exmark or bobcat?

[Matthew Petell]

I need to add another mower to my fleet and have to ask the question: exmark or bobcat. I realize the reputation of exmark but I don't want to spend the extra money if I don't have to. I also found that Exmark offers only Kohler air-cooled motors for 60" zturn models while Bobcat utilizes a Kawasaki motor, which I swear by. I have used Bobcats and they do get 2000 hrs. My only other concern is the cutting of the Bobcat as opposed to other makes. No one wants to have to spend the extra time re-mowing lawns when they clump up. Finally, Bobcats are significantly less money. Any input or advice would be appreciated. I limit myself to these two brands because of dealer location and service.

[Seascape]

I don't want to spend the extra money if I don't have to. .

You dont. I Run these mowers side by side everyday. I like them both. Exmark has a better ride but the cut is equal. If there is a differance its very slight.Ive found in heavy conditions the cats cut stronger but do clump slightly. However,, the exmarks leave a rough unfinished cut. Therefore you'll double cut w/ either under those conditions. Also ive found the cats are better in extreme situations like ditch lines. ,,,, enough to worry about it? No. They just hang a little better.My opinion,, the cats are built tougher. One look at both machines and you can tell the cats are built a little heavier.as far as hrs go,, you should be able to get more than 2000 out of both machines.

[PTLlandscapingIL]

id have to agree i swear by bobcat,honestly i think bbobcat and scag ARE the best mowers onthe market for cut,and conditions also i tend tokeep my blades extra sharp that helps alot i plain to sharpen my blades every few weeks. i dunno what size cat uir lookign at but i knwo u can get a classic gear drive for like 2800 bucks 36'.and 48' for liek 3100 bucks.

[bobbycat02]

bobcat mowers

i agree with the other guys bobcats take a licking and keep on ticking i have had toros with kohlers. i favor bobcat with kawasaki motors an important condiseration after all whats going to pull you a goat or a mule

[mariner]

Both units are quality units. The exmark will be under the price of the bobcat. I would take either one. When I used a bobcat it cut very well. I understand that the exmark's are great mulchers. Never used one but hear enough good about em that I would try one. Base your decision on service. Where can you get it fixed or buy parts the fastest! When your main mowers down life can get a little rough.