Equipment Focus: Commercial Riding Mowers

 Country Clipper Defender
Country Clipper’s Defender is a top-of-the-line commercial riding mower ready built for durability, performance and comfort. The Defender is available with a 60- or 72-inch cutting width, as well as a 25.5-hp. Kawasaki, 27-hp. Kohler or 35-hp. Kawasaki engine. Driven by Hydro-Gear’s ZT-5400 powertrain transaxles, the Defender can travel up to 12.5 mph. The stand-up deck makes under-deck maintenance and cleaning a breeze, eliminating excessive downtime. The Defender features Country Clipper’s exclusive joystick steering for a unique operator experience and a deluxe adjustable, suspension seat for all-day comfort.
Country Clipper

 Dixie Chopper Twin
When no engine manufacturer would make a high-horsepower engine for a lawn mower in 1996, Dixie Chopper took matters into its own hands. The first twin-engine mower was born and created a sensation among serious commercial operators. Nearly two decades later, no other competitor can touch the power, performance and value of the Dixie Chopper Twin. Building off of the bulletproof XCaliber series, the Twin features 2 Generac 27-hp. engines for a combined 54 hp. Two engines gives the operator the versatility to run both engines for industrial mowing, and 1 engine for light manicured jobs.
Dixie Chopper

Grasshopper MaxTorque diesel mowers
Grasshopper MaxTorque diesel mowers easily and cleanly handle any job, and they are extremely fuel efficient, capable of saving up to 900 gallons of fuel and nearly $3,000 over 1,000 hours of use. Add Tier 4 Final emissions compliance, competitive price and a full line of implements to boost year-round productivity, and a Grasshopper MaxTorque diesel mower isn’t just a smarter mower, but an uncompromising business partner.
The Grasshopper Co.

 Gravely adds Kawasaki big block engine to Pro-Turn 400 Series
Gravely recently introduced Kawasaki big block engine options to its Pro-Turn 400 commercial zero-turn mower lineup. These models are designed for maximum operator comfort and efficiency. The mowers feature the industry’s first air-suspension seat and a new effortless deck lift. “We’re dedicated to continually improving the Gravely Pro-Turn 400 line, in order to satisfy the needs of landscape contractors,” explained Brian Anundsen, Gravely’s product marketing manager. “The addition of the 35-horsepower Kawasaki engine for 2014 gives contractors extra horsepower for tough commercial jobs.” Gravely’s Pro-Turn 400 models feature the air-suspension seat with added seat isolation to provide a smooth, comfortable ride for all-day operation. The air pressure can be adjusted with the touch of a button and comfort foam feels more like an office chair than a standard mower seat. The seat rides smoothly over rough terrain, allowing faster mowing speeds and increased productivity. A rubber isolated foot platform also minimizes vibration for a more comfortable ride. The 7-gauge fabricated and welded X-Factor deck features a convenient deck-lift system, which requires minimal force to raise and lower, reducing operator fatigue. Combined with the dial adjust height-of-cut system, the Pro-Turn 400 makes changing cutting height simple and easy to learn.
Gravely, an Ariens Co.

 Husqvarna M-ZT 61
The new M-ZT series zero-turn mower from Husqvarna takes performance, productivity and comfort to a whole new entry-commercial level. The intuitive operator interface, heavy-duty steel frame and commercial-rated hydraulic system create the ultimate mowing experience. With a rugged fabricated steel deck that is mulch and collection capable, the M-ZT is practical for all property maintenance needs. The high-back seat with armrests and adjustable ergonomic steering levers provide a comfortable ride time after time. Based on Husqvarna’s MZ series, the M-ZT series features rollover protection, a fabricated cutting deck with cast-iron spindles and Husqvarna’s new Endurance commercial engines. The Endurance commercial engines feature 810-cc displacement for increased power and torque, cyclonic air filtration, plus a limited 3-year commercial warranty.
Husqvarna

 John Deere ZTrak Z950M
John Deere recently expanded its line of ZTrak mowers with the introduction of the Z950M, which gives landscape contractors more horsepower for greater efficiency and performance. “The demand for zero-turn mowers in the marketplace is growing,” said Nick Minas, John Deere product manager. “Our customers told us they were interested in a higher-horsepower model in the M Series, and we listened. Our goal is to provide customers with the choices and flexibility to pick the right machine for their businesses.” The new Z950 joins the M Series of ZTrak commercial mowers, designed for customers seeking productivity and efficiency. With a 27-hp. engine, the Z950M has a top speed of 10 mph. The model is offered in a 60-inch, 60-inch Mulch On Demand, or 72-inch width, and comes equipped with a 7-Iron deck for maximum durability. To enhance operator comfort, the Z950 offers the option of an isolation seat or a fully adjustable suspension seat. For easy cleanup on the jobsite, an optional, integrated material collection system provides a dump-from-seat option to increase ease of use. Landscape contractors will also appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a 3-year/1,200-hour warranty.
John Deere

 Kubota Z700-Series
Kubota unveiled its new Z700-Series commercial zero-turn mowers at GIE+EXPO 2013. The Z700-Series includes 3 models: Z723, Z724 and Z725 (pictured). Designed to run day in and day out, the Z700-Series is a true workhorse, boasting a powerful Kohler Command V-Twin engine and an integrated Parker 14-cc pump and wheel motor. Available with a rugged commercial deck in 3 popular cutting widths — 48, 54 or 60 inches — the Z700-Series comes equipped with a wide operator platform, a thick high-back adjustable seat, and a convenient deck height adjustment dial. Maintenance is easy with an optional maintenance lift kit attachment that allows operators to lift the front of the deck, as well as sealed greaseless spindle bearings that result in less downtime in between jobs.
Kubota Tractor Corp.

 Scag Turf Tiger
The Scag Turf Tiger is built to handle the toughest mowing jobs. With a heavy-duty hydraulic drive system, auxiliary oil coolers, double tube steel main frame, and driveshaft-powered cutter deck, the Turf Tiger is unmatched in strength and performance. A variety of gas, diesel and propane engine options deliver maximum power. An ultra-low center-of-gravity and wide stance ensure traction and stability. Ground speeds up to 12 mph result in maximum productivity. The “Command-Comfort” operator’s station provides a customized fit for operators of all sizes. Scag mowers feature a 2-year commercial or 3-year non-commercial mower warranty, along with a 3-year limited cutter deck and spindle warranty.
Scag Power Equipment

 Walker Mowers
A few key features separate the Walker from other mowers. First of all, the compact size of the Walker sets it apart from other mowers, because it is able to get into compact spaces and get back out. The unique steering configuration makes the Walker more agile and maneuverable than its competitors. Adding to the differentiation of the Walker is its internal grass-handling system that collects grass through the center of the mower and delivers it into a catcher box in the rear of the mower. Walker’s trademark beautiful cut and a variety of versatile year-round attachments help make the Walker different for the right reasons.
Walker Mfg. Co.

 Wright’s Stander Intensity
Wright Manufacturing, the company that invented the stand-on mower, has introduced a new, compact Stander. The Stander Intensity, to be known as the Stander I, is equipped with the first 36-inch deck to incorporate Wright’s Aero Core technology. Operators will appreciate the deck’s improved airflow, cut quality and anti-blow out features.
The floating deck on the Stander I tilts side-to-side and front-to-back, allowing it to better follow the terrain contours. It also improves the weight distribution for better handling on hills. This flotation feature is similar to that found on the Stander I’s bigger brothers, the Stander X and ZK.
The rugged Stander I is also built for operator comfort. The floating standing platform absorbs rough terrain through elastopolymer bumpers that provide a dampened feel similar to a car. The bumpers are progressive to accommodate various weight operators. The control panel looks like the Stander X panel. Its wide stance provides greater control, and its forward slant makes the controls more ergonomic.
For contractors who want the Stander I’s handling features but need a larger deck, the mower will also be available with a 48- or 52-inch deck. Engines range from 18.5 to 22 hp.
Wright Mfg.

 JRCO heavy-duty attachments
JRCO Inc. manufactures a line of 7 heavy-duty front-mount attachments for commercial mowers, including the JRCO Tine Rake Dethatcher (pictured). Available in 36-, 46- and 60-inch widths, the JRCO Tine Rake Dethatcher provides a quick spring green-up by removing embedded thatch and leaves and combing up matted turfgrass while mowing. Its flexible tines allow zero-turning maneuverability while raking. Like all of JRCO’s front-mount products, the JRCO Tine Rake Dethatcher attaches to the JRCO universal mount bar with clevis pins.
JRCO, Inc.

 W.E. Arm Rest Bag
The W.E. Arm Rest Bag is specially designed to hang off the side of the arm rests on all seats for zero-turn mowers, riding mowers and sulky seats. This 10-inch-wide by 12-inch-long bag gives operators a place to put the trash and debris they find while mowing or provides a place to carry tools and supplies. The straps wrap around the arm rest and secure with a plastic quick-release buckle or hook-and-loop fasteners. An added bonus: The W.E. Arm Rest Bag can also be attached to the operator’s belt to use as a side hip bag (like the W.E. Pocket Keeper) while picking up properties.
W.E. Chapps, Inc.