The Powasol ExtremeX Regional Championship from 1 to 2 June at the 2019 Royal Agricultural Show in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal was a resounding success thanks to the generous donation of a B730 tractor loader backhoe (TLB) by the Durban branch of Bobcat Equipment South Africa to course designer and builder MC Maintenance.

The Bobcat B730 TLB played a crucial role in 90% of the track build, ranging from trenching for tyre obstacles, piling and compacting ramps, and making a specific gradient required for a water pit. “Time is always of the essence when building these tracks,” MC Maintenance Director Daniel Mclaughlin comments.

“We had a brilliant operator on loan with the Bobcat B730 TLB well, who was extremely efficient and friendly. It makes it a lot easier when you do not have to worry about the optimal performance of the machine itself, and can pay attention to other aspects of the project,” Mclaughlin points out. “The operator intuitively knew what to do when a particular obstacle feature was required, for example, and how to get the maximum efficiency out of the machine.”

When Mclaughlin approached the Bobcat Durban branch about the Powasol ExtremeX Regional Championship, it expressed an immediate interest in the project, especially as it did not have a dedicated stand at the 2019 Royal Agricultural Show.

What was of particular benefit to Bobcat Equipment South Africa was that show attendees saw the B730 TLB in action during the track build from 1 to 2 June. It was also used to spruce up the track and keep it in tip-top condition during the race itself.

While the skidsteer loader is synonymous with Bobcat, the larger TLB is not as well-known. Hence it received valuable exposure during the track build, especially as it could be seen in action, as opposed to just a static stand display.

Mclaughlin attributes the successful event to the enthusiastic support from the Bobcat Durban branch. “Their response was so brilliant that we are definitely approaching them to become involved in future events.”

The B730 TLB made short shrift of the track build, taking about 16 hours for the entire project, from start to finish. “This is definitely a machine to rival its competitors, due to its versatility and ruggedness. I urge anyone involved in construction, civils, and general maintenance to consider it,” Mclaughlin stresses.

The B730 TLB is a truly versatile ‘back-to-basics’ machine. From digging to trenching, breaking, or even materials-handling, this TLB can get the job done in no time at all. Features include a 100 hp turbocharged engine, a powershift transmission as standard, 18" front tyres and two-wheel steer, superior breakout force with double loader bucket cylinders, and reduced maintenance costs due to a bolt-type cylinder head design.

It boasts an open-centre hydraulic system, and is equipped with a tandem gear pump, providing more control and reducing operating costs. In addition, it combines the high-flow capabilities for rapid movement with the low-power requirements for precise control.

High-performance digging, lifting, and trenching at maximum reach are facilitated by superior ground clearance and a 25° back-ramp angle, which makes climbing over steep slopes that much easier.