New 2016 Kubota ZD Mowers

[isurg]

Just about to pull the trigger on a new 326 or ZD1211. Any opinions on whether I should buy the time tested 326 or the untested 1211?

Anyone compared the 2?

 

[Kytractor]

I looked at both but have only sit in the seat of the 326 and 323 so can't say a whole lot Other than I like the comfort of the 1211 seat better. After mowing with it I can say I like the 1211 but I'm sure the 326 people probably like theirs as well.

 

[xring100]

I'm curious to know how those low profile rear tires (26x12-16) are working. They look slick but is there an advantage?

Well the mower rides way better than my turd cadet so I dont consider my evaluation fair My Neighbor has a Exmark Lazer Z who took it for a spin. He said it was amazingly smooth ride compared to his. We think the seat is a big part of it. He really likes the suspension seat.

On a car low profile tires help increase cornering compliance allowing for increased lateral traction. Not sure if the same applies here but kubota implies the wider stance and low profile tires help side slip on hills which suggest the same physics apply or atleast marketing seems to think so.

 

[PsRumors]

Well the mower rides way better than my turd cadet so I dont consider my evaluation fair My Neighbor has a Exmark Lazer Z who took it for a spin. He said it was amazingly smooth ride compared to his. We think the seat is a big part of it. He really likes the suspension seat.

On a car low profile tires help increase cornering compliance allowing for increased lateral traction. Not sure if the same applies here but kubota implies the wider stance and low profile tires help side slip on hills which suggest the same physics apply or atleast marketing seems to think so.

View attachment 461919

In principle yes in applicability I'd be curious to know for certain. I keep kicking the idea of buying a set of the low profile tires and wheels and trying them out

 

[CharlieKtractor]

the low profile tires would be cheaper to foam fill

 

[dragoneggs]

the low profile tires would be cheaper to foam fill

And a rougher ride. Not sure the objective here but mowing comfort is higher on my priorities as I gracefully age. But profile is sporty and cool in my book. Granted I'm tired and typing this in Korea longing to be home soon.

 

[Scooby074]

I checked out the new ZD at the dealer the other day. As I suspected it was more of an evolution as opposed to a revolution. New deck is shallower, but supposed to have more lift. No word on if the new style blades are compatible with my 326 yet, so I got to check in later when they have some replacement blades in stock to compare with. Seat is a nice upgrade. Sort of reminds me of the arguments last year about the BX25d vs "The D". Also more of a superficial update.

The lo pro tires are a bit of a concern, how many manufacturers make alternative tires in that size if you arent happy with the TurfMaster style tires from the factory?

Mostly I was interested in the chute blocker they had installed. Its made from quality components (stainless??) but the activation locking mechanism is awful. Just doesnt work right with one hand IMHO. Why have 2 levers? One for activation and the other for locking, it would work better with a single lever?? For $350 I expected a better thought out device.

Pics of blocker
Shared album - scooby�74 - Google Photos

Shared album - scooby�74 - Google Photos

Shared album - scooby�74 - Google Photos

 

[xring100]

Scooby thanks for the pictures. The dealer did not have one in stock for me to look at when i bought mine. Your right the double lever looks like it could have been simplified. Like a push to release park brake lever. Push on push off. Someone will probably put a small actuator on one. It would be nice to use an old hi low beam switch and moint it on the floor so you wouldn't have to take your hands off the controls. Heck it has 4 control levers on the floor now why not had a button to the mix

I actually like how some john deere Comercial moweres put the deck lift actuator controls on the end of the control levers

 

[Boris1]

This one controls with your foot for about $400, has worked good for me so far. Power chute I believe it's called.

 

[xring100]

That chute looks nice