Cub Cadet ZT1 50 Review
The ZT1 50 offers a 23 hp Kawasaki, a 50-in. three-blade fabricated deck and 20x10-8 tires at a mid-range price. It suits about 2 to 3 acres.
- Deck size
- 50 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 |
| Displacement | 726 cc, 2 cylinders |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Dual hydrostatic, lap bar control |
| Drive | Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic |
| Deck size | 50 in |
| Deck construction | Fabricated AeroForce, 11-gauge steel, three-blade, side discharge |
| Cutting height | 1 to 4.5 in, 15 positions |
| Blades | Three blades |
| Discharge | Side discharge; mulching and bagging with optional kits |
| Top speed | 7 mph forward, 3.5 mph reverse |
| Turning radius | Zero |
| Front tires | 11x6-5 casters |
| Rear tires | 20x10-8 |
| Weight | Not published by Cub Cadet |
| Dimensions | 50-in. deck; see Cub Cadet spec sheet for full size |
| Fuel capacity | 3.5 US gal (13.25 L) |
| Recommended property size | About 2 to 3 acres |
| Seat | 20 in high-back, knob adjust |
| Anti-scalp wheels | Three gauge wheels |
| Frame | 2 x 2 in. tubular steel, e-coated |
| Rear hitch | Yes |
Pros and cons
What we like
- 23 hp Kawasaki V-twin
- 50-in. three-blade fabricated deck
- Wide 20x10-8 drive tires
- Rear hitch included
- Strong owner ratings
What could be better
- Lap bars only
- Some owners want better lights
- Sealed transmission feedback
- Firm ride
- Wide deck needs wide gates
ZT1 50 review
Our take on the Cub Cadet ZT1 50
The Cub Cadet ZT1 50 is the best-known model in the ZT1 line. It has a 23 hp Kawasaki FR691V V-twin and a 50-inch three-blade fabricated deck. It balances price, width and power. It is the step up from the ZT1 42 for yards over two acres.
Engine and drive
The engine is a 726 cc Kawasaki FR691V. Dual hydrostatic transmissions give 7 mph forward and 3.5 mph in reverse. The fuel tank holds 3.5 gallons. A rear hitch is included.
The 50-inch deck
The AeroForce deck is made from 11-gauge steel and has three blades. It has 15 cutting positions and three gauge wheels. A foot pedal with a dial sets the height. The design aims for few clumps and fine clippings. A mulching kit and a bagger are optional.
Seat, tires and build
The seat is a 20-inch high-back with knob adjustment. Rear tires are 20×10-8, wider than the 20×8-8 tires on the ZT1 42. Front casters are 11×6-5. The frame is 2 by 2 inch tubular steel with an e-coated lower section.
Price and warranty
Dealers list the ZT1 50 at about $3,749. Cub Cadet’s older contract price was $3,599. The warranty is 3 years with no hour limit. The frame and deck shell carry limited lifetime coverage.
Limits to know about
The ZT1 50 uses lap bars. Some owners say the lights and cut quality could be better. A 50-inch deck needs a gate wider than the machine. Owners have asked for a serviceable transmission.
Who should buy it
Buy the ZT1 50 if you have two to three acres and want a wide deck at a fair price. Choose the ZT1 42 for tight gates. Choose the ZT2 for a higher-end build.
Buying information
Ownership
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet ZT1 50 have?
23 hp from a 726 cc Kawasaki FR691V V-twin.
What deck does the ZT1 50 have?
A 50-inch fabricated AeroForce deck made from 11-gauge steel with three blades.
How fast is the ZT1 50?
Up to 7 mph forward and 3.5 mph in reverse.
How big is the ZT1 50 fuel tank?
3.5 gallons.
How long is the ZT1 50 warranty?
3 years with no hour limit, plus limited lifetime coverage on the frame and deck shell.
Owner reviews
No owner reviews yet. Own one? Be the first to share what it is like to live with.
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