Quick Brand Summaries of 5 Different Lines of Small Articulated Loaders

In the diverse world of compact equipment, small articulated wheel loaders stand out for their agility, power, and versatility. These nimble machines, the smallest tool carrier with a seat, pack a considerable punch in a compact size, making them indispensable for a wide range of applications — from landscaping and construction to agricultural tasks. As demand for more efficient, space-conscious machinery continues to rise, several manufacturers have stepped up, each offering unique features tailored to specific needs and environments.

This article delves into five distinct product lines from leading industry players: Bobcat, Case, Vermeer, Mecalac, and Intrepid. Each brand has developed its version of the small articulated wheel loader, designed to enhance productivity and maneuverability in tight spaces. We’ll explore the specifications, innovations and particular strengths of each brand. We’ll provide an overview that underscores the significance of these small but mighty machines in the compact equipment arena. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or considering your first purchase in this category, this summary offers valuable insights into selecting the right loader for your operations.

Bobcat L23 and L28 Small Articulated Loaders

In 2020, Bobcat launched its small articulated loader lineup — the L23 and L28. Whether operators are working in residential areas, nurseries or livestock pens, Bobcat’s small articulated loaders can reliably take on big challenges day after day. Operators can navigate confined jobsites with ease because of the unique articulating joint. Operators will also leave behind less ground disturbance in Turf-Safe mode, which allows all four tires to turn independently as you maneuver the machine. The L28 model also features a telescoping lift arm, which extends its lift height to more than 8.5 ft. Bobcat offers over 30 compatible attachments.

Notable attachments include the Bobcat angle broom, which easily clears away dirt and light snow; general-purpose buckets, which make quick work of moving snow, dirt, mulch and aggregate; and utility grapples that can lift and move loose materials. Both the L23 and the L28 feature the Bob-Tach attachment mounting system for using a variety of attachments. They can also be equipped with the optional Power Bob-Tach system for changing non-hydraulic attachments without leaving the cab. For more info, visit bobcat.com.

Case Small Articulated Loaders

CASE-SL22EV-1 electric loader

Case Construction Equipment small articulated loaders help contractors of all sizes get more work done, easier and more profitably. Seven machines, including an electric model for noise-sensitive environments, offer construction-grade toughness while minimizing turf damage. Narrow and light with shorter overall length, these machines are easily transportable. They are also easy to use in tight spaces and are designed to upsize opportunities. They’re great for landscaping teams, nurseries, forestry crews and other contracting businesses. Case small articulated loaders deliver construction-grade performance and are compatible with 70+ available attachments.

Larger machines use SAE couplers to further enhance attachment compatibility with skid steers, compact track loaders and compact wheel loaders, while several models also feature telescoping arms for added reach. Designed for operator-first comfort on the job, simplified operator stations offer 360-degree visibility while the machines drive like utility tractors, with steering wheels and loader control. As a result, operators feel comfortable instantly and stay that way for hours. For more info, visit casece.com.

Vermeer’s ATX Compact Articulated Loaders

Vermeer offers extending booms with its ATX lineup

Designed for today’s cramped jobsites, Vermeer compact articulated loaders (ATX) offer versatile solutions for various applications. The Vermeer ATX lineup features four models — ATX530, ATX720, ATX850 and ATX960. The double-H-style telescopic boom is a standout feature, which significantly extends the unit’s reach. This design allows operators to perform tasks like retrieving materials from across a trailer or disposing of debris over tall truck sides with minimal maneuvering. All Vermeer ATXs come equipped with a multi-tool attachment plate compatible with various authorized attachments.

The articulated design of a Vermeer ATX provides tight turning radii and minimal ground disturbance. A multifunction joystick provides control of the telescopic boom and auxiliary hydraulics. The loader’s Dynamic Blocking System (DBS) acts as a differential block, increasing traction when slippage occurs. Four-wheel drive hydrostatic direct-drive motors further limit turf impact while maintaining impressive lift-capacity-to-weight ratios. Vermeer ATXs prioritize safety with features like ROPS/FOPS protection, transport articulation lock and boom lockout bar. For more info, visit vermeer.com.

Mecalac MCL Series

Mecalac offers a robust line of six small articulated wheel loader models, including the MCL2, MCL4, MCL4+, MCL6, MCL6+ and MCL8. The series presents versatility and agility for industries ranging from agriculture to landscape, forestry, snow removal, utility and construction. New hydraulic and maneuverability options, such as M-Drive and Speed Control, ensure versatility. The M-Drive and speed control features allow the loader to function as a tool carrier. This provides control of rpm by hand throttle and speed via a foot pedal. Each MCL in the series has an option for auxiliary hydraulic lines on the boom and at the rear of the machine as well as 12V 3 pole plug. This further enhances versatility by allowing the ability to use hydraulic attachments on either end of the machine.

The MCL Series maximizes attachment possibilities with 7.9 gpm flow on the MCL2 and MCL4 and 15.9 gpm flow on the MCL6 and MCL8. The MCL2 and MCL4 models have a 25-hp engine, with travel speeds up to 7 mph for the MCL2, and 12 mph for MCL4 and 4+. The remaining models come with a 49-hp engine and travel up to 12 mph with a travel speed option up to 19 mph. For more info, visit mecalac.com.

Intrepid Loaders

Intrepid mini articulating wheel loaders

Intrepid loaders have been made in Belgium since 1997 and entered the U.S. market in 2018. These articulating loaders have quickly gained popularity with green industry contractors and other industries. Intrepid loaders are offered in four size classes featuring telescopic booms with the option to order more cost-efficient fixed booms. The smallest, the Intrepid KM85, comes with a fixed boom only and is the smallest articulating loader available in the lineup. It comes with a frame width of only 32 in. The Intrepid KM100 Tele and KM130 Tele are larger 25-hp machines weigh 3,000 and 4,000 lbs. They have lift capacities up to 2,500 lbs and lift heights up to 10.5 ft. The Intrepid KM250 Tele is the largest model available. It has an operating weight of 6,000 lbs, a Yanmar 48-hp engine and a full-size skid steer mount plate.

Intrepid loaders come with different tire options, universal attachment mount plates, additional counterweights mounted, standard hand and foot throttles and all function joysticks. The operator on an Intrepid loader is seated on the rear part of the machine. That’s behind the articulation point and above the engine. For more info, visit miniloaders.com/intrepid-loaders.