As it is with almost any type of vehicle, there are always the popular ones and the less popular ones. The same applies to skid steers and other heavy machines, however these ratings are based purely on sales volumes and therefore cannot be taken as the ‘primary’ reason to buy a machine as the sales are based on a variety of factors that may not be entirely associated with productivity.
The top ten skid steers that are presented here (in not any particular sequence) are entirely based on the frequency of skid steers taken on rentals (skid steers for hire) and sales volume. Before readers choose to base their purchase of hire of skid steers, the best method of choosing what is right for a project is entirely based on application and project needs and should not be based on ratings such as the skid steers that are to be presented here.
To start off, the Bobcat S70 Skid-Steer Loader with a purchase price range of between $20,000-$25,000 (depending on region and tax), the machine’s operating weight is approximately 1312 KGs with a Rated Operating Capacity (ISO) of 345 KGs. Fitted with a 23.5 HP diesel powered engine with a fuel tank capacity of 24.6 L, this machine is compact, fuel efficient and versatile making it the perfect choice for urban projects, home improvement projects and projects that have limited space.
At number two we have the Caterpillar 226D3 Skid Steer Loader priced at approximately $50,000 mainly attributed to the 67 HP C2.2 CRDI and the rated operating capacity of 700 KGs (Operating Weight – 2653 KGs), this machine lives up to the Caterpillar brand and is popular among construction rental companies due to the power it offers and attachment versatility.
Third in line and also popular within the skid steer for hire spectrum is the Japanese Kubota SSV65 which is even pricier compared to the Caterpillar 226D3 Skid Steer Loader at approximately $54,000. Fitted with the latest V2607-CR-TE4 Kubota engine and able to spit out 64.0 HP, this machine offers enough breakout force and high tipping load for its class at 1769 KGs.
The optional alternatives of the same machine with enhanced features may bring cost of purchase higher. However, the rental versions of the Kubota SSV65 are usually the standard versions. John Deere comes in at number four with the John Deere 316GR with a slightly lower price tag comparative to the Caterpillar 226D3 and the Kubota SSV65 at approximately $44,000.
The machine has a rated operating capacity of 794 KGs and powered by a 65 HP diesel engine. With an operating weight of 2800 KGs and a tipping load of 1587 KGs, this machine is suitable for most projects. At fifth place, it is the New Holland L313 which is priced reasonably at an approximate $40,000 (standard version) which is fitted with the latest ISM N844L-F diesel engine and a 60 L fuel tank. The machine which sports hydro-static w/chain final-drive to wheels has an operating weight of 2300 KGs and offers a tipping load of approximately 934 KGs.
Once again, just to be clear, there are no ‘one size fits all scenarios’ with skid steers and projects as each project is unique and therefore would have its own sets of requirements. As such it is necessary to choose or hire a skid steer based on the specific needs of a given project.
Size, power, capacity, operating weight, tipping loads, reach, breakout force and available hydraulic attachments are all elements that must not be overlooked when purchasing or hiring a skid steer for projects.
