What’s the “one mower brand” that’s the most popular among lawn care professionals? Yes, you guessed it right! We are talking about Exmark.
Exmark is one of those mower brands that has remained the top dog for awhile. However, they’ve never really seemed to master the stand on mower. They’ve had 2 or 3 different versions in the past that were all terrible, to keep it mild.
However, the good news is last year they finally released a stand on mower that is worth talking about. It is the Exmark Vertex stand on.
These powerful mowers are divided into four categories: E, S, X, and the latest V series.
Now, the question is, “What’s the hype all about?” What do Exmark’s mowers have that other models do not? Even more so, how capable is their Vertex series?
In this article, I will answer all these questions in depth so you can decide whether the exmark Vertex is the best or if it’s just the best that Exmark has made!
Video Review:
Exmark: A Brief Overview
Let’s start with an overview of the company and its Vertex stand-on mowers. Exmark’s four lines of Vertex stand-on mowers suit different use cases and mowing needs.
For instance, the E Series includes compact mowers suitable for backyards and areas with limited access. On the other hand, the S series includes commercial stand-on mowers for quick and efficient mowing.
Their third series, the Vertex X, is their top of the line stand on. Offering state-of-the-art features for wider lawn and yard mowing. This is the mower in their stand on lineup that stands out the most to me!
Finally, their last and the latest V series includes electric models. I talk the least amount about these because I’m not a huge fan of electric since the prices are so insane.
Regardless of which series you opt for, you will find no compromise on Exmark’s signature efficiency and performance.
Let’s discuss each Vertex series in detail.
Vertex E-Series
First off, I'll talk about the Vertex E-Series. It includes slightly smaller or compact stand-on mowers, designed specifically for household use cases, such as gated backyards or areas with limited access.
Some of the best features of E-series mowers are:
- The 32 and 36 inch Ultra cut Series 3 cutting deck for precise and quick cutting.
- The efficient Kawasaki FS600V commercial engine that delivers exceptional and lasting performance in all conditions.
- Hydro Gear Pumps and Motors enable a top speed of 7.5 mph
- Easy Control for Height Adjustment that allows you to choose between 1 and 4.5 inches depending on your grass growth.
Overall, I don’t think their are many 32 or 36 inch stand ons on the market with a platform over wheelbase that are comfortable. The platforms just have to be so narrow that their a little awkward. This E series mower is similar to a Wright stander B. Personally, I’d prefer a Gravely Pro Stance or a Toro Grandstand with a foldable platform for a mower of this size.
On top of that, these mowers are priced around $10,000 so a little high for such a specialty mower. The Wright Stander B is priced much more competitively.
Vertex S-Series
The S Series is just a level up from the earlier E series. It includes medium-sized mowers that are ideal for both commercial and household mowing.
Key features of the Vertex S-Series mowers include:
- The 48, 52, and 60-inch Ultra cut Series 4 cutting decks for more precise and quicker cutting.
- Super powerful Carbureted Kawasaki or EFI Kohler engine for top-notch performance on almost all sorts of terrains and weather conditions.
- A Wide and Comfortable Sitting platform that allows you to adjust your stance and be in more control of the mower with its ergonomic control panel.
- Quality Hydro Drive System that delivers ground speeds of up to 8.5mph.
The S Series is by far the most popular Exmark Vertex stand-on mower series, offering both older and newly launched models in one place!
Vertex X-Series
Next on the list is the Vertex X-series. These mowers have a new standard in the stand on mower industry, with a wide range of outstanding features like:
- 52, 60, and 72-inch ultra-cut series six-cutting deck, which can mow up to 7 acres of land in an hour! It's not just about the speed; the mower also cuts amazingly!
- 14 gallons of fuel capacity that is more than enough to last, no matter how wide the yard is.
- 15-inch caster wheels, which allow you to handle rugged commercial work like a pro.
- Powerful Kawasaki FX 1000 engine, which enables you to complete job after job without getting tired.
- Welded tubular steel frame that gives you a sturdy, built-in exterior resistant to damage and hits.
Not to forget the drive wheels. They are 24 inches tall, giving you fantastic traction and a smooth ride. There is also a standard suspended operator platform between the rear wheels that offers you complete control when making turns.
So, long story short, the Vertex X Series is a bull! It is comparable to the new Gravely Pro Stance XL, Scag V Ride Ultra, and Ferris Z3X. These all feature 52, 60, and 72 inch decks on a stand on. The Vertex X series is definitely one that should be towards the top of the list when consider this grade of stand on mower.
Vertex V-Series
Last but the latest, Exmark’s V Series includes some cutting-edge, powerful electric mowers for advanced-level mowing. Some of its features include:
- A 52-inch electric Series 4 side discharge cutting deck that’s completely powered on batteries. These mowers have an eight-battery configuration that provides an 18.4 kilowatt-hour capacity. Mind-blowing!
- A HyperCell Power System that provides up to 7 hours of run time with a ground forward speed of 10 mph on each charge. This means a full day of mowing with no recharge. No, we are not kidding!
- A patent-pending software package that delivers exceptional maneuverability with intuitive controls.
- 9-inch Diameter Cast Aluminum Spindle Housings with blade retainers that ensure maximum commercial durability.
- An Efficient Adapt System that quickly adjusts to different turf conditions and types to offer consistent cutting.
- Horizon360 Connect remote software allows full connectivity to settings, location, and data via the app.
I will say, for an electric stand on mower, this does seem to be one of the better ones on the market. The run time and performance of the mower is top of the line. The only downside, as is with all commercial electric mower, is the high price. These has to change before batter mowers are accepted by the lawn care industry.
Key Features of Exmark Vertex Stand-On Mower
No matter what series of stand-on mowers you choose, you will find many features common in all of them.
One is that the heaviest components of these lawn mowers are placed lowest in the chassis. This gives them a better and improved center of gravity, and the rider is more in control and can maneuver flawlessly across the lawn and curves.
Here are some other key features of the Exmark Vertex Stand-on Mower series:
Cutting Width
These mowers have a wide range of stand-on mowers and cuts that range from 32 to 72 inches, so there is a size for everyone.
Their cutting deck is designed to allow just the proper airflow and precise cut, giving you a nicely manicured lawn that will stand out in the neighborhood.
Whether you have an even terrain with no obstacles or a curvy lawn with tight corners, you can easily drive around on a Vertex stand on mower and get a clean cut. The steering is also very responsive and user friendly.
Ergonomically Designed
The control panel is another thing I love about these mowers. It is very user-friendly and economically designed to give you an ergonomic grip and ease.
The panel is also located centrally, so you don’t have to flex an arm or a finger while driving and can easily reach it.
Hydro Drive System
The hydro drive system is fantastic and gives these mowers a high speed. You can finish long jobs and more expansive lawns rather quickly than many of their counterparts or other stands-on mowers.
Engine Options
You have the option of choosing a Kawasaki or Kohler engine model. Both are fuel efficient, so you can sit in the sun for as long as needed. Kawasaki is one of the most trusted engine brands on commercial lawn mowers so you can’t go wrong with them!
Simple Design
The Exmark Vertex mowers are very simple to operate, which is why most old-schoolers like me love to drive them. You just need a choke, throttle, and height adjustment, and you're ready to roll.
Wide Platform
Another thing I love about Vertex Mowers is the comprehensive platform. There is so much room that you can stand easily on it and adjust your balance as you go around. This is outside of the E series of course because of the small deck and frame.
This way, you feel more in control of the mower, especially when making sharp turns.
Cut Quality
Now, coming to the quality of cutting, remember that these mowers feature discharge cutting decks.
There are anti-scalp rollers, a flow control baffle, and a floating deck, so your deck stays clean as you make clean cuts around the yard.
Adaptable
The Vertex stand-on mowers are also very adaptable. Many attachments and accessories, like the stripping kit or bagging system, are readily available, which can increase their utility and adaptability in different settings.
Value for Money
The Exmark Vertex series is an investment. Each series includes reliable mowers designed for households and commercial users. They definitely aren’t the least expensive stand on mowers, but they are pretty competitively priced to other similar mower brands.
Now, Let’s Talk About a Few Cons of the Great Exmark Vertex Series
#1: Drive Lever Controls
The “Wright” style drive level controls have never been my favorite. My assumption is that Wright’s patent must have expired because this is one of the first mowers to adopt this style of lever control on a stand on. I’m not a huge fan of it, but I know there are a lot of people out there that love them!
#2: Deck height selector
The deck height selector is in a bit of a strange spot that feels a little awkward to get to. This is obviously a minor detail, but it’s difficult to see and change the cut height while standing on the platform. This will only really matter if you’re a lawn care professional that may be changing cut heights frequently throughout the day.
#3: Uncomfortable Padding.
Many people also complain about the uncomfortable padding of these mowers. The place where you stand should feel comfortable to the skin that constantly rubs against the padding as you drive the mower.
I personally think the padding is not soft enough and the platform isn’t the best in terms of suspension and comfort. This isn’t the most uncomfortable stand on available but it’s definitely not the most comfortable either. The X series is probably their most comfortable model.
Wrap Up
To summarize, I think the Exmark Vertex mowers, in 3 words, are reliable, precise, and powerful.
What do you think about these mowers?
Do share your thoughts, and if you have any questions, shoot them in the comments.
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