A reel mower cutting unit (100) having a cutting reel (112) with a horizontal axis is supported by a front roller (102) and a rear roller (104) in a mowing position. A lift arm may raise and lower the cutting reel (112) between a mowing position and a transport position. A pair of gauge wheels (116) is mounted forwardly of the front roller (102) at a front left corner and a right front corner of the unit (100). If the unit (100) is lowered to a sloped surface, the gauge wheel (116) contacts the surface and prevents the unit (100) from marking or damaging the turf.
