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