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New Bobcat Wins Global Design Award

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New Bobcat Award:  The new Bobcat L85 compact wheel loader (CWL) has been announced as a Product discipline winner in the 2021 edition of the world-renowned iF Design Awards. The organizer of the awards, iF International Forum Design GmbH, is the world’s oldest independent design organization, based in Hannover in Germany. The L85 succeeded in an Automobiles/vehicles subcategory decided by a 98-member jury, made up of independent experts from all over the world, from almost 10,000 entries submitted from 52 countries.

About the iF Design Award

For 67 years, the iF Design Award has been recognized as an arbiter of quality for exceptional design. The iF label is renowned worldwide for outstanding design services, and the iF Design Award is one of the most important design prizes in the world. Submissions are awarded in the following disciplines: Product, Packaging, Communication and Service Design, Architecture and Interior Architecture as well as Professional Concept, User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI). All awarded entries are featured on the iF World Design Guide and in the iF design app.

New Bobcat Wins Global Design Award

New Bobcat Compact Wheel Loader Wins Global Design Award

Working with Bobcat on the L85 was German design company, Munich-based Lumod GmbH. Jaroslav Fišer, Product Line Director for the Bobcat compact loader range in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said: “We are delighted that the L85 has won in the Automobiles/vehicles subcategory of the iF Product Discipline Award and we thank Lumod for their important role in guiding the design of the new machine. The L85 is a product of the Bobcat Innovation Center on our Dobris campus and has been designed to set a new market-leading performance benchmark in this segment of the market.”

 

Designed and Built for Market-leading Ease-of-Use

CWLs are often used by less experienced operators, so the machine’s intuitiveness and maximum visibility are key for confident operation. When developing the L85, Bobcat focused on optimizing both of these features – resulting in the short, steep rear bonnet and fully glass doors on both sides, providing best-in-class side and rear visibility. The rear-view camera and LED lights further improve visibility. All of the operator controls are grouped on the side console, with the joystick connected directly to the seat armrest (unique in this size category). This increases ease-of-use and comfort even further.

Jaroslav Fišer added: “The L85 also brings Bobcat’s iconic ‘One Tough Animal’ brand language into the CWL market. Powerful, agile, robust. The prominent tailgate grill frame in Bobcat orange is the unique feature element. Sophisticated 3D-shape artwork – carrying signet, model number and logo – is new and underlines the machine’s robustness. The interior is equipped with strong branding elements that connect the exterior with the interior and give the operator the powerful Bobcat-like feeling.”

New Bobcat Wins Global Design Award

 

Bobcat has the largest loader portfolio

By entering the wheel loader category, Bobcat now has the largest loader portfolio of any manufacturer in the world. The L85 compact wheel loader is ideal for a multitude of tasks in a very wide range of industries. The L85 can be used in construction, landscaping, rental, industrial, waste, recycling and agriculture, but is also ideal for road work, snow removal, maintenance and many other applications.

The L85 model, introduced at the company’s revolutionary ‘Next is Now’ launch event in October 2020, is now in full production at the Bobcat plant on the Dobris campus in the Czech Republic.

 

Brief Specifications for the L85:

Standard bucket: 0.8 m3

Bucket range: 0.6 – 1.2 m3

Operating weight: 5091 kg

Lift height: 3250 mm

Cab height: 2498 mm

Engine: Bobcat D24

Engine power: 50.7 kW (68 HP)

To watch the product walkaround video for the L85 click here: https://youtu.be/4EfobNEczLU

For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com

 

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Tips for buying a new ride-on mower

Tips for buying a new ride-on mower

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Tips for buying a new ride-on mower : When it comes to purchasing a new ride-on mower, there are many manufacturers and models currently available. Whether you require 2wd or 4wd, petrol or diesel, ground-tip or high-tip, there are lots of options. But, what should you be looking at? Les Malin, Managing Director of Etesia UK answers some common questions.

Q1. Will a ride-on mower cut and collect in the wet and leave a cut comparable to a pedestrian machine?

The obvious answer is some will, while some will not, but the ones that can will be far quicker over a large area compared to a pedestrian mower. However, there is still a need for smaller pedestrian machines, due to access and transport etc. When it comes to cut and collect systems, Etesia is the innovator of every other machine you see on the market today. The French based company created a patented system in the late 1980’s and quite simply, the system is unrivalled. Where models such as our Hydro 80 or Bahia ride-on mowers are useful, is small access points such as gates etc. The British climate is notoriously wet, and on most days when it hasn’t rained, the grass may still be damp, so it’s important to have a machine that is up to the job of cutting and collecting in the wet. The Etesia Professional ride-on mower range have been designed and developed especially for these conditions. They will pick up wet grass clippings and even leaves in the autumn and have been designed to never clog and everything is fully automated.

Tips for buying a new ride-on mower

Tips for buying a new ride-on mower

 

Q2. Can you empty the grass box easily without leaving the seat?

All Etesia ride-on mowers have the option of emptying the grass box directly from the driver’s seat, without ever having to leave the machine. In our larger Buffalo, H100 and H124 models, you can empty the grass box up to 1.24m above the ground which is very useful if you need to empty grass clippings into a skip or hi-tip vehicle for recycling. Unlike competitor machines, they are designed to be able to tip the heaviest of loads without needing additional counterweights to aid stability. This reduces the overall weight of the machine. The most notable benefit is the fact that Etesia machines do not require any additional accessories to unblock them when emptying the machines. Everything is automatic so no accessories or rattling of levers are required – you can simply cut, collect and empty the grass box all while sitting on the machine

Q3. Can I cut and collect and mulch with the same machine?

Mulch cutting has become very popular over the years. Predominately, it’s used as a time-saving form of grass cutting as there is no need to collect clippings or debris and empty. There are also other benefits as mulching can often mean ‘greener’ grass, particularly in times of drought, as the nutrients are put back into the soil after a cut. Most of the Etesia machines have the option of being able to cut and collect or mulch – it really depends on the users’ preference. Just remember the golden rule when mulch cutting and only cut a third of the grass height in a single cut.

Q4. Will a ride-on mower cut high grass?

We do sell a range of Attila brushcutters which have been specifically designed to cut rough grass or brambles and have been known for ‘what-ever’ they can push over, they can cut’, however our ride-on mowers are an affordable solution for taming high grass paddocks and fields, meaning that one machine can be used for a multiple of different tasks.

Q5. Will I be able to fit attachments to a ride-on mower or will I need a tractor?

That really depends on the type of attachments you would like to fit. However, Etesia also sell a range of attachments from scarifiers, snow plough, sand spreader, weeding brush and also a street sweeper which means that one ride-on mower really can be a 365-days-a-year workhorse.

Q6. Will a ride-on mower effectively collect fallen leaves?

Autumn is a busy time in the garden and collecting and disposing of fallen leaves can be a big job. There is no faster or better way to collect those fallen leaves than with a Etesia ride-on mower. Another benefit of using a ride-on mower is that the leaves will be shredded which means you will get more leaves in the grass box and composting will be accelerated.

Tips for buying a new ride-on mower

Tips for buying a new ride-on mower

Q7. Are ride-on mowers safe to use?

When choosing a ride-on mower, ensure it has added safety benefits for the user. You need to consider if you are working on slopes, then it will be worth looking at a model with a differential lock for extra stability on slopes or uneven ground. Etesia is the only manufacturer to offer 4wd and or differential lock across the whole range of ride-on’s with mid mount cutting decks.  Vibration is also a big consideration. Etesia machines are rigorously tested in our state-of-the-art factory in France to meet all EU regulations. We also publish all of these figures on our website. It’s also worth noting that vibration isn’t just a health hazard for the user, but also an indicator of machine efficiency and design. Etesia avoids vibration by fitting correctly balanced components which also has the added benefit of lasting longer. We still have users of our first generation H100 model that is over 30 years old!

Q8. Will the manufacturer arrange a free, no obligation demonstration on our own site?

For the past 30 years, the Etesia slogan has always been ‘Seeing is believing’. For That reason, we also recommend a free, no obligation demonstration to put our machines to the test on your own site. This can be organised by contacting us directly or speaking to one of dealers local to you.

Q9. Will I be able to buy spare parts easily?

Etesia UK holds vast stocks of spare parts for machines dating back to the 1980’s. Selling to the professional market means obtaining spare parts, which is very important to the end user. Consumables are normally off the shelf and we pick 98% of orders consistently. It is only usually obscure items that may catch us out.  Blades and belts are consumable items and will always need to be replaced from time-to-time. If your local dealer hasn’t got the spare part you require, we can usually get it direct from France in no time at all. In addition to here in the UK, we also work with Kramp who stock many of the faster moving items and can supply dealers on their fantastic overnight service, which benefits from longer opening hours during harvest periods.

For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.etesia.co.uk.

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Etesia UK on Twitter @EtesiaUK and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/EtesiaUK. You can also view the latest Etesia videos by visiting www.youtube.com/EtesiaUK.

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Switch to in-house maintenance with Redexim proves a win-win for Bonnyton Thistle FC

Redexim a “win” for Bonnyton Thistle FC

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Redexim a “win” for Bonnyton Thistle FC: Bonnyton Thistle Football Club now have complete flexibility and control over the maintenance of their full-size synthetic pitch thanks to the recent purchase of a Verti-Groom EV and Dragmat from Redexim. Having previously hired in sub-contractors, the switch to an in-house programme has not only saved the club money but has improved the condition of the playing surface.

The synthetic surface was installed at the club in Kilmarnock three years ago and, ordinarily, hosts training for all age groups from seven upwards, along with matches at the weekends. The pitch is inspected regularly against the FIFA standards by Sports Labs which was the first port of call for Ian Higgins – Club & Communities Development Manager and Pitch Maintenance Manager – to discuss the purchase of equipment.

Redexim a "win" for Bonnyton Thistle FC

Redexim a “win” for Bonnyton Thistle FC

“The results we were getting with our contactors was not up to the standard we were looking for, so Sports Labs pointed us in the direction of Ian Lauder at Redexim” explains Ian, who has been involved with the club in various capacities since 1978. “We decided on a Dragmat which we’re using for the regular brushing three times a week, and a Verti-Groom EV to conduct a deeper, more thorough brush once a week.”

“In a short space of time, these two machines have already improved both the visual appearance and playability of our pitch. Before, we had issues with fibres laying flat causing the ball to ‘slip’, not to mention the potential hazard this posed to the players… Now the fibres are upright improving not only the safety but the look of the pitch.”

The Redexim Verti-Groom EV features a combination of tines and brushes to decompact, redistribute and level the infill. Its 2.0m working width means surfaces can be covered quickly, with the working depth of up to 5.5mm easily adjustable to suit conditions. “Hamilton Brothers supplied the equipment and delivered fantastic product training at the installation. Now that I’m on my own with it, I’ve had no issues whatsoever, it’s all nice and straight forward to set-up and use.”

Ian adds, “The club and I are extremely grateful for the funding and support from the Suez Communities Trust Fund, without which, the purchase of the tractor and associated equipment would not have been possible. Thanks to this, we now have the flexibility to conduct the maintenance as and when we need to which should also help to maximise the longevity of our carpet.”

 

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A free ECHO 50V battery worth up to £264

A free ECHO 50V battery worth up to £264

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A free ECHO 50V battery worth up to £264: Purchase an ECHO 50V electric outdoor power tool kit between April and September 2021 and you get a free additional battery worth up to £264.00.

A free ECHO 50V battery worth up to £264: ECHO’s 50V range is an interchangeable battery system whereby one battery fits multiple power tools. So, when you are on the go and busy it is really useful to have a spare battery charged up and ready to minimise downtime. You will also make a considerable saving. For the professional user making the move from petrol powered products to battery, it makes great sense to take advantage of the offer. All you need to do is purchase an ECHO kit comprising a 50V power tool, battery and charger and the second battery comes free.

A free ECHO 50V battery worth up to £264

A free ECHO 50V battery worth up to £264

That means you could choose any of these tools in the 50V 2Ah range with a battery and charger and get the free additional battery: the top handle chainsaw DCS-2500T (you need a valid top handle chainsaw licence to purchase), the rear handle chainsaw DCS-1600, power blower DPB-600, double-sided hedgetrimmer DCH-200, a trimmer DSRM-300 and multi-tool power head DPAS-300 when bought with a battery and charger. The DCS-1600 chainsaw and DPB-600 power blower kits include a second 4Ah battery with the offer. Note the offer does not apply to standalone 50V tools.

The benefits of using battery-driven products have become increasingly appealing to professional users. Like-for-like they compare well in performance terms with their petrol counterparts. Plus, they operate with low noise, low vibration and low running costs with zero emissions when in use. They are easy and safer to operate with no electric plugs or leads and you get maintenance-free brushless motors for long-lasting performance. The top handle chainsaw has a cutting performance on a par with the ECHO petrol equivalent CS-2511TES and the rear handle chainsaw is comparable to a 35-40cc petrol model. The hedgetrimmer features an ergonomic front handle and 62cm double-sided blades and the power blower, trimmer and multi-tool share energy-efficient motor and variable speed controls.

All ECHO 50v products come with a 5-year domestic or 2-year commercial warranty and a 2-year warranty on batteries. The offer runs from 1st April 2021 to 30th September 2021 or whilst stocks last and cannot be combined with any other deal. Find out more from your local authorised ECHO dealer. You can also visit www.echo-tools.co.uk or call 01844 278800 for more information.

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Dennis G860 is top for a Scotsman in Spain

Dennis G860 is top for a Scotsman in Spain

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Dennis G860 is top for a Scotsman in Spain: John Stewart, Head Groundsman at Deportivo Alaves FC in Spain, has said that his new Dennis G860 cylinder mower is ‘right up there at the very top’ when it comes to turf maintenance machinery.

John’s story is unique and while it may end in Spain; it began a lot further away in America. The proud Scotsman originally moved to North Carolina to teach the bagpipes but to help make ends meet he started working on the greens and fairways at the renowned Pinehurst Golf Course. It was here that he discovered his love for all things turf.

Dennis G860 is top for a Scotsman in Spain

Dennis G860 is top for a Scotsman in Spain

After heading back to his native homeland and gaining the necessary qualifications he switched golf for football while in Spain and took up the Head Groundsman’s role at Real Sociedad FC. He later moved to Deportivo Alaves which is where he has since settled with his wife and children.

 

In that time, he has seen the club complete an amazing comeback. Having been left languishing in Spain’s regional divisions, Deportivo Alaves are now back in Spanish football’s top division, the prestigious La Liga. To cap an incredible decade at the club, John was named the best groundsman in Spanish football last year.

 

Under his remit, he concentrates on Deportivo Alaves’ Mendizorrotza Stadium pitch and the training ground. As a self-confessed perfectionist, John is very particular in what machinery and products he uses to maintain the two sites.

 

“I’ve got a wide range of turf maintenance machinery, but I believe in using only the very best,” he said. “I knew that Dennis mowers were up there with the very best and getting one of their machines was always at the back of my mind. Our budget allowed for one and we bought the Dennis G860 eight months ago. As soon as we got it out on the pitch, we saw that it was a fantastic machine.”

 

John claims that the Dennis G860’s interchangeable cassette system, which assists with a wide range of maintenance tasks such as scarifying, verticutting, brushing, spiking, and slitting, was one of the main reasons behind purchasing it.

 

“The cassette system is so simple to use and you can change them in less than two minutes,” said John. “Even changing the cutting height is straightforward – it is just two bolts. This is how it should be because as a groundsman you are always pushed for time. You need equipment which will give you a helping hand.”

 

John has the 8-bladed cutting cassette, verticutting cassette and brush: “The brush has been a gamechanger,” he added. “I am constantly brushing the pitch to keep it clean – it does a brilliant job at removing debris and other bits that fly around the pitch during a game.”

The Dennis G860 features a large diameter front roller with an adjustable scraper which has been designed for a precise height of cut control, giving an excellent finish on every occasion. Lightweight at just 166kg; it is also easy to manoeuvre and comfortable to operate.

 

The handlebar console houses the controls for the throttle, parking brake, roller drive and cutting cylinder drive.

 

“It is incredibly comfortable to operate and for me this is one of its best features,” continued John. “We have a seat attached to the mower and it is just like sitting in your car. When you are using a machine for three or four hours at a time, then ensuring that you are comfortable is a top priority.

 

“It is just a great machine to have and in the growing season it is out on the pitch every single day.”

 

When John is not tending to the Deportivo Alaves’ pitches, he is fully focussed on his other passion – the GroundsmanSport magazine, which has been developed to support professionals in the sports turf sector.

 

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com

 

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Dennis on Twitter and Instagram @DennisMowers and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/DennisMowersUK.You can also view the latest Dennis videos by visiting www.youtube.com/DennisMowers

 

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