A stand on mower like the Ferris Z2 is impressive in stability, balance, and maneuverability. In this Ferris Z2 review, I will offer a professional opinion and list all the features and specs this mower offers. One of the things I admire the most is a smooth, comfortable ride.
The most exciting thing to sum up the mower is the suspension technology added to the operator platform, which is also adjustable. It almost feels like you are riding on air. Since it takes the bumps away, it adds more control over the mower and delivers a better quality cut.
Ferris Industries started as Uebler Milking Machine Company in 1986. They merged the landscaping industry into the mix and started selling commercial mowers. Now we come to the newer models, and I am more than happy to review the information with you. The lineup in the stand on mowers with Ferris is the Z1, Z2, and the Z3. Size and power is the most significant difference between the three mowers. We will focus more on Ferris Z2.
Z2 vs. Z3
| Mower | Ferris Z2 | Ferris Z3X |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Size | 52″ or 61″ | 52″, 61″, or 72″ |
| Engine | Kawasaki FT730V, FX801V, or 28 hp Vanguard EFI w/ Oil Guard | Kawasaki FX850V or 37hp Vanguard with oil guard |
| Drive System | Hydro-Gear ZT-3800 Transaxles | Hydro-Gear ZT-4400 Transaxles |
| Speed | 10 mph | 12 mph |
| Tire Size | Front: 13 x 5-6 Flat-free Back: 23 x 10.5 – 12 | Front: 13 x 5-6 Flat-free 52″ Back: 24 x 9.5 – 12 61″ & 72″ Back: 24 x 12 – 12 |
| Spindle Type | Aluminum (52″) Cast-iron (61″) | Cast-iron |
| Fuel Capacity | 8 gallons | 11 gallons |
| Price | $10,399 – $12,499 | $12,099 – $14,949 |
The Z2 is the middle brand label which is the most convenient with many lawns and lawn services. The Ferris Z3 has more power and a bigger deck. Pivoting front ends are found on the Z3 but not Z2. It makes a significant difference in ride and quality of cut. The Z3 also has impact scalping bars to keep the deck from digging in the ground. With the width of the Z3, it handles better on the steeper slopes. Last, the gas tank is larger on the Z3. It has an 11-gallon tank versus the Z2, which has an 8-gallon tank.
Check out our full review of the Ferris Z3X
Power/Engine
These mowers come with the Vanguard 810cc EFI engines, Kawasaki FT730V or FX801V, which deliver plenty of power and great performance. The lineup comes in 24 HP, 26 HP, and 28HP. The 28 HP is the only one out of the three that has the Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), adding more power to the mix.
The Vanguard is also equipped with an oil guard system. This allows for 500 hours between oil changes, which is an amazing feature for commercial cutters.
Features
Listed here are the features that make these mowers special and unique. It's another reason why I give a big thumbs up.
Suspension Platform System: On the standing platform, there comes an adjustable suspension system for different weights and conditions. It adds to the comfort and productivity of each cut.
500-Hour Oil Change: This feature is only found on Vanguard Engines. It is called the Vanguard Oil Gaurd System. It cuts the cost of maintenance by 60 percent and saves on time.
Fuel Capacity: There is an 8-gallon tank that is strategically placed in the central location for convenience. The filler neck is also noticeable to add convenience as it is found on the side of the tank for easier filling.
Speed Control Setting: The mower has a three-position speed control lock and setting. The control is easy to access and use.
Standing Comfort: A thigh pad with the mower adds to the standing stability on hilly terrain.
Adjustable Cutting Height: Once the deck is locked, there is no turning back. The lever locks into the place where the pin is located. The option is 1.75″ to 5″ with 1/4″ increments.
Integrated Mowing Transmissions: Installed are the Hydro-Gear Commercial ZT-3800 transaxles which deliver high performance and are easily serviceable.
Five-Year Warranty: Limited Suspension warranty for five years. The full machine is 2-years unlimited hours or 4-year / 500 hours.
Cut Quality
This mower comes in a 52″ deck with greaseable aluminum spindles. The deck construction is made with the iCD™ Cutting System and produces the most productive cut in any condition. The pros to the deck are how well the after-cut of the yard comes out. The only cons I could find is that it is not like the Z3. The Ferris Z2 does not have the front pivoting bar, which adds stability to the deck while cutting. The deck does not float as well without the pivoting bar.
The 61″ model has cast-iron spindles. These are definitely an upgrade as they are a little more durable than aluminum.
Durability
The mower is built with high-quality parts, and with the iCD™ Cutting System, I would give it another thumbs up on performance and durability. I have not found any major weak points in the Ferris Z2.
Comfort
Yes, a huge YES! This is one of the luxuries of owning the Ferris Z2. With the added suspension on the standing platform, it feels like you are only hovering over the ground and floating on air. The handles and the controls are comfortable, reachable, and easy to use.
Aesthetics
If you are into looks, this is the perfect mower to have in your lawn equipment collection. It is also a monster-looking beast ready to tackle any sized yard. Everything is strategically placed with looks, convenience, and comfort in mind.
Build Quality
As mentioned earlier, the iCD™ Cutting System speaks for itself with its design and high-quality parts built for long-lasting cutting time.
Pros / Cons
Overall, throughout the mower, the pros are in this Ferris Z2 Review: the mower is everything the company says it is. It is reliable, durable, and comfortable. I love how it operates and handles, but the best thing is still the suspension stand-on platform.
As I mentioned earlier, the cons are dealing with the deck and the entire mower. I wish the whole series had the pivoting bar instead of just the Z3. Other than that, I find nothing wrong with the mower.
Our Rating
| Performance: |  (4.3 / 5) |
| Cut Quality: |  (4.0 / 5) |
| Durability: |  (4.5 / 5) |
| Comfort: | (4.3 / 5) |
| Price: | (4.0 / 5) |
| Overall: |  (4.2 / 5) |
Price
The MSRP starts at $10,399. Of course, mower prices have increased drastically over the past couple of years. However, I find it a fair price considering the durability, warranty, cutting style, and comfort.
Wrapping It Up
I hope you found the review enthusiastic because some mowers stick out in my mind more than others. The Ferris Z2 is one of them. I feel it is one of those machines that every lawn service should have in their arsenal of equipment.
What Do You Think?
What do you think of the Ferris Z2? Leave a comment below!
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Images are from Ferris.
