I use a Berta 26" flail mower on my Grillo 85D quite a bit. I opted for an 11 HP Honda engine with recoil start. It starts very easily and, for me, at least, the electric start would have been a waste of money. At the lowest speed, I am continually amazed at the amount of work the flail mower can do in a single pass. I don't have any bamboo, but it walks through waist high grass, cholla cactus and light mesquite brush very well. With only two forward speeds, it is said that the Grillo 85D isn't so hot for mowing, but I would need a pair of track shoes to keep up with a mower in third gear. I guess I am just old and slow. I just ordered a Zanon 33" rotary mower to keep my four acres trimmed up, now that I have cleared it, and I think 2nd gear will be more than adequate for my needs. Best of luck in your search for the right equipment fit for your operation.