2018 International Forest Industries IFI June July 2018 Digital | Page 47

Forwarders The mid-size forwarders, including the 1110G and 1510G, are equipped with features that boost machine power and operator precision C apacity and manoeuvrability have long dominated reviews of forwarder technology, as suppliers worked to outdo each other on, first, their ability to simply carry more wood and, second, the ease with which smaller models can move between stems during thinnings. This year, however, looks slightly different. Yes, there is affirmation of the manufactures previous work to bring units up to current standards in the aforementioned strengths but, importantly, there is a greater focus on the p recision and workability of the cranes that do the loading. This focus plays into the other secondary consideration of operator comfort and general operability, as the loading process plays a key role in driver visibility. This is far from an overriding theme but it is a hint toward a new frontier in the battle to produce the best forwarder on the market. John Deere designed its line of G-Series forwarders, including the 1110G, 1210G, 1510G and 1910G models, to meet the daily demands of a logging operation. Each machine features a powerful Final Tier 4 diesel engine and cabs designed to maximize operator comfort. Additionally, the G-Series machines are available with International Forest Industries | JUNE / JULY 2018 43