The market for compact tractors has never been more competitive, with a range of powerful and versatile machines available to consumers. Two major players in this space are John Deere and Kubota, each offering a line of compact tractors that cater to various needs and budgets. In this in-depth comparison, we will analyze the John Deere 1025R compact tractor against Kubota’s BX 2680, examining their respective features and benefits to help you make an informed decision. We compared tractors available at Kubota Knoxville and John Deere Knoxville (Ag-Pro).
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If you are looking for a compact tractor that can handle a variety of tasks, you might be interested in comparing the John Deere 1025R and the Kubota BX Series. These two sub-compact tractors are among the most popular models in their class, and they have many features and benefits that appeal to different users. In this blog post, we will compare the John Deere 1025R and the Kubota BX 2680 Series in terms of engine power, transmission, hydraulic system, PTO, attachments, comfort, and price. We hope this comparison will help you make an informed decision when choosing a compact tractor for your needs.
Overview of John Deere 1025R
The John Deere 1025R is a powerful and versatile compact tractor designed for small-scale agricultural and landscaping tasks. It comes equipped with a 24.2 HP Yanmar diesel engine and a hydrostatic transmission, offering excellent maneuverability and ease of operation. The 1025R has a lift capacity of 1,335 lbs, making it suitable for a variety of tasks. The John Deere 1025R has 23% more lift capacity and 47% more breakout than the Kubota BX 2680. The tractor also features a comfortable operator station and a wide range of compatible attachments, further enhancing its versatility.
Here is a complete listing of specifications and information on the John Deere 1025R Compact Utility Tractor.
Overview of Kubota BX2680
The Kubota BX series found at Kubota Knoxville comprises several compact tractor models, including the BX1870, BX2370, BX2670, BX2680 and the BX25D. These tractors are powered by efficient and reliable Kubota diesel engines, with horsepower ratings ranging from 16.6 to 24.8 HP. The BX series models feature hydrostatic transmissions and are designed to be easy to operate and maintain. Like the John Deere 1025R found at John Deere Knoxville, the Kubota BX2680 tractors are compatible with a variety of attachments, making them suitable for many applications.
Here is a complete listing of the Kubota BX2380 Specifications.
What Does Tractor Loader Breakout Mean?
Tractor loader breakout is a term that refers to the maximum force that a tractor loader can exert when lifting or digging. It is usually measured in pounds or kilograms and depends on factors such as the hydraulic pressure, the bucket size and shape, and the angle of the loader arm. A higher tractor loader breakout means a higher lifting or digging capacity for the tractor.
Engine Performance
Both the John Deere 1025R and Kubota BX2680 series tractors are powered by diesel engines, known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. The 1025R is equipped with a 24.2 HP Yanmar diesel engine, while the Kubota BX2680 series features Kubota diesel engines with horsepower ratings between 18 and 25.5 HP, depending on the model.
Both tractors have liquid-cooled engines that prevent overheating and extend engine life. Both tractors also have glow plugs that help with cold starting. However, the John Deere 1025R has an advantage over the Kubota BX2680 Series in terms of engine serviceability. The John Deere 1025R has a side-by-side radiator and oil cooler that allow easy access for cleaning and maintenance. The Kubota BX2680 Series has a stacked radiator and oil cooler that require more effort to reach and clean.
The John Deere 1025R and the Kubota BX2680 Series have similar engine power ratings, but they differ in some aspects. The John Deere 1025R has a 23.9 HP Yanmar diesel engine that is fuel-injected for better performance and lower emissions. The Kubota BX2680 Series has a range of engine options from 16.6 HP to 24.8 HP, depending on the model. The Kubota engines are also diesel-powered and have a three-cylinder design for smooth operation.
The higher horsepower rating of the John Deere 1025R can be advantageous in certain applications, such as pulling heavy loads or operating high-demand attachments. However, the Kubota BX2680 series offers a range of horsepower options, allowing customers to choose the tractor that best suits their needs and budget.
Transmission
Both the John Deere 1025R and the Kubota BX2680 series come equipped with hydrostatic transmissions, which provide smooth and easy operation. These transmissions eliminate the need for clutching or shifting gears, making them user-friendly even for novice operators.
The hydrostatic transmission in both tractors allows for infinitely variable speed control, making them suitable for tasks that require precise control, such as tilling or mowing around obstacles. The John Deere 1025R and Kubota BX2680 series tractors also feature cruise control, enabling operators to maintain a consistent speed for extended periods.
One advantage of the John Deere 1025R is that it has a Twin Touch™ pedal system that allows for precise control and less fatigue than a lever system. The Twin Touch™ pedals are also positioned on the right side of the operator platform for easy access and visibility.
Another important factor to compare is the transmission type and quality. The John Deere 1025R has a hydrostatic transmission that offers two ranges of speed: low and high. The hydrostatic transmission allows smooth and easy operation, as well as infinite speed control. The operator can change direction and speed without clutching or shifting gears.
The Kubota BX Series found at Kubota Knoxville also has a hydrostatic transmission that offers two ranges of speed: low and high. However, some users have reported that the Kubota transmission is not as smooth or responsive as the John Deere transmission. Some users have also complained about the Kubota transmission being noisy and jerky.
Lift Capacity
The lift capacity of a compact tractor is a crucial factor to consider when comparing different models, as it determines the types of tasks that can be performed. The John Deere 1025R has a lift capacity of 1,335 lbs, while the lift capacities of the Kubota BX2680 series tractors range from 901 lbs to 987 lbs, depending on the model.
The John Deere 1025R has 23% more lift capacity and 47% more breakout force than the Kubota BX 2680.
The John Deere 1025R has a higher lift capacity than all Kubota BX models, making it more suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
Hydraulic System
The hydraulic system of a compact tractor is important for lifting and operating attachments and implements. The John Deere 1025R and the Kubota BX2680 Series have similar hydraulic system specifications, but they differ in some aspects. The John Deere 1025R has an open center hydraulic system with a system pressure of 2000 psi and a pump capacity of 6.3 gpm. The Kubota BX2680 Series seen at Kubota Knoxville has an open center hydraulic system with a system pressure of 2050 psi and a pump capacity of 6.2 gpm.
One advantage of the John Deere 1025R is that it has a higher steering pump output of 2.8 gpm, compared to the Kubota BX2680 Series that has an output of 2.1 gpm . This means that the John Deere 1025R can provide more responsive steering than the Kubota BX2680 Series. However, one advantage of the Kubota BX2680 Series is that it has a higher implement pump output of 4.1 gpm, compared to the John Deere 1025R that has an output of 3.5 gpm . This means that the Kubota BX2680 Series can provide more hydraulic power to attachments than the John Deere 1025R.
Operator Comfort
Both the John Deere 1025R and Kubota BX2680 tractors prioritize operator comfort, as a comfortable workspace can significantly enhance productivity and reduce fatigue during long hours of operation.
Comfort is another aspect to consider when comparing compact tractors, especially if you plan to use them for long hours. The John Deere 1025R has a comfortable operator station that features an adjustable seat, a tilt steering wheel, ergonomic controls, a digital instrument panel, a cup holder and a 12V outlet. The John Deere 1025R also has an optional dealer-installed cab that offers protection from weather and noise.
The Kubota BX Series has a basic operator station that features a fixed seat, a non-tilt steering wheel, simple controls, an analog instrument panel, a cup holder and a 12V outlet. The Kubota BX Series does not have an optional cab available.
The John Deere 1025R clearly offers more comfort and convenience than the Kubota BX Series.
The John Deere 1025R features a spacious operator station with an adjustable seat, ergonomic controls, and ample legroom. The tractor also comes with optional features such as a canopy and a deluxe seat with armrests and lumbar support, further enhancing operator comfort.
The Kubota BX series also offers comfortable operator stations, with features such as high-back seats, ergonomic controls, and good visibility. Some models in the BX series, like the BX2670, come with a standard tilt steering wheel for customizable comfort.
While both tractors offer a comfortable operator experience, specific preferences may vary depending on the individual user, making it essential to test drive each tractor to determine which offers the best fit.
Attachments and Versatility
One of the main advantages of compact tractors is their compatibility with various attachments, transforming them into versatile, multi-functional machines. Both the John Deere 1025R and Kubota BX series offer a wide range of attachments for various applications.
The John Deere 1025R at John Deere Knoxville is compatible with attachments such as loaders, backhoes, mowers, tillers, and snow blowers, allowing users to tackle tasks in agriculture, landscaping, and property maintenance. The tractor’s iMatch Quick-Hitch system simplifies attachment and detachment, saving time and effort.
Similarly, the Kubota BX series at Kubota Knoxville can be outfitted with numerous attachments, including loaders, backhoes, mowers, and more. Kubota’s Swift-Tach system allows for easy attachment changes, further enhancing the tractors’ versatility.
Both the John Deere 1025R and Kubota BX series offer great versatility with their compatible attachments, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. When choosing between these tractors, consider your specific needs and the availability of the desired attachments.
Click here to see the full line of John Deere attachments for the John Deere 1025R tractor.
Price and Warranty
Price is always an essential factor when purchasing a compact tractor. The John Deere 1025R and Kubota BX series tractors are competitively priced, with the specific cost depending on the model, features, and attachments included.
John Deere 1025R base price: $18,035
Kubota BX2680 base price: $16,531
In general, the John Deere 1025R tends to have a higher base price than most Kubota BX models, but this price difference may be offset by the 1025R’s higher horsepower and lift capacity. It is crucial to compare the costs of similarly equipped tractors to make an accurate assessment.
Both John Deere and Kubota offer warranties for their compact tractors, providing customers with peace of mind. The John Deere 1025R at John Deere Knoxville comes with a 6-year powertrain warranty, while Kubota BX series tractors at Kubota Knoxville feature a standard 2-year limited warranty with the option to extend coverage. Comparing warranty offerings and service support is vital to ensure you receive the best possible support for your investment.
Conclusion
The choice between the John Deere 1025R and Kubota BX series compact tractors ultimately comes down to personal preferences, specific needs, and budget. Both tractors offer powerful engines, hydrostatic transmissions, comfortable operator stations, and compatibility with various attachments, making them versatile and capable machines.
The John Deere 1025R at John Deere Knoxville stands out for its higher horsepower and lift capacity, while the Kubota BX series at Kubota Knoxville offers a range of models with different capabilities to suit a variety of budgets. Test-driving each tractor and comparing the features, benefits, and costs will help you make an informed decision that meets your needs and provides long-lasting value.