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Page 48 • December 19, 2021 • www.constructionequipmentguide.com •Mini & Compact Equipment Section • Construction Equipment Guide Hummerbee Makes Good Impression On Mich.-Based Excavator Contractor

At a recent equipment demonstration, Bob Best took notice of the stout, compact articulated loader busily feeding Bandit machines and was immediately impressed.

At a recent equipment demonstration hosted by Bandit Industries near its headquarters in Remus, Mich., the manufacturer’s extensive line of tree chippers and stump grinders weren’t the only machines to catch the attention of Bob Best, owner of Best Excavation, based in Alma, Mich. Best took notice of the stout, compact articulated loader busily feeding the Bandit machines and was immediately impressed.

As it turned out, the loader was on loan from another Michigan-based manufacturer, Hummerbee Rough Terrain Equipment.

Brian Kulling, president of Hummerbee, also was on hand at the Bandit demo event and Best sought him out to learn more about the company and its compact articulated loader.

Over the 35 years that Hummerbee has been in business, the company has gained a worldwide reputation as a premier manufacturer of rugged and reliable 4-wheel drive articulated forklifts for the beekeeping industry.

With the rising popularity of compact machines in the construction, tree care, farming, forestry, landscaping and municipal maintenance industries, Hummerbee saw an opening for a U.S.-made, heavy-duty, compact articulated loader. Applying its decades of experience in the design, engineering and production of rough-terrain machines, the company set about the development of a telescopic, compact articulated loader that would bridge the gap between skid steer loaders / mini wheel loaders and full-sized wheel loaders. The goal was to design a compact loader that is costeffective yet rugged enough to meet the challenging demands of wide-ranging work applications.

The result is the Hummerbee 721R, a 4-wheel drive compact articulated loader equipped with a 126-in. telescopic, dual- arm boom, 4,500-lb. tipping load, and is capable of getting around the job site at a speed of up to 14 mph. Powered by a Tier IV Final, 74 hp Kohler turbo diesel engine, Hummerbee’s articulated loader employs a 2-speed hydrostatic transmission with on-the-fly shifting.

Best Excavation specializes in post construction site work to prepare projects for final landscaping. Much of the company’s work consists of backfilling around foundations and site development, material placement and leveling on projects within a 40-mi. radius of the company’s home base.

Established in 1987 by Fred Best, he grew the company into what it is known as today. Best Excavation is now owned and managed by Fred’s nephew, Bob Best. As the new owner, he brings a new scope to the projects that Best Excavation has been completing for more than 30 years.

Best hopes to continue to find new ways to complete daily operations more efficiently and deliver the same quality service his uncle built the company around. That’s why the Hummerbee caught his attention, but will it fit the bill?

Eager to test the new Hummerbee compact articulated loader in a real-world work application, Kulling readily agreed to provide Best Excavation one of its machines for an extended trial period. Best’s immediate impression when operating Hummerbee’s compact articulated loader was that getting accustomed to the machine was extremely easy.

“The controls are like a cross between a wheel loader and a garden tractor,” said Best. “The forward / reverse rocker foot pedal, joystick controls and steering wheel are intuitive and very responsive.”

Best also was impressed with how much weight the Hummerbee compact articulated loader could lift. The 721R can manage a 2,500- to 3,000-lb. operating load, depending on the tire size and counter weight package.

“Unlike many machines of this size, the Hummerbee isn’t tippy or forward heavy at all,” he said. “The telescopic boom offers an advantage in loading a truck, providing access to the full truck bed as opposed to just the back half.”

Best found that another advantage of the Hummerbee is that the location of the operator’s position, which is higher up, provides exceptional sight lines on the job site, making it safer to operate.

Best also liked the fact that the Hummerbee is a wheeled loader as opposed to a track machine.

“With a tracked machine, you have to watch how you turn to avoid tearing up the ground on a finished grade, we didn’t have that issue with the Hummerbee. And because it’s articulated, you can really operate in tight spots,” he said.

A multitude of skid steer-style attachments are compatible with the Hummerbee compact articulated loader to equip the machine for a wide range of job functions. And the true, 21gpm auxiliary hydraulic oil flow extends the machines capabilities, which is a unique feature in the compact articulated loader world.

“The Hummerbee articulated loader is easy to operate,” said Best. “An entry level person could jump on and go to work. It’s versatile and robust enough to meet the needs of professional contracting companies.”

For more information, call Brian Kulling at 800/943-8677 or visit hummerbee.com.  CEG

Rich Droste (L) of Hummerbee and Bob Best, owner of Best Excavation, with the Hummerbee 721R 4-wheel drive compact articulated loader.

ROMCO Equipment

www.romco.com 1519 W. Belt Line Road Dallas (Carrollton), TX 75006 214-819-4100 Austin, TX 512-388-2529 Buffalo, TX 903-322-5602 Carmine, TX 979-278-3570 Corpus Christi, TX 361-881-4891 Ft. Worth, TX 817-626-2288 Longview, TX 903-758-5576 Mercedes, TX 956-565-0100 San Antonio, TX 210-648-4600 Stephenville, TX 817-626-2288

Volvo Construction Equipment & Services

www.vcesvolvo.com

Bakersfield Bakersfield, CA 661-387-6090 Corona Corona, CA 951-277-7620 Fresno Fresno, CA 559-834-4420 Sacramento Sacramento, CA 916-504-2300 San Diego Lakeside, CA 619-441-3690 San Leandro San Leandro, CA 510-357-9131 Turlock Turlock, CA 209-410-6710

TOUGH TASKS SEEM SMALL FROM HERE.

The G-Series Skid Steers and Compact Track Loader are majorly tough customers, because tough customers like you helped design them. With your input, we were able to push the limits of durability, engine power, and fuel capacity in all the ways our customers need. And with fewer grease zerks and extended oil-change intervals compared to earlier models, servicing is even simpler than before. Available in three models, including a radial-lift machine, the G-Series can take down the biggest jobs — and your operating costs — all at the same time. To learn more, call or visit us today.

4RIVERS EQUIPMENT

www.4riversequipment.com

Colorado Springs, CO

719.475.1100

Frederick, CO

303.833.5900

Albuquerque, NM

505.884.2900

Farmington, NM

505.326.1101

Hobbs, NM

575.392.6923

El Paso, TX

915.598.1133

YELLOWHOUSE MACHINERY

www.yhmc.com

Broken Bow, OK 580-584-3222 Enid, OK 580-233-5000 Tulsa, OK 918-245-5926 McAlester, OK 918-423-2555

Amarillo, TX

806-335-1681

Dalhart, TX

806-884-4994

Lubbock, TX

806-748-4700

Abilene, TX

325-677-2291

Midland/Odessa, TX

432-580-3337

San Angelo, TX

325-651-3337

HONNEN EQUIPMENT CO.

www.honnen.com

Denver, CO 303-287-7506 800-646-6636 Durango, CO 970-247-4460 Grand Junction, CO 970-243-7090 Ogden, UT 801-627-0049 Salt Lake City, UT 801-262-7441 St. George, UT 435-652-8003

Casper, WY

307-266-4474

Cheyenne, WY

307-316-9800

Gillette, WY

307-685-4288

Rock Springs, WY

307-382-5284

Idaho Falls, ID

208-523-9915

DOGGETT HEAVY MACHINERY SERVICES

www.doggett.com

9111 North Freeway Houston, TX 77037 713-679-6700 Beaumont, TX 409-842-1754 Bryan, TX 979-823-1905 Corpus Christi, TX 361-289-0727 San Juan, TX 956-787-0001

Victoria, TX 361-570-6666 Alexandria, LA 318-442-0455 Baton Rouge, LA 225-291-3750 Broussard, LA 337-837-9481 Covington, LA 985-893-3005 Longview, TX 903-758-3326

Lufkin, TX 936-634-8801 Monroe, LA 318-343-8787 Shreveport, LA 318-631-3090 St. Rose, LA 504-466-5577 Tyler, TX 903-592-8900

Page 52 • December 19, 2021 • www.constructionequipmentguide.com •Mini & Compact Equipment Section • Construction Equipment Guide Cat’s New 304, 305 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavators Increase User’s Performance

Built to deliver an improved customer experience, the new 4.4 ton Cat 304 and 5.5 ton Cat 305 CR next generation mini hydraulic excavators deliver more power to the pumps, higher bucket breakout forces and deeper standard digging depths to increase performance by up to 20 percent over their E2 series counterparts.

Their grease intervals and extended filter service life, combined with common components throughout the line and flat, easy-to-replace side panels, deliver up to 10 percent lower owner and operating costs, according to the manufacturer.

The new 304 and 305 CR models are the final machines to be reengineered to the Cat next generation mini hydraulic excavator line concept. From the 1.6 to 11 ton class models, all 17 to 20 Cat mini hydraulic excavators in the range (depending on region) offer common features and consistent controls layout to simplify training and operator adaptation.

New 304 Increases Stability

Built with a new reduced radius design, the 304 features a narrow, 66.9-in. track width, 10 in. slimmer than the 304 E2, for more versatility and access to confined spaces. While narrower, the new 304 design increases performance, balance and stability. Its reduced radius allows for greater stability, both 360-degree and when traveling with loads, while its extra counterweight option takes the model to an even higher level of stability.

Next Generation Comfort, Savings

Compact Performance of 305 CR

The new engine on the Cat 305 CR excavator delivers nearly 9 percent greater power to increase machine performance. Hydraulic system improvements provide higher breakout forces — 49.2 kN (11,061 lbf) bucket, 28.3 kN (6,362 lbf) standard stick and 25.2 kN (5,665 lbf) long stick — to improve digging efficiency in hard rock applications. It also offers 5.6 in. deeper dig depths than the 305 E2, giving it more application flexibility. Its compact radius swing reduces overhang when working to the side, while its 78-in. track width and new extra counterweight option help to optimize stability and lift performance in confined spaces.

Common to most Cat next generation mini hydraulic excavators, the sealed and pressurized cab enclosure is available with heating and/or air conditioning for all-weather climate control. The cab’s large glass areas plus skylight afford all-around visibility. The large display with advanced touchscreen option provides intuitive machine function control and easy monitoring of critical operating parameters. A canopy option is available in some regions.

Daily maintenance checks for the 304 and 305 CR are quickly made from ground level through side doors. Expanded use of common parts throughout the line plus their damage-resistant exterior construction help to reduce parts inventory investment and lower repair costs. Increased service intervals mean these excavators spend more time on the job and less time in the shop.

For more information, visit www.cat.com. 

Advanced Efficiency

Both excavator models now offer an angle dozer blade option to optimize machine flexibility in backfilling and finish grading applications. In addition to offering ample above- and below-grade travel with standard float function for easy clean-up, the angle blade moves 45 degrees left or right of center. Increasing efficiencies and reducing operator interaction with final grading, angle blade movement is controlled by the right-hand joystick, while the left joystick handles machine drive.

Tailoring machine weight to job requirements, interchangeable counterweight packages offer the balance between low ground pressure and lifting performance. The Cat Stick Steer System simplifies machine control by allowing the operator to switch from conventional lever/foot-pedal steering controls to low-effort joystick operation. Two travel speed ranges and standard cruise control facilitate moving around the job site with minimum operator interaction.

Meeting U.S. EPA Tier IV Final and EU Stage V emission standards, the turbocharged Cat C1.7 Turbo engine delivers higher power than the previous C2.4 engine. Standard auto idle, auto engine shutdown and efficient load-sensing hydraulics with variable displacement pump help to lower fuel usage at the site for more affordable operation.

High main-relief pressures, coupled with flow rates, generates the hydraulic capacity for high digging and lifting forces and more efficient use of a range of attachments. Complete with quick-disconnect lines, the standard auxiliary system provides the choice of one-way, two-way or continuous flow.

OKLAHOMA TERRITORY CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

www.oklahomaterritoryequipment.com Oklahoma City, OK 405-917-9191 Tulsa, OK 918-835-7200

Garton Tractor Inc.

www.gartontractor.com 2400 N Golden State Blvd. • Turlock, CA 95382 209-632-3931 Fairfield, CA • 707-425-9545 Merced, CA • 209-726-4600 Modesto, CA 95356 • 209-538-0911 Newman, CA • 209-862-3760 Santa Rosa, CA • 707-586-1790 Stockton, CA 95206 • 209-948-5401 Tulare, CA 93274 • 559-686-0054 Ukiah, CA 95482 • 707-468-5880

CLM EQUIPMENT CO. INC.

www.clmequipment.com Lafayette, LA 337-837-6693 Lake Charles, LA 337-625-5942 Houston, TX 281-598-2500

BANE MACHINERY INC.

www.banemachinery.com Dallas, TX 800-594-2263 Ft. Worth, TX 800-601-2263 Tyler, TX 800-594-2200

COLUMBIA WESTERN MACHINERY

Columbiawesternmachinery.com 11125 SW Tonquin Road Sherwood, OR 97140 503-454-0902

Cooper Equipment Co.

www.cooperequip.com 201 Commerce Blvd. Georgetown, TX 78626 512-930-5151

APCO EQUIPMENT TRI-WEST TRACTOR, INC.

www.tri-westtractor.com 6281 Southfront Road Livermore, CA 94551 925-455-8200 Westrax Machinery

www.westraxmachinery.net 19618 S. Susana Rd. Dealer Imprint Ar eea Rancho Dominguez, CA 90221 800-411-4717 19885 Temescal Canyon Rd Corona, CA 92881 800-411-4717 611 N. Golden Key St. Gilbert, AZ 85233 602-397-8173 Shafer Equipment Company, Inc.

www.shaferequipmentco.com 955 Greg Street • Sparks, NV 89431 775-235-4069

Rasmussen Equipment Co.

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www.fmiequipment.com 11111 E Trent Avenue Spokane, WA 99206 509-927-4071 1947 Saint Street Richland, WA 99354 509-505-5997

Bobcat Debuts Two Reimagined Toolcat Utility Machines

Bobcat has refreshed its utility work machine lineup with the all new UW53 and UW56 Toolcat utility work machines. These two models come equipped with a variety of enhancements — both inside and outside the cab.

Replacing the previous models of the Toolcat utility work machine lineup, the UW53 and UW56 have the capability for increased attachment versatility, allowing operators to easily turn their equipment into multi-purpose hauling, lifting, mowing, towing and loading machines, according to the manufacturer.

These new models have totally redesigned LED lighting, providing increased light dispersion and intensity using less power. The embedded road lights are integrated within the front fenders (instead of on the bottom of the front windshield), providing optimal protection and unobstructed illumination for better visibility in all directions. The rear work lights also have changed to LED, to optimize for better light dispersion.

The newly updated dual-drive response system has been enhanced to provide smoother acceleration and deceleration, automatically recalling drive response settings. The first setting provides a smooth, responsive traction for driving between tasks, and the second setting changes the drive system to a more aggressive response when operating in low range to maintain hydraulic and traction power for uninterrupted work.

A new optional rear-view camera gives operators ideal visibility for tasks that require regular machine maneuvering. The rear-frame location of the camera provides an unobstructed view for connecting a ball hitch (UW56 model only).

In addition to these performance enhancements, operators will find several significant comfort updates, including a totally redesigned interior with an integrated 5-in. display, enhanced ergonomics, component placements and storage spots all within easy access. All controls are in one place for increased operational control, including all secondary functions.

For enhanced uptime and serviceability, operators will find a larger fuel filter, increased operating time between required oil filter changes, increased corrosion protection and fender shape/material, larger incab access points and improved wiring harness.

For more information, visit https://www.bobcat.com/utility-products/toolcat/features. 

WORLD’S SMALLEST BACKHOE NOW WITH TRACKS –JCB-1CXT

Max Dig Depth: 10 ft 1 in / Gross Engine Power 49 HP / Loader Bucket Breakout: 1,466 lb JCB 1 CXT, a TRACKED BACKHOE is a versatile machine, offering skid-steer and mini excavator performance in one package. The 1CXT provides superior maneuverability, an optional handheld tool auxiliary, as well as a universal quick hitch that is compatible with most of your skid steer attachments. Standard full cab with integrated heating & air-conditioning. Due to its compact size and under 10,000 lbs weight, the 1 CXT is easy to tow in a trailer without a CDL (where local regulations allow). NO DPF / DEF AFTERTREATMENT. Operators environment friendly with easy to use controls and all daily checks and greasing can be carried out at ground level on a JCB backhoe.

To learn more about JCB 1CXT, visit www.jcb.com/en-us/products/backhoe-loaders/1cxt

/ @JCBNA JCBNA /JCBNA @JCBNA JCBNA @JCBNA JCBNA w .jcb.com w.jcb.comwww

www.ProConJCB.com 461 Pioneer Place Las Cruces, NM 88005 1-844-JCB-IRON 5050 East 58 Avenue Commerce City, CO 80022 1-844-JCB-IRON 2240 W. Buckeye Road Phoenix, AZ 85009 1-844-JCB-IRON

www.swjcb.com 2935 Lincoln Road Las Vegas, NV 89115

702-432-2200 Cisco Equipment

www.cisco-equipment.com 620 N. Bell Street San Angelo, TX 76903

800-496-0271

2707 Slaton Hwy Lubbock, TX 79404

806-745-9595

1706 S 1st Street Artesia, NM 88210

575-748-1314

520 SE Loop 338 Odessa, TX 79762

432-367-9181

Page 56 • December 19, 2021 • www.constructionequipmentguide.com •Mini & Compact Equipment Section • Construction Equipment Guide Ditch Witch RT70 Ride-On Trencher Maximizes the Operator Experience

To enhance utility and the fiber contractor’s experience, while tackling tough jobs on tight schedules, Ditch Witch has introduced the RT70 ride-on trencher.

The newly designed trencher is equipped with features that increase operator comfort and visibility, helping to boost efficiency and profitability on the job site, according to the manufacturer.

For example, the ergonomically designed operator station features an open layout with a 120-degree swivel seat, more leg room and intuitive controls. This enhanced visibility gives operators a full view of the machine — from front tire to back tire and the attachment — helping operators of any experience level increase productivity.

The RT70 also includes a cooling fan to reduce temperature levels in the operator station by moving hot, uncomfortable exhaust out of the side of the machine rather than toward the operator like traditional fans. This helps keep workers safer and more comfortable during long days.

“At Ditch Witch, we understand the challenges that electric and fiber contractors face daily,” said Steve Seabolt, product manager, ride-on tractors, Ditch Witch. “The RT70 is compact and maneuverable, yet powerful. This new unit, with its unique features, will allow the operator to tackle tough jobs in tight conditions.”

Powered by a 72 hp Yanmar Tier IV Stage V compliant diesel engine, and built with a narrow footprint of 73-in. wide, the RT70 rubber-tire trencher can handle heavy-duty jobs and still easily maneuver around tight job sites, corners and cul-de-sacs with ease. This makes it the perfect go-to trencher to take on even the toughest jobs, according to the manufacturer. It also is available with crab and coordinated steering modes, which allows operators to turn the machine with a steering wheel instead of using two separate levers. This makes it easier to use and frees them up to focus on other parts of the job. The machine’s modular design features a single base unit with the option to move from tires to tracks. And with different attachments, plus a variety of optional add-ons, operators can endlessly reconfigure their machine throughout its lifecycle to customize it for specific job site needs.

The RT70 is built to increase operator productivity with daily maintenance points in one easy-to-access location and a single-piece, easy-open hood. Fast and simple maintenance means that operators can spend their valuable time where it matters most — on the job site.

For more information, visit ditchwitch.com/ride-on/rt70.

Kirby-Smith Machinery

www.kirby-smith.com 6715 W. Reno Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73127 800-375-3339 McAlester, OK 918-310-1550 Tulsa, OK 800-375-3733 Amarillo, TX 800-283-1247 Lubbock, TX 866-289-6087 Odessa, TX 877-794-1800

Abilene, TX 877-577-5729

Tri-West Tractor, Inc.

www.tri-westtractor.com 6281 Southfront Road Livermore, CA 94551 925-455-8200

Ditch Witch of East Texas

www.witchequipment.net 7717 Highway 69 Tyler, TX 75706 903-592-6226

Toro’s Dingo TX 700 Ideal in Tight Spaces

Toro has added the Dingo TX 700 to its already extensive Dingo line-up.

Due to the Dingo TX 700’s small size and powerful punch, it’s the ideal machine for both homeowners and contractors working within the confines of tight spaces. It packs 700 pounds of rated operating capacity into its small footprint, bringing Toro-level power to everything it touches, according to the company.

“The compact size and flexibility of the Dingo TX 700 is bound to be a game-changer for operators,” said Kyle Cartwright, marketing manager at Toro. “The fact that it’s small, but incredibly capable, increases the applications for the Dingo TX 700 on the job site. This Dingo has the potential to be the compact go-getter of the operation.”

Featuring Dingo TX 1000 traction controls and a dedicated stand-on platform, the Dingo TX 700 is easy-to-use and boasts increased comfort and visibility. Even if the buyer is new to operating heavy machinery, it will quickly become second nature, the company said.

The versatility of Dingos, or compact utility loaders, is well-known — and the Dingo TX 700 is no different. In fact, its small size further increases versatility by allowing it to reach areas other Dingos may not. It’s also compatible with dozens of attachments, meaning the machine can be used for a wide range of jobs.

Attachments include multiple types of buckets, adjustable forks, a grapple, leveler, utility blade and more. Completing more work using fewer machines is a major advantage, plus, the Dingo TX 700 doesn’t require as much storage space as its larger counterparts.

It’s easy on turf, too. The Dingo TX 700 is available in both narrow track and wide track configurations — the wide track option is equipped with the industry tested Camso track system. The system features a less aggressive tread pattern that’s gentle on turf and minimizes damage, perfect for keeping pristine lawns intact.

The new Dingo TX 700 will be available starting mid-year 2022.

For more information, visit www.toro.com. 

Ditch Witch of Arizona

www.ditchwitchaz.com 4028 S. 36th St. Phoenix, AZ 85040 602-437-0351 Tucson, AZ 520-579-0261

EquipmentShare

www.equipmentshare.com 295 S Redwood Rd North Salt Lake, UT 84054 385-308-5516 2590 Main Street Chula Vista, CA 91911 619-510-6825 412 E Gowan Road North Las Vegas, NV 89032 725-221-0051