991163 Apex Zero Turn Radius Tractor, 24-HP FR730 Kawasaki Engine, 60-in. Deck - Quantity 1 Review

Overview

The Apex 991163 is a serious zero-turn mower built for property owners with large, open lawns where speed and cut quality matter more than maneuverability in tight spaces. Powered by a 24-horsepower Kawasaki FR730 engine and swinging a massive 60-inch fabricated deck, this machine is designed to turn hours of mowing into a quick, comfortable afternoon chore—but it’s not for the faint of wallet or the small-lot homeowner.

Who Should Buy This

• Owners of 2+ acre properties who currently spend three hours or more on a garden tractor and want to cut that time in half. The 60-inch deck and zero-turn agility make short work of open turf.
• Buyers who value engine longevity over initial cost. The Kawasaki FR730 is a commercial-grade V-twin known for lasting 1,500+ hours with proper maintenance, making this a better long-term investment than cheaper models with off-brand engines.
• Homeowners with mostly flat, obstacle-free lawns. This mower shines in wide-open spaces but struggles in tight landscaping beds or around dense tree clusters due to its size and turning radius.
• DIY property managers who maintain their own equipment and appreciate the accessible grease fittings, spin-on oil filter, and easy belt access on this model.

Key Features Breakdown

24-HP Kawasaki FR730 Engine – This is the heart of the machine. The FR730 is Kawasaki’s top-tier residential engine with cast-iron cylinder liners, a dual-element air filter, and a full-pressure lubrication system. It starts reliably cold or hot, handles thick grass without bogging, and will likely outlast the chassis if you change the oil. Worth every penny of the premium.

60-Inch Fabricated Deck – Unlike stamped decks that can warp or crack over time, this deck is welded from heavy-gauge steel. It’s 7-gauge material with reinforced spindle housings, meaning it can take abuse from hidden rocks and roots. The deep-dish design and high-lift blades create strong vacuum for a clean, even cut—even in damp or tall grass.

Zero Turn Radius – True zero-turn capability means you can spin 360 degrees in place, eliminating the need for trimming around isolated trees or fence posts. However, with a 60-inch deck, you’ll still need a string trimmer for tight corners and along buildings.

Hydrostatic Transmission – The Apex uses twin Hydro-Gear pumps and wheel motors, a step up from the entry-level transmissions found on cheaper zero-turns. These provide smooth, predictable speed control and better hill-climbing ability without the jerky engagement common on budget units.

High-Back Suspension Seat – A 2-hour mowing session is a real test of comfort. This seat has adjustable lumbar support and coil-spring suspension that actually absorbs bumps. It’s not luxury-car plush, but it’s far better than the flat foam pads on tractors at half the price.

Pros

• Cut speed is exceptional. On a flat 3-acre lot, you’ll finish in about 45 minutes—roughly half the time of a 42-inch garden tractor.
• Engine pulls hard through thick grass. The Kawasaki FR730 doesn’t bog down in Bermuda or tall fescue, even with the deck set at 3 inches.
• Deck is built to last. The fabricated steel construction and greasable spindle bearings mean this deck should survive a decade of residential use without sagging or cracking.
• Easy daily maintenance. The oil drain hose, spin-on filter, and accessible belt covers make oil changes and blade swaps quick—no contorting under the deck.
• Smooth, predictable steering. The lap bars are well-weighted and return to neutral reliably, so you’re not fighting the controls on uneven ground.
• Good parts availability. Kawasaki engines and Hydro-Gear transmissions are widely supported at local dealers and online, unlike some proprietary systems.

Cons

• Expensive for a residential machine. At $6,099, this is priced near entry-level commercial zero-turns. If you only mow 1 acre, you’re overpaying for capacity you won’t use.
• Large footprint is a liability. The 60-inch deck won’t fit through standard 48-inch gates, and the overall length makes it clumsy to maneuver in tight storage sheds or around flower beds.
• No serviceable transmission filter. The Hydro-Gear pumps are sealed units—if you lose hydraulic pressure, the fix is a full replacement, not a simple filter swap. This is a potential long-term cost.
• Grass collection is an add-on. There’s no bagger included, and the optional collection system is expensive and bulky. If you need to bag leaves or clippings, factor in another $600–$800.

Bottom Line

The Apex 991163 is a powerful, well-engineered zero-turn that delivers professional-grade cut quality and engine durability for homeowners with serious acreage. It’s not the right choice for small lots or tight landscapes, but if you’re mowing 2+ acres of open lawn and want to finish quickly without sacrificing reliability, this mower justifies its price tag. I recommend it confidently to anyone who values engine longevity and deck strength over flashy features, but I’d caution budget-conscious buyers to consider a smaller 48-inch model if they don’t need the full 60-inch width.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Apex 991163 come assembled, or do I need to put it together?
It ships partially assembled in a crate. You’ll need to attach the steering levers, install the seat, connect the battery, and fill the engine oil and fuel. Most buyers can finish in 45–60 minutes with basic hand tools.

Can this mower handle hills?
Yes, but with caveats. The Hydro-Gear transmission handles moderate slopes well, but the wide deck can scalp on uneven terrain. Avoid side-hill operation on slopes over 15 degrees—the zero-turn design is less stable on angles than a traditional garden tractor.

What’s the warranty on the Kawasaki FR730 engine?
Kawasaki offers a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. The Apex chassis and deck come with a separate 2-year warranty from the manufacturer. Note that commercial use (lawn care businesses) voids the residential warranty, so this isn’t suited for pros.