Models 749 & 779 share a lot of great features: 

• Professional Honda GX390 engine
• Patented hydro-mechanical clutch
• Large 22” diameter tires
• All-gear-drive to power attachments

The only dimensional difference between them is the standard wheel width:

• 21” for the 749 
• 27” for the 779

Hydrostatic Drive

The key difference between these two models is the same difference that sets the 779 apart from all BCS two-wheel tractor models: the 779 features hydrostatic drive to the wheels. 

Instead of squeezing a clutch, shifting into one of the 749’s three working speeds, and then establishing the exact ground speed by varying the speed of the engine, a single "Easy Grip" hydro lever on the 779 allows for clutch-free changing of wheel speeds.  And, the exact, desired ground speed is achieved without altering the speed of the engine!

The benefit of this feature applies particularly to mowing and snow blowing.  Peak performance for these implements requires maximum engine speed, but conditions dictate forward speed.  For example, brush mowing tall weeds can be done at a much faster ground speed than that required to mow woody brush, because more cuts per forward foot of travel is needed to cut wood.  Similarly, blowing six inches of snow can be accomplished at a much faster speed than that needed for the deep pile left at the end of your driveway by the highway department.  In such cases, there’s no need to stop and down shift the 779 into a lower gear.  Instead, you can keep moving and use your hydro lever to slow the wheels as needed to power through the most demanding of conditions.
Hydrostatic drive is super-easy to use.  Operators simply move one lever to instantly control both speed and direction – no clutching and shifting needed.  This ability to use the hydro lever to easily alternate between forward and reverse is especially helpful when mowing in tight circumstances and around obstacles, e.g., fence posts.

Conclusion:

Both the 749 and 779 are great tractors.  The choice between them depends upon the range of jobs you want to accomplish, and whether the increased productivity and convenience of hydrostatic drive justifies the other difference between these two models – the price.

Don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions!