Cub Cadet Ultima ZTS1 42

The ZTS1 42 is aimed at a homeowner who wants a compact cutting width and prefers a steering wheel to lap bars. That combination is its reason to exist. It should be compared with another mower that fits the same property, rather than treated as a small commercial machine because its deck is fabricated.

What model 17ARGBYEA10 includes

The US specification pairs a 22 gross hp Kohler KT722 with Hydro-Gear EZT 2200 drive and a 42-inch, 11-gauge fabricated AeroForce deck. Forward speed tops out at 7 mph. Synchro-Steer coordinates steering and drive control; the four-wheel-control description does not mean four-wheel drive.

The existing Cub Cadet Z2 42 is a useful same-width comparison for someone deciding between steering formats. Try entering the seat, reaching the controls and making ordinary turns before choosing on familiarity alone.

Check the base equipment carefully

Cub Cadet lists a 20-inch high-back seat, foot-operated deck lift and height dial. Armrests and an hour meter are not included in the stated base package. If either matters to you, include the correct accessory in the quote instead of assuming the machine pictured has everything you need.

The deck's construction is one part of the purchase. Our stamped-versus-fabricated deck guide explains why a fabricated shell does not by itself establish commercial durability or a superior finish.

Fit the whole property

A 42-inch cut does not establish the mower's overall width or turning clearance. Measure the access route and ask for the exact configuration's dimensions. The gate checklist is useful before arranging delivery.

A steering wheel also does not make all terrain appropriate. Have the dealer assess the intended use against the supplied operator manual; do not substitute a marketing slope figure for the manual's conditions and restrictions.

Our buying view

Shortlist the ZTS1 when steering preference and a smaller cut are central to the purchase. Compare the larger ZTS2 54 only if the property has room to benefit from it.

The published warranty is three years with unlimited hours for residential use, with no commercial warranty. Frame and deck-shell coverage have separate limited-lifetime terms. Obtain the regional documents and an itemized delivered price; no current dealer quote was verified here.

Research checked October 8, 2026: the US 17ARGBYEA10 configuration, not an Australian engine variant or a similarly named ZS model.

Our ZT Score

7.3/10 — our research-based editorial assessment using the ZeroTurn scoring method.

• Cut quality (30%): 7.6/10. The fabricated AeroForce deck and multiple height settings offer a useful small-lawn package, without measured comparative finish evidence.
• Build & durability (25%): 7.1/10. The tubular frame and fabricated shell are positive features, while residential EZT drive and the use limits constrain the durability assessment.
• Comfort (20%): 7.0/10. A high-back seat gives useful support, but no armrests or front caster suspension are specified in this configuration.
• Value (15%): 7.1/10. The steering format can justify consideration for the right homeowner; a current comparable delivered quote is needed to judge its premium.
• Ease of use (10%): 8.0/10. Steering-wheel control and a foot lift may suit the intended buyer, with accessory and access checks still required.

Provisional editorial assessment of the documented configuration, not a hands-on test. We have not established reliable model-specific owner consensus or measured comparative cut quality, comfort or longevity. Value is conditional on a current delivered quote for the same equipment and use. No such US or Canadian dealer quote was verified.