Top 5 Reasons why an RTV is needed on the farm
Working an orchard or vineyard is a big job and one that takes both sharp thinking and the ability to roll up the sleeves and just get things done. The right equipment is essential. To get people and supplies from point A to point B quickly, an RTV (Rugged Terrain Vehicle) is a must-have item for a growing operation.
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RTV400C
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RTV1140
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RTV100C
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RTV1140PX
Orchard & Vine spoke to Kubota experts Jeff Cook, co-owner of Earth Power Tractors and Equipment and Gord Fraser General Manager with Island Tractor and Supply for their take on why an RTV is necessary for orchards and vineyards. According to Fraser, after growers have purchased an RTV they don’t know how they functioned without one.
1) Ease of getting in and out.
While most tractors aren’t exactly difficult to get in and out of, nothing beats the ground level, “jump and go” access of an RTV. For the driver, passengers and goods, RTVs are far more convenient to access and make use of than trying to use a tractor as a transport vehicle. Plus with an RTV like the 24.8 horsepower, two to four seat capacity, Kubota RTV1140, there is plenty of room for people and goods.
2) There are a wide range of makes and models available.
“There are numerous brands on the market, each with their own advantages,” said Fraser. Buy one that best suits your situation.”
Cook pointed to the Kubota Utility Vehicle line, as a leader in the market today. From the 16 horsepower RTV400C1 to the 24.8 horsepower with cab RTVX1100C there is something to fit any operation.
3) Safety.
Cook pointed to the Hydrostatic transmission in the Kubota vehicles which provide more safety and better pulling power. Orchards and vineyards are on hills, which means a lot of braking. Cook stated, “The Kubota unit will hold the hill without braking. The other models have a belt system. They are faster, but you have to constantly brake on hills and brake to slow down.”
4) If you want a work vehicle, you want an RTV.
Fraser summed it up simply, “If you want speed and one person transport buy an ATV. If you want a reliable work horse, but an RTV.”
This opinion was seconded by Cook who pointed to terrain to make the decision between ATV or RTV.
“Do they need speed or power?” Cook asked, “Think safety.”
Plus, with the new Kubota RTV-X Series, Cook said there is front and rear independent suspension and more ground clearance for the frame. This allows for dynamic braking for steep inclines and limited slip front difference.
“Kubota RTVs are made to work,” he noted.
5) RTVs are easy to demo and have good dealer support.
Dealers are always willing to provide demo vehicles for on-site trials runs. Nothing will reveal what requirements exist like trying the vehicle first-hand in real world situations. Plus with proven dealer support from locations like Earth Power Tractors and Equipment in Ontario and Island Tractor and Supply on Vancouver Island, fixes are quick and easy with a partner who understands the need to have equipment and keep it running at its best.
Talk to your local equipment dealer to determine the best time to take an RTV test drive and as Fraser noted, you may just end up wondering how you ever managed without one.