Stihl KMA 135 R KombiMotor adds multi-tool convenience to Pro-Focused battery platform
The Stihl KMA 135 R battery powered KombiMotor joins the 135 platform for professional users. With the KMA 130 R in the running, we decided to take a closer look at the two units side-by-side to see if you should make the switch.
STIHL 135 R KombiMotor | Great Deals
The main difference between this and the KMA 130 R battery-powered KombiMotor is that it changes from a tethered battery connection to accommodate an on-board battery.
As far as performance goes, Stihl told us that the two battery powerheads are essentially identical and are the closest match to the KM 91 R gas-wise. However, an example specification using a BG-KM blower shows slightly higher airspeed but the same Newtonian force.
Dial-in speed settings are slightly different. In low range, both models rev within 100 RPM, the KMA 135 R gives you more in mid range, and in high range they both top out at 8500 RPM.
Here's a comparison breakdown of the two battery options:
| KMA 135 R (new) | KMA 130 right | |
| low speed | 6200 rpm | 6300 rpm |
| medium speed | 7700 rpm | 7200 rpm |
| high speed | 8500 rpm | 8500 rpm |
| BG-KM blowing force | 15 Newtons | 15 Newtons |
| BG-KM CFM | 480 cubic feet | 480 cubic feet |
| BG-KM Airspeed | 150 mph | 130 mph |
| bare weight | 7.5 lbs | 7.1 lbs |
| price | $359.99 | $339.99 |
The price of this model has increased slightly. It sells for $359.99, $20 more than the previous battery-powered KombiMotor.
parting miss
If you are happy with your KMA 130 R, there is no need to rush to upgrade. On the other hand, if tethered battery systems are giving you trouble and you just want to put a battery on your tool and get to work, you’ll love the KMA 135 R.
If you're new to KombiSystem and like the idea of reducing the weight of your tool's batteries, you can go either direction. The KMA 135 R has a dummy backpack adapter that can be used with a fanny pack or backpack battery, giving you the best of both worlds. However, the KMA 130 R does not have the option to place the battery directly on the tool, so this is something to consider before pulling the trigger.
When we test battery-operated accessory systems, the Stihl is our top choice, thanks to its performance that best matches the pro gas model. The Stihl KMA 135 R brings even more versatility to the table without compromising the goodness of its accompanying models.
Specification
- Model: STIHL KMA 135 R
- Power Head Weight: 7.5 lbs
- Maximum speed: 8,500 RPM
- Speed settings: 6,200 / 7,700 / 8,500 rpm
- BG-KM wind speed: 150 mph
- BG-KM air volume: 480 cfm
- BG-KM Blow Force: 15 Newtons
- Price: $359.99 – Units only