I have used a lawn tractor type mower for over 25 years, but my aging back is rebelling. After every mowing session it takes my back days to recover from the relentless pounding and rattling. My current mower is a Sabre, 14.5 hp, 38" cut, that I have had since '99. Reliable and does a good job.

My question: what mowers might have a smoother ride? I know that Ferris makes a ZT with a suspension. My brother has one and says it is wonderful, but part of our yard is hilly and I have heard that ZTs are not so great on hills. In fact, a neighbor nearly killed himself on a new ZT when the hydraulic let loose and he plummeted down a slope into a retaining wall and went sailing over the front of the mower!

Are there any lawn or garden tractors with suspensions or that are known for a smoother ride?