CK20 regrets ?

Slackdaddy · Mar 26, 2008

Looking hard at the CK20HST (bobcat CT120), I would have one if it had 3 range trans, had a good integrated backhoe mount (Kub 2x20 series).

Does anyone who has bought a CK20HST:

1) find the 2 speed trans a "regret" or show stopper ?
2) Has anyone put another backhoe on, that has a better designed sub
frame ?

Thanks,
Slack

IslandTractor · Mar 26, 2008

I loved my CK20. However, if I had to identify one thing to change it would have been the 2 speed HST. I ended up doing almost all work including mowing in low range. The new Kubota B series with its 3 range HST will surely cause Kioti to upgrade as well. I rarely needed to take the CK20 on the road and would happily have traded top speed for a midrange level gearing on the HST.

I did not find any problem with the KB2365 subframe. It mounted easily and I never had trouble with clearance. I have a Woods 4pt BH on my new tractor and frankly it takes longer to hook that up than the KB2365.

Albi · Mar 26, 2008

No regrets, then again I am on flat ground. I mow in high gearand even do some loader work in high gear. It'll bog down much more than in low but it'll still get 1/2 buck full of dirt using high range. Would I trade the high range for a medium range? Yes, but to me it's not a show stopper.

wallace · Mar 26, 2008

I think that things will be way different now that the CK20S is out it does not even feel like the old CK20.
As for your backhoe question...
I have used the Rhino 65a(same as Bobcat), the Woods 6000, the Woods 70X and also the Kioti 2365 and 2465
The best mount up I had found is the Woods 70X.

Gittyup · Mar 26, 2008

Or move up to the CK25 HST and you'll have 3 ranges.

lunbrjck · Mar 26, 2008

I just bought a 2008 CK20S HST. I had never driven an older CK20 but high range could be a bit lower but I don"t have any trouble coming up my driveway in high. The tractor has lots of power and since I live on a hill, no flat ground to mow, I will probably mow in low range. Don't really mind though it gives me more seat time on the tractor. I researched all brands of tractors they sell in this area and I'm very happy with my Kioti.

Dmace · Mar 26, 2008

2-1/2 yrs later and over 320hrs, no regrets here. I have done quite a bit of work in high gear including hills and loader work (mostly backblading). I run it at about 2800rpms when doing loader work or anything in high gear and about 2400rpms in low gear for any work.

The backhoe is off in less than 2 minutes and on in about 5 or 6. It's incredibly strong and has a good reach for its size. I have the 16" bucket and feel it is a perfect match. I know I wouldn't trade it for a thing...