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GIE + EXPO 2016 SHOW RECAP 12 DECEMBER 2016 OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT www.outdoorpowerequipment.com FEATURE STORY Altoz introduces first-ever tracked zero-turn mower Altoz unveiled several new mowers, including the all-new TRX — the industry's first tracked zero- turn mower — at GIE+EXPO 2016. The Greenbush, Minn.-based company also rolled out three limited- edition models (XR SS, XE SS and XE HD SS), as well as the new HP HD and XE HD mowers. (For information on the HP HD mower, see page 30.) The TRX provides first-of-its-kind patent- pending technology for commercial use on sloped, wet and rough terrain. Equipped with rear-mounted tracks and a torsional suspension system, the TRX allows lawn care professionals, utility companies and municipalities to maintain places they sim- ply can't effectively or safely cut with a tra- ditional zero-turn mower. "We think the TRX is truly an unprecedented product for the power equipment industry," said Altoz CEO/Founder Dennis Brazier. "The TRX's unique combination of traction, stability and low ground pressure with durability, power and handling will make it a valuable asset for municipalities, utility companies, lawn professionals, golf courses and general contractors concerned about safety while tackling a wide range of conditions and terrain." The exceptional stability and traction of the TRX enables operators to safely maneuver inclines, side hills, ditches, varying terrain and wet conditions with the agility and comfort found in all Altoz zero-turn mowers. And thanks to its low ground pressure and high traction, the TRX reduces compaction and minimizes ground disturbance while maintaining superior traction. TorqFlex front suspension and rear torsional track suspension provide a smooth ride by bridging uneven terrain and reducing operator fatigue. Additionally, TRX's commercial-grade track and flat-free front tires eliminate potential tire damage caused by sharp rocks, glass or debris commonly encountered in vacant lots, roadside ditches and spaces bordering high-traffic areas. "I was really impressed with the TRX's ride quality — it was unbelievably smooth and quiet for a tracked vehicle," commented Todd Gjovik, Altoz dealer. "It felt as if you are actually sticking to the side of the hill with the increased stability, yet it doesn't rip up the grass, even in sharp turns." The TRX will include the option of 61- or 66-inch finish-cut or rough-cut mower decks, as well as a 33-hp. Kohler Command Pro EFI or 37-hp. Vanguard EFI engine. Other features include a Hydro-Gear ZT-5400 transmission; 11-inch- wide tracks; 15-inch, flat-free, front tires; a 14-gallon fuel capacity, 12-way- adjustable, high-back seat with suspension; and a 250-foot-pound clutch. The TRX will ship to Altoz dealers in early spring of 2017. Ariens unveils APEX zero-turn mower Ariens Company showcased the APEX, an all-new zero-turn lawn mower built for the prosumer and large-acreage cutter markets. The APEX is crafted with the durability that the Ariens brand is known for, and brings an all-new set of features to the residential market. Packed with premium features like an outstanding frame and deck sizes available in 48, 52 or 60 inches, the APEX is a unique residential zero-turn built to withstand the elements. The top-tier zero-turn in the Ariens lineup, the APEX incorporates several commercial-grade features like a 10-gauge welded deck design that's 5.5 inches deep with a reinforced leading edge that provides the airflow needed to tackle tough mowing conditions. The APEX is also built on a large formed tubular frame rail, which serves as the backbone to support the loads of the machine. The APEX also features Ariens' new self-adjusting belt-tensioning technology, a system that ensures the belt tension is constant, minimiz- ing wear and heat while providing enhanced belt life with minimal ad- justments necessary. Maintenance-free aluminum spindles were also added to improve the machine's ease of serviceability. The new aluminum spindles reduce bearing temperatures for an overall cooler operation. Also improving accessibility, a flip-up foot pan was added, which allows the operator to ac- cess maintenance items on the top of the deck in minutes. The APEX was built with several considerations that improve the operator comfort, integrating features such as a high-back seat with padded armrests, which helps support the operator who needs to tackle a large job. The machine's 17 cutting positions at the operator's fingertips, and other upgrades like the foot-operated deck lift were added to increase operator efficiency. The APEX is also ROPS capable, offering extra protection to the operator. Larger front and back tires add to the machine's durability and efficiency, while the easily serviceable Hydro-Gear ZT-3100 transmission reduces downtime. All models are available with a Kohler 7000 Series engine, and the 60-inch model is also available with a Kawasaki FR series engine. "The Ariens APEX is a huge accomplishment for the Ariens brand," said Jeralyn Braun, Ariens Company product marketing manager. "What we've done is create a machine with features unlike anything on the market today. The APEX is a commercial-grade machine designed for residential consumers, and it includes a lot of the same features found on zero-turns that professionals purchase. This zero-turn is designed for the consumer that has a lot of land to care for, and for the family that doesn't want to sacrifice quality, durability and innovative design." Models start at a list price of $5,355 and are available through authorized Ariens dealers only. In addition, Ariens Company highlighted its IKON X and IKON XL riding mowers, as well as its industry-first Ariens AX EZ-Launch engine with EFI technology, designed for the Ariens line of Sno-Thro products. GIE+EXPO 2016 Show Recap The 2016 Green Industry & Equipment Expo (GIE+EXPO), which took place Oct. 19-21 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Ky., featured plenty of news from several exhibitors. ■ COMPILED BY STEVE NOE