Kubota, the world leader in compact tractors and diesel ride on mowers, showcased a selection from its extensive tractor and groundcare product ranges at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2009.
Among the machines featured was the Kubota GR1600-11 13.5hp diesel ride-on mower which outperforms more powerful petrol equivalents and is ideal for those with larger garden areas - making it suitable for both domestic and commercial applications.
High on performance, yet low on running costs, the GR1600 provides effortless mowing, with exceptional versatility and simplicity of operation, for a professional looking, well manicured lawn every time.
Extremely frugal, highly reliable and requiring little routine maintenance, the GR1600 boasts a superb specification, incorporating Kubota's latest generation diesel engine and direct grass collection and easy dump system, making it the perfect garden machine.
With its higher horsepower, the 21hp Kubota GR2100 diesel ride-on mower meets the needs of amateur and professional gardeners alike. A more powerful mower for heavy duty use, the GR2100 has all the operator features of the GR1600, plus power steering and a hydraulic deck lift.
Where the GR2100 does differ from the GR1600 is in its Glide Steer technology, which allows the machine to turn more sharply than a conventional mower. When mowing around posts or trees, the front tyres turn at a staggering 70 degrees, whilst the inner rear wheel is disengaged allowing it to run freely to eliminate turf damage. Once straight the all-wheel drive is re-engaged to provide ultimate traction.
Also featured was the new G23 professional ride-on mower. The low dump model enables easy hopper removal and, with its 23.3hp Kubota 3 cylinder ETVCS water-cooled diesel engine, it offers exceptional power and efficiency for the most extensive applications.
Providing effortless operation, combined with outstanding productivity, for day long mowing operations, the G23 incorporates a highly durable gear driven twin cut mower deck that ensures maximum efficiency and collection performance. The blade overlap of 120mm eradicates uncut green lines for a clean cut finish every time.
Complementing these exceptional mowers were models from Kubota's market-leading compact tractors range, including the BX2350. The high power to weight ratio of the BX2350 sub-compact tractor gives it the performance and versatility of a compact tractor with the agility of a ride-on mower. Powered by Kubota's 23hp, 3 cylinder indirect injected, liquid cooled diesel engine, the BX2350 makes light work of the most demanding jobs.
The new B1220 12hp compact tractor, which was also showcased. hails a new era in this horsepower sector which Kubota has dominated since introducing its first B Series tractor, the B6000, in the mid 1970's. It provides rugged performance, versatility and comfort to undertake a multitude of demanding tasks. A conventional type gearbox with 6 forward and 2 reverse gears ensures that the optimum operating speed is achieved.
Four-wheel drive and differential lock provide maximum traction capability and rear PTO powers a wide range of implements. And, with a new sleek design for improved visibility and comfort, the B1220's enhanced operator environment, including a larger seat and wider driver area with more leg room, together with an increased fuel capacity of 14 litres, results in reduced fatigue and longer working hours.
The class-leading Kubota RTV900 is the ultimate all-terrain utility vehicle. Designed and built on professional tractor technology, the RTV900 is an extremely rugged machine and has set new standards in all-terrain utility vehicles.
Featuring a unique transmission system, advanced automotive type suspension, power steering and the highest ground clearance in its class, this four-wheel drive vehicle will take you comfortably across the most difficult terrain. And where required four-whee drive can be de-selected for reduced tyre wear and enhanced fuel consumption when driving on firm surfaces.
Powered by a Kubota 22hp E-TVCS (Three Vortex Combustion System) three cylinder water-cooled diesel engine, easily accessible for servicing, the RTV900 is equipped with a unique three-range variable hydrostatic transmission system (VHT). The system is actuated by a single foot pedal that gives infinitely variable forward and reverse travel up to a maximum speed of 25mph.
In action, VHT delivers rapid acceleration, excellent traction across all surfaces and impressive hill climbing ability thanks to the use by Kubota of an additional hydrostatic assist motor that 'kicks in' when climbing a slope, delivering instantly more torque to the drive wheels. The VHT system also provides dynamic braking for safe, controlled hill starts and descents without having to rely solely on the vehicle's brakes.
Recognising that the RTV900 can be used for both people-carrying and load movement, Kubota offers the vehicle either with a bench seat or individual seating, both types suitable for two large adults held safely in place by side grab rails and seat belts. The hydraulically-tipped rear cargo box has a load capacity of 500kg (1,100lbs) within generous internal dimensions of 1.32m wide x 1.18m long x 0.29m deep (52in x 47in x 11.4in). The hydraulic tipping bed is not available on the General Purpose model.
With four variants to choose from - General Purpose, Recreational, Worksite and Street Legal models - including a camouflage body for the Recreational version, the RTV900 is ideal for the most demanding of applications.
Kubota machines have a legendary reputation for quality, performance, reliability and outstanding value-for-money, and a national network of Kubota tractor and groundcare dealers provides the highest standards of advice and aftersales service.
For more information about Kubota's market leading compact tractors, ride-on mowers, and their class-leading RTV900 utility vehicle, together with details of your local dealer, contact Kubota Tractor & Groundcare Division Tel: 0800 023 1111/ROI: 1 800 848 000 Email: sales@kubota.co.uk or visit www.kubota.co.uk