comfy, so you can sit and mow for a long time. The mower looks strong and sturdy. Its red and black color makes it look professional. It works well on different types of land.
This mower is best for homeowners with yards up to two acres. It is strong and simple to operate. It helps you finish your yard work quickly.
Advantages:
- It has a 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine. It starts easily and runs reliably.
- The 42-inch steel deck cuts grass fast and evenly.
- The 7-speed gearshift and comfy seat give you control and comfort.
Disadvantages:
- It might be too big for small or very detailed yards.
- Using the manual gears needs strength and practice.
- It is heavier and less easy to turn in tight spaces than smaller mowers.
This mower is reliable, easy to use, and makes yard work easier. It is a good pick for big yards up to two acres.
Ryobi 38 Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower RY48110
- Battery Operated: fully electric and 0 emissions
- 3 Brushless motors for superior power and performance
- Up to 2 hours of runtime or 2 acres of mowing
The Ryobi 38 Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower RY48110 is a good choice for homeowners who want an eco-friendly mower that is quiet and easy to use. It has a 75Ah battery that can cut grass for up to 2 hours. This means it can handle about 2 acres of medium-sized yard. The mower has a 38-inch deck with two blades. You can adjust the cutting height from 1.5 to 4.5 inches for a clean cut.
The mower comes with helpful features like LED headlights, a USB charging port, and cruise control. These make mowing more convenient. Since it is electric, the mower is low-maintenance. You don’t need to worry about belts, spark plugs, or filters. It is quiet and eco-friendly, which makes it good for the environment and your peace of mind.
However, there are some downsides. The battery’s capacity can decrease over time. This means the mower may not run as long after many uses. Some users also have reported problems with the motor, such as fires or parts breaking. It may not perform well on wet, overgrown grass or rough terrain. The ride can also feel a little bumpy.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower
Choosing the right rear engine riding mower means considering several key factors, like power source options—whether battery, gas, or hybrid—and how they fit your needs. You’ll also want to think about cutting deck size for efficiency, maneuverability features to navigate tight spaces easily, and the maintenance required to keep your mower running smoothly. Plus, balancing these features with your budget guarantees you get a mower that’s both effective and affordable—no need to break the bank for a tidy lawn!
Power Source Options
When choosing a rear engine riding lawn mower, the type of power it uses makes a big difference. There are three main options: electric, gas, and hybrid.
Electric mowers run on batteries. They are quiet and good for the environment because they don’t create emissions. They work well for small yards. But, their batteries can run out fast, and you might need to recharge or have spare batteries for longer jobs.
Gas mowers use fuel. They can run longer without stopping, which makes them better for big lawns. You don’t need to recharge them often. They are more powerful for large jobs, but they need tuning up and oil changes.
Hybrid mowers use both electricity and gas. They give you a mix of eco-friendliness and power. They work well when you want the benefits of both types.
Electric mowers are easy to maintain because they have fewer parts. You don’t need to change oil or worry about fuel. They can save you time and effort.
Choose the power source that fits your yard size and how much work you need to do. Electric is good for small yards, gas is better for large areas, and hybrids work if you want a little of both.
Cutting Deck Size
Have you ever wondered how the size of a mower’s deck affects your mowing? The deck is the wide part that holds the blades. Bigger decks usually measure between 38 and 54 inches. They help you cut more grass in each pass. This means you can finish your yard faster. Bigger decks are great for large lawns. They save time and make mowing easier.
But, wider decks can be harder to use around tight corners. If your yard has many trees and small spaces, a smaller deck might be better. Larger decks also need stronger engines or batteries. This keeps the mower working well.
The number of blades also matters. Most mowers have two or three blades. More blades can make the cut look more even. They help give your grass a nice, clean look.
Choosing the right deck size depends on your yard. Bigger decks are fast but less easy to steer around obstacles. Smaller decks are better for tight spaces. Think about how your yard looks and how you like to mow. This will help you pick the best size.
Maneuverability Features
Maneuverability is very important when choosing a rear engine riding lawn mower. It helps you move around your yard easily, especially if you have lots of obstacles like trees, flower beds, or garden tables. A small turning radius means you can turn sharply and reach tight spots without trouble. Mowers with smaller wheels and steering systems that bend or turn help make sharp turns easier. Some models let you adjust how sensitive the steering is or change the gear ratio. This makes it simpler to handle uneven or sloped ground and reduces tiredness.
Because the engine is in the back, the mower usually has a shorter wheelbase. This helps it turn tighter and makes moves smoother. Some mowers add extra features, like power steering or cruise control. These help you control the mower better so you can focus on mowing instead of fighting with the machine. All of these features work together to make mowing easier and more precise, so you spend less time and effort in your yard.
Maintenance Requirements
Electric rear engine riding lawn mowers have fewer moving parts. Because of this, they usually need less regular upkeep than gas-powered mowers. You don’t have to worry about belts, spark plugs, or filters. Still, you should check and care for the batteries and charging system often. Their job is to keep the mower running well and make the batteries last longer. Clean the battery terminals often to stop corrosion that can cause electrical trouble.
Check the blades and wheels regularly. Look for signs of wear or damage, especially if you cut thick or overgrown grass. Keep vents clean so air flows well, and inspect the electronic parts to make sure everything works right. Lubricating parts helps keep things running smoothly.
Batteries and chargers will sometimes need replacing over time. If you notice the mower losing power or taking longer to charge, it may be time for new ones. Think of this like giving your mower a spa day — a little refresh to keep it working like new.
Budget Considerations
When you pick a rear engine riding lawn mower, think about your budget first. Prices can be different a lot. Some basic models cost around $1,000. More fancy, feature-packed models can go over $3,000.
Think about what you need. Bigger decks and stronger engines cost more but can finish your yard faster. Electric mowers cost more at first but save you money later. They don’t need gas and require less maintenance.
Don’t forget to think about extra costs. You might need to buy replacement parts, pay for repairs, or do regular maintenance. Finding the right balance between cost and quality helps you avoid spending too much but still get a mower that lasts.
Plan your budget carefully. When you do, your yard will look good and stay healthy without breaking the bank.
Terrain Suitability
Wondering if your yard’s terrain matches your mower’s strengths? Rear engine riding mowers work best on flat or slightly sloped lawns. They stay steady and have good traction because of how their weight is balanced.
If you have hilly or uneven ground, choose a mower with lots of horsepower and a strong drive system. These can handle slopes better and won’t get stuck easily.
Ground clearance is important too. Taller decks move easily over rocky or bumpy patches without getting stuck or damaging the blades.
If your yard has many obstacles, look for mowers with all-wheel steering or articulated steering. These help you turn tighter and move around obstacles with less trouble.
Finally, tough tires with good grip help you mow through mud, wet grass, or rough patches. They keep your mower working well no matter where you mow.
FAQs
How Do Rear Engine Mowers Compare to Front Engine Models?
Rear engine mowers are more maneuverable, easier to store, and often more affordable, but front engine models provide greater power and stability for larger lawns. Your choice depends on your yard size and mowing needs.
Are Rear Engine Mowers Suitable for Large or Uneven Terrain?
Rear engine mowers aren’t ideal for large or uneven terrain because their smaller size and weight distribution make maneuvering difficult on challenging surfaces. Stick to front engine or wider mowers for better performance and stability on tough terrains.
What Are the Maintenance Costs for Electric vs. Gas Rear Engine Mowers?
Electric rear engine mowers typically cost less to maintain, with no oil changes or spark plug replacements, while gas mowers require ongoing fuel, oil, and part replacements, making their maintenance more expensive over time.
How Long Do the Batteries Typically Last on Electric Models?
The batteries on electric lawn mowers usually last about 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and maintenance. You can expect around 1 to 2 hours of runtime per charge, which varies with mower size and conditions.
Can Rear Engine Mowers Handle Heavy-Duty or Thick Grass?
Rear engine mowers typically struggle with heavy-duty or thick grass because their engines are designed for lighter work. You might find they clog or lack power, making it harder to mow tougher terrain efficiently and smoothly.
Last update on 2026-01-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!