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.
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/752598
GIE + EXPO 2016 SHOW RECAP 16 DECEMBER 2016 OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT www.outdoorpowerequipment.com FEATURE STORY Dixie Chopper descends on GIE+EXPO 2016 with new BlackHawk series, a golden eagle and more Dixie Chopper unveiled a new zero-turn mower series, the BlackHawk, at GIE+EXPO. The BlackHawk series includes 11 models of the BlackHawk and BlackHawk HP. Both models come standard with a foot-operated, operator-controlled discharge chute (OCDC), which allows the operator to keep both hands on the steering levers while blocking the chute on the fly. "We are very excited to launch the BlackHawk series to the industry," said Chris Vernon, vice president and general manager of Dixie Chopper. "The BlackHawk series is unlike anything Dixie Chopper has created before with a complete cosmetic design update and industry-leading features like the foot- operated OCDC and electronic control panel." The BlackHawk comes equipped with up to 24-hp. Kawasaki and 25-hp. Briggs & Stratton engines for a ground speed of up to 9 mph. The BlackHawk features 48-, 54- and 60-inch deck options with a Parker HTE transmission, providing extended life with smooth steering. Full control is at the operator's fingertips with the BlackHawk HP's InCommand console, featuring a blade timer, tachometer, job timer, voltage, fuel level, and "Soft Start" keyless ignition for easier clutch engagement. The BlackHawk HP is available with up to 23.5-hp. Kawasaki and 25-hp. Kohler EFI engine options and 48-, 54- and 60-inch decks. The BlackHawk HP (see page 30) also comes standard with a full-suspension seat, providing added lateral stability, improved durability, and a 4-inch seat slide to keep the operator comfortable during extended mowing periods. At GIE+EXPO, Dixie Chopper also introduced its 2017 product lineup, including updates to existing models like the Zee 2, Classic, and XCaliber zero-turns. Dixie Chopper continued its military theme with several Chopper Army elements carried over in its indoor and outdoor booths. Included in the booths were a mower parachuting in from the ceiling and a live golden eagle. Dixie Chopper also sponsored GIE+EXPO's annual concert featuring The Louisville Crashers on Wednesday evening. Dixie Chopper brand ambassadors were on hand during the concert to blast out T-shirts and interact with attendees. Dixie Chopper also hosted a dealer and customer-exclusive party, in conjunction to the concert, at the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Cowboy Bar on 4th Street Live! On Wednesday, Vernon held a press conference in the Dixie Chopper indoor booth. Topics of the press conference included Dixie Chopper's new product unveil and the company's continuous improvement on all sides of the business, including increased sales, dealer growth, and internal hiring. "In the past year, Dixie Chopper has grown tremendously by investing in our products, people and dealers," said Vernon. "For the second year in a row, we received the Most Improved Manufacturer award from the Equipment Dealers Association, and we are still committed to improving in every way." Echo Inc. launches new products, including ProXtreme 2620 Series Echo Inc. showcased its latest Echo and Shindaiwa products, accessories and aftermarket products, including the new Echo ProXtreme 2620 Series. Designed for professional landscapers, the line consists of four products: a standard trimmer (SRM-2620), a high-torque trimmer (SRM-2620T), a brushcutter (SRM- 2620U) and an edger (PE-2620). The ProXtreme 2620 Series powerhead is what makes this lineup exceptional. It offers a unique combination of high power and low weight. The newly designed 25.4-cc professional-grade two-stroke engine delivers 1.35 hp. The weight reduction is achieved primarily by using military-grade magnesium versus aluminum. Better air filtration is provided by using a two- stage air filtration system. An insulator plate and flexible bellows-style fuel transfer system dramatically reduce heat. That system, combined with a remote fuel tank air vent versus an integrated fuel cap vent, prevents clogging and reduces re-start issues. The larger fuel tank allows for extended run time between fill-ups. The SRM-2620 trimmer uses a 1.62:1 gear reduction, while the SRM-2620T trimmer features a 2:1 gear reduction. This enables 23 percent more torque than the SRM-2620 for powering through thick, dense ground cover and optimal performance with a cutting blade. The higher torque range of both models eliminates the need to run wide-open throttle to achieve peak torque. This keeps the unit cooler and saves fuel. The units cut 17-inch swaths and use the easy-loading Speed-Feed 400 head. The SRM-2620U brushcutter's gear reduction is 1.62:1. The tool-less, adjustable U handle has an integrated throttle lever and can fold parallel for storing and transport. It comes with an additional shield for blade use and shoulder harness. The blade is an optional purchase. The PE-2620 edger uses a curved-shaft design for better sight lines and more ergonomic tool positioning when in use. The contoured aluminum debris shield with open face reduces clogging. The captive wheel mount hardware enables easy wheel height adjustments with no chance of losing any parts. The 2:1 gear case powers through tough, overgrown grass. Echo also showcased the new Shindaiwa C262 brushcutter. With a 25.4-cc engine, the C262 formally introduces a Shindaiwa engine series and raises the standard set by the Shindaiwa 270. The C262 features a lighter powerhead and better air filtration, along with ergonomic features. Echo also expanded its chain saw line with the new CS-501P. Designed with professionals in mind, the CS-501P is the lightest 50-cc saw on the market. The upgraded 50.2-cc engine provides 17 percent more power than the CS-500P. As for aftermarket parts, Echo launched YouCan maintenance kits, which are designed to extend equipment life and reduce costly repairs. The company also announced the extension of the Red Armor brand into a pre-mix fuel. Red Armor Fuel uses Red Armor Oil as its crucial ingredient. The proprietary oil cleans existing carbon deposits and protects against further carbon buildup, promoting longer engine life. Exmark expands zero-turn mower line with Radius With the launch of its new Radius, Exmark introduced its next generation of zero-turn mowers. The new machines deliver the durability and cut quality that landscape professionals need with an innovative new