Posted: 01/22/2016
Top 5 Bobcat Machines to Make Snow Removal Easy
Getting ready for snow removal season? Power through winter weather and keep high-traffic areas such as driveways, parking lots and sidewalks clear by using the right compact snow removal equipment. Whether you plan to rent or buy, choosing the right machine for your weather conditions and work can save valuable time and money.
Many machines and vehicles can perform snow and ice removal tasks, but few offer the power, versatility and agility of compact equipment. Skid-steer loaders, utility vehicles (UTVs) and utility work machines equipped with snow attachments can work in both open areas and confined spaces. Here’s a list of our top five snow machines:
Top Snow Removal Machines
- Skid-steer loaders — Designed to turn within their own length, skid-steer loaders have the maneuverability, nimbleness and traction that make them very popular for removing snow in open areas or tight spaces. Unlike a pickup truck with a snow blade, a skid-steer loader can lift and load snow for transport. An enclosed cab with heat, joystick controls and a suspension seat are a few of options that help make your job easier. The optional two-speed transmission also increase efficiency by shortening travel time and increasing plowing performance.
- All-wheel steer loaders — The all-wheel steer loader is like owning two machines in one. You can quickly change from all-wheel steer mode to skid-steer mode with the flip of a switch. The steerable axles of the all-wheel steer loader increase comfort when riding or turning on hard surfaces and minimize sliding when pushing snow. The all-wheel steer mode also greatly reduces rubber marks left by the tires when turning on concrete. When it comes to pushing snow, your speed improves the blade performance. By using the two-speed transmission, you can choose the high-speed setting to build momentum — resulting in the snow rolling with the blade rather than the blade just pushing it.
- Mini track loaders — Mini track loaders are easy to operate and economically priced. The walk-behind machine can easily access and clear tight spaces — such as sidewalks and walkways — that are too small for larger equipment. The controls are simple and require little effort to operate. Speed, direction, lift and tilt controls are at the tips of your fingers.
- Utility vehicles — Two-wheel and four-wheel drive UTVs provide compact solutions for quickly removing light to moderate snow on sidewalks and pathways. They also have the muscle and traction needed for larger snow removal jobs. Stay warm while working with an optional enclosed heated cab.
- Utility work machines — These machines combine the most practical features of a UTV, pickup truck, compact tractor and skid-steer loader into one machine. The four-wheel drive system provides the traction and pushing power needed for fast and efficient snow removal. They have all-wheel steering and a tighter turning radius than most pickup trucks. The machine can travel as fast as 18 mph, which improves plowing capabilities by enabling snow to roll. The enclosed cab — with optional heat — has a suspension seat, easy-to-use controls, cruise control and tilt steering.
Pair each machine with the right attachments, and you’ll be unstoppable in the snow.
