Tag Archive for: Mower

Expansion of INFINICUT® mower fleet

/in , /by

Expansion of INFINICUT® mower fleet: It’s an exciting and busy time for the team at Cabot Highlands, as work is well underway on the construction of a second 18-hole course to complement the renowned and outstandingly picturesque Castle Stuart Golf Links.

Investment from the new ownership has also extended to the electrification of the club’s mower fleet, with eight FL22 pedestrian mowers from INFINICUT® handling the undulating greens to deliver a best-in-class cut.

Expansion of INFINICUT® mower fleet

Expansion of INFINICUT® mower fleet

Tasked with the construction of Old Petty – set to open fully in 2026 – is Course Manager James Hutchison, who is assisted by a team of 16 on the daily maintenance of the Castle Stuart course. “We were keen to explore electric options so had demonstrations of the INFINICUT® along with other electric hand mowers” James explains. “There were a few things that the team and I liked about the INFINICUT® – it felt lighter and followed the contours of our greens to deliver a really consistent cut. The range of the INFINICUT® battery was also far better. It ticked a lot of boxes.”

Following the successful demonstration, the club purchased eight FL22 mowers from the INFINICUT® golf range, which were installed by local dealers Fairways GM. “The support from Fairways GM is fantastic and this goes a long way when you’re running a pay and play – we need the peace of mind that back-up is swift and professional should we ever need to call on it.” He adds, “We’ve also developed a great relationship with Alan Jack at INFINICUT® which, together with the performance of the machines, is another reason we’ll be adding more units to our fleet in the not-too-distant future.”

The INFINICUT® FL22 offers industry-leading cut quality, contour-following ability and unbeatable precision for the preparation of fine turf surfaces. James and the team are using the mowers on the greens and tees daily throughout the summer, and when conditions demand during the cooler months. “We like to keep the height of cut relatively high year-round to reduce stress of the turf. The finesse and cleanliness of cut and finish delivered by the INFINICUT® allows us to do that without detriment to pace or presentation.”

“We host a number of amateur events throughout the year which the mower fleet are imperative to in terms of preparations. Moving forwards, we’ll be adding more INFINICUT®’s to our fleet as we prepare to open the new course and potentially welcome more, bigger and even better events into our calendar.”

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

The new Ariens Ikon zero-turn mower

/in , , /by

The new Ariens Ikon zero-turn mower: Last year, the Ariens Company celebrated its 90th anniversary. The anniversary year was taken as an opportunity to revise the entire model range of zero-turn mowers with combustion engines. The crowning highlight is the completely newly developed Ariens Ikon. All our experience has gone into this zero-turn mower. It sets standards in terms of cutting pattern, comfort, reliability and looks damn good at the same time.

The new Ariens Ikon is more than just an upgrade of its predecessor. The new Ikon defines a new class of zero-turn mowers for the private and semi-professional sector. All the experience gained has been channelled into the complete redesign of the mower. The designers have scrutinised every component. Proven features have been adopted and everything else has been revised, improved or renewed.

The new Ariens Ikon zero-turn mower

The new Ariens Ikon zero-turn mower

The main thing is a clean cut

The newly designed Ariens Envy cutting deck ensures that the Ariens Ikon cuts the grass perfectly. New guide plates and an improved discharge ensure an optimised air flow and therefore an excellent cutting pattern. The consistently high quality of the mowing pattern is ensured by the four-point suspension, which keeps the mowing deck permanently fixed and parallel. The blade carriers are made of forged aluminium. Compared to cast spindles, the blades run cooler and the blade carriers are more resistant to impact and vibration. Housed spacer rollers prevent damage to the turf and machine in the event of ground contact. The 2.9 mm thick steel plate of the cutting deck and the solid edge protection guarantee a long service life and durability. The Ariens Constant Belt Tension system CBT was previously only available on professional models. The new Ikon is equipped with it as standard. It keeps the belt tension constant, compensates for wear and tear and prevents the blades from stalling or the belts from slipping under high loads.

The new Ikon comfort seat has an extra high backrest that provides optimum back support. The raised seat makes it easier to stand up and sit down. The folding armrests take the strain off the shoulders. With its decorative stitching, the comfort seat is not only comfortable, but also contributes to the dynamic appearance of the new zero-turn mower. Thanks to their larger diameter, the new Ariens drive levers sit comfortably in the hand and can be optimally adjusted to the driver in all four directions without tools. The parking brake is activated by simply folding out the drive levers. One of 13 possible cutting heights (3.8 – 11.4 cm) can be conveniently selected from the seat using magnetic bolts. The solid mowing deck is simply raised using the foot pedal, also from a seated position. spiral spring makes this process easier. The 20-inch wheels ensure high suspension comfort, strong traction and low ground pressure. They also make it easier to drive over edges. The designers have also thought about stowing valuables or a snack and have integrated a practical storage box underneath the armrest. Two USB charging sockets are also included as standard.

The foundation: A solid basis

As with the two professional models in the Zenith and Apex series, the frame of the new Ariens Ikon consists of fully welded square profiles. The two separate EZT 2200 hydrostatic wheel motors from Hydro-Gear are maintenance-free and ensure smooth starting. The Kawasaki FR motors (FR651 and FR 691) are regarded as the benchmark in their class and give the Ariens Ikon plenty of power when it is needed.

Practical accessories

Thanks to numerous optional accessories, the Ikon can be fully customised. The stripes kit, for example, is just the thing for anyone who likes to have stripes on their lawn like in an English football stadium. The optional Ikon foot mat not only enhances the appearance of the zero-turn lawn mower, but also dampens vibrations on the feet and legs. The mulching kit eliminates the side discharge. The guide plates keep the clippings in the mowing deck for longer and the special mulching blades shred them into fine particles. With the optional trailer coupling, the Ikon can also tow a practical garden trailer. If the mower spends a lot of time outdoors, a cover protects it from dirt and moisture.

In conclusion, the new Ariens Ikon is difficult to categorise. It blurs the boundaries between a mower for private users and a professional mower. Its uniqueness lies in the sum of its well thought-out details.

The new Ariens Ikon will be available from the 2025 mowing season.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Makita launches first robotic mower

/in , /by

Makita launches first robotic mower: Makita continues to power the outdoors with its new robotic mower. Providing automatic mowing and charging, the RM350D Robotic Mower can cover lawns up to 3,500m2 and slopes of up to 26°. With a cutting width of 240mm, rapid charging capabilities and long uninterrupted usage time, the solution provides ultimate convenience for those looking for fuss-free lawn maintenance. 

The RM350D Robotic Mower is designed to mow the lawn and recharge automatically on its dedicated charging station. It cuts the grass into small pieces, leaving them on the lawn to act as a natural fertiliser. Thanks to the automatic cutting height adjustment, both the starting and target height of the lawn can be adjusted. Specifically, the cutting height can be adjusted from 20-60mm in precise 5mm increments.

Makita launches first robotic mower

Makita launches first robotic mower

The RM350D is simple to operate. Users simply need to set the boundary wires and guides and press go, with no need to download and sync up to an app. Four high quality brushless motors drive the blades and power the machine across the working area and once the battery has discharged, it automatically returns to its charging station and resumes mowing when the charging is completed, making it a totally autonomous system.

This design means the machine is not reliant on satellites for navigation control. As such, the RM350D is not incumbered by overhead obstructions such as trees, bushes and other garden features which may otherwise have restricted the cutting area.

Users will also enjoy the schedule settings feature, where the product can be programmed to run on specific days and times of the week – it simply leaves its charging station automatically, mows the lawn and then returns to the charging station independently.

In terms of maintenance, the RM350D simple to clean and reduce the burden of off-season maintenance. Its IPX5 rating means is can be cleaned with a hose – simply remove the top cover to wash the entire machine with water.

Matt Chilton, Product Manager at Makita UK commented: “We are delighted to add the RM350D to our growing outdoor collection. Thanks to battery operation, not only it is quieter, but also more environmentally friendly than a petrol powered lawnmower. It’s easy to set up and totally autonomous, meaning professionals can take care of other work on site while the robot takes care of the lawn. And with schedule setting capabilities, it has never been easier to manage and fulfil a lawncare timetable.”

To find out more about Makita and its range of products visit: www.makitauk.com.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Ariens zero-turn mower faster on the spot

/in , /by

Ariens zero-turn mower faster on the spot: In 2005, zero-turn mowers accounted for just 5 per cent of the total lawn tractor market in the USA. This figure has now risen to around 52 per cent.

Zero-turn mowers have become the absolute standard there, whether for private or professional users. The demand for zero-turn mowers is also growing strongly in Europe. The reasons are obvious: significant time savings, more comfort, a long service life and, not to be underestimated, more fun when mowing.

Ariens zero-turn mower faster on the spot

Ariens zero-turn mower faster on the spot

 Mow 40 per cent faster

In contrast to classic lawn tractors with a steering wheel, Ariens zero-turn mowers are driven by two independently operating wheel motors on the rear wheels. The drive wheels are controlled individually with two steering levers. They can therefore move in the same or in different directions. In practice, this means that you can turn in one go – without having to manoeuvre forwards or backwards. There is no time-consuming turning with a zero-turn mower – obstacles can be circled precisely and in one go. This also means that less uncut grass remains in the turning area. The precision of an Ariens zero-turn mower significantly reduces the need for tedious cleaning out at the end. Another reason why zero-turn mowers are so fast is their low centre of gravity in combination with the large-volume, welded mowing deck. As a result, significantly higher mowing speeds are achieved compared to classic lawn tractors.

The preconception that zero-turn mowers are only worthwhile for professionals who have very large areas to mow can be debunked. We recommend taking a closer look at this option for lawns of 1000 m² or more. Zero-turn mowers are available from a cutting width of 86 cm. The device class with a cutting width of 86 cm – 107 cm, such as the two models Ariens Edge 34 and 42, is aimed at private individuals with larger properties. Especially in gardens with numerous obstacles such as flower beds and bushes and many turning manoeuvres, the time saved is enormous.

Ariens zero-turn mowers provide real mowing pleasure

In addition to the speed, the comfortable operation also speaks in favour of an Ariens zero-turn mower. The greater legroom compared to conventional lawn tractors and the comfortable seats, which can be optimally adjusted to the driver, ensure significantly more comfort. The low effort required for steering movements and the smooth-running controls also contribute to a pleasant working environment.

Ariens mowers are synonymous with durability. Compared to traditional ride-on mowers, Ariens uses significantly less plastic on its zero-turn mowers. High-quality frames and welded steel cutting decks ensure a long service life.  Premium engines and robust hydrostatic transmissions contribute to sustainability and resource conservation.

The fun of mowing

For users who have switched to an Ariens Zero-Turn, the conventional lawn tractor with steering wheel has had its day. And this is not least due to the fun of mowing. The combination of speed, manoeuvrability and comfort clearly contributes to this. 40 per cent faster also means that there is more time for other activities. Mowing without a grass collector also eliminates the tiring and annoying task of disposing of clippings. And the result is also perfect: high blade speeds and a strong airflow produce an excellent cutting pattern.

Anyone can drive a zero-turn

The generalised objection that users would not be able to cope with steering with two driving levers is untrue. Anyone can drive a zero-turning circle mower after a short period of familiarisation. Millions of private users prove it and no longer want to do without the advantages. This is easy to prove with a brief explanation of the functions and a test drive in the yard of a specialist dealer. The shopping trolley comparison is the best way to do this. Depending on the driving manoeuvre, the drive levers are moved accordingly (see diagram 3).

Practical trial and study prove the benefits

In a practical example from the online portal todaysmower.com, a classic lawn tractor and a zero-turn mower were tested on a 4000 m² area with 40 trees and other obstacles. The result was clear. The zero-turn mower was 40 per cent faster than the lawn tractor with the same mowing width (106 cm).

A comparison of the steering modes of conventional ride-on mowers and zero-turn mowers as part of a study conducted by the University of Hohenheim, Institute of Agricultural Engineering, also confirmed the aforementioned advantages. A practical comparison test between a conventional lawn tractor (107 cm mowing width) and an Ariens Ikon XD zero-turn mower (107 cm mowing width) showed that not only is the turning manoeuvre significantly faster, but the turning radius is also significantly smaller. The turning manoeuvre on the classic omega-shaped lawn tractor takes 5 seconds. In comparison, the Ariens IKONXD turns in just 3.7 seconds. When asked which of the two mowers the 17 test participants would buy, the answer was also clear. More than twice as many participants would opt for an Ariens zero-turn mower.

In conclusion, for a slightly higher purchase price, zero-turn mowers offer the user the time savings described above, a much more comfortable driving experience, a considerably more durable machine and not to forget – more fun when mowing.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

New Cramer zero turn battery powered mower

/in , /by

New Cramer zero turn battery powered mower: Cramer will be launching two new Optimus Z zero-turn battery-powered mowers specifically designed for professionals who demand the ultimate in performance and durability at Saltex .

The ride-on model boasts a mowing speed of 25.6KM/H – the fastest in the market – and a battery that allows for a full day’s operation, whereas the stand-on model has been designed for use in narrow, awkward spaces.

New Cramer zero turn battery powered mower

New Cramer zero turn battery powered mower

Both Optimus Z zero turn mowers have been designed for durability and longevity, and come with a host of invaluable features.

The ride on model has individual rear wheel hub motors which integrate transmission for fast drive as well as park brake. It benefits from a large 18 or 24 kWh battery with a run time up to 8.5 hours per charge. Features include a water resistant storage unit to cope with our changeable weather together with cup holder and mobile phone charger. A new high level LED bar in white and amber, with flash function, make for high visibility and therefore improved safety.

The Optimus Z stand on zero turn mower measures just 92cm in width to enable it to be driven through smaller gates and around tighter obstacles. It comes with a premium leg pad for driver comfort.

In addition to the two new mowers, Cramer will be exhibiting a selection of its existing cordless professional outdoor power equipment tools, all of which are powered by an 82V battery system, and benefit from innovative features such as Magnesium components, fleet connectivity, and ultra-high torque motors to rival petrol performance.

Cramer products on show at SALTEX will include handheld equipment such as chainsaws, blowers, hedge trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters, multi-tools, and power cutters. Walk-behind products will also be featured, such as utility carts and lawnmowers up to 61cm (twin blade).

Cramer battery-powered products have become an increasingly popular alternative to petrol-powered products for ground care and maintenance of large parks and recreational areas in recent years. Cramer’s 82V battery system delivers the power required from commercial equipment without the negative effects that come with petrol-powered tools. They generate less heat and are significantly quieter than traditional petrol machinery, as well as safer as the risk of fuel spillage is eliminated. Ownership and running costs of tools are significantly lowered as the 82V battery system is interchangeable with other 82V products in the Cramer range and maintenance is low. What’s more, with no direct carbon emissions, they are the more environmentally friendly option for Local Authorities.

For more information, visit Cramer at SALTEX Stand H090, or go to https://cramertools.com/. You can also email on Sales@handys.co.uk or call 01793 333220.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.