The Industry Leader: The Biggest Bobcat Skid Steer
When contractors need maximum lifting capacity in a compact equipment package, the Bobcat S850 stands as the ultimate solution. As the biggest Bobcat skid steer ever produced, this vertical lift machine delivers power, reach, and versatility that defines what large-frame skid steers can accomplish on demanding job sites.
Table of Contents:
- Meet the Biggest Bobcat Skid Steer: The S850
- How the S850 Compares to Competitors?
- Real-World Applications on the Job Site
- Other Notable Bobcat Skid Steers
- Why Choose the Biggest Bobcat Skid Steer?
- Maximizing S850 Performance with Proper Support
- FAQ
Meet the Biggest Bobcat Skid Steer: The S850
The S850 represents the pinnacle of Bobcat's skid steer loader engineering. With an operating weight of 10,237 pounds and a rated operating capacity of 3,950 pounds, this machine holds the title as Bobcat's largest and heaviest skid steer loader. The S850's industry-leading 12-foot lift height sets it apart from every other machine in Bobcat's lineup.
This powerful skid steer combines a robust 100-horsepower Tier 4 engine with advanced hydraulic systems engineered for maximum performance. The vertical lift machine design raises loads straight up, keeping heavy materials closer to the machine for improved stability. Whether loading tandem axle trucks with side boards, stacking palletized materials, or handling heavy construction debris, the S850's combination of lift height, capacity, and power handles applications that challenge smaller machines.
"The Bobcat S850 redefined the large-frame class with its 12-foot lift height and a 3,950-lb Rated Operating Capacity. Its non-DPF 100 HP engine delivers the high-flow hydraulic performance (36.6 GPM) necessary for demanding attachments like cold planers and forestry mulchers. While newer models like the S86 offer higher flow rates, the S850 remains the premier choice for loading high-sided tandem trucks where maximum vertical reach and stability are critical."
— Tip from the Skidsteers.com team
Hydraulic Power Delivers Maximum Performance
The biggest Bobcat skid steer features exceptional hydraulic system capabilities for powering demanding attachments. The S850 offers both standard flow (23 GPM) and high flow hydraulics (36.6 GPM at 3,500 PSI) options, providing versatility for virtually any attachment.
Standard flow handles typical applications including buckets, forks, and light-duty attachments. High flow hydraulics power professional equipment like trenchers, cold planers, stump grinders, and heavy-duty brooms. This flow hydraulics system ensures the S850 can maximize productivity with professional-grade attachments on every job site.
With a tilt breakout force of 9,686 pounds and lift breakout force of 7,525 pounds, this powerful skid steer breaks through compacted materials and handles heavy loads with confidence. The hydraulic power translates directly to impressive attachment performance and faster cycle times.
Optimized Power and Machine Weight Balance
The S850's engineering demonstrates Bobcat's expertise in balancing machine weight with lifting capacity. At 10,237 pounds paired with 100 horsepower, this machine achieves approximately 1 HP per 102 pounds — delivering substantial power without excessive bulk that limits maneuverability.
The 100-horsepower Tier 4 engine maintains consistent performance across all conditions. As a non-DPF engine, it simplifies maintenance while meeting emissions standards. This power translates to real-world benefits: maximum productivity without the fuel consumption of larger wheel loaders, compact dimensions that fit through standard gates, and operating weight that provides stability when lifting to 12-foot heights.
Unmatched Attachment Versatility
The biggest Bobcat skid steer delivers exceptional attachment versatility through its vertical lift path and 144-inch bucket hinge pin height. This lift height creates capabilities unmatched by smaller machines in Bobcat's lineup.
Loading tandem axle trucks becomes efficient with the S850's reach. The machine easily places loads into truck beds with side boards, eliminating ramps or manual handling. The vertical lift design maintains load stability throughout lifting cycles, reducing spillage and ensuring precise placement.
Material handling reaches new efficiency levels. Operators can easily stack brick, concrete blocks, and other palletized materials to greater heights. Loading hay wagons for agricultural operations, positioning roofing materials, or handling bulk materials at supply yards — the combination makes the S850 indispensable.
The robust loader arms accommodate the full range of attachments. From buckets and forks to specialized equipment like cold planers, forestry mulchers, and hydraulic breakers, the S850's hydraulic power and structural strength handle demanding applications. High flow attachments receive the pressure needed for maximum performance.
Operator Comfort for Long Workdays
Operating the biggest Bobcat skid steer demands exceptional operator comfort features. The S850's spacious cabin reduces fatigue and maintains productivity throughout demanding workdays.
The sealed, pressurized cab minimizes noise and vibration. Ergonomic joystick control provides precise manipulation of loader arms and attachments without excessive effort. Intuitive controls allow efficient operation after minimal training.
Optional heated air-ride seats automatically adjust to operator weight, smoothing out bumps during operation. Air suspension reduces jarring impacts that cause fatigue, while heating ensures comfort during cold weather. The spacious cabin provides extra space for movement, while automatic air conditioning maintains optimal temperatures.
Advanced features include a comprehensive LCD display providing machine information at a glance. Operators monitor hydraulic temperatures, fuel levels, and maintenance intervals without leaving the cab. This technology integration ensures maximum uptime and prevents issues before they cause breakdowns.
How the S850 Compares to Competitors?
When evaluating the largest skid steers on the market, the Bobcat S850 competes strongly against John Deere, New Holland, and other manufacturers. The John Deere 332G offers similar operating weight at 10,000 pounds with a 3,500-pound rated operating capacity. New Holland's L334 weighs 9,100 pounds with a 3,400-pound capacity.
The S850's 12-foot lift height surpasses most competitors in this class size, providing advantages for operations requiring maximum reach. This extra height proves valuable when loading high-sided trucks, stacking materials, or working with overhead obstacles. Combined with the 3,950-pound rated operating capacity, the S850 delivers productivity advantages that justify its position as the biggest Bobcat skid steer.
Real-World Applications on the Job Site
The S850 excels where maximum lift height and capacity prove essential. Construction sites benefit from efficient truck loading — the 12-foot lift height reaches over truck sides easily, while the 3,950-pound capacity reduces project timelines. Heavy material handling of concrete blocks, steel beams, or bulk materials becomes manageable with the S850's stability.
Landscaping operations use the S850 for loading large nursery stock, positioning boulders, or handling palletized materials like pavers. The ability to easily stack brick and materials to greater heights improves efficiency. Industrial facilities utilize the machine for material handling and maintenance, while agricultural operations benefit from loading hay wagons, handling bulk feed, and general farm maintenance.
Other Notable Bobcat Skid Steers
While the S850 represents the biggest Bobcat skid steer, Bobcat's lineup includes other impressive models. The S86, currently in production, delivers 105 horsepower at 9,728 pounds and features industry-first super flow hydraulics (42 GPM at 4,061 PSI) for specialized attachments. The S76 offers 74 horsepower with a 2,400-pound capacity for mid-range applications, while the S66 provides 74 horsepower in a more compact package. Bobcat also produces the compact track loader T86, sharing the S86's power but adding track traction benefits at 12,393 pounds operating weight.
| Feature | Bobcat S850 | Bobcat S86 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating Weight | 10,237 lbs | 9,728 lbs |
| Rated Operating Capacity | 3,950 lbs | 3,400 lbs |
| Horsepower | 100 HP | 105 HP |
| Lift Height (Hinge Pin) | 144 inches (12 ft) | 132 inches (11 ft) |
| Max Hydraulic Flow | 36.6 GPM (High Flow) | 42 GPM (Super Flow) |
| Lift Path | Vertical | Vertical |
Why Choose the Biggest Bobcat Skid Steer?
Selecting the S850 makes sense when applications demand maximum lift height and capacity. The 12-foot lift height proves essential for contractors regularly loading high-sided trucks, working with overhead clearances, or stacking materials higher than mid-range machines allow.
The 10,237-pound operating weight provides stability when operating heavy attachments or working on uneven terrain. This machine weight translates to better performance with hydraulic breakers, fully-loaded buckets at maximum extension, or working on slopes.
For operations centered on heavy material handling, the 3,950-pound rated operating capacity justifies the investment. This capacity advantage means fewer cycles to complete tasks, translating to fuel savings and improved productivity. The S850's specifications often replace multiple smaller machines, simplifying fleet management while maintaining capability.
The Value of Large-Frame Skid Steers
The S850 fills a unique class size in construction equipment. As the biggest Bobcat skid steer, it delivers capabilities approaching small wheel loaders while maintaining the compact footprint valuable on confined job sites. This combination proves particularly valuable for urban construction, residential development, and facility maintenance where space limitations prevent using larger equipment.
The S850 navigates through standard gates and operates where wheel loaders would be impractical. The machine transports on standard trailers without special permits, unlike larger loaders requiring oversized load considerations. This mobility means efficient movement between job sites without logistics complications.
Maximizing S850 Performance with Proper Support
Operating the biggest Bobcat skid steer effectively requires understanding how to leverage its capabilities. Knowing which attachments optimize hydraulic power, selecting proper counterweight configurations, and maintaining the machine according to specifications determine whether the S850 delivers its full potential.
For contractors and operators working with the S850, skidsteers.com provides comprehensive support keeping these powerful machines performing at their best. From high-quality attachments engineered for the S850's hydraulic power to replacement parts maintaining reliability, proper equipment support ensures your biggest jobs stay on schedule and helps you maximize the return on your investment in Bobcat's largest and most capable skid steer loader.
FAQ
What is the Rated Operating Capacity (ROC) of the Bobcat S850?
The S850 features an ROC of 3,950 lbs, the highest in Bobcat’s traditional skid steer lineup, allowing it to handle heavy construction debris and large palletized materials.
Can the Bobcat S850 load high-sided tandem axle trucks?
Yes. With a 12-foot (144-inch) hinge pin height, the S850 is specifically designed to reach over the sideboards of tandem axle trucks and stack materials higher than mid-range machines.
Does the S850 require a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?
No. The 100-horsepower Tier 4 engine in the S850 is a non-DPF system, which simplifies maintenance and reduces potential downtime associated with DPF regeneration.
What are the hydraulic flow specifications for attachments?
The S850 provides standard flow at 23 GPM and high flow hydraulics at 36.6 GPM (at 3,500 PSI). This high-flow capability is essential for powering professional-grade tools like trenchers, stump grinders, and cold planers.
Why choose the S850 over a compact track loader (CTL)?
While a compact track loader like the T86 offers better traction in mud, the wheeled S850 provides superior maneuverability on hard surfaces, faster travel speeds, and a lower purchase price for contractors working primarily on stable ground or pavement.
Photo source: https://www.bobcat.com/eu/en/equipment/loaders/skid-steer-loaders/s86