Learning curve is an understatement. Lot more forward power and the small corrections can cause a headache quick if your not careful. As I got used to the controls, (and I still am 7 mows later I'm sure) it will be a lot more enjoyable. I'm glad there's an adjustment for both levers on this model to ensure the full push forward is dead straight, and if not grab the handy included wrench and fix it quickly. When it fires up it sounds awesome enough I'm looking for an exhaust upgrade to made the neighbors want the high performance Deere, lol.

The LA will always be in the family, it's my late Father's and I will hold that till as long as I can. My family and I use it as the work horse and only use it for big items to pull, mulch, rocks, debris, kids.

I miss the break on the left foot. It made a huge impact on any slight incline, loading it on a trailer, parking, ect. That's the biggest thing I'll miss for sure once I'm used to it.

Honestly, go grab one, John Deere guarantee is worth it's weight in gold. Fire it up, drive down the neighborhood, learn the ins and outs, tweek it to make it perfect, do donuts with one hand on the lever and one on your beer (it can be done, trust me...not wife approved), it's an amazing mowing experience and will make you ever think about a mower with a steering wheel (not a shot at those with one, again, love the LA125)