One of the most powerful machines of its type currently in production, and coming equipped with a heavy-duty brush-blade, the STIHL FS490 C-EM will cut effortlessly through the most challenging scrub and bramble (it will even cope with young saplings).

Its very high-performance 3.3hp (51.6cc) 2-Mix engine is controlled by STIHL’s impressive ‘M-Tronic’ electronic management system, which ensures optimum performance levels are maintained under all conditions, thereby making it an invaluable feature for the professional landscaper.

STIHL’s range of 2-Mix engines are defined by their stratified-charge technology, which serves to virtually eliminate fuel-wastage during the combustion cycle, in turn producing a huge drop in fuel-consumption and exhaust emissions.

Other key engine attributes include a carburettor compensator, which ensures a dirty air-filter won’t overly compromise power-output; and ErgoStart, which means the lightest of pulls on the starter-rope is needed to get the motor going.

Operator-comfort is key when designing a machine for intensive commercial use, so deservedly renowned German manufacturers STIHL have furnished this model with a classic ‘cowhorn’-style handlebar, four-point vibration-damping and a soft-padded shoulder-harness. In addition, they’ve managed to keep the machine’s weight down to only 9.1kg.