Another new guy with another question

[KiotiJohn]

summitlion, I probably don't have to tell you anything about the Kioti since you've already been looking at the DK35. However, regarding the HST, I feel anyone gets used to, and learns to be proficient with any system. The DK35s synchro shuttle and sychronized tranny would be very easy to use and become proficient in. If you're not in a big hurry, you might wait until the CK30HST arrives at dealers (supposed to be some time in June), and believe me, if my CK20HST can do as much as I've done with it, the 30 will do all you have to do. I use only 4' implements although the manual says I can use 5'. I find I can get around in my trees and up near things better with this size and speed is not that important to me. A DK 35 will handle a 6' if you were to need it. I only have 64 hours on my Kioti so far, but I've had no problems and it handles mud, pulling out small trees, brush hogging without problems, using a boom pole for hauling large tree trunks around, pallet forks on my bucket, digging with toothbar on the FEL. In other words, buy what you like and learn to use it. It will be very easy for you, Synchro Shuttle or HST. I like my HST and so do me knees. The old clutch knee doesn't swell up any more! Good luck and keep us posted. John