More handling choice for confined areas
31st October 2022
Bobcat has announced a super compact telehandler and more powerful compact skid-steer loaders. David Williams reports.
Bobcat’s R-series product line-up has expanded with the addition of the company’s smallest telehandler so far, as well as more powerful models in its skid-steer tracked and wheeled ranges.
Ultra-compact telehandler
The addition of the new TL25.60 means there are now 11 rigid frame telehandlers to choose from. Bobcat says the additional model is designed for simplicity of use, and features excellent stability, optimum comfort and safe operation.
Power is from a 75hp Bobcat engine. The rated lift capacity is 2,500kg, and it has a 5.91m maximum lift height, and 3.31m maximum reach.
The cab is shared with the biggest R-series 18m machine, and Bobcat claims that this makes it the most spacious on any compact telehandler.
There is a new 5in LCD display, plenty of space for storage, an air suspension seat and an optional tilting and telescopic steering column.
The cab door opens to 90 degrees and has a low entry step.
The view from the driver’s seat is superb; thanks to the low dashboard, slim cab pillars and a low engine hood which allows a clear view down to the right-hand side.
Excellent manoeuvrability results from the tightest turning radius in the market.
Hydrostatic transmission provides precise speed control, and the hydraulic system is claimed to offer the fastest cycle times in its class.
The first production machines of the TL25.60 are designed for site and commercial operations, but an agricultural version will also be available from next year.
New compact loaders
Bobcat’s new S86 (wheeled) and T86 (tracked) compact loaders feature the most powerful engine and hydraulic systems ever offered by the company for its compact line-up.
A Bobcat 3.4-litre engine delivers 105hp at 2,600rpm, and is mounted in-line with direct drive to optimise efficiency, cooling performance and longevity.
Bobcat Loaders product manager John Chattaway commented: “The S86 and T86 follow on from the very successful introduction of the smaller S66/T66 and S76/T76 loaders. The new top-of-the-range S86 and T86 continue the same trend by setting new industry standards in every area, from in-cab comfort and safety to the power available and attachment versatility. The S86/T86 take what is possible with compact loaders to a whole new level.”
Best hydraulics
Bobcat is offering a choice of auxiliary hydraulic flow outputs. Standard flow provides 87 litres/min for standard operations such as loading and carrying, but there are also two new options providing higher flow rates – both using an Electronic Displacement Control (EDC) pump. High Flow gives flow rates up to 138 litres/min, and an industry-unique Super Flow option provides an impressive 159 litres/min.
The Five Coupler Block (standard with the Super Flow option) provides a flexible approach to running different attachments. From one common source the operator can attach both standard or high flow approved attachments to the smaller sized 0.5in quick couplers. Then, when using Super Flow, utilising 0.75in couplers allows maximum performance and productivity from the approved advanced attachments.
Both High Flow and Super Flow options come integrated with Bobcat’s unique attachment control device (ACD). The S86 and T86 machines equipped with High Flow or Super Flow also have Power Bob-Tach attachment systems as standard. This adds comfort and productivity by allowing attachments to be connected and removed without the operator leaving the seat, just using the switches conveniently located in the cab. It is also available as an option for machines with standard flow hydraulics.
Lift capacity increased
The new S86 and T86 models can lift more, carry more and reach further. This is achieved by new lift arm geometry that improves lifting capability throughout the lift arm’s range of motion. With improved hydraulic performance and stronger cast-steel lift arm sections, the loaders have higher lift capacity throughout the lift cycle including at maximum height.
The new S86 and T86 share the same cab as recently launched S66 and T66, and S76 and T76 models, which features low noise and vibration levels inside the one-piece sealed and pressurised operator station. Intuitive SJC controls are standard, as well as informative displays. The cab has an HVAC system as standard and increased vision from the seat, which can be further enhanced by the innovative Clear Side cab option with which 75% of the side window area is mesh-free. A rear-view camera is standard. In addition to the standard 5in display an optional, advanced 7in version that provides even more detailed machine information and unprecedented device connectivity can be specified.
Other key features of the S86 and T86 include:
- Bobcat horsepower management – enhanced power management
- Speed management – maximises attachment performance and precision
- Optional 5-Link Torsion Suspension Undercarriage – for additional stability and comfort
- Counterweight ready – for increased lifting performance and customisation
- Dual-direction bucket positioning – for reduced spillage and increased efficiency
- Optional automatic ride control – for a smoother ride on uneven terrain
- Optional reversible cooling fan – improves cooling, and reduces maintenance and downtime.