Bobcat launch new R-Series loaders

New skid-steer and track loader models said to represent next stage in evolution of compact equipment

BOBCAT have launched their new R-Series Stage V compact loaders, which are said to represent the most significant redesign of the company’s loaders in the last 60 years. The new R-Series models comprise the S66 and S76 skid-steer loaders and the T66 and T76 compact track loaders.

Loader product manager John Chattaway said: ‘Utilizing decades of experience, the new R-Series loaders have been completely redesigned from the ground up with a focus on quality, reliability, durability and first-class comfort. The new R-Series represents the next stage in the evolution of the compact equipment industry.’

He added: ‘The new R-Series loaders are also distinguished by a new naming system, which now uses two digits in the name rather than the three used in previous models. This also serves to separate the new R-Series loaders from our M-Series machines.’ 

To ensure optimum performance and comfort, the stability of both types of loaders has been enhanced with longer wheelbases and track footprints compared with the previous-generation machines. This improved stability combined with enhanced efficiency from the hydraulics is said to provide class-leading push and breakout forces and increased lift capacity for greater productivity.

The longer wheelbases and tracks also ensure a smoother ride. The new T66 (pictured) and T76 compact track loaders have a solid undercarriage system as standard but can be equipped with an optional five-link torsion suspension undercarriage for an even better ride in rough terrain. Stability and productivity can be further enhanced by the optional Auto Ride Control feature available on all R-Series loaders.

All R-Series machines come as standard with a fully enclosed one-piece deluxe cab with HVAC, a 5in deluxe display and an LED lighting system. Available options include: a Clear-Side cab, which has mesh-free side screens to aid visibility; a rear-view camera that connects to both the standard 5in and optional 7in touch display; as well as a Premium LED light package. In addition, the standard suspension seat can be replaced with a heated air-ride seat option.

For increased productivity, many other previous options are now built into the new R-Series loaders as standard, including selectable joystick controls (SJC), two-speed travel, high flow hydraulics with attachment control device (ACD), dual-direction bucket positioning and back-up alarm.

Whilst SJC is the standard control system on all new R-Series loaders, manual hand and foot controls are available as a no-cost option on the S66 and S76 skid-steer loaders. Customizable features available through the SJC include speed management, drift control and the ability to change the sensitivity of the joysticks. The SJC system also has built-in horsepower management to increase comfort and productivity.

With the SJC system in place, the new R-Series loaders now offer the attachment control device (ACD) system as standard. Using Can-Bus communication to recognize the attachment on the machine, ACD automatically sets up the joystick controls and the output flow to ensure the best performance when using attachments on the new loaders.

The R-series loaders have been built to be even more robust than their predecessors. The new cast-steel structures in the loader arms are now 20% stronger, allowing the use of narrower profiles in key areas such as the front knuckle, thereby improving the visibility of the attachments and work area without sacrificing any durability. The lift height has also been increased so it is easier to dump loads into high-sided trucks.

The new cast-steel Bob-Tach attachment-mounting system is supplied in manual operating mode as standard with a Power Bob-Tach available as an option, both of which feature a debris-shedding cast design.