Industry roundup: Kubota introduces next generation of SZ series commercial stand-on mowers

Kubota Tractor Corporation recently introduced the next generation of the SZ series commercial stand-on mowers with the availability of four new models: the SZ19NC-36-2 with a 36-inch cutting deck, SZ22NC-48-2 with a 48-inch cutting deck, SZ26NC-52-2 with a 52-in cutting deck and the SZ26NC-61-2 with a 61-inch cutting deck.

The company says improvements to the SZ series deliver adjustable cutting deck baffles, enhanced serviceability and increased tire performance. The SZ-2 models will replace the original line of Kubota SZ mowers and are currently available at Kubota dealerships nationwide. 

“The updates to the SZ series provide landscapers the ability to dial in their mower’s performance to best suit their jobsite’s conditions, while simultaneously making the equipment more durable and easier to service,” says Tom Vachal, Kubota senior turf product manager. “The next generation of SZ series mowers are a result of Kubota’s commitment to delivering the best possible purpose-built products to commercial landscapers.”  

Kubota says the “-2” models replace the first-generation models in Kubota’s SZ series line of stand-on mowers, and the new models feature improvements throughout while maintaining the same horsepower and deck size configurations as previous models.

The company says one of the most notable upgrades to the SZ series is the inclusion of adjustable cutting deck baffles to the SZ22NC-48-2, SZ26NC-52-2 and the SZ26NC-61-2 models. Kubota says the adjustable baffles allow operators to adjust the air intake of the cutting deck, which affects the quality of the cut and how well the clippings are directed into the bag, out the discharge chute or onto the ground as mulch.

The company says cutting conditions can vary greatly by region and climate, and more adjustability ensures landscapers can configure their SZ mower to provide the highest quality cut possible across a range of terrain conditions.  Also new for the next generation of SZ mowers are 23-inch Zero T tires. The company says these tires feature a unique tread pattern that provides a great balance between handling, grip and reduced turf impact. Kubota also says it improved the serviceability of the SZ series by making key areas of the cutting deck easier to access during service.

Kubota says it also repositioned the hydraulic fluid reservoir inside the body of the mower, which the company says helps protect the system and reduces potential leak points. All the Kubota SZ series mowers are equipped with Kawasaki FX and FT Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) commercial engines and hydro-gear transmissions.

Kubota says it designed the SZ series with a low center of gravity for exceptional stability and fast travel speeds of up to 11 mph, depending on the model. The company says operator comfort and safety are paramount. Kubota says adjustable controls, an ergonomic cushion pad and large operator stations provide a comfortable and intuitive experience for operators across the entire SZ line of mowers.

TurfEx Products launches redesigned website Photo: TurfEx

TurfEx Products has launched a newly redesigned website that the company says will enhance the overall customer experience.

“The new site provides a more streamlined user experience,” says Jennifer Walth, TurfEx advertising manager. “Not only does the redesign have a fresh and contemporary feel, it easily connects customers to the products they need for their businesses and the distributors who sell those products.”

Along with a mobile-friendly, modern design that allows for more straightforward navigation, the company says the site also features the following updates:

• A search feature that gives users the ability to search the site for specific products. 
• A new “Where to Buy” section on each product page that connects users directly to available distributors for easy purchasing.
• An updated and filterable resource center for all manuals, sell sheets and parts lists.

Overall, TurfEx says the site will allow current and future TurfEx customers to find the right equipment for their business needs—including where to purchase online or inquire about product availability.

Ruppert Landscape opens new location in Durham, North Carolina

Ruppert Landscape has expanded its landscape management operations to include a new location in Durham, North Carolina.

The company says this branch joins two existing landscape management branches in North Carolina, located in Raleigh and Charlotte, and will serve existing customers as well as support new growth in the region.

“Like many of our branches, the Durham office evolved from a satellite operation, and its permanent establishment is a strategic move designed to better serve our customers,” says Fred Key, region vice president in the company’s landscape management division. “When we open new facilities in the regions where our customers’ properties are concentrated, it allows us to be more responsive and efficient in our work.”

Sam WellsPhoto: Ruppert LandscapeThe company says the Durham team will be led by branch manager Sam Wells, who has led the Raleigh team for the past four years and has been with the Ruppert organization for over eight. He holds a bachelor’s degree in applied horticulture science from SUNY Cobleskill and is a landscape industry certified technician (CLT) and certified commercial applicator with over 27 years of combined landscape industry experience.

“Over the past several years, Sam has led the Raleigh team in building strong customer relationships and building a solid team,” says Key. “He has taken on the challenge of opening this new location and expertly navigated the purchase and reconstruction of the new facility and is busy putting together his team. We have complete faith in his ability to get the Durham operation up and running and are excited to see what the future holds for them.”

Ruppert says the Durham branch will primarily serve clients in Research Triangle Park, Morrisville, Chapel Hill and Durham and offer the following landscape management services: grounds management/contract services; design and landscape enhancement; turf care; irrigation system management; pond and lake management; arbor care; snow and ice management; lighting and holiday decorations.