Bobcat skid steers — 2014 Spec Guide

Bobcat Co. has been a leader in “skid-steer loaders” since it created the industry 55 years ago when two blacksmith-inventor brothers designed a small, three-wheeled loader for cleaning turkey barns. With a lineup that includes both radial- and vertical-lift machines, the M-Series skid steer loader line includes 12 models from the S510 to S850. Two other non-M-Series skid steer loaders — the 36-in.-wide S70 and the new S450 — are highly maneuverable in situations where access and space are limited.

The cab-forward design of M-Series loaders situates operators closer to their work area. This is particularly helpful when working in tight areas, such as grading next to a building or working around existing landscaping. It also provides better visibility. M-Series loaders provide up to 20 percent more hydraulic horsepower, says Bobcat. This increased power can be delivered to more than 65 Bobcat attachments that can turn the machines into multi-purpose tool carriers that can auger, trench, grade and sweep, just to name a few capabilities. An optional Power Bob-Tach system is available for changing non-hydraulic attachments from inside the cab.

With attachments continuing to be as important as the machine, the M-Series has been engineered with stronger hydraulics for improved attachment performance. To manage attachment changes, the Bob-Tach mounting system is vertically integrated with the loaders’ electronics, hydraulics and geometry. Bobcat equipment is also supported by a large North American dealer network. More than 550 dealer locations provide easy access to sales, rental, parts and service.

And let us not forget the A770 all-wheel steer loader, which is the only compact loader in the industry that offers both all-wheel steer and skid steer capabilities for minimal ground disturbance. The new 700 platform model lets you switch from turf-saving all-wheel steer to ultra-maneuverable skid steer at the touch of a dash panel switch. The A770 is the perfect choice for landscaping, nursery, construction, industrial, utility and municipal jobs because it minimizes ground disturbance, tire marks and reduces tire wear — even on hard surfaces. During the offseason, use it for faster snow removal on parking lots, long sidewalks and roads. High-flow attachments can be used on the A770, making it a very versatile machine.

Advice to Buyers
“Skid steer loaders are being used by a wider variety of contractors in a growing number of applications,” says Mike Fitzgerald, loader product specialist with Bobcat Co. “The recession forced many contractors to add new services and applications to their offerings, such as demolition, site cleanup and snow removal. Versatility has increased significantly with the vast array of attachments that are available for machines.”