Small Articulated Loaders

A small articulated loader, sometimes called a compact articulated loader or mini wheel loader, is a compact machine with an articulation joint that allows the rear tires to follow the path of the front tires. This design creates a tight turning radius and keeps the machine exceptionally turf friendly, minimizing surface disturbance when working on lawns or finished landscapes. 

Small articulated loaders are used across landscaping & grounds maintenance, agriculture, snow removal and property management. Common applications include: 

• Moving and transporting sod, brick, pavers, fencing materials, mulch, soil, and other loose materials 
• Tree care tasks, including hauling cut limbs and moving landscape supplies 
• Site preparation and grading 
• Light excavation and general property upkeep 
• Snow removal on driveways, sidewalks, pathways, and trails 

With an optional Bob-Tach® system, operators can quickly switch between attachments such as buckets, pallet forks, augers, grapples and snow tools. This turns one machine into a multi-season, all-purpose solution for tough jobs in small spaces. 

Selecting the right small articulated loader depends on your application, terrain, and performance needs. Key factors to consider include: 

Application focus: 

Small articulated loaders are widely used in landscaping, tree care, snow removal, and property maintenance. Their articulated steering and turf-friendly design make them especially well suited for transporting sod, brick, pavers, fencing materials, and loose materials, as well as handling brush, logs, and debris in tree care applications. They are also a popular choice for clearing snow on driveways, sidewalks, and multi-use trails where surface protection matters. 

Lift capacity and reach: 

Choose a model that matches the weight and placement requirements of your work. The L23 offers a rated operating capacity of 1,395 lb (straight) and 1,159 lb (articulated) with a compact footprint for tight spaces. The L28 adds a telescoping lift arm that extends reach to 30.9 inches and increases rated operating capacity to 1,534 lb (straight) and 1,222 lb (articulated), making it a better fit for stacking and loading tasks that require additional reach. 

Cab comfort and travel speed: 

Compared to mini track loaders, small articulated loaders offer faster travel speeds between work areas and available enclosed cab options on select models. This makes them more efficient for jobs that involve frequent movement across a property and more comfortable for operators working in cold, wet, or dusty conditions. 

Ground conditions and turf protection: 

Articulated steering allows the rear tires to follow the path of the front tires, reducing scuffing and surface damage. This turf-friendly operation makes small articulated loaders ideal for finished lawns, landscaped areas, and sensitive ground conditions where tracked machines may leave marks. 

Attachment versatility: 

Small articulated loaders can be equipped with a wide range of Bobcat attachments to support year-round productivity, including buckets, pallet forks, grapples, augers, and snow tools. The Bob-Tach® attachment mounting system is available as an option, allowing for quick attachment changes based on job requirements. 

Your local Bobcat dealer can help you compare models, cab options, and attachment configurations to choose the small articulated loader that best fits your work and operating environment. 

Small articulated loaders stand out for their turf-friendly performance, precise handling and impressive lift capabilities in a compact footprint. Here’s how they compare to other machines in the Bobcat lineup: 

• Versus skid-steer loaders: Small articulated loaders use an articulation joint instead of skidding tires, reducing surface damage and improving maneuverability in tight spaces.
• Versus compact wheel loaders: Small articulated loaders are lighter and easier to transport, while compact wheel loaders are larger and built for heavier-duty applications with higher hydraulic flow, higher lift height, and heavier lift capacities.
• Versus mini track loaders: Small articulated loaders offer faster travel speeds and greater lift height, reach and operator comfort compared to mini track loaders, which excel in extremely confined spaces or soft underfoot conditions where zero ground disturbance is required.

This combination of reach, lift capacity and gentle ground impact makes small articulated loaders the ideal choice when you need power and productivity without sacrificing surface protection.

Operating a small articulated loader is simple. Step into the cab, start the engine and use steering wheel and joystick controls to drive and operate attachments. For additional confidence, Bobcat offers training courses and operator resources to help new operators learn safe, efficient operation and give experienced operators opportunities to sharpen their skills.

Bobcat offers three models: 

• L23: The Bobcat L23 small articulated loader delivers impressive lifting capability in a compact and turf-friendly package.   
  • Minimal ground disturbance   
  • Articulation joint offers tight-turning ability and turf capability   
  • 43.2 inches wide  
  • Impressive 1,395 lb. lifting capacity 
• L28: Compared to the L23, the L28 delivers a step up in performance with the addition of an innovative telescoping lift arm.  
  • 1,534 lb. rated operating capacity  
  • More size and weight   
  • 46.5 inches wide  
  • Telescoping lift arm provides extra reach on demand 
• L35: The Bobcat L35 is the largest and most powerful small articulated loader in the lineup, offering increased capacity, stability, and comfort for more demanding work. 
  • Increased operating size and weight for improved lift performance 
  • 54.2 inches wide  
  • 2,072 lb. rated operating capacity 
  • Available enclosed cab for all-weather operation 
  • Ideal for operators who need maximum capability while maintaining turf-friendly articulated performance 

All models are under 7,000 lb. operating weight, making them easy to transport on a trailer, and small enough to get through tight residential or jobsite spaces. 

You can find Bobcat small articulated loaders through our nationwide network of Bobcat dealers. 

• Dealer Locator: Find a local dealer near you 
• Search Inventory: See available inventory online 
• Build & Quote: Configure your loader exactly how you want it 

Buying through a Bobcat dealer provides more than just access to equipment. Dealers deliver: 

• Expert guidance to help match the right model and configuration to your specific needs. 
• Hands-on demos so you can experience machine performance before you buy. 
• Flexible financing and leasing options through Bobcat Financial. 
• Ongoing support with parts, service, and routine maintenance to protect your uptime. 
• Attachment knowledge to help you get the most out of your loader across seasons and applications. 

Partnering with a Bobcat dealer ensures you not only get the right machine but also the long-term support to keep it working at peak performance. 

Pricing depends on the model, configuration, and attachments you choose. For current offers, financing and exact pricing in your area, visit your local dealer or browse available inventory online.