Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 Review
The Ultima ZT2 line adds wider fabricated decks and a Kawasaki V-twin at a mid-range price. It suits two to four acres.
- Deck size
- 50, 54 or 60 in
- Horsepower
- 23 HP
- Drive
- Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic
- Fuel type
- Gasoline
Rating breakdown
Key specifications
| Power type | Gasoline |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 23 HP |
| Engine | Kawasaki FR691V V-twin OHV, air-cooled (ZT2 50) |
| Displacement | 726 cc, 2 cylinders |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Dual hydrostatic, lap bar control |
| Drive | Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic |
| Deck size | 50, 54 or 60 in |
| Deck construction | Fabricated AeroForce, side discharge, reinforced leading edges |
| Cutting height | Adjustable; see Cub Cadet spec sheet |
| Blades | Three blades |
| Discharge | Side discharge; mulching and bagging with optional kits |
| Top speed | 7 to 7.5 mph forward, 3.5 mph reverse |
| Turning radius | Zero |
| Front tires | 11x6-5 casters |
| Rear tires | 20x12-10 (accessory chains listed) |
| Weight | Not published by Cub Cadet |
| Dimensions | See Cub Cadet spec sheet for deck-specific size |
| Fuel capacity | Not published by Cub Cadet |
| Recommended property size | About 2 to 4 acres |
| Frame | 2 x 2 in. tubular steel, e-coated |
| Seat | 20 in high-back, lever adjust |
| Accessory | Triple bagger, striping kit, plow blade |
Pros and cons
What we like
- Kawasaki 23 hp V-twin
- Wide 50 to 60-in. fabricated decks
- Reinforced AeroForce deck edges
- Accessory range includes bagger and plow
- Strong owner ratings
What could be better
- Firm ride without a suspension seat
- Lap bars, not a steering wheel
- Costs much more than the ZT1
- Speed rating varies by source
- Fewer comfort features than the ZT3
Ultima ZT2 (series) review
Our take on the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 series
The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 sits in the middle of the Ultima ZT line. It has a 23 hp Kawasaki FR691V V-twin and a fabricated AeroForce deck. Decks come in 50, 54 and 60 inches. It costs more than the ZT1 and less than the ZT3.
Engine and drive
The ZT2 50 uses a 23 hp, 726 cc Kawasaki FR691V engine. Dual hydrostatic transmissions give a top speed of 7 mph forward and 3.5 mph in reverse. Some Cub Cadet pages list 7.5 mph for the series, so check the exact model you are buying.
Deck and frame
The AeroForce deck is fabricated and has reinforced leading edges. It is built to give few clumps and fine clippings. The frame is a continuous 2 by 2 inch tubular steel design. It has an e-coated lower section for corrosion protection.
Comfort
The seat is a 20-inch high-back with lever adjustment. Owners say the ride is firm. One reviewer fitted a suspension seat kit. Cub Cadet sells armrest and fender kits as accessories.
Attachments
Cub Cadet offers a triple bagger for the 50, 54 and 60-inch decks. A striping kit, a hauler and a 52-inch plow blade are also available.
Limits to know about
The ZT2 still uses lap bars. Some owners want a softer seat. It costs noticeably more than the ZT1 for a similar engine. The step-up is mostly deck size and build.
Who should buy it
Buy a ZT2 if you have two to four acres and want a wider deck than the ZT1. Choose the ZT3 if you want a bigger seat and more power. For smaller yards, see the ZT1 series.
Buying information
Ownership
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 50 have?
23 hp from a Kawasaki FR691V V-twin.
What deck sizes does the ZT2 come in?
50, 54 and 60 inches.
What seat does the ZT2 have?
A 20-inch high-back seat with lever adjustment.
Can I add a bagger to the ZT2?
Yes. Cub Cadet offers a triple bagger for 50, 54 and 60-inch decks.
How is the ZT2 different from the ZT1?
It has wider deck choices and a higher price. See our Ultima ZT1 review for the entry line.
Owner reviews
No owner reviews yet. Own one? Be the first to share what it is like to live with.
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