Cover Story: Kubota M5-1 ROPS tractors

options galore

There’s horsepower, versatility and an array of options to draw on with the release of Kubota’s M5-1 ROPS model tractors in standard and narrow configuration

The M5-1 roll-over protective structure (ROPS) engine technology had been redesigned to give maximum horsepower at the lower engine speed of 2,400 rpm, Kubota announces. Kubota senior product manager for tractors and precision farming Konstantin Blersch says ROPS tractors make up 20 per cent of all tractors in their horsepower category in Australia and with 92-103hp, the M5-1 series fills a gap in the market. “We’re excited to bring the M5-1 ROPS model to Australia. Its advanced simplicity allows for easy movement and short height increases its practicality,” Blersch says. “The ROPS model allows the operator to stay in contact with workers around the tractor while remaining seated at all times. “The higher horsepower at lower speed in the M5-1 ROPS also means greater fuel efficiency and will ensure it gets the operator through a long day of work.” The M5-1 standard ROPS transmissions have been kept simple with 18 gears, while still delivering the operator plenty of choice. In the standard models, six synchronised gears and three ranges team up with a smooth power shuttle to cover speeds from

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slow creep to fast transport work. This makes it suitable for applications such as low and high-speed tillage, Kubota says. The transmission of the M5-1 narrow features dual speed splitters to offer 36 speeds for a multitude of applications in orchards and vineyards. The Kubota X46 front loader has been matched to the ability of the M5-1 standard ROPS models, with a specific hydraulic kit to suit the ROPS models. This gives the operator more versatility particularly for handling hay straw and silage. The new M5-1 ROPS line-up, including the M5091, M5111 standard and the M5091 and M5101narrow, has been released to fit among Kubota’s M40 Series ROPS and cabin and M5-1 cabin models. Like the cabin models, the ROPS models feature the proven Kubota V3800 CR Tier 4i engine with four cylinders, 3.81 litres displacement, turbocharging, common rail and a particulate filter. The M51 standard ROPS models are available from your nearest Kubota dealer now, while the M5-1 narrow models will be arriving for delivery from January 2021.

1. The new Kubota M5-1 ROPS tractor 2. Kubota M5-1 with power harrow 3. Three transmission ranges allow for slow creep to fast transport work 4. The M5-1 standard ROPS transmissions have been kept simple with 18 gears 5. The M5-1’s dashboard

Its advanced simplicity allows for easy movement and short height increases its practicality.