Trying to decide between mowers, please help

[Oscar_Overalls]

Hello folks, I’m new here and I’m fixing to invest in a ZTR in next couple weeks or so and I’m torn between a couple makes/models and wanted pros, cons, and advice. I originally wanted a Dixie Chopper but have been looking at a couple others also. I’m mowing around 5 acres around my house with minimal trees. Right now I’m really liking the Ferris ISX800 with the B&S commercial 27hp and 61” deck for $9045 or a Spartan RZ-HD with Kawi FR730V with 61” deck and upgraded 3” adjustable seat for $7900. I drove the Ferris and it seems pretty darn nice…to the point of pretty much writing off the Dixie Chopper Blackhawk HP I originally wanted that was $9602. I have not yet tested the Spartan but plan too this weekend, but have heard pretty good stuff about them. Just not sure the $1145 extra for the Ferris is worth it. What’s everyone’s thoughts on these mowers and the engines they come with. Any advice or information would be greatly appreciated.

 

[bertsmobile1]

Spartan has just been bought out by one of the big players ( Toro I think ) so grab one now while you can because if the brand remains, the quality & innovation will cease and they will become the same mower as the owner supplies painted a different colour .
I am surprised Spartan lasted as long as they did .
I think the majors were waiting for them to go bust .

 

[bkeller500]

Ferris has some impressive offerings. I have a Simplicity Courier XT which is a copy of the Ferris 500S ( Briggs and Stratton own Simplicity, Ferris and Snapper). I only have 1.3 acres to mow and the XT is more than adequate and has a lot of commercial features at a lower cost and the Simplicity deck with the striping roller. No regrets so far!

 

[Catherine]

Welcome to the forum!
I'm going to move this thread over to our buying and pricing section.