Cub Cadet Tractor

When I think of Cub Cadet, I think of my grandfather.  My grandfather had a nice piece of property and he would take care of it with his Cub Cadet tractor.  He also had a trailer he would use.  He grew up as a farmer and eventually settled down to a smaller piece of land but his land was his to work.  He had a large garden and would spend many hours outside.  So for him, the tractor was his main tool.  Now while it was nice back then, it’s nothing compared to the new Cub Cadet tractors which we are going over today.

Cub Cadet Tractor – Information

• Name – Cub Cadet
• Model – XT1 LT 42 with IntelliPower
• Price – $1,949
• Where to Buy – Cub Cadet Website

Cub Cadet Tractor Features

The Cub Cadet, model XT1 LT42 is a 42″ stamped 13 gauge deck that features a twin-blade design. The tractor is a perfect solution for about a 1.5 flat acre lot.  Considering it has a 3-gallon tank, you won’t have to worry about filling up all the time.

One great feature is the IntelliPower system which creates a consistent mowing performance.  As the mower hits heavier wet grass, it kicks the power up so the tractor doesn’t bog down.  When it doesn’t need the power, it demands less from the engine offering better fuel management.

Cub Cadet backs this tractor with a 3-year no hour limit warranty which includes the powertrain and a 5-year chassis and front axle.

Normally I would start with the engine but comfort is important.  While the seat is over the back wheel, it offers a fairly smooth ride compared to most tractors.

The Cub Cadet features a single-cylinder 547cc engine that is equipped with EFI which means better fuel efficiency, less maintenance, and easier starting.

While the steering wheel is comfortable, it’s worth noting that the tractor has a 16″ turn radius which is extremely small for a tractor.  This means it’s easier going around trees or making the turn at the end of your property.

The tractor features a turf torq hydrostatic transmission which means no shifting.  Just depress the pedal and you’re off.

As discussed above, the IntelliPower is built into the tractor.  To adjust the system, there is a dial on the front panel which clearly shows where to set it for the task you have at hand.

The tractor, like most, has a key ignition.

The tractor offers 12 different cutting positions so a user can easily match the height to their liking.

Cub Cadet Tractor Impressions

For me, I have a small yard and use a walk-behind.  However, with Dan’s yard, I get to use a wide variety of different tractors we have tested over the years.  What stood out to me was the power and comfort.  While there is a lot to love about this tractor, those two items are what is important to me in a tractor.

We took this tractor through some tall grass and not even a hiccup.  Not only did the tractor ride over the grass, but it left a clean cut.  I was impressed by the debris.  While it did leave some clippings behind on the very tall grass, it did an awesome job at mulching them up.  So for our regular cut, which is your normal grass, it did exceptionally well at mulching and cutting.

One knock I always have against tractors is the ride.  The seat is always placed right above the rear wheels so every little bump, you feel.  Now I am not saying I didn’t feel the bumps because it’s still a tractor with the seat above the wheels.  However, the bumps were not violent like we have seen with other riding tractors.  We hit some good size bumps and it didn’t feel like our spine was driving into our pelvis.  So yes, the ride stood out and I can see myself using this for a while without driving me crazy with pain.

Cub Cadet Tractor Wrap Up

Bottom line, this is a great tractor for the price.  With the experience of Cub, I know this is a tractor that will last a long time.  While the tractor features some great technology, it goes back to power and ride which this tractor hit home runs on both.  Everything else is just a bonus.  If you are looking to upgrade to a new tractor or you are getting a larger piece of land and need a riding tractor, I would highly recommend looking into the Cub Cadet XT1 LT42 with IntelliPower.