LOGGING & BIOMASS NEWS
John Deere adds two models and offers additional updates to G-Series Motor Grader lineup
John Deere is adding to its best-inclass G-Series motor grader lineup with the addition of two models — the 620G / GP and 622G / GP . On display at CONEXPO-CON / AGG 2017 , the 620G / GP and 622G / GP are designed for cities , townships and contractors that prefer lighter and more fuel-efficient graders on the job . The Moline-based manufacturer is also adding a dual joystick option on all Grade Pro ( GP ) models , along with ripperstow automation , courtesy lighting and an updated high-resolution reverse camera monitor , which are new to all G / GP models .
“ Our G-Series lineup is all about offering contractors and governmental customers the grader of ‘ choice ,’ allowing them to choose the right machine for their application . Customers asked for a lighter and more fuel-efficient grader , and the 620G and 622G answer the call ,” said Luke Kurth , product marketing manager , motor graders , John Deere Construction & Forestry . “ We ’ re enthusiastic about the new dual joystick option as well . Now operators and owners can select from the traditional antler rack mechanical controls , interchangeable GP fingertip controls or dual joysticks , whichever they prefer and are most productive with — all while retaining the steering wheel .”
Both the 620G and 622G boast the fuel-efficient Final Tier 4 6.8L John Deere diesel engine with 215 horsepower ( 160.4 kilowatts ) and 225 horsepower ( 167.9 kilowatts ), respectively . The generous horsepower , torque and blade pull deliver the power and lugging ability to get through tough spots . The operating weights of the 620G ( 40,350 pounds / 18,302 kg ) and 622G ( 42,060 pounds / 19,078 kg ) are ideal for applications requiring smaller graders . Eco mode , standard on all John Deere graders , helps optimize fuel usage , decreasing operating costs by an additional five to 10 percent compared to the larger 670G and 672G models .
The new dual joystick option provides intuitive control for operators who prefer joystick control to the standard antler rack . Hand motion is minimized during direction changes and gear shifting . In contrast to the competition , this option provides
The new 620G / GP and 622G / GP motor graders are designed for cities , townships and contractors that prefer lighter and more fuel efficient graders on the job
improved comfort of controls by eliminating the need to “ twist ” for blade circle or articulation .
Other updates to the G-Series line include the addition of a 7-inch ( 17.7 cm ), high-resolution reverse camera monitor that provides a clear picture to the operator when reversing around obstacles . Standard courtesy lighting turns on the machine lights as the operator exits the machine at the end of the day , which is especially important in dark conditions . On GP models , ripper-stow quickly returns the ripper to its fully raised position at the end of pass simply by doubletapping the control . The G-Series features eight models ( 620G / GP , 622G / GP , 670G / GP , 672G / GP , 770G / GP , 772G / GP , 870G / GP , 872G / GP ) with net horsepower ranging from 215 to 300 ( 160.4 to 223.8 kilowatts ). Four of the units — the 622G / GP , 672G / GP , 772G / GP and 872G / GP — feature six-wheel drive , enabling them to power through the toughest cuts with power flowing to all wheels . Six-wheel drive gives operators increased traction , the ability to get more work done in fewer blading passes and a 30-percent increase in blade pull .
ROV is the new ATV ?
When the ATV or quad bike made its big debut at trade fairs about 10 years ago , many people sniffed and called it a toy . Today it is a self-evident work tool on a forest property . With experience from Europe and North America , Yamaha Sweden believes the next work tool is now making its entrance – the ROV or Recreational Off-road Vehicle .
With three seats , a sturdy cargo bed with a capacity of 272 kg , a roof and a 36-litre fuel tank enabling a good range , the Yamaha Viking is contributing to this expansion of forest owners ’ machine fleets .
“ It ’ s also classed as a tractor so it ’ s fine to drive it on road ,” says Thomas Lindh , department manager , Yamaha Motor Sweden . In Sweden demand is just getting underway .
“ We ’ re seeing larger places , including up in the northern mountains , investing in ROVs . But we also believe that the owners of large forest properties will be among the buyers . Just as with the ATV , accessories like forest trailers and snow blades will be important . The ROV should be a tool with many applications .”
Forest trailers a big seller Lindh is also seeing that the accessories to Yamaha ’ s ATV range are what is drawing the attention of visitors to the company ’ s stand at Elmia Wood .
“ Today ’ s ATV buyers are very knowledgeable and have many of their own ideas , which we try to follow up on . The accessories we develop are made in Sweden by
Thomas Lindh believes the Yamaha Viking ROV will soon be a common sight on forest properties
Leja and are totally adapted to the requirements we have here . Elmia Wood is by far our most important meeting place with our customers . Here we get suggestions and ideas for future products .”
The company ’ s biggest seller is the forest trailer , which is attached to the ATV to create a simple and nimble driving unit . “ Perfect for picking up windthrow or bringing in firewood .”
12 International Forest Industries | AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2017