Proudly serving the industry for which it was named for more than 50 years, Outdoor Power Equipment provides dealers who sell and service outdoor power equipment with valuable information to succeed in a competitive market.
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38 SEPTEMBER 2015 OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT www.outdoorpowerequipment.com PRODUCTS Stihl's new HS 82 and HS 87 top-of-the-line, 22.7-cc hedge trimmers provide precise and tough cutting for professional performance. Compared to its predecessors, the HS 81 and HS 86, respectively, both are lighter, have increased blade speed, and are powered by an advanced low-emission engine that is 20 percent more fuel efficient. Several features make these hedge trimmers an ideal choice for any landscape professional. The fuel-efficient engine uses 20 percent less fuel than the previous models, which allows for longer run times and reduced costs. Their lightweight, well-balanced design allows for longer work hours with reduced fatigue, as well as easy maneuverability around large shrubs or hard-to-reach spaces. Low-vibration technology and a swivel handle provide improved comfort compared to the previous models. A convenient multi-function control handle makes the trimmers easy to start and stop, and all of the throttle controls are in one central location. The HS 82 has a double-sided, durable blade designed for sweeping, back-and-forth cuts, and the HS 87 has a single-sided blade that is better for straight cutting. Both come in 2 versions to suit a variety of landscapers' cutting needs. MSRP starts at $499.95. "The HS 82 T and HS 87 T are ideal for trimming and contouring hedges and bushes," said Stephen Meriam, Stihl director of sales. "The high stroke rate, reduced tooth height and narrow tooth spacing guarantee an extremely precise, clean cut. The HS 82 R and 87 R versions have a low stroke rate, more cutting power, greater tooth height and wider tooth space for bigger jobs like pruning overgrown hedges or clearing vegetation." For more information on all Stihl hedge trimmers, visit stihlusa.com. Stihl unveils new professional hedge trimmers With the goal of maximizing productivity through increased operator comfort, Exmark recently announced the introduction of a suspended operator platform for its Lazer Z commercial zero-turn mowers. A factory-installed upgrade available on 2015 Lazer Z E-Series and Lazer Z X-Series machines, the suspended operator platform utilizes coil- over hydraulic dampers to significantly reduce the impact of bumps and vibration. The design provides 3.6 inches of travel in vertical and fore-aft directions, with trailing arms to limit lateral travel and increase operator stability. John Swanson, Exmark senior product manager, said the suspended operator platform preserves the Lazer Z's performance advantages, while significantly reducing the negative effect of bumps and vibration on operator productivity. "We designed our suspended operator platform to be easy to adjust for any size or weight of rider, regardless of whether they prefer a softer 'luxury car' ride, or a stiffer 'sports car' ride quality," added Swanson. "There's no harsh bottoming, regardless of operator weight. Adjustments can be made quickly in the shop or on the jobsite, without tools. Plus, the coil-over hydraulic dampers are designed to last the life of the machine, making the system virtually maintenance free." The suspended operator platform includes a new seat that leverages the technologies and experience that Exmark has at its disposal, including the company's patented Iso-Mount isolation system, which provides a controlled .75-inch of lateral and .5-inch of vertical isolation. When combined with patented Elastomeric Vibration Control (EVC) stretch fabric and plush foam padding (1.25 inches of vertical travel), the new seat maximizes comfort to enhance the productivity and long-term comfort of the operator. Swanson said the suspended operator platform design also eases access to hydrostatic drive system components, making routine service quicker and easier to perform. The suspended operator platform is available as an option on select 2015 Lazer Z E-Series and Lazer Z X-Series machines. Learn more at Exmark.com. Exmark launches suspended operator platform for Lazer Z mowers PRODUCT NEWS