I'm always welcome to ALL input, but you're right DJD... I want the pricing to stay where it's at. I do like Gravely. I store an older 52" Gravely walk-behind in my barn for a friend and have used it a couple times. It cuts very well. It's old and beat-up, but it still works and could be put to use commercially with new tires. I actually used it a few times last year when my mower was in the shop. That's when I quickly realized that a walk-behind was NOT conducive to mowing acreage!
After dealing with both my local and online Ferris dealers, here's what they're quoting me:
IS2000z 61" with Kaw FX801v (nice engine) $8900, or $8300 with a Briggs Commercial 30hp.
IS700z 61" local price: $7000 with Kaw FS730v. Online price, $6500 with Briggs 28hp, $6600 with Kaw FS (plus freight, makes it about the same price as local).
That suspension looks pretty sweet. But, the Hustler FastTrak Superduty 60" with Kaw FX and Flex-forks thrown in for $6479 seems like a better deal than the Ferris (competitive model is IS2000z for $8900). Shoot, I can get the Hustler FastTrak with Kaw FS and forks for $5900, compared to $7000 for the Ferris IS700z.
I talked with a family friend that works at a dealership that sells Hustler yesterday... he's gonna see what kind of deal he can get me. He sells New Holland also, so he'll probably take my CM272 in on trade (if it's the right amount for me) which would lower the payment nicely and save me the hassle of selling on my own. Depending on the pricing, I may go with the Hustler. But if it remains about what it is, the decision will stay tough!