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Best Riding Lawn Mower

Best Riding Lawn Mower: Top Picks for Your Yard

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Are you tired of pushing a lawn mower across your big yard? It’s time to switch to a riding lawn mower for easier mowing. We’ve looked into many options to find the best ones that are powerful, efficient, and comfortable.

Our reviews cover a variety of models, from those for large yards with slopes to electric start options and mowers that mulch. We’ll help you pick the right one for your needs. Consider factors like deck size, durability, and features like bagging systems.

Find the best mowers for big yards that save time and effort. Say hello to easier mowing with our top picks for riding lawn mowers.

Key Takeaways:

  • Riding lawn mowers are great for yards over an acre, offering efficiency and comfort.
  • Think about yard size, terrain, deck size, engine power, and extra features when choosing a mower.
  • Our top choices include gas-powered and electric start models.
  • Look for mowers with mulching and bagging for versatile lawn care.
  • Choose a durable mower with a strong deck and reliable engine for lasting performance.

Introduction to Riding Lawn Mowers

If you have a big lawn, a riding lawn mower can change the game for you. They save time and effort and make mowing more comfortable and efficient. There are many types of riding mowers to fit your lawn size, terrain, and budget.

When picking the right mower, think about your lawn’s size, obstacles, and storage space. Ride-on mowers are great for big, flat lawns. Lawn tractors are good for those needing a machine for many tasks. Zero-turn mowers are best for large yards with lots of obstacles. Rear-engine mowers are ideal for small yards with limited space.

Type of Riding MowerPrice RangeIdeal Lawn Size
Lawn Tractor$1,500 – $2,0001/2 acre to 2 acres
Zero-Turn MowerAround $3,0001 acre or larger
Rear-Engine Riding Mower$1,200 – $1,9001/2 acre to 1 acre

You can choose between gas-powered and electric riding mowers. Gas mowers work well on big lawns with tough grass. Electric mowers are good for smaller lawns and are better for the environment. Electric mowers are about 30% more expensive than gas mowers.

Investing in a riding lawn mower can significantly reduce the time and effort required for lawn maintenance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your beautiful outdoor space.

When looking at different riding mowers, think about what you need and like. Look for adjustable cutting decks, comfy seats, and easy controls. With the right mower, you’ll make lawn care easy and efficient.

Best Riding Lawn Mower

Types of Riding Lawn Mowers

Choosing the right riding lawn mower is key to a well-kept lawn. There are many types, each with its own benefits. Let’s look at lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and rear-engine riding mowers.

Lawn Tractors

Lawn tractors are great for big lawns, over 1 acre. They offer a comfy ride and let you add accessories like baggers and carts. These features are perfect for seeding and fertilizing large areas. They have steering wheels and pedal controls for easy use.

Lawn tractor features include handling heavy tasks. Garden tractors, a type of lawn tractor, are for big yards. They work with attachments like aerators and tillers. Look for lawn tractors with twin-cylinder engines and overhead valve designs for better performance.

Zero-Turn Mowers

Zero-turn mowers are perfect for large, flat lawns. They start at 34 inches wide and turn on a dime. Their design lets you easily cut around obstacles.

These mowers are great for lawns up to 3 acres. They offer control and speed. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50-Inch Gas Zero-Turn is good for up to 4 acres and goes 7 miles per hour forward and 3.5 miles per hour backward.

Rear-Engine Riding Mowers

Rear-engine mowers are ideal for small to medium yards or tight spaces. They’re stable on hills and easy to maneuver in tight spots. Rear-engine rider advantages include their compact size and ability to handle tricky areas.

When picking a rear-engine mower, think about the deck size, adjustable heights, and ease of use. The RYOBI 80V HP Brushless 42-inch Electric Zero Turn is great for up to 3 acres. It has a 42-inch deck and speeds of 8 miles per hour forward and 4 miles per hour backward.

Mower TypeLawn SizeKey Features
Lawn TractorsMore than 1 acreSteering wheel, pedal-operated transmission, attachment capabilities
Zero-Turn Mowers1 to 3 acres or more360-degree turning, independent wheel motors, precise cutting
Rear-Engine Riding MowersSmaller to medium-sized yardsCompact size, low center of gravity, maneuverability in tight spaces

Understanding each type of riding lawn mower helps you choose the best for your yard. Whether you want a lawn tractor, zero-turn mower, or rear-engine mower, the right machine makes lawn care easy.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Riding Lawn Mower

Choosing the right riding mower is key for your yard. Think about your lawn size, terrain, cutting deck options, engine power, transmission types, and comfort features. This will help you pick a mower that makes yard work easy.

Best Riding Lawn Mower

Lawn Size and Terrain

How big is your lawn and what’s the terrain like? If your lawn is over a quarter acre, a riding mower can save you time and effort. For smaller yards, a 30 to 42-inch mower is best. The Craftsman T210 Turn Tight and Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro are great for yards under 1 acre.

For lawns over 5 acres, you need a mower with a 54-inch cutting width. The Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 54 XP is perfect for large lawns, with a 24-hp engine.

Consider your yard’s terrain too. Riding mowers are heavy and may not work well on steep slopes. They’re best used on flat or slightly sloped lawns.

Cutting Deck Size and Adjustability

The size and adjustability of the cutting deck matter a lot. A 61 cm (24 in.) deck can handle tall grass well. Here are some tips for choosing the right mower:

  • 1/2 acre to 1 acre: Look for a 42″ deck and a 14 HP engine
  • 3 acres or more: Choose a 46″ to 54″ deck and 18 to 24 HP engine

Engine Power and Transmission

Engine power and transmission type affect how well the mower works. For big yards, V-twin engines are best for fast mowing and handling uneven ground. The John Deere Z355R is a great choice, with a 22-hp engine.

Transmission type is crucial for speed and handling tough terrain. Hydrostatic transmissions are smooth and easy, while manual transmissions offer more control.

Comfort and Ease of Use

Don’t forget about comfort and ease when picking a mower. Look for features like:

  • Comfortable seats with armrests and lumbar support
  • Easy controls and a clear dashboard
  • Cruise control for steady speed
  • Cup holders and storage for convenience
  • Quiet operation to reduce noise

High-end mowers offer extra features like electronic deck height control and quieter engines. These can make mowing easier and less tiring, even if they cost more.

Think about your lawn size, terrain, and what you need in a mower. Choosing the right one can save you time, effort, and money. It will keep your lawn looking great for years.

Best Lawn Mower Riding: Our Top Picks

We’ve found the top-rated riding mowers for different needs and preferences after thorough testing. Our team spent 15 hours testing 4 products, doing 5 comprehensive tests. Prices range from $2,900 to $7,100, offering great value for your money.

Looking for a gas or battery-powered mower? Our list has you covered. We feature 8 top picks from brands like Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, John Deere, and Troy-Bilt. With 50% battery-powered models, you have many options to choose from.

Best Overall: Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series Riding Mower

The Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro Series Riding Mower is our top pick. It has a 42-inch cutting deck and a strong 18 HP Kohler engine. This mower performs well and efficiently. It also has a hydrostatic transmission and an adjustable seat for comfort.

Best Zero-Turn: Husqvarna Z254 Zero-Turn Riding Mower

For zero-turn mowers, the Husqvarna Z254 is our top choice. It has a 54-inch cutting deck and a 26 HP Kohler engine. This mower is great for tough terrains and has precise zero-turn capabilities.

Best for Large Yards: John Deere S120 Riding Mower

The John Deere S120 is perfect for big yards. It has a 42-inch cutting deck and a powerful V-twin engine. It’s comfortable, easy to use, and has a smooth transmission for long mowing sessions.

Best Budget-Friendly Option: Troy-Bilt TB30 Neighborhood Riding Lawn Mower

The Troy-Bilt TB30 is great for those on a budget. It has a 30-inch cutting deck and a 382cc engine, perfect for small to medium yards. It has a 6-speed transmission and adjustable blade settings for customizable mowing.

MowerCutting Deck WidthEngine/Power SourceKey Features
Cub Cadet Ultima ZT150 inches23 HP Kawasaki engineZero-turn, lap bar steering, 12 cutting heights
Ryobi RY48ZTR10042 inches100Ah lead acid batteryZero-turn, 12 ride heights, up to 3 hours runtime
John Deere Z370R ZTrak54 inches23 HP gas engineZero-turn, 7 mph max speed, suitable for up to 2 acres
EGO TR4204 Power+42 inches56V ARC Lithium batteryHydrostatic transmission, 6 mph max speed, suitable for up to 1.5 acres

Choosing any riding mower from our top picks means getting a reliable, high-quality machine. It will make keeping your lawn beautiful easy.

Best Riding Lawn Mower

Top Riding Lawn Mowers for Specific Needs

Our top picks cover a wide range of users, but some mowers stand out for specific situations. If your yard has unique challenges, these specialized options are the best choice.

For yards with hills, look for mowers with strong engines and large rear wheels. The Husqvarna TS 354XD is great for hills. It has a 24 hp Kawasaki V-twin engine and a 54-inch deck.

For small yards, consider compact riding mowers. The Ryobi 30-Inch 50 Ah Electric Riding Lawn Mower is perfect for yards up to an acre. It’s eco-friendly and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

As a rule of thumb, a riding mower with a deck width of around 30 inches can cover about an acre in approximately one to one and a half hours.

High-performance mowers are for tough tasks and tough terrain. They have powerful engines and advanced features like electronic fuel injection. The Toro 50-Inch TimeCutter MyRIDE Zero-Turn Mower is a top choice for large properties.

If you’ll use your mower for more than just cutting grass, check the towing capacity. The John Deere S130 Lawn Tractor has a strong tow hitch. You can haul trailers, yard debris, or spread fertilizer with attachments.

Mower TypeBest forExample Model
Zero-TurnManeuverability and speedCub Cadet 42-Inch Zero Turn Riding Mower
Lawn TractorLarge yards and towingJohn Deere S130 Lawn Tractor
Rear-EngineSmall yards and tight spacesRyobi 30-Inch 50 Ah Electric Riding Lawn Mower

There’s a riding lawn mower for every need. Think about your yard size, terrain, and what you need from your mower. Choose the perfect one for you.

Advantages of Riding Lawn Mowers over Push Mowers

Choosing the right mower is key to a well-kept lawn. Riding lawn mowers have many advantages over push mowers. They are great for large yards or those who want a quick and easy mowing experience.

Efficiency and Time-Saving

Riding lawn mowers save time and boost efficiency. They have wider cutting decks, starting at 40 inches. This lets them cover more ground faster than push mowers, which have about a 21-inch deck. So, you can handle big yards quicker, cutting down the time spent on lawn care.

Mower TypeCutting Deck SizeSuitable Yard SizeMowing Time (1 acre)
Push Mower14-21 inchesUp to 1/4 acre2-3 hours
Riding Mower40-50 inches2-4 acres45-60 minutes

Reduced Physical Effort

Riding mowers also cut down on physical effort. You don’t have to walk and push like with push mowers. They let you sit and steer, making them perfect for those with mobility issues, older adults, or anyone who wants to avoid the strain of push mowers.

I switched to a riding mower last year, and it has been a game-changer for my lawn care routine. Not only do I save time, but I also don’t feel exhausted after mowing my large yard.

Versatility with Attachments

Riding lawn mowers are versatile thanks to their attachments. You can add baggers for collecting clippings, mulching kits for recycling nutrients, and tow-behind attachments like aerators and spreaders. These options make your mower do more, letting you handle various landscaping tasks with one machine.

  • Baggers: Collect grass clippings for a clean, debris-free lawn
  • Mulching kits: Finely chop grass clippings and return them to the lawn as nutrient-rich mulch
  • Tow-behind attachments: Perform additional tasks such as aerating, dethatching, and spreading seed or fertilizer

In conclusion, riding lawn mowers offer many benefits over push mowers. They are more efficient, save time, reduce effort, and are versatile with attachments. If you have a big yard or want an easier lawn care routine, a riding mower could be a great choice.

Maintaining Your Riding Lawn Mower

To keep your riding lawn mower running well, regular maintenance is key. Stick to a maintenance schedule and store your mower right during the off-season. This way, you’ll make it last longer and keep it working great every year.

Regular Maintenance Tasks

Looking after your riding mower means doing a few important tasks often. How often you need to do these can depend on the brand. These tasks include:

  • Changing the engine oil: Do this every 25 to 50 hours of use, or once a year. Make sure to clean the oil drain area, drain the old oil, replace the oil filter, and add new oil as the maker says.
  • Sharpening or replacing mower blades: If blades are dull or damaged, you’ll get bad cuts and your mower won’t work well. Check your blades often and sharpen or replace them safely.
  • Cleaning or replacing air filters: A clean air filter helps your engine run right. Look at your mower’s air filter often and clean or replace it as the maker suggests.
  • Replacing spark plugs: Spark plugs get fouled or worn over time, causing problems starting or hurting engine performance. Change them when your mower’s maker says to.

Don’t forget to lubricate moving parts, check shields and deflectors, and make sure tire pressure is right. Also, clean off dirt, check oil and fuel levels, and inspect everything.

Tools RequiredMaterials Needed
Box-End Wrenches, Ratchet & Socket Set, Spark Plug Socket, Torque Wrench, Cleaning Brush, Pliers, Gas Can, Tire Pressure Gauge, Battery ChargerDrop Cloth, Engine Oil, Fuel Stabilizer, Oil Filter, Spray Lubricant, Fuel Filter, Air Filter, Mower Blades, Shop Cloths, Spark Plugs

Sears Home Services offers expert help for complex riding mower problems to keep your mower running great.

Proper Storage and Winterization

When the mowing season ends, it’s important to store and winterize your mower right. This keeps it safe from damage and makes sure it’s ready for spring. Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Clean the mower well, getting rid of dirt, grass clippings, and debris.
  2. Add fuel stabilizer to the fuel system and run the engine until it’s empty, as some makers suggest.
  3. Oil the engine cylinders to stop rust and corrosion while it’s stored.
  4. Follow the maker’s advice for the battery, which might mean taking it out, cleaning the terminals, and keeping it in a cool, dry spot.
  5. Put the mower in a clean, dry place away from kids and things that can catch fire.

By taking care of your riding mower and storing it right, it will stay in great shape. It’ll be ready to help with your lawn care needs for many years.

Safety Tips for Operating a Riding Lawn Mower

When using a riding lawn mower, safety first is key. Make sure you wear the right gear like safety glasses, ear protection, closed-toe shoes, and long pants. This gear protects you from flying debris and loud noises.

Start by checking your lawn for objects that could fly when hit by the mower blades. Remove rocks, sticks, toys, and other debris. Keep kids and pets away from the mower to prevent accidents.

Be aware of your surroundings when mowing. If you’re mowing on slopes, go up and down the incline, not across. Never try to fix the mower or clear clogs while it’s running. This can be very dangerous.

“Each year, more than 80,000 people are injured in lawn mower incidents, with nearly 5,000 kids treated for lawn mower injuries.”

Here are some age guidelines to follow:

  • Keep kids under 12 away from lawn mowers.
  • Have kids 12 or older use walk-behind mowers, including self-propelled ones.
  • Teens 16 or older can use riding mowers.

Lawn mower injuries can be very serious, causing burns, cuts, broken bones, and even losing limbs or digits. If you get seriously hurt by a lawn mower, get to the hospital right away.

Age GroupInjury Risk
2-4 years oldHigh
13-15 years oldHigh
AdultsModerate

Gas-powered riding lawn mowers can get very loud, over 90 decibels. So, wearing ear protection is key to protect your hearing. By following these safety tips and wearing the right gear, you can keep your lawn nice and stay safe.

Riding Lawn Mower Accessories and Attachments

Make your riding lawn mower more versatile and efficient with various accessories and attachments. These include grass collection systems, mulching kits, and tow-behind carts. Riding mower attachments are made for different lawn sizes and mowing needs. They let you customize your mower for your specific needs.

Grass Catchers and Mulching Kits

Grass catchers, or baggers, are key for managing grass clippings. They come in sizes from 6-bushel twin baggers to 9-bushel triple baggers. This lets you pick the right size for your lawn and mow for longer without stopping to empty the bag. Mulching kits, like the Flat Top Xtreme® Mulching Kit for 50-inch Decks (MSRP from $119.89) and the Xtreme® Mulching Kit for 42-inch Fabricated Decks (MSRP from $80.84), chop grass clippings finely. This lets them break down quickly and add nutrients to the soil.

Tow-Behind Attachments

Tow-behind attachments let your riding mower do more than just cut grass. Carts, like the Cub Cadet Hauler (MSRP from $399.99), make moving tools, plants, or debris easy. Aerators and dethatchers keep your lawn healthy by reducing soil compaction and removing dead grass. Some attachments, such as the FastAttach® All-Season Plow Blade (MSRP from $459.99), have universal hitches that fit all tractors. For snowy areas, consider a snow blower attachment, like the 42″ 3-Stage Snow Blower Attachment (MSRP from $2,499.99), to clear your driveway and paths.

Best SellersMSRP (from)
Bagger for 30-inch Decks$389.99
Triple Bagger for 42- and 46-inch Decks$524.99
Leaf Collector For 42 and 46-inch Decks$469.99
Rider Cover$80.29

When using riding mower attachments, always put safety first. Keep kids and pets away from the mowing area. Clear the lawn before mowing and be careful around driveways and sidewalks. Clean off debris, store attachments dry, and use lubrication as needed to protect your investment.

Gas vs. Electric Riding Lawn Mowers

Choosing a riding lawn mower means deciding between gas or electric models. Each type has its own pros and cons. This helps you pick the best one for your yard and needs.

Pros and Cons of Gas-Powered Mowers

Gas-powered mowers are great for big yards and tough grass. They offer:

  • More power and cutting capability
  • Longer run times for big lawns
  • Good for thick grass and uneven terrain

But, they also have downsides:

  • Need regular maintenance like oil changes and spark plug replacements
  • Have emissions that are bad for the environment
  • Are louder than electric mowers

Pros and Cons of Electric Riding Mowers

Electric mowers, especially cordless ones, are getting popular. They have many benefits:

  • They are quieter, reducing noise pollution
  • Don’t emit any pollutants, making them eco-friendly
  • Are lighter and easier to move around
  • Need less upkeep since they don’t use fuel or oil

But, they also have some drawbacks:

  • Their battery life is shorter, lasting about 1 to 1.5 hours
  • They might not be as powerful as gas mowers for thick grass
  • Can be more expensive upfront
  • Replacing the battery can be costly
FeatureGas-Powered Riding MowersElectric Riding Mowers
PowerMore powerful, great for tough conditionsLess powerful, best for small to medium yards
RuntimeCan mow all day without stoppingLasts about 1-1.5 hours on a charge
Noise LevelVery loudVery quiet
EmissionsBad for the environmentNo emissions
MaintenanceNeeds regular oil and fuel checksVery little maintenance needed
Upfront CostUsually cheaperUsually more expensive
Long-term CostCan be costly with fuel and maintenanceCan be cheaper, but batteries are pricey

Choosing between gas and electric mowers depends on your yard, preferences, and needs. Think about your yard’s size, the terrain, noise issues, and the environment. By looking at the pros and cons, you can pick the mower that fits your lawn and lifestyle best.

Riding Lawn Mower Brands and Manufacturers

Looking for the best riding lawn mower means checking out top brands known for quality and performance. Brands like John Deere, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, Toro, and Craftsman offer many models for different needs and budgets.

John Deere mowers are known for being reliable and comfortable. The John Deere S100 42-in 17.5-HP Gas Riding Lawn Mower has a 4.2 out of 5 rating from 1,889 reviews. Another top choice is the John Deere S130 42-in 22-HP V-twin Gas Riding Lawn Mower, rated 4.3 out of 5 by 1,129 reviewers.

Cub Cadet mowers are known for their innovative features and strong performance. The Cub Cadet 42 in. 19-HP Front-Engine Automatic Drive Riding Mower has a 3.5 out of 5 rating from 99 reviews and costs $1,499.

Husqvarna mowers are famous for their powerful engines and cutting-edge technology. The Husqvarna YTH24V48 V-Twin 48-in Riding Lawn Mower has a 4.5 out of 5 rating from 350 reviews and is priced at $1,899. Husqvarna also owns brands like McCulloch, Poulan Pro, and WeedEater.

Toro and Craftsman are also great options. The Toro TimeCutter 42-in 15.5-HP Gas Zero-turn Riding Lawn Mower has a 4.4 out of 5 rating from 266 reviews. The Craftsman 19HP 42″ Turn Tight® Riding Mower has a 4.5 out of 5 rating from 118 reviews and costs $1,499.88. Some Toro models are made by MTD, and Craftsman mowers are also from MTD.

BrandModelRatingPrice
John DeereS100 42-in 17.5-HP Gas Riding Lawn Mower4.2 out of 5 (1,889 reviews)
John DeereS130 42-in 22-HP V-twin Gas Riding Lawn Mower4.3 out of 5 (1,129 reviews)
Cub Cadet42 in. 19-HP Front-Engine Automatic Drive Riding Mower3.5 out of 5 (99 reviews)$1,499
HusqvarnaYTH24V48 V-Twin 48-in Riding Lawn Mower4.5 out of 5 (350 reviews)$1,899
ToroTimeCutter 42-in 15.5-HP Gas Zero-turn Riding Lawn Mower4.4 out of 5 (266 reviews)
Craftsman19HP 42″ Turn Tight® Riding Mower4.5 out of 5 (118 reviews)$1,499.88

Other big names in the market include MTD and Briggs and Stratton. MTD makes mowers for Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman. Briggs and Stratton supplies engines to MTD. Knowing these connections can help you pick the best riding lawn mower for you.

Conclusion

Choosing a good riding mower can change how you maintain your lawn. It’s key to think about your lawn’s size, the land’s shape, the mower’s cutting deck size, engine power, and how comfy it is. This way, you can pick the right mower for your needs and budget.

We talked about how riding mowers save time, cut down on effort, and are versatile with attachments. We looked at top brands like Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, John Deere, and Troy-Bilt. Each brand has something special for different lawn care needs. Whether your lawn is big, hilly, or you have special mowing wishes, there’s a mower out there for you.

Keeping your riding mower in good shape is important for its long life and performance. Follow the maker’s advice for oil changes, blade sharpening, and air filter swaps. This keeps your mower running well and saves you from expensive fixes later. Also, storing your mower right and winterizing it protects your investment and gets it ready for next season.

By picking the right riding lawn mower and taking good care of it, you’ll have a great-looking lawn with little work and lots of happiness. So, do your homework, buy a quality machine, and enjoy a beautiful outdoor space for years.

FAQ

What is the best riding lawn mower for large yards?

The John Deere S120 is great for big yards. It has a 42-inch deck, a comfy high-back seat, and easy controls. It’s powerful and smooth, perfect for big lawns.

Are electric riding lawn mowers as powerful as gas-powered models?

Electric mowers are quieter and don’t pollute. They need less upkeep. But, they might not run as long or be as strong as gas mowers. Gas mowers are better for big yards and tough grass.

What factors should I consider when choosing a riding lawn mower?

Think about your lawn size, terrain, budget, and what you want in a mower. Big yards and rough ground need a strong mower with a wide deck. Choose one with a comfy seat, easy controls, and extras like cruise control or a cup holder.

How can I maintain my riding lawn mower for optimal performance?

Keep your mower running well with regular care. Change the oil, sharpen or replace blades, clean or change air filters, and check spark plugs as needed. Store and winterize your mower right to protect it.

What accessories and attachments are available for riding lawn mowers?

Add to your mower’s power with accessories and attachments. Use grass catchers and mulching kits for clippings. Tow-behind items like carts, aerators, and dethatchers let you do more than just cut grass.

What safety precautions should I take when operating a riding lawn mower?

Wear safety gear like eye and hearing protection, strong shoes, and long pants. Clear the lawn of debris before mowing. Keep an eye out and keep kids and pets away. Mow up and down on slopes to avoid tipping.

What are the advantages of riding lawn mowers over traditional push mowers?

Riding mowers save time and effort, covering more ground easily. They’re less tiring since you sit while mowing. Plus, they work with many attachments for different lawn tasks.

What are some top brands and manufacturers of riding lawn mowers?

Top brands include John Deere, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, Toro, and Craftsman. They offer various models with different features for different needs and budgets.

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