Are you in need of a reliable lawn mower for a fair price? Well Bad Boy’s ZT Avenger and ZT Elite are built to provide you with the most bang for your lawn mowing buck. With borderline commercial grade components, multiple cut width options ranging from 48” to 60” and a 7 gauge fabricated mowing deck, The Avenger and Elite bridge the gap between residential and commercial grade performance. But these mowers look basically identical, so why is one nearly $1,000 more than the other? And which is a better option for you?
In this video we go over all of the differences and similarities between these tow zero turn mowers from Bad Boy. Plus I will cover the price of both the ZT Avenger and ZT Elite. If that wasn't enough, Bad Boy also announced their limited military edition ZT Elite, which we will also go over what that mower looks like and how you can purchase one.
Don't want to read? WATCH THE FULL VIDEO HERE:
The YZ Line-Up Explained
Yanmar released six models across three series. The naming is simple:
YZ = Yanmar Zero-Turn
The middle number (200 / 300 / 400) indicates the series
The final digits indicate deck width (52, 60, or 72 inches)
Quality and capability step up as you move from the 200 series to the 300 and 400 series, but every model is built to commercial standards and suitable for both professional use and serious property maintenance.
Yanmar partnered with Gravely for the platform, then made several thoughtful upgrades in true Yanmar fashion — especially around vibration control, seating, and durability.
Cutting System
One of the biggest challenges with zero-turn mowers is choosing between a tough deck that can take abuse and one that actually delivers a clean cut. The Yanmar YZ cutting system does both well.
All models use a 7-gauge fabricated steel deck available in 52", 60", and 72" widths. The deck hangs on a solid four-point system and includes caged anti-scalp wheels up front. Cut height is adjusted with a spring-assisted foot pedal and either a Height of Cut (H.O.C.) dial or vertical pin system, ranging from 1.5" to 5".
Key upgrades under the deck:
Forged aluminum spindles (instead of cast iron or aluminum) that run 10–30° cooler, helping bearing life
Maintenance-free design (no greasing required)
300 and 400 series add double roller bearings and labyrinth seals for better load handling and debris protection
Self-adjusting belt tension system that maintains consistent blade tip speed over the life of the belt
Flexible rubber discharge chute with a large opening to reduce clumping
Warranty
Yanmar continues its reputation for strong warranty coverage:
At the time of making this article Tractor Bob’s is offering an exclusive lifetime powertrain warranty upgrade on new zero-turn purchases (store or online). Visit tractorbob.com, fill out a contact form, or call us to lock it in.
The 300 and 400 series engines are built for heavy commercial use and feature dual-canister air filtration (FX850V) or a twin-barrel internally vented carburetor with fuel shut-off and heavy-duty starter (FX1000V). All engines include a rotating metal grass chopper screen.
The 400 series’ 15 mph top speed is notably fast for a zero-turn.
Features & Build Quality
These mowers lack traditional front suspension, so Yanmar focused heavily on vibration control and seat quality instead.
Frame & Vibration Control
All models use a fully welded heavy-duty tubular steel frame. The 300 and 400 series step up to a beefy 1.5" × 3" frame with four engine isolation points and vibration-dampening bushings. Independently isolated footrests with rubber cushioning and floorboard mats further reduce vibration — features not standard on comparable Gravely models.
Seat Suspension (Major Upgrade)
Yanmar partnered with a different seat supplier for significantly more travel than typical Gravely seats:
YZ400: Premium I4M suspension seat with 4" of travel (among the highest on any zero-turn)
A quality suspension seat is one of the single biggest improvements you can make to ride comfort, and Yanmar delivered here.
Tires
YZ200: 22" rear / 13" front
YZ300: 24" rear / 15" front
YZ400: 26" rear tires (matched to the higher top speed)
Operator Station
Straightforward and ergonomic. Right-side control panel includes key, PTO, throttle, and hour meter. Higher series add a second fuel gauge. Left side has the parking brake, fuel tank/gauge, and storage (minimal on the 200 series, slightly better on 300/400). Solid metal plating on the fuel tank tops is a nice durability touch.
Pricing
Approximate cash prices (subject to change by dealer and timing):
If you want financing options or the lifetime powertrain warranty upgrade, fill out the contact form at tractorbob.com or give us a call
Final Recommendations
You can’t go wrong with any of the new Yanmar YZ mowers. They deliver commercial-quality components, strong warranties, thoughtful vibration control, and excellent suspension seats — especially on the 300 and 400 series.
Choose the YZ200 if you want solid performance at a more approachable price for mid-duty work.
Step up to the YZ300 for better power, larger fuel capacity, stronger transaxles, and a much improved seat.
Go YZ400 if you want maximum speed, the strongest powertrain, and the smoothest ride in the lineup.
Whether you’re maintaining a couple of acres or running commercial jobs, Yanmar has covered the bases well with this first zero-turn entry.
Have a preference on which series looks like the best value to you? Drop a comment below.
Ready to see one in person or get current pricing and financing options? Visit tractorbob.com, fill out a contact form, or give us a call. We’ll help you choose the right machine.
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