Kubota tests diesel engines
Kubota last month used the UK LAMMA Show to test the water with its new 200hp, four-cylinder 09-series diesel engines.
These will bolster a market segment in which Kubota created the sub-compact category in 2000 with the first BX sub-compact tractor.
In three new models -- BX2380, BX2680 and BX23S -- these tractors offer the Swift-Tach loader and Swift-Connect backhoe as standard equipment, and are said to combine reliability and power with unmatched versatility and intuitive, easy-to-operate design, making the BX80-Series ideal for residential property owners.
Shaun (Monty) Monteith, sales manager for Kubota agricultural equipment NZ, says “Kubota’s previous line, the BX70 series, built a reputation on being ‘the little orange tractor that would run forever’.”
Now Kubota has upped the ante with the new BX80-Series, taking the sub-compact category to a new level with its Swift-Tach loader, Swift-Connect backhoe and Easy-Over mower deck option.”
The BX2380 and BX2680 are equipped with a rollover protection system, which conveniently fits through most standard 2.135m high garage door openings.
The BX2380 and BX2680 deliver 23 and 25.5hp, respectively. The 23hp engine brings Kubota reliability and superior torque to the new BX23S tractor-loader-backhoe model using Kubota’s liquid-cooled 3-cylinder diesel engines, combining with four-wheel drive to provide traction and confidence while using less fuel than gasoline engines.
The new BX80-Series makes it easier than ever to attach the complete line of tools and implements; and the LA344 Swift-Tach loader (offered for the BX2380 and BX2680) and the LA340 Swift-Tach loader (for the BX23S) are easily removed or attached without the operator leaving the seat.
A complete line-up of rear mounted Land Pride implements are easily attached using the standard Category I 3-point hitch, and all three tractors offer multiple deck options including the Kubota Easy Over deck.
The BX23S is said to offer increased versatility with its standard-equipped LA340 Swift-Tach loader and all-new BT603 Swift-Connect backhoe. The Kubota Swift-Tach system provides easy removing and attaching of the front loader, and the BT603 Kubota Swift-Connect backhoe is easy to remove without tools or pins to store or lose.
All BX80-Series loaders and the BT603 backhoe include upgraded flat-faced couplers that do not seep fluid when released or installed, and are easy to connect under pressure. A boom lock, for increased safety, is standard on the BT603. A mechanical thumb, for picking up items such as logs, is optional on the new BX23S.
Throughout the range, BX80-Series tractors build on Kubota’s operator ergonomics and user-intuitive controls for ease of use and comfort during long jobs. These include easy-to-read dash displays, a cubbyhole with a 12V outlet for cellphone charging port, an improved deluxe seat and tilt steering on the BX2380 and on the BX2680 an improved ride and more adjustability to suit a range of different size drivers.
