Intrepid Loaders USA Debuts KM180 Tele: A Small Articulated Loader with Reach
Miniloaders.com Expands Intrepid Line with Another Telescoping SAL
Intrepid Loaders USA just added a new machine to its compact wheel loader lineup: the Intrepid KM180 Tele. Built in Belgium and distributed through Miniloaders.com, the KM180 Tele is the company’s fifth model for the U.S. market and one of its most powerful telescoping units to date. This compact articulated loader is designed for green industry pros, rental fleets, construction crews and ag operators who want a lightweight machine with serious lift and universal attachment capability.
KM180 Tele: Key Specs and Capabilities
- Operating weight: 5,000 lbs
- Rated lift capacity (20 in. forward): 2,535 lbs
- Engine: 43-hp Yanmar 3TNV86CT (3-cylinder diesel)
- Drive: 4 independent hydraulic wheel motors
- Max speed: 12.5 mph
- Lift height (hinge pin): 130 in. (10.8 ft)
- Width: 59 in. (75 in. with dual wheels)
- Length: 127.5 in.
- Hydraulic flow: 13.2 gpm at 2,600 psi
- Mount plate: Universal skid steer, hydraulically locking
Features That Stand Out
Telescopic Boom
The KM180 Tele can extend its boom to lift over 10 ft, reach into trailers and push or pull materials from a distance — not just stack pallets.
No Rear Swing
With the engine mounted directly under the operator seat, the machine has zero rear overhang when articulating. That means better visibility and tighter maneuvering in close quarters.
Dual Wheel Option (See Photo Above)
For better turf protection and improved stability, the loader offers dual wheels that boost the stance to 75 in. These can be quickly removed for tighter spaces.
Operator-Friendly Controls
The loader comes with an all-in-one joystick, travel pedals for inching and throttle control, a hand throttle, LED work lights and even a 12V plug up front. Heat and AC are optional with the enclosed cab.
The SAL Advantage
Small articulated loaders, or SALs, are a rising force in compact equipment. With turf-friendly steering, narrow footprints and fast speeds, SALs are taking market share from mini track loaders and wheeled skid steers. These machines offer:
- Lower ground disturbance
- Faster travel speeds
- Easy trailer transport
- High reach with telescoping models
- Big lift capacities for their size
- Wide attachment compatibility
- Simpler entry/exit
- Steering wheels, not joysticks, for intuitive operation
For tight jobsites, delicate turf or all-day job hopping, SALs offer a compelling mix of capability and comfort.
Miniloaders.com and the Intrepid Loader Line
Based in Cincinnati, Miniloaders.com is the exclusive U.S. importer of Intrepid articulated wheel loaders, built by Belgian manufacturer Knikmops. These machines are designed for professional users in landscaping, hardscaping, light construction and agriculture. Let’s take a quick look at the rest of the lineup.
The KM85 is the smallest model at 1,970 lbs, with a 23-hp Kubota engine and 1,000-lb lift capacity. It’s narrow enough to fit through backyard gates. The KM100 Tele adds a telescopic boom and 9.7-ft lift height, powered by a 25-hp Kubota engine. It’s ideal for tree care and turf work. The KM130 Tele increases capacity to 1,850 lbs at 20 in. forward reach and lifts up to 10.5 ft. It uses a universal skid steer mount. The heavy-duty KM250 offers up to 3,600-lb lift capacity and an 11.6-ft reach with the telescopic version. It runs a 48-hp Yanmar engine and full-size skid steer plate.
For contractors and crews looking to bridge the gap between compact loaders and full-size equipment, these models deserve a closer look. Learn more or request a quote at miniloaders.com/intrepid-loaders.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
