For relatively flat lawns with lots of obstacles, the Lawn-Boy Z350 HLX Zero-Turn Riding Mower has the power and the performance to make mowing day easier and maybe even fun. We rate it as a Best Buy.

The Z350 HLX zero-turn riding mower has much in common with its sister model, the Z320 H. It's powered by a proven Honda four-stroke engine, has a dual hydrostatic transmission, is well designed and built, and is comfortable to ride. So what's the difference? This model has more power, a wider cut and a few options that come standard. Oh, and the price is about 25 percent higher. Why, you ask?

First, the engine is a Honda GVX series 530 cc twin-cylinder with overhead valves. The pressurized lubrication system has a spin-on filter for easier maintenance and longer life. Twin-cylinder engines are more balanced and operate more smoothly than single-cylinder versions. The transmission is the same as other models, a dual hydrostatic (automatic) transmission that allows you to make the mower turn tightly using the two steering arms at your right and left, which makes for easy and intuitive operation.

Another difference is the cut. The Z350 HLX cuts a 44-inch swath on each pass. That's about 15 percent more than the 38-inch cut of other models. It shaves about 10 minutes of mowing from each hour -- not significant, but welcome. It's the right size for cutting a typical 2-1/2 acre lawn in about an hour. Need more from your mower? Perhaps consider a mower with a 50-, 52-, or 54-inch cut that will get you back to your easy chair faster. Of course, the price goes up with wider-cut models.

Speaking of comfort, you may not want to leave the driver's seat of the Z350 HLX so quickly. The spring-supported high back seat has armrests and is quite comfortable. It's adjustable with a lever located under the front of the seat.

Controls are well placed on the right side of the driver and include an electric keystart, throttle lever and electric PTO clutch. There's a cup holder on the left and a small storage compartment -- for items such as a cell phone -- below the driver's seat. Access to the engine is easy and made through a cover behind the driver's seat. The 1.8-gallon fuel tank is on the small side, but adequate.

Some of the options that are standard on the Z350 HLX include anti-scalp wheels and smooth-tread front tires. Headlights are standard on this model, as well. The Z350 HLX doesn't have a twin-bagger option; it has an optional vac bagger that is actually more efficient at sucking up cut grass. A mulching kit is also optional. And for double duty you can keep your mower busy during the winter with an optional snow blade, if you prefer.

One more point: The warranty is impressive. It is for two-years coverage on everything, not just some of the parts, and it includes that Lawn-Boy picks up the errant mower and returns it to you at no cost. We especially like that.

The Lawn-Boy Z350 HLX is a long-term mower that should cut your grass for a decade or more with little maintenance required. And it looks stylish. It's a sure Best Buy.


Pros: Proven four-stroke engine, solid construction, good looks
Cons: Smaller fuel tank

Warranty
2 years, full