Large Wheel Loaders

A large wheel loader, sometimes called a front-end loader or payloader, is a heavy-duty machine designed to move high volumes of material quickly and efficiently, with an articulation joint that makes it nimble and maneuverable in tight spaces. These loaders feature large buckets, high horsepower, and exceptional breakout force, making them essential for jobs that demand power and endurance. 

Large wheel loaders are widely used in: 

• Road and bridge construction 
• Mining and quarry operations 
• Aggregate and material handling 
• Industrial loading and stockpiling 
• Large-scale snow removal 

With Bobcat attachments, including buckets, forks and grapples, operators can configure a large wheel loader for multiple applications across industries. 

Consider the following factors when selecting a machine: 

1. Material type and volume: Match bucket size to material density (rock, gravel, soil, or snow). 
2. Horsepower needs: Higher horsepower supports faster cycle times and more digging power. 
3. Jobsite layout: Account for travel distances, underfoot conditions, and loading height requirements. 
4. Attachment compatibility: Identify whether you will use forks, grapples, plows, or specialty buckets. 

Your Bobcat dealer can help evaluate your jobsite conditions and recommend the right model and configuration for maximum productivity. 

Large wheel loaders are purpose-built for heavy-duty, high-volume material handling, and they stand apart from other machines in the Bobcat lineup in both size and performance. Here’s how they compare: 

• Versus compact wheel loaders: Large wheel loaders deliver more horsepower, bigger buckets, and higher operating weights, making them better suited for demanding jobs and long duty cycles.

• Versus small articulated loaders: Large wheel loaders emphasize endurance and large-scale productivity, while small articulated loaders are compact, turf-friendly, and designed for lighter material handling in confined spaces.

• Versus compact loaders (skid-steer loaders and compact track loaders): Large wheel loaders provide greater lift capacity, breakout force, and bucket size for bulk material movement, while compact loaders excel in maneuverability and attachment versatility.
• Versus backhoe loaders: Large wheel loaders specialize in material handling with higher-capacity buckets and cycle times, while backhoe loaders combine digging and loading functionality in one machine. 
• Versus mini track loaders: Large wheel loaders have significantly more horsepower, lift capacity, and operator comfort, while mini track loaders are intended for light-duty work and extremely tight spaces.

Understanding these differences helps ensure you choose the right loader for your specific jobsite needs, whether it’s high-volume bulk handling or more compact, versatile work.

Operating is designed to be intuitive. The cab layout includes steering and joystick controls for smooth articulation, bucket control, and travel. Operators benefit from ergonomic seating, excellent visibility, and digital displays that track machine performance. 

Bobcat also offers operator training courses to help new users gain confidence, as well as safety training courses to ensure safe, efficient operation. 

Bobcat large wheel loaders deliver serious size and strength across a four-model lineup: 

• L205
  • 2.5-4.0 cubic yard bucket capacity 
  • 142 hp 
  • 27,274 lbs operating weight 
  • 11,535 lbs ROC (with bucket, straight); 10,185 lbs ROC (with bucket, articulated) 
  • 23,070 lbs tipping capacity (with bucket, straight); 20,370 lbs tipping capacity (with bucket, articulated) 
• L235
  • 3.0-4.5 cubic yard bucket capacity 
  • 159 hp 
  • 29,488 lbs operating weight 
  • 11,926 lbs ROC (with bucket, straight); 10,512 lbs ROC (with bucket, articulated) 
  • 23,853 lbs tipping capacity (with bucket, straight); 21,025 lbs tipping capacity (with bucket, articulated) 
• L255 
  • 3.5-5.0 cubic yard bucket capacity 
  • 172 hp 
  • 30,903 lbs operating weight 
  • 12,420 lbs ROC (with bucket, straight); 10,947 lbs ROC (with bucket, articulated) 
  • 24,839 lbs tipping capacity (with bucket, straight); 21,894 lbs tipping capacity (with bucket, articulated) 
• L285 
  • 3.5-5.5 cubic yard bucket capacity 
  • 189 hp 
  • 34,487 lbs operating weight 
  • 13,682 lbs ROC (with bucket, straight); 12,061 lbs ROC (with bucket, articulated) 
  • 27,364 lbs tipping capacity (with bucket, straight); 24,121 lbs tipping capacity (with bucket, articulated) 

Every machine in this category is engineered for long-haul durability, operator comfort, and maximum uptime.

Large wheel loaders are available through Bobcat’s network of authorized dealers. Dealers also provide parts, service, and support to keep your machine operating at peak performance. 

• Find a dealer near you 
• Request a demo 
• See special offers 

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 jobsite needs. 
• Hands-on demos so you can experience machine performance before you buy. 
• Flexible financing and leasing options
• Ongoing support with parts, service, and routine maintenance to protect your uptime. 
• Attachment knowledge to help you get the most out of your excavator 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.