Turf maintenance equipment company Ransomes used the occasion of the IOG Saltex event to launch the Ransomes Parkway 3, an all-new commercial triplex mower.

Specifically designed for municipal and commercial contract applications, it features a 33.5hp Kubota diesel engine together with Magna cylinders to give it the power and performance to easily handle large grassed areas. The traction control system combines an automatic limited slip differential with on-demand four-wheel drive for hill climbing. An optional TST stability system is available for safe operation.

The mower also features a swing-out centre cutting unit, unique to Ransomes commercial triples, which provides easy access for adjustments, debris clearing, servicing and major maintenance. Also new from the company is the Ransomes Spider Mini, the latest addition to their range of radio controlled slope mowers, which also includes the Spider 1 and Spider 2.

Measuring 1040mm x 900mm (41in x 35in), with a 56cm (22in) width of cut and weighing in at 130kg (286lb), the Spider Mini can access smaller and more difficult areas on wooded slopes, riverbanks and other constricted areas. Power comes from a 6.5hp Briggs and Stratton petrol engine with hydrostatic transmission and it is capable of speeds up to 4km/h (2.5mph). The single rotary blade has a cutting width of 56 cm (22in) with a height of cut ranging from 40mm to 90mm (1.5in to 3.5in).

The remote control unit allows the operator to control the drive, steering, engine start and, if required, emergency shutdown. The height of cut and blade engagement is controlled manually on the machine. Further Ransomes Jacobsen mowing equipment showcased at IOG Saltex included the company's recently launched Jacobsen GP400, the Jacobsen LF550/570 and the Jacobsen Eclipse 322.

Image: The Spider Mini