Ferris 500S 48 CXi

The Ferris 500S 48 puts front and rear suspension into a smaller cutting-width package. Model 5902101 is a useful candidate when the route contains awkward areas but a basic rigid mower has not felt comfortable during demonstrations. Suspension is a reason to arrange a comparison, not proof that this machine will suit every operator.

Do not copy the larger model's drivetrain

The official 500S specification table assigns ZT-2800 transaxles to the 48. Its current 52- and 61-inch columns list ZT-3100. This distinction matters when a dealer advertises the series without identifying the particular machine.

The 48 uses a 25 gross hp, 724 cc Briggs & Stratton CXi engine. Maximum forward travel is 8.5 mph. Neither figure predicts how quickly your lawn will be finished: turns, growth and the required cut can determine the practical pace.

Try the suspension and controls together

The documented package combines adjustable front and rear coil-over shocks, a bolstered seat with armrests, and a fabricated 10-gauge deck. Ask the dealer to set the suspension for the operator before judging the ride. Then check control reach and entry and exit.

Our suspension comparison guide explains why a suspended chassis and a suspended seat are different features. They should not be counted as interchangeable upgrades when comparing quotes.

Confirm access and coverage

The manufacturer's width row repeats the length figures rather than providing a clear deflector-up/down pair. Measure the actual machine and request the applicable dimensional drawing; this review does not turn that ambiguous row into a gate-clearance claim.

Compare the 500S 52 if wider coverage fits the property, while matching the model year and drivetrain on the quotation. Published machine coverage is three years for residential use and 90 days commercially; suspension and engine terms are separate. The 48 deserves consideration when the narrower deck and adjusted suspension work together on your route.

Our ZT Score

7.6/10 — our research-based editorial assessment using the ZeroTurn scoring method.

• Cut quality (30%): 7.6/10. Fabricated deck and height adjustment support setup; finished-cut quality remains untested.
• Build & durability (25%): 7.5/10. ZT-2800 and greasable spindles provide a documented residential service package.
• Comfort (20%): 8.2/10. Front and rear coil-over suspension plus seat armrests justify feature credit, not a measured ride claim.
• Value (15%): 7.1/10. Suspension may justify the purchase for a suitable route; delivered price is unverified.
• Ease of use (10%): 7.4/10. Controls and headlight are useful, while access dimensions require direct confirmation.

Provisional research-based editorial assessment, not a hands-on test. Cutting results, ride quality and service life have not been measured. Model-specific owner consensus and comparable delivered US/Canadian prices were not established. Value depends on the actual configuration, property and local service support.