Grasshopper's product families historically range from compact residential units to heavy-duty machines for large acreage. Key options include reinforced decks, mulching packages and powered collection systems. Engine types and exact series specifications have changed over time; confirm current model specs and accessory availability with a dealer.
Is a Grasshopper mower the right choice for your landscaping needs?
Grasshopper has long been known for commercial-style and high-end residential lawn mowers. The brand historically organized its machines into series aimed at different jobs - from compact turf mowers to heavy-duty machines for large acreage - and offered a range of engine and deck options to match. Below is a modernized, practical guide to what those series targeted and how to choose one.
Who the different series target
- 100 / Entry-level: Intended for smaller properties and homeowners who want a compact, maneuverable mower. These were offered with small air-cooled gas engines and basic collection/mulching options.
- 200 / Light commercial: Positioned for homeowners and landscapers needing a step up in durability and power, with mid-range gas engines. Collection systems were commonly available for some models. 1
- 300-400 / Commercial turf: Built for routine commercial mowing with more robust decks and liquid-cooled engine options (diesel and gas). These models emphasized fuel efficiency and long service life, and could be fitted with powered collection systems. 2
- 600 / Turf/obstacle: Designed for small acreages with many obstacles - compact but with features that help around trees, beds, and tight spaces. Collection attachments were an option. 3
- 700-800 / Large-acreage and heavy-duty: Intended for large properties and commercial contractors. These machines offered higher-power engines and heavy-duty components to handle extended use. Collection systems were offered for managed-site cleanup. 4
Common features and options
Some recurring options across the Grasshopper lineup have included: the DuraMax deck (reinforced deck construction), mulching packages, powered collection systems (often marketed as PowerVac or similar), sprayer and edge-trimming attachments, and operator comfort options such as sunshades. Availability varies by model and year, so check the current spec sheet for a given unit. 5
Engine suppliers historically included brands such as Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki and Kubota; whether a specific engine is available depends on model and production year. 6
How to choose
- Match machine size and deck width to property size and obstacles.
- Decide on gas vs diesel based on run-time needs and service access.
- If frequent leaf/grass collection matters, prioritize models rated for a powered collection system.
- Confirm dealer support, parts availability and warranty for your region.
- Confirm current Grasshopper model series names and numbering (100, 200, 300, etc.) and whether those series are still offered.
- Verify up-to-date engine options (brands and horsepower) for each current model/series.
- Confirm current availability and branding of the powered collection system (PowerVac or equivalent) across model lines.
- Verify which specific models offer DuraMax decks, mulching packages, sprayers, Edgee, and sunshades today.
- Check current corporate ownership and dealership network for parts and service availability.