Online reviews of zero-turn lawn mowers are nothing short of spectacular and rightfully so. Zero turn mowers are now preferred by more people because of its speed, efficiency, and the cutting quality it delivers. Regular riding mowers and tractors may cut the grass pretty well, but these machines are of no match around edges and tight corners.
This is one of the many reasons why zero turns are gaining popularity. The z-turn mowers have no problem doing its job even around corners, driveways, and edges. It can mow large lawns in lesser time than regular mowers with efficiency and yet yield even better results.
 | Powerful engine Excellent design Lots of accessories Comfortable seat |
Maintaining a professional looking lawn has never been easier after this category of mowers hit the market. Having said that, this is a very comprehensive review of the Ikon X-42 from Ariens. It covers everything there is to know about this zero-turn mower.
Design and Comfortability
The mower is built with high-quality materials that guarantee its durability unless it is frequently treated very harshly. It features a 42 inch fabricated deck made with a powerful ten gauge steel. This zero turn’s mowing deck is one of the toughest, and should easily outlast its competitors. The mowing deck is very well fabricated and is coated with rust-resistant material, so it should have no problems with rusts for years.
Ariens zero turns are one of the most comfortable residential mowers. The Ikon X-42 mowers are designed to deliver the maximum comfort that is expected of a residential mower. It has a high – padded back seat, which can be adjusted according to the user’s preference. This is a unique feature which is not included in many zero turn mowers. In addition, the seat springs provide an extra cushion which absorbs the shocks during bumps.
The control bars have built-in vibration isolators and can also be adjusted to meet the needs of the operator. This ensures a smooth and comfortable operation. The most beneficial aspect of this feature is that anyone tall or short can sit on the mower and execute the cutting or mowing job with ease and comfort. The armrests provide extra support to the operator when mowing. Ikon X-42 is designed in a pretty unique way; the operator’s seat and the engine are placed further forward to ensure that the weight is distributed evenly.
This zero turn has rubber foot mat, which significantly isolates vibration from the user’s legs and reduces operator fatigue. Overall, this zero turn is very comfortable to use, the control bars are adjustable, the seat provides excellent back support, and the controls are easily accessible.
Performance
Engine
The Ikon X -42 is powered by a powerful 22 HP, 7009 V twin engine. And the displacement is 735 cc. This Kohler engine delivers more than enough power and rpm with consistency. The 7000 series is built sturdily; this mower should easily handle the toughest grass cutting without bogging. Although this is a residential mower, its powerful engine is even capable of handling a large commercial area with ease. It does not fail to supply the required power to cut through even tall grass. With a top speed of 7mph, this machine can mow large laws with incredible speed.
Transmission
This zero turn is equipped with EZT hydrostatic transaxles which provide smooth, excellent, and responsive control. EZT gears are known for its capability to deliver excellent controls and maneuverability. These are also maintenance free, which means they can last for a pretty long time without any repairs. However, hauling heavy loads are not recommended. The maximum recommended load is 300 lbs.
Steering
The Ariens Ikon X-42 has a traditional steering system. i.e., lap bars or control bars. This can pose a bit of a learning curve for new users. Apart from that, the mower is a lot of fun to drive. The lap bars has a braking system built in. Parking brakes are automatically engaged when the control arms are swung out and disengaged when the control arms are put back in place. The control bars are adjustable and provide smooth operation.
Cut quality
This zero turn mower is equipped with a 42-inch cutting width which provides excellent cut quality. The deck is entirely fabricated and is amongst the toughest, durable decks. The entire deck can be lifted effortlessly to its maximum height with the deck assist foot pedal in avoiding hitting obstacles such as rocks and tree stumps. It also assists in turning the dial when choosing the cutting height. This product offers 13 different cutting heights, the lowest being 1.5 inches and 4.5 as the highest respectively. The cutting blades are made of tough, durable metal that delivers excellent cutting results and needs no sharpening for years.
The Ariens Ikon X-42 is equipped with a deeper deck designed to ensure optimal airflow. This results in excellent grass lift, which ultimately allows for a perfect cut.
When it comes to operating in tough terrains, this mower has everything one can expect from a zero turn. It can navigate through obstacles, corners, and gentle hills or bumps with ease. It does not compromise the cut quality, whether on a slope or flat terrain. However, precautions must be taken when operating in an uneven terrain which has lots of hills.
Accessories for Ariens IKON X-42
This mulching kit works by creating tiny grass clipping which is sent back to the lawn to feed it. Grass clippings have high nutrient concentration, which is great for the health of the lawn. This makes your lawn pose a professionally manicured look.
A bagger or a grass catcher is a very functional attachment for a lawnmower. It removes the need for backbreaking cleaning up after the grass is cut and mowed.
This particular kit for Ikon-X 42″ comes with two buckets which can hold up to six bushels. It is made of steel-frame for stability as well as durability. The bags are made of dark-colored fabric. The installation of the bagger is easy, and it can be done in a matter of a few minutes. The instructions leaflet that accompanies the kit also comes in very helpful in case of any doubts.
The kit contains the mounting hardware, twin bagging system, and the front weight kit. It has a dimension of 50 x 36 x 30 inches and weighs 150 lbs. The bagger kit is also compatible with all the X and XL models of the Ikon lawnmowers, except the XL-60″.
The Ariens flextend shoulder support is specifically designed to ensure comfortable mowing experience for extended hours. Shoulder and neck strain is reduced by supporting the arm and upper body. It reduces muscle fatigue and improves the operation by providing better posture. It also allows for a smooth, gentle grip and reduces hand vibration. It can be attached to the control bars.
This LED light attachment comes in very handy when you need to mow at low lighting conditions or night. The powerful light comes on as you turn on the ignition. Installation is straightforward, and the light fixture mounts on the front of the mower.
The Ariens LED headlight kit is accompanied by a pair of headlights and a detailed installation guide or instructions. The installation process is very simple and can be performed in just a few minutes. Before you proceed with the installation process, ensure that the battery is disconnected.
The oil that has been used multiple times can lead to engine heating, more friction, louder noises, and susceptible to accelerated wear and tear. This oil filter traps all the dirt and free-floating debris in the oil. It ensures that the oil stays cleaner for longer and allows your machine to run smoothly without overheating.
The installation process is straightforward. It is quickly executed with a filter wrench. The instructions come ready with the filter when you purchase it. It is best to change the filter whenever you change the oil in the engine of the mower.
This battery is a 12 volt and has 35 amp. It is fully rechargeable. It comes completely sealed and with no acid filling. It has a no-spilling feature which makes it very safe.
It has AGM construction which stands for Absorbed Glass Mat, which is the latest innovation used in the production of batteries.
Protect your mower’s seat from the rain, and the sun’s harmful UV rays, foreign objects, and all weather-related threats. The Ariens OEM riding lawn mower seat covers are compatible with most zero-turn riding mowers’ seat. The cover’s elastic cord hem ensures a tight fit.
Proper maintenance of a mower directly affects the performance as well as the durability. This genuine product from the Ariens Company is the perfect accessory to shield your Ariens Ikon X zero turn mower from all sorts of elements when it is not in use.
It is made of weather resistant fabric which does not shrink or stretch. It has reinforced air vents which allow the air to circulate in the mower when it is covered. It is provided with an elasticized cord at the hem for easy use that has a custom-built appearance. It protects the mower from dust, mildew, bird droppings and moisture as well as rain. When the mower is exposed to these elements, it is vulnerable to accelerated wear and tear. It will rust and corrode more quickly, which shortens its life expectancy.
This is an original part of the Ariens Company. It has a patented design as well as an IP53 Certification. It has been tested to 20000 cycles and salt sprayed in high pressure for best results. It is also watertight. The switch can be upgraded to 10 AMP for free.
This hitch kit from Elitewill is compatible with all the X and XL models of mowers from Ariens. The kit includes decal as well as the necessary hardware for easy installation. However, it does not include the ball hitch or the hitch pin. The installation is simple and straightforward.
It kit can easily tow up to 300 lbs. The tongue load has a capacity of 29 lbs. The entire kit weighs 10 lbs, and its dimensions are 5.3 inches in length, 5 inches in width and 3.48 inches in height.
Pros
- Power consistency. The Kohler 7000 series engines are very consistent when it comes to delivering power. So, this mower has an uninterrupted supply of consistent power.
- The overall design is excellent.
- Availability of cutting heights options.
- The deck is sturdily built with ten gauge steel.
- Lots of accessories to choose from.
- The driver’s seat is adjustable.
- Highly durable.
- Exceptional comfort level
- Awesome customer’s reviews and very few complaints.
Cons
- A bit of a learning curve for beginners or first-time users because of its unique steering system.
- No deck washout ports.
- Changing oil is challenging.
- There is no fuel gauge.
Conclusion
One of the most successful and leading manufacturers of residential and commercial lawn mowers is the Ariens Company. The company is well known for producing high-quality lawn mowers. Ikon X-42 is one of the most successful zero turn mowers manufactured by the company. It is also available in 52-inch cutting decks, which are very similarly built. The only differences between the two models are the cutting width and the engine horsepower.
Owning a nice and well-trimmed lawn is definitely something you can pride yourself on. The Ariens Ikon X-42 is one of the best zero turns that delivers excellent grass cutting with consistency. And with so many cutting heights to choose from, this mower can bring the new appealing look to your lawn. Based on so many reviews and positive feedbacks, the Ariens Ikon-X is absolutely worth the money.
