Product roundup: Kubota debuts its fastest UTV yet

Updated Feb 19, 2018
Photo: KubotaPhoto: Kubota

Kubota unveiled its fastest utility vehicle yet, the RTV-XG850 Sidekick, at the National Farm Machinery Show.

Powered by 48-horsepower gasoline engine, the Sidekick can reach speeds up to 40 mph, compared to the RTV-X models’ top speed of 29 mph.

The UTV is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission with Centrifugal Clutch (CVT Plus) and Idle Speed Control (ISC). For better handling and stability, Kubota says the Sidekick has enhanced speed-sensitive Electronic Power Steering.

The user has a selectable full-time 4WD system for better traction and control while engine-assisted braking helps with providing safety during descents. For operator and rider comfort, splint-bench style seating provides comfort and ample space. Underneath the seating are large compartments for storage.

“Customers can confidently take on any task or terrain with comfortable, convenient and capable features, and with the speed to get there fast, up to 40 mph fast,” said Roger Gifford, Kubota product manager, utility vehicles.

The Sidekick can tow 2,000 pounds and comes standard with a trailer hitch. Its cargo bed can hold up to 15.2 cubic feet or a half ton of tools or material. An optional electric hydraulic lift is available for fast and easy dumping.

Kubota’s newest UTV is also able to provide power for various types of equipment. A regulator and fully-shielded generator controlled by a microcomputer ensure stable power for attachments such as a work light, heater or wench.

Customers can customize their driver experience with a number of accessory options, including a bed extender and LED headlights.

The UTV will be offered in four different colors – Kubota Orange, RealTree AP Camo, green and black. The Sidekick is available for order now and will arrive at dealerships this spring.

For more information, click here.

Generac to introduce line of outdoor power equipment at trade show

Photo: GeneracPhoto: Generac

Known for its portable and standby generators, Generac is launching an outdoor power equipment line called Generac Pro.

These new products are said to be designed specifically for commercial users, such as landscape contractors, and will be launched at The Rental Show in New Orleans on Feb. 18-21. The Generac Pro equipment includes:

  • XC Series portable generators (6500 and 8000 watts)
  • XD5000E diesel-fueled portable generator
  • 3800 PSI belt drive pressure washer (3.2 gpm)
  • Walk-behind field and brush mowers with 26-inch and 30-inch cut
  • Tow-behind field and brush mower with a 44-in. deck
  • Walk-behind trimmer with a 22-inch cutting width
  • 60-inch power grader
  • 34-ton hydraulic wood splitter with a road tow kit
  • Chipper/shredder with a road tow kit
  • Stump grinder
  • Trash and semi-trash water pumps
  • Towable backhoe with a 12-inch bucket
  • Power wagon with an 8.0-cu.ft. bucket and 800-lb. hauling capacity

Many of the products are powered by the company’s G-Force engine that is found in its generators.

“The many retailers, contractors and rental companies we’ve spoken with in developing the Generac Pro line have told us they want a high-quality, high-value alternative to Honda-powered products,” said Derik Gatzke, vice president of sales for Generac. “We believe powering the Generac Pro line with Generac G-Force engines meets that need.”

Generac Pro will be supported by Generac’s network of parts and service providers. Additional products are planned to launch in summer 2019.

Husqvarna releases reformulated line of machine oils

Husqvarna announced it has reformulated its line of oils to improve machine performance and longevity.

The new formulations are made specifically for Husqvarna products, and the company says they are able to lower operating temperatures and cause greater detergency inside engines. According to the company, the updated oils and lubricants were improved by using premium additives and semi-synthetic base oils that exceed industry standards.

Photo: HusqvarnaPhoto: Husqvarna

“Husqvarna’s commitment to ensuring the optimum performance of our state-of-the-art equipment extends to the entire product ecosystem, from the design through to accessories,” said Giovanni Crespi, Husqvarna’s director of regional product management for North America. “Using proprietary blends of synthetic and virgin base stocks, we’ve reformulated our oils and lubricants to run cleaner and last longer, helping our customers experience even greater performance and efficiency from their Husqvarna tools.”

The improved 2-stroke oils now have Verified Engine Formula (VEF) certification denoting that they have been designed, tested and approved specifically for Husqvarna engines. Certification is achieved after a series of stress tests in multiple engines over thousands of hours.

The Husqvarna XP+ 2-stroke oil is JASO-FD certified, meaning it has met and exceeded the toughest oil standards. It also has a low-smoke formulation to ensure the lowest operating temperature.

Meanwhile, the HP Synthetic Blend 2-stroke oil has a formulation that contains fuel stabilizer to reduce the risk of engine failure caused by spoiled gas.

Husqvarna also tweaked its X-Guard premium bar and chain oil with anti-wear properties that reduce friction. A tackifier adheres the oil to the bar and chain for longer and provides less ‘sling off.’ Three formulations are available: All Season, Low Temperature and Biodegradable, which does so in less than 28 days.

Landscapers who purchase 2-stroke gas-powered Husqvarna handheld products can extend their product warranty from 2-years to a 4-year limited warranty when they purchase Husqvarna branded oil and fuel.

Target Specialty Products launches new fertilizer line

Target Specialty Products is introducing a complete line of professional turf fertilizers under the brands Turf Fuel G and TS Pro.

Both will use Scotts PRO Technology. Turf Fuel G has been formulated to address the most demanding needs of professionals while the TS Pro line is designed to deliver performance and consistent quality for a broad spectrum of turf demands, according to Target Specialty Products.

Each line is able to provide a steady flow of nutrients to help the grass produce a quick color response that last, thanks to the Scotts PRO Technology.

“Our new Turf Fuel G and TS Pro product lines will offer customers the best solutions tailored for professional turf applications,” said Todd Ferguson, Target Specialty Products’ president. “Our partnership with Scotts – one of the most trusted names in lawn care – allows us to truly leverage and engage customers with their latest advancements in turfgrass management.”

Willow Creek Paving Stones adds Tekstone pavers

The newest member of the Willow Creek Paving Stones (WCPS) family is the Tekstone pavers, which are durable interlocking concrete paving stones.

Photo: Willow Creek Paving StonesPhoto: Willow Creek Paving Stones

Offering a contemporary look, Tekstone pavers have a smooth, flat surface for a modern, streamlined appearance.

The pavers are 12”x 12” and 6 cm thick. They can be used for patios, walkways and more. Tekstone comes in four colors – brown, natural gray, black and prairie tan. The black Tekstone is the only pave that can come with a 7 cm thickness. Tekstone can use contrasting colors to design a checkerboard pattern or create a contrasting texture and color as a border.

“Tekstone is a versatile paver that can be used to create a contemporary hardscape surface that compliments both modern and historic properties,” says Burt Plett, WCPS manager. “Each paver covers a larger surface area, which makes it easy to install for landscape professionals as well as do-it-yourselfers.”

Tekstone pavers can be installed in half-bond, one-third bond or stacked-bond patterns. It can also be combined with the WCPS Cobblestone family of pavers.

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