I found this review/comparison to be spot on. I'm impressed to see a manufacturer be so forthcoming about the strengths AND WEAKNESSES of their equipment in comparison to another style machine. There are several situations where my beloved compact tractors simply cannot compete. Steep slopes are at the top of the list. Nearly all turf related activities (mowing, grading with power rake, etc) are much easier and faster with the Ventrac. Having many hours on both 1025r/2038r Deere and the Ventrac 4500, I agree 100% with everything Aaron says in this episode. Not sure I've EVER seen such a complete and fair comparison. Especially from a manufacturer. Thanks very much, Ventrac!!!
Wow Tim, I wanted to say the same thing but you said it much better! I am astonished at how even handed this comparison is. Reviews like this can really help people select the equipment best suited for their own needs. It is almost as good as your Kubota vs John Deere series 😉
I always thought that the ventrac was just a heavy garden tractor but man was I wrong, even though I have my little JJ ( Johnny Jr) my X758, the ventrac is really a mix between the two.
Talk about being honest and fair. Usually the competitor just tears apart the other but this wow. I’ve been looking at a Ventrac and this just made my decision! Thanks Ventrac
If ventrac ever made a model a model bigger than the 4500, I’d love to see it. I love the engineering put into it, but it’s just a bit too small for me.
Coming from a business owner that started with a sub compact tractor then moved to a ventrac 100% agree. Still have our sub compact but it is very limited in its work now days. From a business standpoint the ventrac is much safer and profitable. I know you guys have seen some of my ventrac vids.
I have operated a ventrac for 15 years now. Started with a 4200 . We have two 4500z now. There's nothing like a ventrac. Every one is being used most every day still today. Below 0 in the winter and 90s in the summer. Great machine
Very interesting video since I own a 2025R. After watching TTWT and Stoney Ridge I recently requested Ventrac literature. I was thinking mowing and brush cutting. I mow with a JD X738 that is full time 4x4. My back yard can be a little scary. When I thought about all the front and rear equipment I have for the X738 I decided not to make any changes at this time. I didn't even consider mowing with the 2025R but I love the loader bucket, pallet forks, and Artillian front frame with 2x2 ball mount. Thanks for your honest review.
Good call on just using the 2025 for the other stuff..... An X series is definitely better than most options for challenging terrain. If you ever do join team Ventrac, we know you'll love it. Thanks for watching!
I ran a 4500 unit for a municipality, from brush cutter to snowplow or blower, sod cutter, or even the giant floating mower, sweeper and the leaf blower. Amazing machine. Price does hurt a bit, but damn I wouldn't trade this style machine for a similar powered compact ever. You wouldn't believe how it handles snow with those little wheels. And the hand control seems hokey at first, but when this guy says it's faster and more precise, he means it. Amazing machine!
The belt style PTO makes me concerned as my 20 year old Cub Cadet Series 2000 tractors are similar in that regard but with conventional steering for a fraction of the price brand new. I would rather invest in a Kubota F series as it's overall a better machine, designed and built by Kubota instead of by another company that only utilizes a Kubota engine. I hate dealing with belts on any mower, regardless of the form factor. That's a major reason I have a Honda HRC216k3HXC over say, a Toro time master. Also, Toro time master mowers are notorious for being a time master...for the amount of time they spend getting repaired.
@shawnmcfee2333 all attachments are belt drive. We use a 4500Y for winter work at a hospital. Snowblower, broom and saltspreader. 0 issues with blowing belts. They just work. We had a JD 3000 series tractor at that site for years and the operator shaved off a bunch of time using the 4500Y. It's been very reliable
Consider offering a Line-X option on mowing decks. I did my decks & it works well. Really need a Ventrac "build" and costing function on your web site. Cost comparisons can be tricky.... you need to add weights (usually a combination of tire fluid & and a ballast box) on a JD which are not cheap. I sold my JD & bought a Ventrac. I've have far too many run-aways on a hill with various tractors. Many JD I owned had extremely poor braking performance. The John Deere manual recommends, for example, backing up a hill. Mowing while backing requires holding the RIO perfectly. If you have any slippage on the RIO, the tractor stalls, and you're now riding a sled downhill. I owned a riding mower for 5 minutes once. I'd still like to see a grapple on the Ventrac FEL (Versa-Loader). Great video.
Excellent overview of the Ventrac and good, honest comparison between the two. I learned a lot I didn't know about the Ventrac. Quite a machine for specific purposes. Cheers!
Oh, by the way, the dual wheel set up on the slopes for mowing is amazing, it sticks like glue. And mowing with the duals on all 4 corners increases floatation and it still will not no matter what rip up grass
This was an awesome side-by-side comparison and review big applause bro you're so damn honest and straight up.. sometimes you want to say something stupid like this ventrac is ahead of its timebut that's not true it's just amazing there's nothing like it it looks great and it does the best job ever 500 lb bucket that's plenty for what you're working with and you can even see the little things in the video like it was perfect on the side by side with no spillage I can watch these videos all day this is such a kick-ass machine to see working and all the common people putting up videosthis is the best of the best everybody all hands down and some of the greatest people you will ever deal with some of the stories on what they have done for different charities and organizations they go away and beyondI can't say everybody's like that but ventrac is the Fa"Shizzle my Nizzle👍🏼👊🏼👍🏼👊🏼👊🏼💯💯🇺🇸😊
This was a spot on comparison. Just goes to show how well the Ventrac is built. With to 3 point it weighs in more than the John Deere. The main advantage to a compact tractor is easy to find cheap 3 point attachments. I will say the drive over deck design by Deere was pretty genius, But it still is not easy as removing the deck from the Ventrac. Also trying to prop up a belly mower after you have removed it yo clean it is a pain. The hydraulic flip up on the Ventrac is a breeze. There is nothing wrong with a compact, But once someone tried a Ventrac they would probably never go back to a conventional tractor. This was a great video.
Great video...For under $25K My 2012 1026R JD Scut Has a Backhoe, loader, 54" MMM (2.5 acres hilly lawn) and an artillian frame/Forks. The forks are used a ton. For my application it was affordable. The Ventrac is more Pro machine for a business.
I'm just a young guy but i was fork lift driver for a year what he is saying about the hand controls for operation is completely accurate I just realized why i was able to move things around so fast
I used to have a skid steer that was foot controlled. Boy was I slow. But in my other one that I had at the same time, it was sooo much smoother and quicker.
By the time you buy the ventrac, mower attachment, and loader attachment, dual wheels kit you can buy a subcompact tractor and a commercial zero turn and still come out ahead. The zero turn would run circles around the ventrac. The 24k ventrac price in the video doesn't include the mower attachment or the loader. It will be at least 30K plus for all of that. You can get the 1025r or 2025r or 3025r with the belly mower and loader for 18k to 25k easy. The only thing that the ventrac has going for it is the 30 degree slop abilities. I've got the JD 1025r, JD 2038r, two JD 950m's, and a old two wheel drive JD x495. The x495 out pushed the 4x4 ventrac in the snow like you wouldn't believe. I've run the Ventrac and the Steiner and I do like the Ventrac better and it is on the list. But just to be transparent the ventrac is twice as much as the mighty Deere by the time you buy all the attachments.
To your statement about snow pushing, I think there’s something to be said about weight and ground clearance. I ended up buying a Kubota L series tractor and a Scag cheetah and will never look back. I don’t own a golf course so I’m good on the ventrac.
@Ventrac I really enjoy seeing side-by-side comparisons. There is an older video comparing a home owner zero turn to a Ventrac. Since the Ventrac is a commercial grade piece of equipment, it would be nice to see it compared with a commercial zero turn.
Suggestion- put the comparison numbers spoken by Aaron on screen for easier comparison per model (in red and green?). Add timestamps, produce a printable/email-able PDF with screenshots of key comparison numbers or points for dealers to reference and distribute👍⭐️😀
ventrac is a really nice mower, works great for hills which it was made to do. A tractor mowing is not really its strong point. The loader alone sets it apart from the Ventrac. You can put a grapple on it. Plus the rear PTO attachments cost a third what the ventracs do. If you have a ton of mowing on hills then yes this is the mower but if its all flat. Zero turn all the way. It will run circles around the Ventrac.
Preach it, brother! Too many people out there who think you can just plant a tree and walk away. Trees require planning and maintenance like anything else.
Love the comparison, I think you did a great job and the Ventrac would be assume to own. But I will disagree that the weld deck is better than pressed steel, My many years of experience the press steel will out last the weld deck hands down. Still think this is one hell of a good machine.
They do sell a aftermarket turbo kit for the ventrac but it's like $2000. Although you are right with bigger tires and a nicer more modern looking Ventrac would be much better.
They are well over $40K with a mower. It is difficult to compare as something like an Iseki SF or Kubota mowing machine cost over $30K new. I'd love to have a Ventrac but have limited funds. The money a Ventrac costs will go well towards a 50HP tractor with 4 in 1 loader and a few attachments such as a slasher, auger and carryall.
!st, I do love the Ventrac. it is an extremely versatile Mower and fine yard machine. I know you compared to 2025, however, the most used machine is the 1025R w/same horsepower as 2025. and the base price is 10k under the ventrac. that leaves a lot for attachments and accessories. they both have their place. both are very useful. and I use both for their individual specialties. the two together can do almost anything. the main item that brought me to ventrac is a committed stump grinder cost more than the ventrac with the stump grinder attachment. so the added benefits were a bonus. but I use my Deere more around the Acerage because its wooded and I don't need or want fine fine grass
I am glad to see Ventrac is actually trying to market the 4500 as a real tractor (which it has always been) rather than a really cool commercial mower, which I feel you have been doing for too long. Yes, I am stuffing the piggy bank for a Ventrac after a lot of research, and renting one for a weekend. I was like Neo when he took the red pill. Nothing against JDs, but I know what I need. If you can convince a customer that a Ventrac can do many of the tasks of a SCUT, and often better, you've made the sale. The hardest thing is to break the mental paradigm of what a tractor looks like. My use cases and thoughts before watching: 25 acre totally overgrown tree farm (planted loblolly pine, but left to nature after that). A continuous wall of briars, spurge, and volunteer saplings of many species, and of course a healthy dose of poison ivy. - I need a lower seating position to drive under limbs and branches. Venny 1, JD 0. - Brush hogging backwards is just silly, so I need a front mount brush hog style mower. Venny 2, JD 0. - I need the occasional use of a FEL. Venny 3, JD 1. - I need a brush grapple. Venny 4, JD 2. - I need to grind stumps. Venny 5, JD 3. But who wants to watch an implement over their shoulder when they can watch a front mounted one? - I need to maneuver very, very, tight spots. Venny 6, JD 3 - I need to work in really muddy conditions. Venny 7, JD 3 (Sorry JD, I know you're 4WD, but slap duals on Venny and you're stuck behind). In fairness I did get Venny stuck, but got him loose with a ratchet strap. - I need a Cat 1 3PH with hydraulic outlets. Venny 8, JD 4. - I occasionally need a backhoe. Venny 8, JD 5. You've got the Versa Loader as a base. It wouldn't be that hard to mod it to carry a hoe instead of a bucket. - I need to plow and disk. Venny 9 JD 6. - I need to skid logs out of swampy areas no tractor will go. Either will pull well and the JD more because of the tires, but I'm wanting a 3PH mounted forestry winch. Venny 9, JD 7. Venny could get a point IF there were such a thing as a hydraulically powered winch and Venny had the flow rate to operate it. - I want a rear 540 RPM PTO (not sure why, as Venny has just about everything I would want in a front mount attachment). Venny 9, JD 8 - Snowblowers, cabs (though I think Venny only has a heat option, not an AC. JD might have both), blades, both get points. Venny 12, JD 11. - Diesel versus gas - since both tractors have hydrostatic transmissions, I don't think it matters. You can actually get more PTO HP on Venny by going gas. One presumes, correctly or incorrectly a diesel will last forever, though servicing diesel is more expensive. I'm giving the point to Venny because he has multiple engine choices, and I can live with gas to use the savings on another implement. Venny 13, JD 11. On with your video now. - Not even 8 minutes in, and you should have addressed the ground clearance thing when you had that tape measure out, and pointed out that you don't need a ton of clearance on an oscillating frame tractor. The fact is, Venny is more stable on uneven ground than the JD. 4WD doesn't help much if two are in the air. - You gave the point to JD for FEL work. I feel that you should have either addressed the Versa Loader here, or waited to talk about loaders entirely until later. - Sure they both have diesels. JD diesel only, but Ventrac also has 3 gas choices, all with more horsepower, and one of them air-cooled. A prospective Ventrac customer could buy more implements with the cost savings if he or she doesn't drink the diesel Kool-Aid. - Going to throw you a bone and congratulate you on pointing out that you do offer foot controls (for those rare persons who would want them in addition to the wonderful SDLA control. - OK, around 10:00 you start extolling the superiority of articulated steering on an oscillating frame tractor. - 12:00 in and you mention the loader. 500lbs, versus 750 lbs. I would rarely need more than 500lbs, and if one learns how to properly operate a loader the Ventrac's articulating steering isn't at all less safe. Also let's talk about how Venny's suitcase weights are tucked away and don't add an appreciable amount of length to the tractor as would a front or rear weight bar with suitcase weights. - 13:50, you sort of gloss over Venny's 3PH, and are almost apologetic for the lack of rear PTO. Show that 3PH off! Let's see a turning plow or disk harrow doing some ground work. Slap a Big Tool Rack (the new hotness in tool carriers for SCUTs) on it and load it up with all you need for a day in the field or woods. Put a Firmanator on that 3PH and show Venny preparing a food plot way back in the woods where JD just won't go. I understand those big low pressure tires will fold if you try to pull too much of a load, but a 12" moldboard plow, or disk harrow isn't too much. - 14:00 You showed it, but you didn't actually say it (at least not loud enough). Quick Tach? Everything on Venny is "Quick Tach" coming out of the gate. - 15:00, You talk about drive over, auto connect decks. Without openly criticizing what sounds like a cool idea you should encourage customers who bring this up to do their research on some long term reviews of this system. Also, point out a bit more strongly that Venny's front mount deck is a no effort connection. - 16:30, We're back to showing that Venny is a cool commercial mower. For years you've made it clear Ventrac is the best slope mower you can find. At least point out that for a commercial mowing operator, the 90 degree flip up deck option reduces overall length on his or her trailer. - 18:00 Thank you dear 8lb, 6oz, newborn baby Jesus! We're finally talking about the Versa loader, and Power Bucket. This is the 3rd time you've mentioned loaders, and by now people may have already made a decision. I feel like it would have been better to do all your talking about loaders in one segment. You show the grapple, but don't talk much about it. Slap something like a Piranha tooth bar on the Power Bucket, with a grapple, and you have a root rake grapple. Also point out that the power bucket will work just fine on the 3PH if you have rear hydraulics installed. - 21:00 Attachment angst. Most all of your dealers rent not only the tractor, but also the implements. I can rent a Versa Loader when I need, and not own, store, or maintain it when I don't. - 25:00 We're talking about slope mowing. That seems like the one thing people know about Ventracs if they have heard of them. It is important to understand. No mention of a front mounted deck and how perfect they are for fence lines. - Wrapping up with price. It's pretty easy to spend a wad on either a SCUT or Ventrac. Focus on what the customer needs day-to-day, versus occasionally. You kind of focus on the commercial operators and "high end" property owners. Go after the 5 + acre homeowner/homesteader as your dealers offer great commercial financing and it takes 2 hours to form an LLC for one's homestead operation. If you don't the SCUT dealer certainly will.
A LOT of very excellent points! The "mental paradigm" of what people consider to be a tractor (color included) is a huge hurdle. There are a lot of people out there who don't have an open mind about what machine would actually be best for them. We only wish everyone would be as informed as you are :) Thanks for the suggestions! We'll use them for future inspiration.
i have had similar kubota compact tractor and have the opportunity to have ventrac come out and demo around 4 man made lakes on a 215 acre camp the list of options on the ventrac and its ability on slopes blows any compact to the sidlines the ventrac in snow in my opinion is far better we were using the 4500 but i have used the smaller model
It's so cool to see this thing in action Man lots of fun to watch you really can't compare anything to it to be honest and when you know you have the best of the best that's game over man you're one of the coolest dudes ever bro you know how to talk the talk with that walk bro 👊🏼👊🏼💯💯👊🏿👍🏼
I’m really surprised you didn’t do a side by side cut quality test. I guarantee that Deere isn’t in the same league as the Ventrac. And Pete from GCI Turf Services has showed us all how those things can lay a stripe.
It is a good review and comparison. To be more comprehensive, you should compare Ventrac against a compact articulated loader like the Avant. The big difference I see is the Avant is not oscillating and can (generally) lift more. It is the lift capacity and height that make the difference for me as the owner of a 36 acre homestead with hills/slopes and at least as much wooded area as open pasture. I’m trading in my Kioti tractor for an Avant 528.
Food for thought, Aaron. In your presentation, you mention other tractors( than Ventrac) to be "normal". Some COULD read that as "does that mean Ventrac is the opposite of normal"? Maybe, in the future, a term like "standard" could be used to describe another brand? Just a thought😉😉😉
Ventrac can only have 1 attachment on at a time. Tractor can have loader, mower AND a backhoe attached all at once. I have 6 Kubota dealers within 45 minutes of me. Only 2 Ventrac dealers in NJ both over an hour away. For golf courses or college campuses, the Ventrac would be ideal. Agriculture/chore purposes: tractor
Not true, you can run a PTO attachment on front and non PTO on rear, together. Most common is the power rake on front and the power bucket on rear. Works just fine.
@@arlisspropertyservicesllc5943 I have a Bobcat S-595 and a Kioti CK4010 tractor There are times where I bring the tractor to a job because I need 2 PTO attachments like a bucket and a backhoe. These Ventracs are nice machines, but I don't know any landscaper who owns one. I see them on like baseball fields, college campuses and golf courses mostly doing mowing and leaves.
When Ventrac makes a 50HP Diesel or Propane model with a cab and A/C I will buy one. A 75HP model would be nice too. Small, Medium, Large sizes would help you fill more needs for your customers.
The only thing wrong with the ventrac is the price .i just had a demo done at my place and it is everything a person would want or need very versatile but with just two mower decks we are talking 40k
I own a 2025. Both the PTO HP and hydraulic flow rate really limit attachment options. The mid-mount deck is expensive. The loader is useful but the small bucket leaves a lot to be desired. In summary: go with a Ventrac or a bigger tractor.
Should clarify that my rec is aimed at those looking to buy new or slightly used. If a deal can be had on the base machine, that's a whole other can of worms.
Mid mount mower deck on a subcompact tractor is literally the worst thing I've ever used. It was so bad I ended up selling the entire tractor. If you want a mower get a mower....
you're leaving out a giant discrepancy, which is a lack of dealers in some areas. here in central massachusetts for example, where I can drive to several john deere dealers within 30-45 min, there is but a single ventrac dealer way out in the western part of the state. Never mind having a dealer locally to service the machine when needed, it would seem a struggle to find a place to buy one in the first place.
That's a fair point, David. We're on a constant mission to increase access to Ventrac for our current and potential customers. Hopefully in the future you'll find that we have better coverage for you.
Oddly enough, I own both (somewhat). I have a JD 1026r and a Steiner 440. The Steiner is my mower, I've got 20-25 degree banks on my drainage swale, which was the reason for purchase. Also while mowing with the JD and a loader, it would push the grass down with the front tires, which would pop back up after mowing making the grass look terrible (it is a controlled old hayfield that is my "lawn"), Also, I'd spend hours trimming because the mower was under the tractor. WIth the Steiner, there are not wheels ahead of mowing, and I can reach under trees minimizing the amount of trimming I need to do. I use the JD for the loader, and snowblowing. The JD also beats the Steiner on EASE of maintenance. That comes from selling more units, and more customer feedback. I never change any belts on the JD,, but the Steiner is all belts to transfer power. It is a 30-minute job to replace the front belt on the Steiner. I love both, and am lucky to be able to afford both!
The flex frame allows the Ventrac to get away with much less ground clearance and be just as effective as a tractor with higher ground clearance at driving over uneven terrain. The bonus is the lower center of gravity. It's a win-win.
@Hugs Actually, most cars don't have very much ground clearance either and will typically run anywhere from about 4 to 7 inches on cars to about 7 to 11 on SUVs. For example, a Subaru Outback is just under 9" while a Honda Accord is about 5.5" and a Jeep Grand Cherokee is just under 11". Half and three quarter ton pickups only run about 8 or 9 inches of ground clearance. However, since the Ventrac has a much shorter and narrower wheelbase, it easily gets away with the lower ground clearance and is well able to conquer terrain that would high center a vehicle. In fact, a Ventrac has a wheelbase very similar to that of a quad. A Honda Rancher 4-wheeler has just over 7" of ground clearance (depending on which model). Another thing to consider with the JD mid mount mower is that you would have a maximum (yes, absolute max) height of 5.5" (See this forum post- www.greentractortalk.com/threads/new-to-forum-new-2025r-mmm-cutting-height.15388/ With the longer wheelbase on the JD, you are more likely to catch the deck on things than with the Ventrac. That means that you would have to take the mower off every time you wanted to do something else. Usable ground clearance is directly tied to the vehicle's wheelbase measurements.
This is true.... the compact tractor axle does have a minimal amount of range of flex built into the front axle. It's far too little and in the wrong part of the machine to make enough difference on rough terrain. It certainly helps, but it's nowhere near as effective as oscillation that is built into the center of the frame. Also consider - with the construction of a compact tractor front end, the movement of the front axle is working directly against some combination of components pushing back on it - even in the very initial part of its travel. This creates a situation that will allow the axle to move but still amplify the leverage back on the rest of the tractor. The Ventrac uses an unhindered pivot... no spring tension, no dampers, no mechanical components resisting compression or oscillation. So the Ventrac can encounter an uneven spot of terrain and ride up and over the spot without dramatically increasing the tendency for the rest of the machine to want to tip. To make all of this worse for the compact tractor, there is nothing on the rear, so if you encounter something in reverse or with the rear of the machine only the effect that feels like tires lifting off the ground will be even greater.
Ventrac I wouldn’t doubt what your saying. I will be very happy to own either one. Hopefully sooner than later. I would like to have a small side business doing small tractor work just not sure if I would have a lot of people wanting that kind of service.
@@rickykraus7450 Definitely find one to demo whenever you get a chance. We think you'll love it! We've got quite a few operators out there using Ventrac to provide various high value services to customers in their area.
Hi ventrac. Can't you do a video comparing john deer 1585 front mover to your own ventrac. Tank volume etc. For example, you can drive 16 hours on a JD 1585 But a ventrac can only run 5.5 hours on
Hello! Maybe we can do this in the future. The Terrain Cut series are very good mowers. They're not quite as good on hills as a Ventrac, but they are much better than compact tractors or zero turns. They have some versatility, but not nearly the amount of attachments that we offer. Also, attachment changes are more difficult on the Terrain Cut. Those machines often struggle with traction if you're trying to use a ground engaging attachments, even if they're 4 wheel drive (some are only 2wd). You can get cabs, so that's good. They're pretty maneuverable also which is nice. Overall - good machines, just less suited to a large variety of work than a Ventrac or compact tractor. Their ideal window of operation is mowing and snow removal in the winter.
Right machine, for the right job. Ventrac is a great lawnmower and more. Not good as a loader, not a lot of ground clearance for in the bush, or running through snow trails. For doing snow removal I’d go traditional tractor.
Nice. I'm wondering if Ventrac engineers have a design on the board with the power unit behind the operator and the operator in a cab up front with all controls. That would bring the operator and the attachment very close to each other and optimize visibility, as well as creating a sealed cab.
I am so sold on the ventrac and the possibilities that I will come out of retirement if I can figure out how I can do it; if I can find an area where I can put it to work mostly year round but not have to put in more than 30 hours a week in the seat in 10 hours in the shop. The next will find out what the market is where I want to be as to what attachments I want or need Etc. So here is my question and that is they talked about having ear protection and I was wondering why you haven't looked into a way to make it quieter? Better Muffler? Or is it a matter that everything on it and every attachment makes enough noise that it wouldn't make any difference how the exhaust sounds. And you can certainly buy generators that are loud and there are generators that are quiet(er). Even cars with a big V8 don't make as much noise... but if you want high performance, yeah they do make a lot of noise. And that may be that you're trying to get the most performance. And just for the guys in the shop, have you made or already have made an all electric ventrac?🤔😎
Yes- there's enough noise coming from various sources that ear protection is just a necessary point. And nothing fully electric on the immediate horizon, but that's where equipment in general is headed eventually so who knows!
I didn’t make a mistake buying the 1025r because I had to dig trenches with a wider backhoe. I did make a mistake buying the belly mower because it won’t work on my hilly property. I have a smaller tractor to cut the lawn, but it’s a little dangerous on some hills and can not cut on others. This video showed that the Ventrac can do it and probably more. I was very impressed with the articulate wheels and how they don’t tear up the ground when you turn. This proves to me why the Ventrac is more expensive. I will be purchasing a Ventrac this Spring.
If you mow hillsides all day everyday i see why the Ven trac was made. But for a farmer like me i would definitely prefer the small utility tractor. One thing is right on the ven trac though the color!! if it aint red leaver in the shed
My 2025R with loader and backhoe cost me 28K. The Ventrac costs upwards of 33K with just the bucket and extra tires. I see no advantages to this machine over my 2025R.
The John Deere mid mount mower is stamped from 7 gauge steel, all rounded corners not welded together like most mower decks. The Deere mower is much stronger. Deere is the only manufacture that can stamp 7 gauge steel from one piece of steel, because they have a 500 ton pres. The benefit I see with the Ventrac is mowing steep hills with its low center of gravity. Most would compare the Ventrac to the John Deere 1025R, with loader, mower, PTO, 3 point hitch etc. it very versatile machine for a lot less money. Just depends on what you want in a machine.
I have 3 acres needing weekly mowing. It has puncture weed in it so I’m assuming I need to pick it up. Keeping time in mind what do I need. I would also like to do fire or forest management on natural train can they do both?
It’s actually easier more comfortable and more accurate to use foot pedals plus it gives you more control due to the fact that you can keep both hands on the steering wheel with out having to remove one to slow down or speed up
We've found exactly the opposite when interviewing operators. We all use our hands daily for intricate tasks at a variety of speeds. People have better reactions and control out of their hands than their feet. Foot controls are what most people are used to, but hand controls are higher performance.
I know how advertising works companies pay other people to say that their product is good not saying that your mowers suck it’s just my personal opinion that foot pedals are better.
Eric, I read somewhere that a VENTRAC has a 5 in ground clearance. I was wondering if this ever creates issues with getting hung-up on stumps, rocks, etc. or more importantly is there any hydraulic or electrical lines, filters, etc. that could get ripped off if you should. Also since it weighs approx. 1 ton, do you sell a winch that fits into the rear hitch receiver?
No winch available as of now but could be easily added aftermarket. The ground clearance is usually no issue because of the oscillating frame. Driving over obstacles just causes the chassis to move and ground clearance remains similar as the tractor crawls over whatever the obstruction is. The only time it really becomes an issue is if you try to drive straight through very deep, very unstable mud and all 4 wheels spin deep enough that the whole machine gets buried. In those cases, not much is going to help you anyway though. We have everything underneath shielded very well with smooth skid plates and guards with nothing hanging below to get ripped off. Overall, not much of an issue. Thanks for the question!
I'm not a fan of having a high dollar piece of equipment and being forced to use only one product with zero substitutions. What happens when the equipment you use is discontinued, are they going to make a adapter so you can use other options from other manufacturers or other models?Or are you stuck searching the web trying to find piece and parts on the web hoping to find. Please respond! Thank you!!!
I realize this is an older post, however, I’ve asked what benefits would one have of getting a Ventrac over a zero turn? I’m wondering what comparison the Ventrac has over a zero turn for the general commercial mowing service. I’m currently a Ventrac owner with 2 tractors, and won’t switch to a zero turn.
...better traction in all conditions, less turf disturbance when it's wet, better on hills, way more comfortable to operate, better cut quality due to the deck being out-front, easier access to blades for maintenance, etc... Before you even begin to factor in versatility, there are so many benefits of a Ventrac over a zero turn that it's hard to even know where to begin. A zero turn really only has two positives: price, and maneuverability on tighter properties.
Hey Andrew - thanks for the mention. We run softer tires than most in order to help with traction and ground pressure so there can be a risk of flats in harsher environments... Check out this tire sealant that we offer: www.ventrac.com/products/accessories/15.0042-05 It does an incredible job of sealing punctures on the fly to avoid having to fix flats. We still get the performance of our tires and also the durability with this sealant. ...best of both worlds!
I’d llike to know the pricing on your tractors . Does it have 3 way hitch on back , small backhoe attachment. And other att. A d pricing . If you had a catalog it would be great with pricing . Finish mower and heavy brush removal . Can you ship to Alaska ,I’m looking for a great deal .
Well I get what you are saying theVentrac has a lot of possibilities in what it can do, but they are pretty pricy and with the John Deere dose does not have as good of a turning fade as and has less accessories but you get a VERY reliable tractor for a littel cheaper and I bet a lot of people have heard of Ventrac
I strongly disagree with that people like controlling the machine with your hands your hand gets tired and I wouldn’t like that because I feel that it would feel a bit uncomfortable and since the brake pedal is located in the left side of the John Deere both of your feet are on either said which I would think a good response time to brake reverse and drive forward.
It's hard to imagine using your hands if you're used to using feet. All we know is what our customers and our employees say and they all LOVE hand controls. If all you're doing is driving around with a mower deck it's not a huge deal, but as soon as you start using auxiliary functions - having them all in the same place as the forward/reverse control makes operation super fast and intuitive.
Ventrac well I have to add one thing if hand controls are better than foot controls/ foot pedals then why do cars use foot controls I was looking into buying a 3000 series tractor but I saw that they were used with your hand controls so I didn’t get it. You said you can put that pedal in but I wouldn’t like just the one pedal and that when you press the back and it goes in reverse and press the front and it goes forward.
@@joshuaidler2229 You are right about that I guess I am just used to running all of my John Deere equipment like my 4430, 4230 and my 4020, and can’t imagine operating it with my hands. But everyone I guess has their own preferences.
Only reason I would take a compact over ventrac is the height of the front loader, back hoe attachment, and auger attachment. Dose ventrac have those last two that I don't know about?
We do not currently offer an auger attachment or a backhoe. You are correct. If you need those things, Ventrac isn't really a viable option. Augers are awesome. But we are huge advocates against backhoes on compact tractors. They are one of those really popular attachments that most people hardly use. The economics don't pencil out for most people. They'd be better off allocating that money towards rental of a proper mini-excavator as many times as they need it over the next decade and most people would be money ahead. Not to mention, the productivity and capability of a mini-ex is off the charts better than a compact tractor back-hoe. Of course, there's a handful of people out there who do make good use of their backhoe and the money makes sense for - but across the industry there are a ton of backhoes sitting - under utilized.
Let’s face it tractors spend 99% of their time sitting in the garage being looked at. looks are almost as important as function as long as they can equally be compared. The Ventrac track looks like it was blue printed and came out of the back of popular mechanics kit advertisements from the 80s.
I would love to have a Ventrac. It looks like you are comparing the Ventrac to a COMPACT tractor (the 2025) and not a SUBcompact tractor (the 1025). The Power Bucket will hit/scrape the ground when going over hilly ground (Know this from experience). The front end loader or power bucket is almost a necessity. A tractor that can’t carry anything is a waste.
The reason the hood on the John Deere is plastic is it was made like that for loaders. So if the loaders are using a the bucket moving materials up above the hood if some heavy material falls on the hood it is less likely to do a big dent to a plastic hood than a full metal hood. Both machines have there advantages and disadvantages. And all machines have problems in some type. And here in the video there is two companies and two total different machines.
Also there is a big advantage to the John Deere mower (bush hog) or rotary cutter also in the uk mostly and a ever once in a while you will come across a 30hp-400hp tractor(give or take the horses power) that will have a front pto and 3 point hitch with hydraulics on the front and the rear of the tractors.
If the ventrac is not intended to be used with cultivation tools why did you recently come out with cultivation tools plus you have the power rake and that’s a cultivation tool
The Ventrac's versatility provides a quick and efficient solution for lawn installations and other cultivation type jobs. Because of the Ventrac maneuverability, flex frame, and light foot print, it becomes a great tool for any cultivating or debris removal jobs!
Couldn't help but to notice that all your machines had dual wheels on them when mowing so shouldn't you of measure it when they are on ?? It is a nice machine tho .
Duals are not a requirement for mowing unless you're on steep terrain. It's worth considering the width in both considerations though. With dual wheels, you can only use a 72" deck or larger. Single wheels will allow you to use the 60" deck without tire overlap. Good question.
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I found this review/comparison to be spot on. I'm impressed to see a manufacturer be so forthcoming about the strengths AND WEAKNESSES of their equipment in comparison to another style machine.
There are several situations where my beloved compact tractors simply cannot compete. Steep slopes are at the top of the list. Nearly all turf related activities (mowing, grading with power rake, etc) are much easier and faster with the Ventrac.
Having many hours on both 1025r/2038r Deere and the Ventrac 4500, I agree 100% with everything Aaron says in this episode.
Not sure I've EVER seen such a complete and fair comparison. Especially from a manufacturer.
Thanks very much, Ventrac!!!
Wow Tim, I wanted to say the same thing but you said it much better! I am astonished at how even handed this comparison is. Reviews like this can really help people select the equipment best suited for their own needs. It is almost as good as your Kubota vs John Deere series 😉
I always thought that the ventrac was just a heavy garden tractor but man was I wrong, even though I have my little JJ ( Johnny Jr) my X758, the ventrac is really a mix between the two.
Talk about being honest and fair. Usually the competitor just tears apart the other but this wow. I’ve been looking at a Ventrac and this just made my decision! Thanks Ventrac
Agreed. I was pleasantly surprised.
Tractor Time with Tim agreed this was very refreshing
If ventrac ever made a model a model bigger than the 4500, I’d love to see it. I love the engineering put into it, but it’s just a bit too small for me.
Coming from a business owner that started with a sub compact tractor then moved to a ventrac 100% agree. Still have our sub compact but it is very limited in its work now days. From a business standpoint the ventrac is much safer and profitable. I know you guys have seen some of my ventrac vids.
We sure have! Thanks for the kind words GC.
I have operated a ventrac for 15 years now. Started with a 4200 . We have two 4500z now. There's nothing like a ventrac. Every one is being used most every day still today. Below 0 in the winter and 90s in the summer. Great machine
Very interesting video since I own a 2025R. After watching TTWT and Stoney Ridge I recently requested Ventrac literature. I was thinking mowing and brush cutting. I mow with a JD X738 that is full time 4x4. My back yard can be a little scary. When I thought about all the front and rear equipment I have for the X738 I decided not to make any changes at this time. I didn't even consider mowing with the 2025R but I love the loader bucket, pallet forks, and Artillian front frame with 2x2 ball mount.
Thanks for your honest review.
Good call on just using the 2025 for the other stuff..... An X series is definitely better than most options for challenging terrain. If you ever do join team Ventrac, we know you'll love it. Thanks for watching!
I ran a 4500 unit for a municipality, from brush cutter to snowplow or blower, sod cutter, or even the giant floating mower, sweeper and the leaf blower. Amazing machine. Price does hurt a bit, but damn I wouldn't trade this style machine for a similar powered compact ever. You wouldn't believe how it handles snow with those little wheels. And the hand control seems hokey at first, but when this guy says it's faster and more precise, he means it. Amazing machine!
Disadvantage to the ventrac is that they are very pricey compared to a sub compact.
And ugly
Ya you get a lot more for a 30 grand tractor than a 30 grand mower
The belt style PTO makes me concerned as my 20 year old Cub Cadet Series 2000 tractors are similar in that regard but with conventional steering for a fraction of the price brand new. I would rather invest in a Kubota F series as it's overall a better machine, designed and built by Kubota instead of by another company that only utilizes a Kubota engine. I hate dealing with belts on any mower, regardless of the form factor. That's a major reason I have a Honda HRC216k3HXC over say, a Toro time master. Also, Toro time master mowers are notorious for being a time master...for the amount of time they spend getting repaired.
@@WJCTechyman is the snow blower ran by a belt if so I do not want one I thought about buying one with a cab n with heat n a snow blower
@shawnmcfee2333 all attachments are belt drive. We use a 4500Y for winter work at a hospital. Snowblower, broom and saltspreader. 0 issues with blowing belts. They just work. We had a JD 3000 series tractor at that site for years and the operator shaved off a bunch of time using the 4500Y. It's been very reliable
Consider offering a Line-X option on mowing decks. I did my decks & it works well.
Really need a Ventrac "build" and costing function on your web site. Cost comparisons can be tricky.... you need to add weights (usually a combination of tire fluid & and a ballast box) on a JD which are not cheap.
I sold my JD & bought a Ventrac. I've have far too many run-aways on a hill with various tractors. Many JD I owned had extremely poor braking performance.
The John Deere manual recommends, for example, backing up a hill. Mowing while backing requires holding the RIO perfectly. If you have any slippage on the RIO, the tractor stalls, and you're now riding a sled downhill. I owned a riding mower for 5 minutes once.
I'd still like to see a grapple on the Ventrac FEL (Versa-Loader).
Great video.
Excellent overview of the Ventrac and good, honest comparison between the two. I learned a lot I didn't know about the Ventrac. Quite a machine for specific purposes. Cheers!
Oh, by the way, the dual wheel set up on the slopes for mowing is amazing, it sticks like glue. And mowing with the duals on all 4 corners increases floatation and it still will not no matter what rip up grass
This was an awesome side-by-side comparison and review big applause bro you're so damn honest and straight up.. sometimes you want to say something stupid like this ventrac is ahead of its timebut that's not true it's just amazing there's nothing like it it looks great and it does the best job ever 500 lb bucket that's plenty for what you're working with and you can even see the little things in the video like it was perfect on the side by side with no spillage I can watch these videos all day this is such a kick-ass machine to see working and all the common people putting up videosthis is the best of the best everybody all hands down and some of the greatest people you will ever deal with some of the stories on what they have done for different charities and organizations they go away and beyondI can't say everybody's like that but ventrac is the Fa"Shizzle my Nizzle👍🏼👊🏼👍🏼👊🏼👊🏼💯💯🇺🇸😊
This was a spot on comparison. Just goes to show how well the Ventrac is built. With to 3 point it weighs in more than the John Deere. The main advantage to a compact tractor is easy to find cheap 3 point attachments. I will say the drive over deck design by Deere was pretty genius, But it still is not easy as removing the deck from the Ventrac. Also trying to prop up a belly mower after you have removed it yo clean it is a pain. The hydraulic flip up on the Ventrac is a breeze. There is nothing wrong with a compact, But once someone tried a Ventrac they would probably never go back to a conventional tractor. This was a great video.
I learned more than i needed for a city boy, Ventrac ultimate landscaping tool. John deer, farm tool.
I love how the John Deere is 95 inches long. About as long as the wide area mower.
Great video...For under $25K My 2012 1026R JD Scut Has a Backhoe, loader, 54" MMM (2.5 acres hilly lawn) and an artillian frame/Forks. The forks are used a ton. For my application it was affordable. The Ventrac is more Pro machine for a business.
I'm just a young guy but i was fork lift driver for a year what he is saying about the hand controls for operation is completely accurate I just realized why i was able to move things around so fast
I used to have a skid steer that was foot controlled. Boy was I slow. But in my other one that I had at the same time, it was sooo much smoother and quicker.
Never thought it would see the light of day!
Boom!
By the time you buy the ventrac, mower attachment, and loader attachment, dual wheels kit you can buy a subcompact tractor and a commercial zero turn and still come out ahead. The zero turn would run circles around the ventrac. The 24k ventrac price in the video doesn't include the mower attachment or the loader. It will be at least 30K plus for all of that. You can get the 1025r or 2025r or 3025r with the belly mower and loader for 18k to 25k easy. The only thing that the ventrac has going for it is the 30 degree slop abilities. I've got the JD 1025r, JD 2038r, two JD 950m's, and a old two wheel drive JD x495. The x495 out pushed the 4x4 ventrac in the snow like you wouldn't believe. I've run the Ventrac and the Steiner and I do like the Ventrac better and it is on the list. But just to be transparent the ventrac is twice as much as the mighty Deere by the time you buy all the attachments.
To your statement about snow pushing, I think there’s something to be said about weight and ground clearance. I ended up buying a Kubota L series tractor and a Scag cheetah and will never look back. I don’t own a golf course so I’m good on the ventrac.
@Ventrac I really enjoy seeing side-by-side comparisons. There is an older video comparing a home owner zero turn to a Ventrac. Since the Ventrac is a commercial grade piece of equipment, it would be nice to see it compared with a commercial zero turn.
Suggestion- put the comparison numbers spoken by Aaron on screen for easier comparison per model (in red and green?). Add timestamps, produce a printable/email-able PDF with screenshots of key comparison numbers or points for dealers to reference and distribute👍⭐️😀
ventrac is a really nice mower, works great for hills which it was made to do. A tractor mowing is not really its strong point. The loader alone sets it apart from the Ventrac. You can put a grapple on it. Plus the rear PTO attachments cost a third what the ventracs do. If you have a ton of mowing on hills then yes this is the mower but if its all flat. Zero turn all the way. It will run circles around the Ventrac.
I am lawn care business and my rule of thumb is any branch that you can't walk under needs ta be cut
Preach it, brother! Too many people out there who think you can just plant a tree and walk away. Trees require planning and maintenance like anything else.
Love the comparison, I think you did a great job and the Ventrac would be assume to own. But I will disagree that the weld deck is better than pressed steel, My many years of experience the press steel will out last the weld deck hands down. Still think this is one hell of a good machine.
If Ventrac made a 5500, a little bigger with a 35-40 HP turbo diesel, I'd be sold.
100% agree. We have 2 4500's and would love a more powerful option
They do sell a aftermarket turbo kit for the ventrac but it's like $2000.
Although you are right with bigger tires and a nicer more modern looking Ventrac would be much better.
a three point is not about buying cheap stuff , it is about versatility .
As always great info and comparisons. In addition to the many items cited. Because of a disability I particularly love the low step-up to the seat.
I'm in Australia .. the price difference is insane. Ventrac's in Australia are stupidly over priced.
They are well over $40K with a mower. It is difficult to compare as something like an Iseki SF or Kubota mowing machine cost over $30K new. I'd love to have a Ventrac but have limited funds. The money a Ventrac costs will go well towards a 50HP tractor with 4 in 1 loader and a few attachments such as a slasher, auger and carryall.
!st, I do love the Ventrac. it is an extremely versatile Mower and fine yard machine. I know you compared to 2025, however, the most used machine is the 1025R w/same horsepower as 2025. and the base price is 10k under the ventrac. that leaves a lot for attachments and accessories. they both have their place. both are very useful. and I use both for their individual specialties. the two together can do almost anything. the main item that brought me to ventrac is a committed stump grinder cost more than the ventrac with the stump grinder attachment. so the added benefits were a bonus. but I use my Deere more around the Acerage because its wooded and I don't need or want fine fine grass
Great video Ventrac, that was very awesome comparison! Ventrac all the way!
I am glad to see Ventrac is actually trying to market the 4500 as a real tractor (which it has always been) rather than a really cool commercial mower, which I feel you have been doing for too long.
Yes, I am stuffing the piggy bank for a Ventrac after a lot of research, and renting one for a weekend. I was like Neo when he took the red pill. Nothing against JDs, but I know what I need. If you can convince a customer that a Ventrac can do many of the tasks of a SCUT, and often better, you've made the sale. The hardest thing is to break the mental paradigm of what a tractor looks like.
My use cases and thoughts before watching:
25 acre totally overgrown tree farm (planted loblolly pine, but left to nature after that). A continuous wall of briars, spurge, and volunteer saplings of many species, and of course a healthy dose of poison ivy.
- I need a lower seating position to drive under limbs and branches. Venny 1, JD 0.
- Brush hogging backwards is just silly, so I need a front mount brush hog style mower. Venny 2, JD 0.
- I need the occasional use of a FEL. Venny 3, JD 1.
- I need a brush grapple. Venny 4, JD 2.
- I need to grind stumps. Venny 5, JD 3. But who wants to watch an implement over their shoulder when they can watch a front mounted one?
- I need to maneuver very, very, tight spots. Venny 6, JD 3
- I need to work in really muddy conditions. Venny 7, JD 3 (Sorry JD, I know you're 4WD, but slap duals on Venny and you're stuck behind). In fairness I did get Venny stuck, but got him loose with a ratchet strap.
- I need a Cat 1 3PH with hydraulic outlets. Venny 8, JD 4.
- I occasionally need a backhoe. Venny 8, JD 5. You've got the Versa Loader as a base. It wouldn't be that hard to mod it to carry a hoe instead of a bucket.
- I need to plow and disk. Venny 9 JD 6.
- I need to skid logs out of swampy areas no tractor will go. Either will pull well and the JD more because of the tires, but I'm wanting a 3PH mounted forestry winch. Venny 9, JD 7. Venny could get a point IF there were such a thing as a hydraulically powered winch and Venny had the flow rate to operate it.
- I want a rear 540 RPM PTO (not sure why, as Venny has just about everything I would want in a front mount attachment). Venny 9, JD 8
- Snowblowers, cabs (though I think Venny only has a heat option, not an AC. JD might have both), blades, both get points. Venny 12, JD 11.
- Diesel versus gas - since both tractors have hydrostatic transmissions, I don't think it matters. You can actually get more PTO HP on Venny by going gas. One presumes, correctly or incorrectly a diesel will last forever, though servicing diesel is more expensive. I'm giving the point to Venny because he has multiple engine choices, and I can live with gas to use the savings on another implement. Venny 13, JD 11.
On with your video now.
- Not even 8 minutes in, and you should have addressed the ground clearance thing when you had that tape measure out, and pointed out that you don't need a ton of clearance on an oscillating frame tractor. The fact is, Venny is more stable on uneven ground than the JD. 4WD doesn't help much if two are in the air.
- You gave the point to JD for FEL work. I feel that you should have either addressed the Versa Loader here, or waited to talk about loaders entirely until later.
- Sure they both have diesels. JD diesel only, but Ventrac also has 3 gas choices, all with more horsepower, and one of them air-cooled. A prospective Ventrac customer could buy more implements with the cost savings if he or she doesn't drink the diesel Kool-Aid.
- Going to throw you a bone and congratulate you on pointing out that you do offer foot controls (for those rare persons who would want them in addition to the wonderful SDLA control.
- OK, around 10:00 you start extolling the superiority of articulated steering on an oscillating frame tractor.
- 12:00 in and you mention the loader. 500lbs, versus 750 lbs. I would rarely need more than 500lbs, and if one learns how to properly operate a loader the Ventrac's articulating steering isn't at all less safe. Also let's talk about how Venny's suitcase weights are tucked away and don't add an appreciable amount of length to the tractor as would a front or rear weight bar with suitcase weights.
- 13:50, you sort of gloss over Venny's 3PH, and are almost apologetic for the lack of rear PTO. Show that 3PH off! Let's see a turning plow or disk harrow doing some ground work. Slap a Big Tool Rack (the new hotness in tool carriers for SCUTs) on it and load it up with all you need for a day in the field or woods. Put a Firmanator on that 3PH and show Venny preparing a food plot way back in the woods where JD just won't go. I understand those big low pressure tires will fold if you try to pull too much of a load, but a 12" moldboard plow, or disk harrow isn't too much.
- 14:00 You showed it, but you didn't actually say it (at least not loud enough). Quick Tach? Everything on Venny is "Quick Tach" coming out of the gate.
- 15:00, You talk about drive over, auto connect decks. Without openly criticizing what sounds like a cool idea you should encourage customers who bring this up to do their research on some long term reviews of this system. Also, point out a bit more strongly that Venny's front mount deck is a no effort connection.
- 16:30, We're back to showing that Venny is a cool commercial mower. For years you've made it clear Ventrac is the best slope mower you can find. At least point out that for a commercial mowing operator, the 90 degree flip up deck option reduces overall length on his or her trailer.
- 18:00 Thank you dear 8lb, 6oz, newborn baby Jesus! We're finally talking about the Versa loader, and Power Bucket. This is the 3rd time you've mentioned loaders, and by now people may have already made a decision. I feel like it would have been better to do all your talking about loaders in one segment. You show the grapple, but don't talk much about it. Slap something like a Piranha tooth bar on the Power Bucket, with a grapple, and you have a root rake grapple. Also point out that the power bucket will work just fine on the 3PH if you have rear hydraulics installed.
- 21:00 Attachment angst. Most all of your dealers rent not only the tractor, but also the implements. I can rent a Versa Loader when I need, and not own, store, or maintain it when I don't.
- 25:00 We're talking about slope mowing. That seems like the one thing people know about Ventracs if they have heard of them. It is important to understand. No mention of a front mounted deck and how perfect they are for fence lines.
- Wrapping up with price. It's pretty easy to spend a wad on either a SCUT or Ventrac. Focus on what the customer needs day-to-day, versus occasionally. You kind of focus on the commercial operators and "high end" property owners. Go after the 5 + acre homeowner/homesteader as your dealers offer great commercial financing and it takes 2 hours to form an LLC for one's homestead operation. If you don't the SCUT dealer certainly will.
A LOT of very excellent points! The "mental paradigm" of what people consider to be a tractor (color included) is a huge hurdle. There are a lot of people out there who don't have an open mind about what machine would actually be best for them. We only wish everyone would be as informed as you are :)
Thanks for the suggestions! We'll use them for future inspiration.
Great Video Ventrac would be nice to do the comparison with Grasshopper zero turn as well.
i have had similar kubota compact tractor and have the opportunity to have ventrac come out and demo around 4 man made lakes on a 215 acre camp the list of options on the ventrac and its ability on slopes blows any compact to the sidlines the ventrac in snow in my opinion is far better we were using the 4500 but i have used the smaller model
It's so cool to see this thing in action Man lots of fun to watch you really can't compare anything to it to be honest and when you know you have the best of the best that's game over man you're one of the coolest dudes ever bro you know how to talk the talk with that walk bro 👊🏼👊🏼💯💯👊🏿👍🏼
I’m really surprised you didn’t do a side by side cut quality test. I guarantee that Deere isn’t in the same league as the Ventrac. And Pete from GCI Turf Services has showed us all how those things can lay a stripe.
We wanted to keep this one non-operational but you're right.... that would be no contest. And Pete is awesome!
It is a good review and comparison. To be more comprehensive, you should compare Ventrac against a compact articulated loader like the Avant. The big difference I see is the Avant is not oscillating and can (generally) lift more. It is the lift capacity and height that make the difference for me as the owner of a 36 acre homestead with hills/slopes and at least as much wooded area as open pasture. I’m trading in my Kioti tractor for an Avant 528.
Superb, honest presentation. Could not be better. OK, maybe some more on the rear Ventrac accessories.
For people who are new to ventral you should build your own course of obstacles that the ventrac can handle
Alpha Beast, yes, like a test track!
Food for thought, Aaron. In your presentation, you mention other tractors( than Ventrac) to be "normal". Some COULD read that as "does that mean Ventrac is the opposite of normal"? Maybe, in the future, a term like "standard" could be used to describe another brand? Just a thought😉😉😉
Hey ventrac, are you guys going to develop a core harvester for the ventrac?
they have a core tine aerator if that's what you mean.
Congrats this video was the 1 thousandth liked video by me
I appreciate the honesty in this video
Ventrac can only have 1 attachment on at a time. Tractor can have loader, mower AND a backhoe attached all at once. I have 6 Kubota dealers within 45 minutes of me. Only 2 Ventrac dealers in NJ both over an hour away. For golf courses or college campuses, the Ventrac would be ideal. Agriculture/chore purposes: tractor
Not true, you can run a PTO attachment on front and non PTO on rear, together. Most common is the power rake on front and the power bucket on rear. Works just fine.
@@arlisspropertyservicesllc5943 I have a Bobcat S-595 and a Kioti CK4010 tractor There are times where I bring the tractor to a job because I need 2 PTO attachments like a bucket and a backhoe. These Ventracs are nice machines, but I don't know any landscaper who owns one. I see them on like baseball fields, college campuses and golf courses mostly doing mowing and leaves.
When Ventrac makes a 50HP Diesel or Propane model with a cab and A/C I will buy one.
A 75HP model would be nice too. Small, Medium, Large sizes would help you fill more needs for your customers.
The Ventrac is the Cadillac of the outdoor workhorse industry!...............No Others Need Apply!
I missed Aaron. Great job.
would love to see some videos using finish mower doing stripes and large area or taking rundown lot and making it look good again :-)
Great suggestion!
The only thing wrong with the ventrac is the price .i just had a demo done at my place and it is everything a person would want or need very versatile but with just two mower decks we are talking 40k
Always enjoy your sharing, Aaron
I own a 2025. Both the PTO HP and hydraulic flow rate really limit attachment options. The mid-mount deck is expensive. The loader is useful but the small bucket leaves a lot to be desired. In summary: go with a Ventrac or a bigger tractor.
Should clarify that my rec is aimed at those looking to buy new or slightly used. If a deal can be had on the base machine, that's a whole other can of worms.
Good insight, thanks!
Mid mount mower deck on a subcompact tractor is literally the worst thing I've ever used. It was so bad I ended up selling the entire tractor. If you want a mower get a mower....
you're leaving out a giant discrepancy, which is a lack of dealers in some areas. here in central massachusetts for example, where I can drive to several john deere dealers within 30-45 min, there is but a single ventrac dealer way out in the western part of the state. Never mind having a dealer locally to service the machine when needed, it would seem a struggle to find a place to buy one in the first place.
That's a fair point, David. We're on a constant mission to increase access to Ventrac for our current and potential customers. Hopefully in the future you'll find that we have better coverage for you.
Would have loved to see this in India. Would be a hot hit in here for sure
Oddly enough, I own both (somewhat). I have a JD 1026r and a Steiner 440. The Steiner is my mower, I've got 20-25 degree banks on my drainage swale, which was the reason for purchase. Also while mowing with the JD and a loader, it would push the grass down with the front tires, which would pop back up after mowing making the grass look terrible (it is a controlled old hayfield that is my "lawn"), Also, I'd spend hours trimming because the mower was under the tractor. WIth the Steiner, there are not wheels ahead of mowing, and I can reach under trees minimizing the amount of trimming I need to do.
I use the JD for the loader, and snowblowing. The JD also beats the Steiner on EASE of maintenance. That comes from selling more units, and more customer feedback. I never change any belts on the JD,, but the Steiner is all belts to transfer power. It is a 30-minute job to replace the front belt on the Steiner.
I love both, and am lucky to be able to afford both!
Let us know when you're ready to swap that Steiner out for a Ventrac 💪
5:41. It's not a car, it a tractor. Ground clearance is very important for doing stuff. My car has more ground clearance than the Ventrac.
The flex frame allows the Ventrac to get away with much less ground clearance and be just as effective as a tractor with higher ground clearance at driving over uneven terrain. The bonus is the lower center of gravity. It's a win-win.
@Hugs Actually, most cars don't have very much ground clearance either and will typically run anywhere from about 4 to 7 inches on cars to about 7 to 11 on SUVs. For example, a Subaru Outback is just under 9" while a Honda Accord is about 5.5" and a Jeep Grand Cherokee is just under 11". Half and three quarter ton pickups only run about 8 or 9 inches of ground clearance. However, since the Ventrac has a much shorter and narrower wheelbase, it easily gets away with the lower ground clearance and is well able to conquer terrain that would high center a vehicle. In fact, a Ventrac has a wheelbase very similar to that of a quad. A Honda Rancher 4-wheeler has just over 7" of ground clearance (depending on which model). Another thing to consider with the JD mid mount mower is that you would have a maximum (yes, absolute max) height of 5.5" (See this forum post- www.greentractortalk.com/threads/new-to-forum-new-2025r-mmm-cutting-height.15388/ With the longer wheelbase on the JD, you are more likely to catch the deck on things than with the Ventrac. That means that you would have to take the mower off every time you wanted to do something else. Usable ground clearance is directly tied to the vehicle's wheelbase measurements.
@@westonauker8749 Well stated. Thanks for clearing that up, Weston.
He failed to mention on a sub compact the front axle will move up and down over rough ground to keep the wheels on the ground.
This is true.... the compact tractor axle does have a minimal amount of range of flex built into the front axle. It's far too little and in the wrong part of the machine to make enough difference on rough terrain. It certainly helps, but it's nowhere near as effective as oscillation that is built into the center of the frame. Also consider - with the construction of a compact tractor front end, the movement of the front axle is working directly against some combination of components pushing back on it - even in the very initial part of its travel. This creates a situation that will allow the axle to move but still amplify the leverage back on the rest of the tractor. The Ventrac uses an unhindered pivot... no spring tension, no dampers, no mechanical components resisting compression or oscillation. So the Ventrac can encounter an uneven spot of terrain and ride up and over the spot without dramatically increasing the tendency for the rest of the machine to want to tip. To make all of this worse for the compact tractor, there is nothing on the rear, so if you encounter something in reverse or with the rear of the machine only the effect that feels like tires lifting off the ground will be even greater.
Ventrac I wouldn’t doubt what your saying. I will be very happy to own either one. Hopefully sooner than later. I would like to have a small side business doing small tractor work just not sure if I would have a lot of people wanting that kind of service.
@@rickykraus7450 Definitely find one to demo whenever you get a chance. We think you'll love it! We've got quite a few operators out there using Ventrac to provide various high value services to customers in their area.
Hi ventrac. Can't you do a video comparing john deer 1585 front mover to your own ventrac. Tank volume etc. For example, you can drive 16 hours on a JD 1585
But a ventrac can only run 5.5 hours on
Hello! Maybe we can do this in the future. The Terrain Cut series are very good mowers. They're not quite as good on hills as a Ventrac, but they are much better than compact tractors or zero turns. They have some versatility, but not nearly the amount of attachments that we offer. Also, attachment changes are more difficult on the Terrain Cut. Those machines often struggle with traction if you're trying to use a ground engaging attachments, even if they're 4 wheel drive (some are only 2wd). You can get cabs, so that's good. They're pretty maneuverable also which is nice. Overall - good machines, just less suited to a large variety of work than a Ventrac or compact tractor. Their ideal window of operation is mowing and snow removal in the winter.
Interesting , Thank You. Not for everybody but if you need one nothing else will do
The biggest hurdle a prospective ventrac buyer will need to consider is the High buy-in price as compared to the compact tractor
Right machine, for the right job. Ventrac is a great lawnmower and more. Not good as a loader, not a lot of ground clearance for in the bush, or running through snow trails. For doing snow removal I’d go traditional tractor.
Nice. I'm wondering if Ventrac engineers have a design on the board with the power unit behind the operator and the operator in a cab up front with all controls. That would bring the operator and the attachment very close to each other and optimize visibility, as well as creating a sealed cab.
I am so sold on the ventrac and the possibilities that I will come out of retirement if I can figure out how I can do it; if I can find an area where I can put it to work mostly year round but not have to put in more than 30 hours a week in the seat in 10 hours in the shop. The next will find out what the market is where I want to be as to what attachments I want or need Etc.
So here is my question and that is they talked about having ear protection and I was wondering why you haven't looked into a way to make it quieter? Better Muffler? Or is it a matter that everything on it and every attachment makes enough noise that it wouldn't make any difference how the exhaust sounds. And you can certainly buy generators that are loud and there are generators that are quiet(er). Even cars with a big V8 don't make as much noise... but if you want high performance, yeah they do make a lot of noise. And that may be that you're trying to get the most performance. And just for the guys in the shop, have you made or already have made an all electric ventrac?🤔😎
Yes- there's enough noise coming from various sources that ear protection is just a necessary point. And nothing fully electric on the immediate horizon, but that's where equipment in general is headed eventually so who knows!
I didn’t make a mistake buying the 1025r because I had to dig trenches with a wider backhoe. I did make a mistake buying the belly mower because it won’t work on my hilly property. I have a smaller tractor to cut the lawn, but it’s a little dangerous on some hills and can not cut on others. This video showed that the Ventrac can do it and probably more.
I was very impressed with the articulate wheels and how they don’t tear up the ground when you turn. This proves to me why the Ventrac is more expensive. I will be purchasing a Ventrac this Spring.
Do you have grass collection available
And a tiller for the front? I know you said no to anything like this on the rear
Yes, we do have a grass collection system and also a tiller. Check out our website for the full list of attachments!
If you mow hillsides all day everyday i see why the Ven trac was made. But for a farmer like me i would definitely prefer the small utility tractor. One thing is right on the ven trac though the color!! if it aint red leaver in the shed
My 2025R with loader and backhoe cost me 28K. The Ventrac costs upwards of 33K with just the bucket and extra tires.
I see no advantages to this machine over my 2025R.
The John Deere mid mount mower is stamped from 7 gauge steel, all rounded corners not welded together like most mower decks. The Deere mower is much stronger. Deere is the only manufacture that can stamp 7 gauge steel from one piece of steel, because they have a 500 ton pres. The benefit I see with the Ventrac is mowing steep hills with its low center of gravity. Most would compare the Ventrac to the John Deere 1025R, with loader, mower, PTO, 3 point hitch etc. it very versatile machine for a lot less money. Just depends on what you want in a machine.
I have 3 acres needing weekly mowing. It has puncture weed in it so I’m assuming I need to pick it up. Keeping time in mind what do I need.
I would also like to do fire or forest management on natural train can they do both?
It’s actually easier more comfortable and more accurate to use foot pedals plus it gives you more control due to the fact that you can keep both hands on the steering wheel with out having to remove one to slow down or speed up
But your hand is ready to go left and right for attachment control as well.
We've found exactly the opposite when interviewing operators. We all use our hands daily for intricate tasks at a variety of speeds. People have better reactions and control out of their hands than their feet. Foot controls are what most people are used to, but hand controls are higher performance.
This is why I like Steiner
I know how advertising works companies pay other people to say that their product is good not saying that your mowers suck it’s just my personal opinion that foot pedals are better.
I find that the Ventrac SDLA controls are much easier to use. You have one hand on levers, one hand on steering wheel.
Eric, I read somewhere that a VENTRAC has a 5 in ground clearance. I was wondering if this ever creates issues with getting hung-up on stumps, rocks, etc. or more importantly is there any hydraulic or electrical lines, filters, etc. that could get ripped off if you should. Also since it weighs approx. 1 ton, do you sell a winch that fits into the rear hitch receiver?
No winch available as of now but could be easily added aftermarket. The ground clearance is usually no issue because of the oscillating frame. Driving over obstacles just causes the chassis to move and ground clearance remains similar as the tractor crawls over whatever the obstruction is. The only time it really becomes an issue is if you try to drive straight through very deep, very unstable mud and all 4 wheels spin deep enough that the whole machine gets buried. In those cases, not much is going to help you anyway though. We have everything underneath shielded very well with smooth skid plates and guards with nothing hanging below to get ripped off. Overall, not much of an issue. Thanks for the question!
I'm not a fan of having a high dollar piece of equipment and being forced to use only one product with zero substitutions. What happens when the equipment you use is discontinued, are they going to make a adapter so you can use other options from other manufacturers or other models?Or are you stuck searching the web trying to find piece and parts on the web hoping to find. Please respond! Thank you!!!
Well Done ,Thank You
I need a ventrac
Good honest comparison.
Thanks, Brendan.
Awesome machine
Excellent Info. love thanks
I realize this is an older post, however, I’ve asked what benefits would one have of getting a Ventrac over a zero turn?
I’m wondering what comparison the Ventrac has over a zero turn for the general commercial mowing service. I’m currently a Ventrac owner with 2 tractors, and won’t switch to a zero turn.
...better traction in all conditions, less turf disturbance when it's wet, better on hills, way more comfortable to operate, better cut quality due to the deck being out-front, easier access to blades for maintenance, etc... Before you even begin to factor in versatility, there are so many benefits of a Ventrac over a zero turn that it's hard to even know where to begin. A zero turn really only has two positives: price, and maneuverability on tighter properties.
Only problem I had with the ventac was using the tough cut mower caused quite a few flat tires
Hey Andrew - thanks for the mention. We run softer tires than most in order to help with traction and ground pressure so there can be a risk of flats in harsher environments... Check out this tire sealant that we offer:
www.ventrac.com/products/accessories/15.0042-05
It does an incredible job of sealing punctures on the fly to avoid having to fix flats. We still get the performance of our tires and also the durability with this sealant. ...best of both worlds!
On the attachment that trims hedges what is the maximum height that it will cut and what is the maximum cut diameter
The boom mower will cut horizontally at 82" above the ground and the max vertical reach is 142" It's rated for continuous 1/2" woody material.
Talk about belt driven equipment vs gear driven.
I’d llike to know the pricing on your tractors . Does it have 3 way hitch on back , small backhoe attachment. And other att. A d pricing . If you had a catalog it would be great with pricing . Finish mower and heavy brush removal . Can you ship to Alaska ,I’m looking for a great deal .
Well I get what you are saying theVentrac has a lot of possibilities in what it can do, but they are pretty pricy and with the John Deere dose does not have as good of a turning fade as and has less accessories but you get a VERY reliable tractor for a littel cheaper and I bet a lot of people have heard of Ventrac
Definitely want one for us so we can mow an till up
Our garden
can you use biodiesel in akubota diesel engine?
If the ventrac is not designed to be used with cultivation tools then why do you have a trencher attachment and a power rake attachment
I strongly disagree with that people like controlling the machine with your hands your hand gets tired and I wouldn’t like that because I feel that it would feel a bit uncomfortable and since the brake pedal is located in the left side of the John Deere both of your feet are on either said which I would think a good response time to brake reverse and drive forward.
It's hard to imagine using your hands if you're used to using feet. All we know is what our customers and our employees say and they all LOVE hand controls. If all you're doing is driving around with a mower deck it's not a huge deal, but as soon as you start using auxiliary functions - having them all in the same place as the forward/reverse control makes operation super fast and intuitive.
Ventrac well I have to add one thing if hand controls are better than foot controls/ foot pedals then why do cars use foot controls I was looking into buying a 3000 series tractor but I saw that they were used with your hand controls so I didn’t get it. You said you can put that pedal in but I wouldn’t like just the one pedal and that when you press the back and it goes in reverse and press the front and it goes forward.
@@tucker3284 there's a big difference between driving a car and operating a piece of equipment.
@@joshuaidler2229 You are right about that I guess I am just used to running all of my John Deere equipment like my 4430, 4230 and my 4020, and can’t imagine operating it with my hands. But everyone I guess has their own preferences.
Only reason I would take a compact over ventrac is the height of the front loader, back hoe attachment, and auger attachment. Dose ventrac have those last two that I don't know about?
We do not currently offer an auger attachment or a backhoe. You are correct. If you need those things, Ventrac isn't really a viable option. Augers are awesome. But we are huge advocates against backhoes on compact tractors. They are one of those really popular attachments that most people hardly use. The economics don't pencil out for most people. They'd be better off allocating that money towards rental of a proper mini-excavator as many times as they need it over the next decade and most people would be money ahead. Not to mention, the productivity and capability of a mini-ex is off the charts better than a compact tractor back-hoe. Of course, there's a handful of people out there who do make good use of their backhoe and the money makes sense for - but across the industry there are a ton of backhoes sitting - under utilized.
Directions and speed is more like the Lawn and Garden Tractor from the mid 70's to the late 90's that John Deere had
Where can I come and look at the mowers I would really like to see them
You can find who your local dealer is at ventrac.com/dealers
Let’s face it tractors spend 99% of their time sitting in the garage being looked at. looks are almost as important as function as long as they can equally be compared. The Ventrac track looks like it was blue printed and came out of the back of popular mechanics kit advertisements from the 80s.
I really wish there was an A/C cab option.
Did I hear Aaron say the Ventrac with a 3 point hitch would not work as well as the John Deere handling my 60 inch Box Blade ???
I would love to have a Ventrac. It looks like you are comparing the Ventrac to a COMPACT tractor (the 2025) and not a SUBcompact tractor (the 1025). The Power Bucket will hit/scrape the ground when going over hilly ground (Know this from experience). The front end loader or power bucket is almost a necessity. A tractor that can’t carry anything is a waste.
The reason the hood on the John Deere is plastic is it was made like that for loaders. So if the loaders are using a the bucket moving materials up above the hood if some heavy material falls on the hood it is less likely to do a big dent to a plastic hood than a full metal hood. Both machines have there advantages and disadvantages. And all machines have problems in some type. And here in the video there is two companies and two total different machines.
Also there is a big advantage to the John Deere mower (bush hog) or rotary cutter also in the uk mostly and a ever once in a while you will come across a 30hp-400hp tractor(give or take the horses power) that will have a front pto and 3 point hitch with hydraulics on the front and the rear of the tractors.
I wonder can the golf course I work at demo one? Do ye demo in Ireland?
Ventrac would be nice, but holy cow wait till you price one. They both have a job they are made for.
If the ventrac is not intended to be used with cultivation tools why did you recently come out with cultivation tools plus you have the power rake and that’s a cultivation tool
The Ventrac's versatility provides a quick and efficient solution for lawn installations and other cultivation type jobs. Because of the Ventrac maneuverability, flex frame, and light foot print, it becomes a great tool for any cultivating or debris removal jobs!
I love jondear because nothing runs like a dear
Excellent review. It is a bit apples to oranges however..
Agreed.
Will ventrac get me chicks? Will it make my johnson look bigger? LoL. Will the ventrac make me look more desirable?
Couldn't help but to notice that all your machines had dual wheels on them when mowing so shouldn't you of measure it when they are on ?? It is a nice machine tho .
Duals are not a requirement for mowing unless you're on steep terrain. It's worth considering the width in both considerations though. With dual wheels, you can only use a 72" deck or larger. Single wheels will allow you to use the 60" deck without tire overlap. Good question.