The Yard Machines 13AM772F000 lawn tractor is one of the best budget riding mowers on the market. It sports a 15.5-hp Briggs & Stratton I/C engine, which is not particularly powerful when compared to the engines found in other lawn tractors. This engine is located at the front of the mower under what feels like a flimsy plastic covering; a heavy-duty box frame covers the remainder of the tractor. The 38-inch deck is relatively large and allows for a quick cut, as each pass covers a greater amount of yard. The 1.5-gallon fuel tank is small for a lawn tractor, which may be an issue for those with larger yards; you may find yourself having to fill up more often than you'd like.

The 13AM772F000 has a 7-speed shift-on-the-go transmission, which is engaged by utilizing a shifter on the right side of the machine; shifting is smooth and easy. We find that this tractor functions best at a medium pace. The 13AM772F000 also has very large tires for a riding mower; the back tires are 20 inches tall and provide great traction when it is needed.

This tractor features a cup holder and headlights; these lights aren't really bright enough to mow at night, however. These two features are the extent of the frills that are found on the 13AM772F000. Its suspension is nothing special and is best suited for terrain that's largely flat and featureless.

The combination of its large deck, smaller fuel tank and weaker engine makes the 13AM772F000 a model to consider if you have a smaller yard without much change in its terrain; it's also worth mentioning, of course, that it is phenomenally inexpensive. If you're searching for bells and whistles, search elsewhere; if you simply want a reliable, high-quality cut, however, this is a model to consider.


Pros: Budget price, quality transmission
Cons: Small fuel tank, comfort, no frills