Which is better for a lawn with slopes?

The Cub Cadet Z2. It is rated for hills up to 15 degrees and uses dual hydrostatic drives, which hold a line better than the Bad Boy's single hydrostatic setup.

Is the Cub Cadet worth about $514 more?

For most buyers, yes. The V-twin engine, welded fabricated deck and 1 in. cut are the parts that decide how long the mower lasts and how clean it cuts.

The Cub Cadet, at 1 in. versus 1.5 in. on the Bad Boy. It also gives 15 height positions instead of a basic adjustable range.

The Bad Boy lists up to 6 mph. Cub Cadet does not publish a top speed for the Z2 42, so the Bad Boy is the only one with a stated figure.

Which is better for a small, flat yard?

The Bad Boy. Both decks are 42 in., and the lower price and lighter 632 lb frame suit a simple lawn where the extra power and deck strength matter less.

Only the Cub Cadet lists bagging. The Bad Boy lists side discharge only, so check for a bagger kit before you buy if clippings matter.

Bad Boy MZ Rambler 42 in. Zero-Turn Mower vs Cub Cadet Z2 42 Zero-Turn Mower

The Cub Cadet Z2 42 is the stronger mower: a 21.5 hp V-twin, a welded fabricated deck, 15 cutting heights and a 1 in. low cut. The Bad Boy MZ Rambler 42 costs less and runs a simpler single-cylinder engine on a stamped-style steel deck. Latest prices: $1,795.50 for the Bad Boy on 2026-10-31 and $2,309.30 for the Cub Cadet on 2026-11-04, a gap of about $514. Buy the Cub Cadet if you mow rough ground or want the mower to last; buy the Bad Boy if budget and a smaller lawn decide it.

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