Husqvarna 7021r Review

If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable mower for a larger lawn, you’ve probably come across the Husqvarna 7021R. This comprehensive Husqvarna 7021R review will give you all the details you need to decide if it’s the right fit for your yard. We’ll look at its power, cutting performance, comfort, and where it truly shines.

This is a serious piece of equipment designed for homeowners with half an acre or more. It’s not a basic model, and it comes with features that make mowing faster and less tiring. Let’s get straight into what makes this mower stand out from the crowd.

The Husqvarna 7021R is a 21-horsepower, rear-engine riding mower. It’s built on a strong steel frame and is part of Husqvarna’s R-Series, which is known for durability. The “R” stands for rear-engine, which gives it a unique design compared to traditional lawn tractors.

This design places the engine behind the operator, which improves balance and traction. It’s a mower that feels stable on slopes and can handle tougher grass conditions. Here are the key specs at a glance:

Engine: 21 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek V-Twin engine
Cutting Width: 42-inch fabricated steel deck
Transmission: Hydrostatic, with foot-pedal control
Turning Radius: Zero-turn capability (the “RZT” in its full model name)
Seat: High-back, adjustable

Power and Performance: What’s Under the Hood?

The 21 HP V-Twin engine is the heart of this machine. It provides plenty of power for tall, wet grass and even light towing. You won’t hear it straining on hills or when the bagger is full. The hydrostatic transmission is a game-changer for ease of use.

You control speed and direction with a single foot pedal. Push forward to go forward, back to reverse, and lift your foot to stop. It’s very intuitive after just a few minutes of practice. The zero-turn radius is it’s best performance feature. You can pivot completely around a tree or obstacle, which drastically reduces trimming time.

The 42-Inch Cutting Deck: How Clean is the Cut?

The fabricated steel deck is built to last longer than a stamped deck. It resists rust and damage from debris better. The cutting height is easily adjusted with a single lever, offering a range from 1.5 to 4 inches. The air flow under the deck is designed to lift grass before cutting, which results in a very even, clean cut.

You have three options for handling clippings: side-discharge, mulch with the included kit, or bag with an optional collector. The mulching performance is good for most conditions, returning nutrients to your lawn. For a pristine look, the bagging system is effective but does require frequent emptying on very large lawns.

Comfort and Usability: Is it Easy to Operate?

Comfort is where the 7021R really excels. The high-back seat is comfortable and adjustable. The controls are laid out logically within reach. The steering levers for zero-turn operation are smooth and require minimal effort, which is great for avoiding arm fatigue.

Here are the top comfort features:

Adjustable, padded high-back seat
Easy-to-read instrument panel
Cup holder and storage compartment
Smooth foot-pedal for speed control
Well-positioned cutting deck engagement lever

The mower is also surprisingly quite for its power level. You can have a normal conversation while operating it, which is a nice bonus.

Maintenance and Durability: Built to Last?

Husqvarna designs the R-Series for long-term use. The steel frame is robust, and components feel solid. Routine maintenance is straightforward for a handy person. The oil dipstick, filter, and drain are accessible. The deck is easy to remove for end-of-season cleaning or blade sharpening.

It’s important to follow the break-in procedure for the engine outlined in the manual. Regular maintenance tasks include:

Checking engine oil before each use.
Changing oil and filter after the first 5 hours, then every 50 hours.
Sharpening or replacing mower blades every 25 hours or as needed.
Greasing the spindles and checking tire pressure periodically.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Look

No mower is perfect for everyone. Here’s a honest summary of the advantages and potential drawbacks.

Pros:

Powerful engine handles tough mowing conditions easily.
Zero-turn maneuverability saves a huge amount of time.
Very comfortable and easy to operate for long sessions.
Sturdy construction with a durable fabricated deck.
Smooth hydrostatic transmission with foot control.

Cons:

Higher price point than basic lawn tractors.
The 42-inch deck may be to wide for some very narrow gate openings.
Optional bagger and mulch kit are extra costs.
Can be heavy, which might leave slight tire marks on very soft, wet ground.

Who Is The Husqvarna 7021R Best For?

This mower is an ideal choice if you have a flat or rolling lawn between 0.5 and 2 acres. It’s perfect for someone who values time savings and a professional-looking cut over a lower initial cost. If you have many trees, gardens, or obstacles, the zero-turn capability will change your life.

It might be overkill for a small, simple yard. And if you need to do heavy garden hauling, a dedicated garden tractor might be a better fit, though the 7021R can handle a small utility cart just fine.

Setting Up Your New Mower: A Quick Start Guide

When your mower arrives, some assembly is required. It’s usually just attaching the steering levers, seat, and battery connections. Here’s a simple process:

Uncrate the mower in a clear, open space.
Follow the included manual’s assembly steps carefully.
Add the provided engine oil and fuel (always use fresh, ethanol-free gas if possible).
Charge the battery fully before first use.
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate oil.
Practice driving in an open area without engaging the blades first to get used to the controls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between the Husqvarna 7021R and a lawn tractor?
The 7021R is a rear-engine, zero-turn mower. It’s more maneuverable and faster for cutting grass than a traditional front-engine lawn tractor, which is better suited for heavy towning tasks.

Can the Husqvarna 7021R pull a small aerator or dethatcher?
Yes, it has a towing hitch and the power to pull light ground-engaging equipment like a lawn aerator or a small cart. Check the manual for exact weight limits.

How does the Husqvarna 7021R perform on hills?
Its low center of gravity and rear-engine design make it very stable on slopes. Always mow up and down slopes, never across, for maximum safety.

Is the Husqvarna riding mower 7021R easy to store?
Its overall size is comparable to other zero-turn mowers. Measure your shed or garage door height and width, remembering the deck is the widest point, to ensure it fits.

What kind of warranty comes with it?
Husqvarna typically offers a limited residential warranty. The exact terms can vary, so confirm the current warranty details with your dealer at the time of purchase.

Final Verdict

The Husqvarna 7021R is a top-tier mower for the serious homeowner. It combines power, precision cutting, and exceptional comfort into a reliable package. While it represents a significant investment, the time and effort it saves each week make it worth the cost for those with suitable lawns.

If your priority is a beautiful, efficient cut without the exhaustion, this mower delivers consistently. It’s a machine that, with proper care, will keep your lawn looking great for many, many seasons. Be sure to test drive one at a local dealer to feel the difference for yourself.