Bobcat’s compact tractor range provides an option for operators of smaller farms
While Bobcat may be best known for its range of skid steer loaders, and other construction equipment such as excavators, telehandlers and track loaders, the brand has plenty to offer the farmer as well.
The manufacturer’s first ever machine – a compact loader – was designed for a turkey farmer and cleaned small livestock pens and stalls.
Bobcat now has a selection of compact tractors for the Australian market, with five models ranging between 26hp and 55hp (19kW and 41kW) available.
The CT1025, CT2035, CT2040, CT4045 and CT4055 are designed to provide the quality and reliability the brand is known for, while punching above their weight with performance.
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The second-largest in the range, the CT4045 has a lift capacity of 1,232kg
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Bobcat’s tractors product manager James Crouch says the move into compact tractors was designed to broaden the company’s customer base and provide an option for smaller farm operations.
“Contractors will work with a tractor before taking the next step to a compact excavator or a skid-steer loader,” he says.
“We want to be able to take part in that customer journey. We also want to step into the homeowner segment, which is new for us.
“We want to put our products in the hands of homeowners to give them the same experiences full-time contractors have in the field and on their own property.
“Our compact tractors also complement landscapers’ equipment portfolios and meet the smaller equipment needs of farm operations.”
Across the five models of compact tractors, there are options to customise each to increase its versatility and provide the most suitable option.
Common features across the range include hydrostatic transmissions, generous lifting ability, ground clearance and a powerful three-point hitch with power take-off (PTO) to make implement attachment easy.
Mowers, front end loaders and backhoes are among the other roles the Bobcat compact tractors can take on when fitted with optional implements, showcasing their versatility.
All models are fitted with industrial tyres as standard which are wider than agricultural tyres.
They can be replaced with agricultural tyres though, which Bobcat says “also deliver more power to the ground when towing heavy loads or pulling implements”.
On the CT1025, the smallest model in Bobcat’s range, the agricultural tyre option is replaced with a turf tyre designed to minimise impact on landscaped lawns.
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The 26hp CT1025 is the smallest in the range, with a lift capacity of 318kg
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In keeping with their compact nature, the tractors have a tight turning radius of between 2.45m and 2.61m, depending on the model.
The open cabin on each model is fitted with rollover protection, while all tractors have power steering, headlights, LED tail lamps, steering brakes and ergonomic controls for the operators.
Despite being compact tractors, they still have plenty of zip, with the two most powerful models – the CT4045 and CT4055 – capable of reaching speeds up to 29.7km/h.
Maintenance has also been made simpler through all checkpoints being located on one side of the engine.
The tractors are distributed by Bobcat of Australia, which is a business unit of Clark Equipment.