2019 Troy-Bilt Lawn Tractor, Yard Tractor, Garden Tractor, and Zero-Turn Review
This review of Troy-Bilt is a little late this year because there have been some very large shakeups in the lawn tractor industry and I wanted to see how Troy-Bilt was affected before writing this review.
The Good News is Troy-Bilt is alive and well. Even better, the entire Troy-Bilt line of lawn tractors, yard tractors, garden tractors, zero-turns, rear tine tillers, and walk-behind mowers are now at The Home Depot! Yes, even The Big Red and Horse Tillers are available there.
For most suburban homeowners Troy-Bilt riding mowers are a great choice. They have the largest selection of inexpensive lawn tractors. In addition, they have a nationwide network of servicing dealers if you need maintenance parts or ever need repairs.
I’m going to break down this article into four types of Troy-Bilt mowers – lawn tractors, yard tractors, garden tractors, and zero-turns
Please note! **This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. But, please feel free to visit your local authorized dealer and purchase locally. I don’t make a commission when you do that but I don’t mind.
Lawn Tractors:
I define lawn tractors as inexpensive riding mowers that are designed to mow 1/3 to 1-acre yards. These mowers can pull a small yard cart, sprayer or dethatcher. They are not designed for pulling heavy loads, mounting snow blowers or using ground engaging attachments. I don’t recommend them for slopes. Many people buy these because their lawn is just a little too big to use a walk-behind to mow. With the proper maintenance, these mowers will last most owners 10 years.
Troy-Bilt has three models that fall into this classification.
Troy-Bilt Pony 42 in. 17.5 hp Manual Drive Model# Pony 42
Troy-Bilt-Pony-42
If you don’t want to hold down the accelerator pedal (drive pedal) and don’t want to spend the extra money for a yard tractor with cruise control this may be the mower you are looking for! This is also a great mower if you just like to putt around the yard and are not in a big hurry to get the lawn mowed. The 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine gives you plenty of power for weekly mowing. The step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off. If you have a small yard and want a riding mower this is a great choice.
- 17.5 HP 500 cc PowerBuilt series single-cylinder OHV Briggs & Stratton engine delivers reliability and convenience combined like never before, these engines deliver easy starting and superior performance
- 7-speed shift-on-the-go transmission for smooth change of speed and direction and operator-controlled reverse mowing
- 42 in. Twin-blade, side discharge deck cuts quickly and cleanly, 5-position deck height adjustment
- 13-Gauge fully-welded step-thru frame with cup holder is easy to get on and off
- 18 in. turn radius allows you to mow in tighter spaces and navigate around obstacles, trim close to trees and other landscaping features in confidence
- Comfortable low-back seat
- Increased visibility with automatic headlights
- Optional accessories include baggers, mulch kits, carts, and many other attachments (sold separately)
- 2-year limited warranty
Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 in. 19 hp Automatic Model# Bronco 42
Troy-Bilt-Bronco-42
This is one of the most popular economy mowers on the market. The automatic transmission means no shifting. Step through design makes it easy to get on and off. The 19 HP Briggs & Stratton engine is the “standard” for this price range. This is a good “first” mower and works well on relatively flat lawns up to one acre. It mows well and you can use it to pull a yard cart, dethatcher, and other useful attachments. Yes, you can add bagger or mulch kit.
- 19 HP 540 cc Intek series single-cylinder OHV Briggs & Stratton engine delivers reliability and convenience combined like never before, these engines deliver easy starting and superior performance
- Foot pedal controlled automatic transmission for smooth change of speed and operator-controlled reverse mowing
- 42 in. twin-blade, side discharge deck cuts quickly and cleanly, 5-position deck height adjustment
- 13-Gauge fully-welded step-thru frame with cup holder is easy to get on and off
- 18 in. turn radius allows you to mow in tighter spaces and navigate around obstacles, trim close to trees and other landscaping features in confidence
- Ride in more comfort with adjustable 11 in. mid-back seat accommodates users of different heights and rubber footpads that help absorb vibration
- Increased visibility with automatic headlights
- Two 5 in. anti-scalp deck wheels protect your lawn from damage, so it always looks perfectly groomed
- Bagging capability allows you to collect grass clippings, and the mulching capability allows you to return nutrients to the soil for a healthier lawn (rear bagger and mulch kit sold separately)
- Optional accessories include baggers, mulch kits, carts, and many other attachments (sold separately)
- 2-year limited warranty
Troy-Bilt Horse 46 in. 20 hp V-Twin Automatic Model# Horse 46
Troy-Bilt-Horse-46
If you like the Horse 42 but want a larger deck and smooth running V-Twin engine this mower is a good choice. I prefer the 46-inch deck because the deck sticks out from the mower a little more and makes it easier to trim around “stuff.”
- 20 HP 656cc Intek series twin-cylinder OHV Briggs & Stratton engine is conceived and designed from the ground up to give you what you want- rugged components, smoother operation, and longer life
- Foot pedal controlled automatic transmission for smooth change of speed and operator-controlled reverse mowing
- 46 in. Twin-blade, side discharge deck cuts quickly and cleanly, 5-position deck height adjustment
- 13-Gauge fully-welded step-thru frame with cup holder is easy to get on and off
- 18 in. turn radius allows you to mow in tighter spaces and navigate around obstacles, trim close to trees and other landscaping features in confidence
- Ride in more comfort with adjustable 11 in. mid-back seat accommodates users of different heights and rubber footpads that help absorb vibration
- Increased visibility with automatic headlights
- Two 5 in. anti-scalp deck wheels protect your lawn from damage, so it always looks perfectly groomed
- 2 Gal. fuel capacity is ideal for mowing 2 plus acre lawns without having to stop and refuel
- Bagging capability allows you to collect grass clippings, and the mulching capability allows you to return nutrients to the soil for a healthier lawn (rear bagger and mulch kit sold separately)
- Optional accessories include baggers, mulch kits, carts, and many other attachments (sold separately)
- 2-year limited warranty
For those of you who live on the west coast, there are two Troy-Bilt Lawn Tractors with California Compliant engines. Troy-Bilt California Compliant
Yard Tractors
Yard Tractors are built heavier, have better engines, and will last longer than the lawn tractors above. If you want a good mowing tractor that can also pull anything in your yard cart, pull a lawn sweeper or mount a bagger, these are the best choice. These yard tractors will accept a snow blade and a snow blower attachment.
The three Troy-Bilt yard tractors below use the same heavy-duty frame and drive components as the Cub Cadet tractors so expect a mower that mows well and lasts a long, long time.
Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 46 in. 679 cc V-Twin Hydrostatic Transmission Model# Super Bronco 46
Troy-Bilt-Super Bronco-46
If I were to buy a Troy-Bilt for my one-acre yard this would be the model I chose. I like the full pressure Troy-Bilt engine and the deck is one of the best cutting 46-inch decks in the industry. The hydrostatic transmission will last and the offers cruise control so you can take your foot off the drive pedal when mowing larger areas. The steering is precise and many owners rave about how easy it is to steer – It’s almost as easy as the power steering in your car. This mower will last you a long time and the price is right for what you get.
- 679 cc V-twin OHV Troy-Bilt engine features full pressure lubrication to ensure smooth delivery of oil to critical components and a forged steel crankshaft making it stronger and more durable
- Hydrostatic transmission with cruise control offers smooth change of speed and direction with the foot pedal control and a maximum speed of 5.5 MPH in forward and reverse
- Heavy-duty cast-iron front axle provides durability and strength for long-lasting performance
- Systems monitor includes hour meter and ammeter to track usage and remind when it’s time for regular maintenance
- 46 in. twin blade cutting deck features 12 cutting height adjustments between 1.5 in. H to 3.75 in. H
- 4 anti-scalp deck wheels help prevent damage to the deck and your yard when the mower encounters uneven or sloped areas
- Attach a standard garden hose to the integrated deck wash port on the cutting deck to quickly rinse grass clippings from the underside of the deck
- Automatic headlights provide increased visibility and added safety at any time day or night
- StepThru frame design provides easier access on and off the tractor by increasing the space between the seat and control panel and providing more leg room
- Ride in more comfort with reduced vibration with the high-back seat and soft touch steering wheel
- Designed with a 16 in. turning radius for greater maneuverability with 15 in. x 6 in. front wheels and 20 in. x 8 in. rear wheels
- Rear hitch is handy for pulling small dump carts and other tow behind accessories such as aerators, sprayers, and dethatchers (sold separately)
- Add versatility to your riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit (sold separately)
- Includes operator-controlled mow-in-reverse capability
- Use fuel stabilizers to maintain your engine and increase the longevity of your mower (not included)
- 2-year limited warranty
Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP 50 in. 679 cc V-Twin, Hydrostatic Transmission, Cruise Control, Mow in Reverse Model# Super Bronco XP 50 FAB
Troy-Bilt-Super Bronco-50
This is not one of those mowers.
There are a lot of 48-54 inch mowers in this price range and most of them I do not recommend. The other mowers use a lawn tractor transmission, add large 23-inch tires and the 54-inch deck. These “Light Garden Tractor or LGT” mowers will not last if you have slopes or pull heavy loads. This is not one of those mowers.
The Super Bronco is different and I can easily recommend it for suburban yards up to 2-3 acres. Yes, it has the lawn tractor transmission but it is equipped with the correct size 20 inch rear wheels and 50-inch deck. On paper, this looks like a small difference but over the life of a lawn mower, this will mean the difference between this one that will last 10 years or more to one of the others that may only last a couple of years.
I also want to point out that for a good price you also get the heavy-duty fabricated deck.
- 679 cc V-twin OHV Troy-Bilt engine features full pressure lubrication to ensure smooth delivery of oil to critical components and a forged steel crankshaft making it stronger and more durable
- Hydrostatic transmission with cruise control offers smooth change of speed and direction with the foot pedal control and a maximum speed of 5.5 MPH in forward and reverse
- Heavy-duty 50 in. fabricated steel cutting deck has reinforced bottom edges for rugged performance and enhanced durability and features 3 separate cutting blades
- Electric PTO quickly and easily engages cutting blades
- 12 cutting height adjustments between 1.5 in. to 3.75 in. lets you customize for your individual needs
- Heavy-duty cast-iron front axle provides durability and strength for long-lasting performance
- Systems monitor includes hour meter and ammeter to track usage and remind when it’s time for regular maintenance
- 4 anti-scalp deck wheels help prevent damage to the deck and your yard when the mower encounters uneven or sloped areas
- Attach a standard garden hose to the integrated deck wash port on the cutting deck to quickly rinse grass clippings from the underside of the deck
- Automatic headlights provide increased visibility and added safety at any time day or night
- StepThru frame design provides easier access on and off the tractor by increasing the space between the seat and control panel and providing more leg room
- Ride in more comfort with reduced vibration with the high-back seat and soft touch steering wheel
- Designed with a 16 in. turning radius for greater maneuverability with 15 in. x 6 in. front wheels and 20 in. x 8 in. rear wheels
- Rear hitch is handy for pulling small dump carts and other tow behind accessories such as aerators, sprayers and dethatchers (sold separately)
- Add versatility to your riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit (sold separately)
- Includes operator-controlled mow-in-reverse capability
- Use fuel stabilizers to maintain your engine and increase the longevity of your mower (not included)
- 3-year limited warranty
Garden Tractors
Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP 54 in. 26 hp V-Twin, Kohler, Garden Tractor, Hydrostatic Transmission Model# Super Bronco XP 54 FAB GT
Troy-Bilt-Super Bronco-GT-54
This is a true Garden Tractor with a heavy-duty hydrostatic transmission, strong, fabricated deck and all the other nicer features you expect in a $3000+ mower. I particularly like the nice seat with arm-rests, the handholds on the fenders and the large front and rear wheels.
This mower compares with the Cub Cadet XT2 Garden Tractor, The Husqvarna TS354D, and Craftsman Pro Garden Tractor at Sears. Craftsman SBD at Lowes does not have a riding mower that compares to this one. John Deere and Simplicity will charge almost $6000+ for a lawn tractor with this transmission.
- 26 HP 747 cc Kohler KT7000 series twin-cylinder engine with Consistent-Cut technology provides steadier power to your deck, helping you get the perfect cut
- Hydrostatic transmission with cruise control offers smooth change of speed and direction with the foot pedal control and a maximum speed of 5.5 MPH in forward and reverse
- Heavy-duty 54 in. fabricated steel cutting deck has reinforced bottom edges for rugged performance and enhanced durability and features 3 separate cutting blades
- Electric PTO quickly and easily engages cutting blades
- 12 cutting height adjustments between 1.5 in. H to 3.75 in. H lets you customize for your individual needs
- Heavy-duty cast-iron front axle provides durability and strength for long-lasting performance
- Deluxe high-back seat with armrests and soft touch steering wheel provide more comfort when mowing larger areas and for longer periods of time
- Systems monitor includes hour meter and ammeter to track usage and remind when it’s time for regular maintenance
- 4 anti-scalp deck wheels and a front nose roller help prevent damage to the deck and your yard when the mower encounters uneven or sloped areas
- Attach a standard garden hose to the integrated deck wash port on the cutting deck to quickly rinse grass clippings from the underside of the deck
- Automatic headlights provide increased visibility and added safety at any time day or night
- StepThru frame design provides easier access on and off the tractor by increasing the space between the seat and control panel and providing more leg room
- Designed with a 16 in. turning radius for greater maneuverability with 16.5 in. x 6.5 in. front wheels and 22 in. x 9.5 in. rear wheels
- Rear hitch is handy for pulling dump carts and other tow behind accessories such as aerators, sprayers and dethatchers (sold separately)
- Add versatility to your riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit (sold separately)
- Includes operator-controlled mow-in-reverse capability
- Use fuel stabilizers to maintain your engine and increase the longevity of your mower (not included)
- 3-year limited warranty
Buy Here: Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP 54 in. 26 hp V2 Kohler Gas Garden Tractor with Hydrostatic Transmission
Zero Turns
Troy-Bilt Mustang 34 in. 452 cc OHV Zero-Turn Riding Mower Dual Hydrostatic Transmission Model# Mustang Fit 34
Troy-Bilt-Mustang-34
There is always one mower in a brand’s lineup that is not a good choice for most people. This is the Troy-Bilt I DO NOT recommend. This small zero-turn is too big to fit through a 36-inch gate and too small to turn without tearing up the turf. It will not work well on any type of slope. I don’t recommend this mower to anyone unless you have very small flat areas to mow and can turn the mower off of the turf.
- Compact size zero turn rider is perfect for smaller yards with trees or obstacles and can be stored in the same space as a wide area walk behind mower in the garage or shed
- 452 cc single-cylinder OHV Troy-Bilt engine features full pressure lubrication to ensure smooth delivery of oil to critical components and an automotive-style oil filter to maintain solid performance by removing contaminants
- Dual hydrostatic transmission with lap bar controls delivers true zero turn performance for quicker mow times and improved maneuverability with a maximum forward speed of 7 MPH and 2.5 MPH in reverse
- 34 in. twin blade cutting deck features 8 cutting height adjustments between 1.25 in. to 3.75 in. H
- Lap bar controls have an integrated parking brake to safely and quickly stop the mower
- Ride in more comfort with reduced vibration with the high-back seat and foam grip steering controls
- 11 in. x 4.5 in. front ribbed front wheels and 18 in. x 6.5 in. rear tires provide improved traction when turning
Buy Here: Troy-Bilt Mustang 34 in. 452 cc OHV Engine Gas Zero Turn Riding Mower
Troy-Bilt Mustang 42 in. 679 cc V-Twin OHV Engine Gas Zero Turn Riding Mower Model# Mustang Z42
Troy-Bilt-Mustang-42
If you like the new Cub Cadet Ultima zero-turns but just don’t like the “Ricky Race Car” rear engine guard this is the mower for you! It’s about $200 less than the Ultima because it doesn’t come standard with LED lights or the foot assist deck height. But, it has the same frame and great cutting deck. The V-twin engine is MTD’s own full pressure, long life engine.
- 679cc V-twin OHV Troy-Bilt engine features full pressure lubrication to ensure smooth delivery of oil to critical components and a forged steel crankshaft making it stronger and more durable
- Dual hydrostatic transmission with lap bar controls delivers true zero-turn performance for quicker mow times and improved maneuverability with a maximum forward speed of 7 MPH and 2.5 MPH in reverse
- Newly designed heavy-duty, full length, fully welded, tubular frame is built for added strength and durability in the yard
- 42 in. twin blade cutting deck features 9 cutting height adjustments between 1.25 in. to 3.75 in. H
- Electric PTO quickly and easily engages cutting blades
- Lap bar controls have an integrated parking brake to safely and quickly stop the mower
- Ride in more comfort with reduced vibration with the high-back seat and foam grip steering controls
- 11 in. x 5 in front ribbed front wheels and 20 in. x 8 in. rear tires provide improved traction when turning
- Attach a standard garden hose to the integrated deck wash port on the cutting deck to quickly rinse grass clippings from the underside of deck
- Add versatility to your riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit (sold separately)
- Includes operator-controlled mow-in-reverse capability
- Use fuel stabilizers to maintain your engine and increase the longevity of your mower (not included)
- Limited lifetime warranty on the frame and a 2-year limited/120-hours warranty on the remaining components offers peace of mind
Buy Here: Troy-Bilt Mustang 42 in. 679 cc V-Twin OHV Zero-Turn Riding Mower.
Feel free to ask questions in the comment section below. Thanks for reading this article!
Paul, I’m a long-time reader, but first time commenter from Cleveland, OH. The site is great, with a wealth of information! I am looking for a tractor to mow a 2/3 acre lot in a subdivision. The land is relatively flat but slopes a little (less than 10 degrees) down toward the back of the lot. I’d like to get a tractor with a high-quality cut that can tow an aerator, dethatcher, lawn cart, and use a bagger as needed. Also, I want to use the tractor to mount a snow blower in winter. I am wide open to brand,… Read more »
Hi Paul,
Any reason you don’t mention the Husqvarna R322t in your article? I watched your video made in 2013 about the articulated rider and it seemed you really liked it.