KUBOTA has added a new model of tractor to its BX60 range - the BX1860.

The BX1860 is powered by a 13.4kW Kubota diesel engine and is the baby of the BX range, which has two other models - the largest being the BX2660 at 19kW.

The power plant is a three-cylinder engine, which combines with a four-wheel-drive capability and two-speed hydrostatic clutch to make the tractor ideal for general purpose duties and front-end loader work.

Standard equipment on the BX1860 includes a high-back seat and widely spaced fenders to allow plenty of leg room and access to the hydrostatic-clutch foot controls.

The tractor can be fitted with a Kubota mowing deck, which is easily adjusted from the tractor seat via a dial located on the operator platform. The dial has 6mm increments, so the mowing height can be varied accurately between 25mm and 100mm.

At the rear of the tractor, the three-point linkage has a lift capacity of 550kg and the hydraulic flow rate is 24 litres a minute.

The fuel tank capacity is 25 litres and the tractor's top speed is 13km/h. An optional cruise control kit reduces the need to have foot pressure applied to the hydrostatic drive foot pedal when working in large, open areas.

Another standard feature on the BX1860 is hydrostatic power steering, as is a clearly marked white-on-black dashboard. The dash includes a digital tachometer.

When fitted with the mowing deck, the tractor can also be used with a Kubota LA203 front-end loader.

Operating the loader is simple thanks to a single lever, four position hydraulic valve located forward of the operator platform, to keep accidental oil spills off the tractor floor.

The front axle is made from cast iron for added strength and stopping the tractor is via wet disc brakes.

The front axle also contains a completely sealed bevel gear for four-wheel-drive, which keeps maintenance to a minimum.

A roll-over protection structure is standard, and an under-bonnet muffler ensures maximum forward visibility.