VIDEO: Kubota releases cab-spec loader

Kubota's latest addition to its wheel loader range  – the articulated and cab-spec R065, has touched down in Australia.

Currently the flagship of Kubota's wheel loader series, the R065 features a power output of 64.4hp and delivers a maximum bucket breakout force of 41.8kN.

It is the brand's first wheel loader model with a cab, which according to Stephen Manson from NSW's Kubota dealership Australian Hammer Supplies, helps open up new markets and applications.

"That'll put us into the market for landscapers who'll need to work in all weather," he says.

"Also councils for council clean ups where something light and transportable is needed, which can be put at the back of a truck to collect rubbish at the side of the road, and be taken away when the job is done."

The R065 is available with either a fully enclosed and air-conditioned cab, or with a ROPS/FOPS certified canopy. Compared to Kubota's existing models, the R420 and R520, the R065 offers a larger operator station, Manson adds.

"We've increased the visibility in the cabins now and they feature plenty of glass," he says.

"They've changed the traditional forward and reverse lever to a rocking switch on the one handle now, so your forward and reverse, boom up, boom down, bucket roll in, bucket roll out are all a one-handed operation."

The R065 features an electronic transmission with four modes – normal mode, attachment mode, power mode and eco-mode. Normal mode is suitable for everyday load and carry operations, while attachment mode allows the operator to independently control travel speed from flow to the attachments. Eco-mode helps to conserve fuel up to 15 per cent over other modes, according to Kubota, while power mode exchanges travel speed for an increase of about 40 per cent in traction power to excavate a hard packed pile with ease.

A new hydraulic hitch system allows easy changing of attachments from inside the cab.

"Kubota's also done a lot with the loader frame and made it a level lift now, so the machine will not tip forward when it lifts any load," Manson adds.

For more information on the R065 or Kubota's wheel loader range, visit kubota.com.au.