The IKON-X by Ariens is versatile and features a user-friendly design, large cutting deck size, and plenty of power to handle larger lawns. The mower’s zero turn ability will allow you to easily maneuver around obstacles in the yard including trees, structures, brush, and more.
Our Verdict: While its size can make it overkill for smaller yards, if you have more than an acre to mow, this model can get the job done quickly and efficiently. It handles well over a variety of terrain types, which is just one of the many reasons it landed on our top five list.
Keep on reading to learn more about this exciting new riding lawn mower by Ariens.
Overview and Features
The mower’s fifty-two-inch deck equals a bigger than average cutting path, which is what makes this riding mower perfect for larger properties. Models with a smaller cutting path can require multiple passes, while with the IKON-X you’ll only need to make a single pass, which will save you plenty of time in the yard. In fact, this model has a reputation for handling even the most challenging mowing jobs, which is why it’s often the go-to model for the pros. So, if you need a reliable, powerful model that can cut your mowing time in half, your search is over.
Product Rating:
- Fifty-two-inch deck
- Comfortable seat designed to minimize vibration
- Designed for pro and home use
- Good price
- Thirteen height settings
Versatility
A good riding lawn motor is often defined by its versatility and ability to handle a wide range of mowing jobs. Since this model is often used by professional landscapers, you can expect a more versatile performance. Its ability to handle a variety of terrain types from uneven ground to hilly terrain is just one of the reasons it has such as high user rating. The mower’s fabricated deck features a three-blade design complete with a dial-operated height adjustment selector. This newer design is an improvement over past models by Ariens which utilized the standard lever and pin process that made adjusting the height of the blades very frustrating and time-consuming. Additionally, the newer dial design allows you to accurately adjust the height compared to other outdated systems.
Cutting Height
In addition to the foot operated deck lift option, this model also features a total of thirteen cutting height adjustments to choose from using four and a half inch increments for a total height of fifteen inches.
User-Friendly
Another reason this mower is commonly used by homeowners and by the pros is its simple design that features basic, intuitive controls that allow users to expertly adjust the settings in a matter of seconds.
Hydrostatic Transaxles
The mower comes with the EZT twin hydrostatic transaxles, which make controlling the trimming process more manageable while also improving the mower’s overall response time.
Performance
The mower’s dual arm lift offers the best in deck stability. The four-point hanging system is a commercial grade design and one that allows the blades to cut the grass evenly and more efficiently. Additionally, the model’s seat and armrest combination provide optimal support and comfort, working to minimize vibration during use.
However, no riding lawn mower is perfect, and this model does have a few drawbacks that you’ll want to consider before you buy. First off, it doesn’t come with a mulching setting, which can be a big disappointment for buyer’s who live in warmer climates since a good mulch can prevent a lawn from easily drying out.
While equipped with the zero turn feature, this model still struggles when it comes to steering on undulating and bumpy terrain and the wheels tend to lose quite a bit of traction on wet ground.
The large deck size also makes the mower a poor choice for smaller yards.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Fifty-two-inch deck
- Comfortable seat designed to minimize vibration
- Designed for pro and home use
- Good price
- Thirteen height settings
Cons
- Too large for small yards
- Does not come with a mulching setting
Related Questions
Will this Riding Lawn Mower Work for Steep Inclines
There have been some reports that this mower can struggle to power up steeper inclines, although it can handle moderately hilly terrain easily. The type of soil you have and the ground conditions can also impact how well this, or any other type of lawn mower can handle the terrain.
If you’re in need of a more powerful model that can take on steeper terrain then we recommend the Husqvarna MZ61 Riding Mower, which has a powerful V-twin engine and a twenty-seven horsepower rating. If your lawn has a relatively flat terrain, then this lawn mower by Ariens is more than capable on taking it on.
How Do I Prevent Brown Patches On My Lawn?
These brown patches can occur for a number of reasons. Most likely, you’re dealing with a pest problem in your yard, you’re not sticking to a watering schedule, you’ve over-fertilized, or maybe you haven’t fertilized enough. The cause of this issue can be dependent on the type of grass you have, the soil type, and the types of pests that are common in your part of the country. If you’re doing everything right and still experiencing those unsightly brown patches in your otherwise perfect lawn, click here to read our guide on lawn maintenance tips.
Conclusion and Rating
Product Rating:
The Ariens IKONX is perfect for medium and large lawns. It’s fifty-two-inch deck offers a larger than average cutting path that will allow you to trim down grass to the perfect height with just a single pass. The comfortable seat combined with its zero turn ability, thirteen blade height adjustment settings, and wide range of features that allow you to power over challenging terrain makes this model one of the best riding mowers for hills. We gave this model a rating of four and a half stars out of five.