Mule or Gator, this is the question and I know many of you are wondering what in the world is Charles talking about now?
When I moved to Virginia (going on 8 years now) I went from .25 acres to now 14 acres of land. Well there is a lot to do on a piece of land, cut trees that have fallen, clear brush, create gardens, make trails, fish, hike and explore.
After a short time I realized with all this fun and work, I needed the right tools and one of them is a utility vehicle. So I started to look at options.
There are a lot of people who are "John Deere" die-hards and I am now on my 2nd John Deere riding mower. The first one was a little small and I beat the heck out of it!!!
John Deere makes a "Gator" and there are several versions of the Gator. Plus it is (as the song goes) "John Deere Green".
Well I looked at the Gator and talked to a lot of people and it is a fine utility vehicle.
Kawasaki makes a "Mule" and the rear bed tilts and it has a roll cage.
There is also a bench seat and a little higher ground clearance.
My property is rather hilly. In fact I would call it steep! So I looked at all the options and talked to a lot of people and I bought a "Mule".
I am so pleased with it's performance on the hills it is hard to explain. It will try to climb a tree if you let it. We have a grand time with the Mule and even use it to pull sleds in the Winter.
The main thing when looking at a Mule or a Gator is to consider your property. How steep of hills do you have? Are you going to be in river beds, etc…
I think if my land were flatter, I would have gone with a Gator. But I can tell you, after flipping over in a Mule and being able to walk away from it (that is another story). I am sold on the Mule!
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About Charles McDonald
I’m sorry to hear about your decision. John Deere has a full line of UVs including those with roll-over bars, up to 30 mph in diesel or gas with Electronic Fuel Injection (for those cold Virginia mornings) and independent rear suspension for smooth rides.
When you’re ready to buy again, please consider a John Deere, as I’m sure we can find one to meet your needs.
Kevin, thank you for the comment. Yes John Deere is a fine product, as I mentioned I am on my 2nd riding mower. I would add that anyone should evaluate any vehicle for his own situation. Best regards and Merry Christmas!
I am trying to decide between the Mule 3010 and the Gator XUV. The Gator seems to have better fit and finish, smoother ride and high quality but the Diesel model I am considering seems to be a “dog” on acceleration. The Mule, on the other hand seems rugged and takes off nicely on acceleration but is not as refined as the Gator. I am having trouble deciding.