A Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Bobcat

Your Guide to buying the best Bobcat

Overview

Bobcat is a popular brand of skid steers, compact track loaders, and other heavy equipment used in construction, landscaping, and agricultural industries. This buying guide provides detailed information about Bobcat's range of machines, offering helpful advice on what to consider when making a purchase. We'll discuss the essential features to look for when buying a Bobcat, as well as useful tips on how to select the best machine for your needs. With our expert insights and the right information, you'll be able to confidently purchase a Bobcat that meets your requirements.

Key features

  1. Size: First and foremost, customers should consider the size of the Bobcat they need. Bobcats come in a variety of sizes that range from small, compact models to large, heavy-duty models. Selecting the right size for the job is important for getting the most out of the machine.
  2. Power: Bobcats are available with different power options, from gasoline and diesel engines to electric motors. Depending on the job and environment, customers should consider the power option that best suits their needs.
  3. Attachments: Bobcats come with a variety of attachments, such as buckets, couplers, and augers. Customers should consider which attachments they will need and select a Bobcat that supports them.
  4. Safety: Customers should consider safety features such as operator restraint systems, warning lights, and safety shields. This is especially important for those who may be operating the Bobcat in close quarters.
  5. Cost/Value: Finally, customers should consider the cost versus value of the Bobcat they are considering. Bobcat machines are known for their durability and dependability, making them a great value. However, customers should consider how much they can realistically afford.

See the most popular Bobcat on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Power and Durability: Bobcat offers a range of power and durability options, from small and portable machines to larger and more robust models. This makes them great for a variety of applications, from construction sites to landscaping.
  • Versatility: Bobcat machines can be outfitted with different attachments, allowing them to perform multiple tasks such as digging, loading, grading, hauling, and more.
  • Operator Comfort: Bobcat machines feature ergonomic designs, making them comfortable to operate and reducing operator fatigue.
  • Safety: Bobcat machines are equipped with the latest safety features, including seatbelts, operator presence systems, emergency shut-off switches, and armrests.
  • Maintenance and Reliability: Bobcat machines are designed for low maintenance and require minimal servicing. They are also known for their reliability and can withstand heavy use.
  • Value: Bobcat machines offer excellent value for money, providing great performance for a relatively low cost.

Cons

  • Price: Bobcats are generally more expensive than other compact construction equipment.
  • Maintenance: Bobcats require regular maintenance and can be costly to repair.
  • Size: Bobcats are often larger and heavier than other compact equipment, making them difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
  • Fuel: Bobcats usually require higher-octane fuel than other compact equipment, which can add to the cost of operating one.
  • Weather: Bobcats are not designed to be used in wet or icy conditions, and can become damaged if exposed to such elements.

Best alternatives

  1. John Deere Skid Steer - A reliable skid steer suited for a variety of jobs, such as landscaping, agriculture, and construction.
  2. Cat Skid Steer - With an impressive fuel economy and powerful engine, this skid steer is great for heavy-duty applications.
  3. Kubota Skid Steer - Compact size lets you move around tight spaces, perfect for those hard-to-reach spaces.
  4. Mustang Skid Steer - This skid steer has the highest horsepower of any skid steer on the market.
  5. Case Skid Steer - A great all-around skid steer with superior operator comfort.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Bobcat Skid Steer Loader - A skid steer loader is a compact machine with powerful lifting capability, allowing the operator to quickly and easily load material into the cab.
  • Attachments - Bobcat attachments can be added to the skid steer loader, such as buckets, grapples, and forks, to expand its capabilities.
  • Safety Gear - Safety gear is essential when operating a Bobcat skid steer loader. This includes safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots, and a hard hat.
  • Replacement Parts - Replacement parts for Bobcat can include hoses, filters, and other components that need to be replaced due to wear and tear.

Common questions

  1. What is the price range of Bobcat? The price of Bobcats ranges greatly depending on the age, condition, size, and model. Generally, brand new small Bobcats with limited attachments can start in the range of $20,000 while larger and more complex models may be much more expensive. Used Bobcats can start at around $12,000.
  2. What type of fuel does a Bobcat use? Bobcats typically use diesel fuel.
  3. What tasks can a Bobcat perform? Bobcats can perform a variety of tasks, such as excavation, landscaping, grading, demolition, material handling, and more.
  4. What type of maintenance is necessary for a Bobcat? Bobcats require regular maintenance such as oil changes, air filter changes, and other minor repairs.
  5. What types of attachments can be used with a Bobcat? Bobcats can be equipped with a variety of attachments, including buckets, forks, grapples, and trenchers.
  6. How much noise does a Bobcat make? The noise level of a Bobcat depends on the model, but most are fairly loud and can reach up to 90 decibels.
  7. What type of operator training is needed to use a Bobcat? Most Bobcat models require an operator to have some type of certification before they can use it.

Trivia

According to the Bobcat Company website, Bobcat machines have been used to build some unusual and unexpected structures. In 1992, the company assisted in the construction of a full-scale replica of a Viking ship in Norway. The ship was used as part of a celebration of the 1000th anniversary of the Viking Age in Norway. Bobcat machines were used to move the large logs used to construct the ship, which was over 68 feet long. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.