The majority of tractors sold to football and sports clubs by Kioti UK are still in the 28-40hp range.
UK General Manager Patrick Desmond said this is largely due to the need to match existing implements and to budget limitations.
“Considerations towards storage will also be an influence,” he explained. “Shipping containers are still a favoured choice with smaller clubs.”
“However, we are also seeing a growing demand for larger tractors, for example our 73hp RX7330PC model. Wider, higher capacity and more time-efficient implements can be utilised which allows golf courses and contractors to maintain or increase work rates and efficiency with smaller teams.”
The restriction to using larger tractors - and last winter was a perfect example of this, Patrick concedes - is when the weather turns wet and ground conditions become saturated, and there is a risk of compaction and damage.
“Kioti recognises this by offering a wide range of tyres, but particularly useful in these situations is the POLS special wheel. The wide radial tyres, using as little as 0.6 bar pressure with a special tread pattern, allow the RX7330PC tractor to float across the surface reducing damage.”
The RX7330PC has a lift capacity of 3075kg and weighs just 2.8 tonnes, he points out.
Technology is also a priority for Kioti, says Patrick. “We certainly know the advantages of guidance systems, and we are looking to work with a partner to be able to offer a box kit option. Kioti Tractors above 60hp, i.e. the DK6010 and RX models are already using stage V engines and only software changes were required to meet the emissions standard because we have been using common rail engines with DPF since 2012.”
From July the Kioti Factory production will change to producing Stage V-compliant models for all small to medium tractors above 25hp.
“The most welcome introduction to the Kioti ranges will be the launch of DK4520 and DK5020 HST models available either with ROPS or the spacious and well laid-out Kioti factory-fit cabin. These two models fill the gap between the existing CK4010 hydrostatic model and the 60hp DK6010,” he adds.
