The Husqvarna R155 AWD rear-engine riding mower is a well-built tool that delivers cutting power and unique features. It's the right mower for larger, uneven lawns with numerous obstacles. But it's not cheap.

Powered by a solid 15-hp Kohler Command engine, the R155 AWD is designed for maneuverability. The steering is articulated, meaning that it can make tight turns to cut around trees, fountains, curving walls, sleeping dogs and other obstacles that would stop conventional riding mowers. The turning radius is just 4 inches! If you need to turn tighter than that, take a look at the zero-turn radius mowers.

The R155 and R155 AWD models are similar except that the AWD offers all-wheel drive when needed for slopes and wet grass. It automatically adjusts traction on all four 16-inch wheels as needed to compensate for terrain and grass condition. Unlike other riding mowers, the four primary wheels are below or behind the drivers seat, and the cutting deck has for additional roller wheels to keep the cut even.

Three blades make cutting cleaner and mulching more efficient than two blades. Install the mulching plug, called the BioClip, and lawn clippings are forced to stay under the cutting deck until sliced and diced into mulch that falls into the lawn to become future fertilizer. Cutting width is 41 inches. There are nine easy-to-set cutting heights from 1-1/2 to 3-1/2 inches in 1/4-inch increments.

Starting the R155 models is easy: just turn the key and the battery sends juice to the starter. The 15-amp generator replenishes electricity in the battery. The Kanzaki heavy-duty hydrostatic transmission in the AWD model moves the machine at up to 8 mph forward or about 7 mph in reverse. (The non-AWD model has a Tuff-Torq transmission with a slightly slower reverse speed.) The power and cut controls are located in a handy place on the right side of the operator and below the steering wheel. The driver's seat is low, adjustable and relatively comfortable, though some engine vibration is transferred to the seat. But due to the fast cutting speed you probably won't be on it long enough to bother you.

We liked that the cutting deck is out in front of the main wheels rather than in the middle. This feature makes it easier to maneuver the cutting blades in near fence corners and under bushes without cutting something you don't want cut. The deck can easily be turned up on its side for cleaning, a job that is much more difficult on other riders and on lawn tractors.

The R155 models don't have a flat floor over the deck so they are a little more difficult to get in to and out of than some other riders, but it's not a problem for most users.

Currently, the R155 and R155 AWD are not available in California due to marketing agreements.

The Husqvarna R155 AWD articulating riding mower is a well-built machine that fits in the gap between conventional and zero-turn riding mowers very well.


Pros: More versatile than conventional riding mowers, well-designed and built, superior mulching capabilities
Cons: More expensive than other riding mowers, more difficult to mount than some other ride-on mowers and tractors

Warranty
2 years