In this series of articles, we will be sharing exclusive coverage from APF 2024. 

FOR some operators, the choice of machine is only ever between red, green, and yellow. But perhaps it could soon be time to add dark grey/green to that list. 

That’s if Vimek’s new forwarder is anything to go by. Launched at Elmia Wood 2022 and having undergone several tweaks in the meantime, the 870.2 Next Generation has finally arrived on UK shores and drew plenty of attention on Oakleaf’s APF stand. 

Featuring a host of improvements on the 870.1 – including an increase in the turning angle of the bogie (from 8.5 to 10 degrees) and a reworked loading area for log movement – the seven-tonne, eight-wheeled forwarder is best described as a big machine in a small package, and the manufacturer hopes it will lure operators away from more established names. 

“It’s a lot smaller than the ‘big machines’ but a lot bigger than what Vimek has previously offered,” said Oakleaf’s Joe Litter. “This one has already been sold and will be out working soon enough. This machine is a big step up in comfort. The older machines were a bit more utilitarian, with metal dashes etc. 

The 870.2 is said to be a substantial upgrade on its predecessor The 870.2 is said to be a substantial upgrade on its predecessor (Image: FJ/AG)

“For operators who are more used to driving the bigger red, green or yellow machines, this would be a lot more natural of a change for them. It doesn’t feel like a downgrade or a step backwards.” 

Thomas Johansson, Vimek’s CTO, added: “We have seen differences in the users of the machines going from private forestry owners to entrepreneurs. They wanted a better environment for the drivers and more capacity.”

Oakleaf also used the trade fair to show off Hypro’s new FG60 felling grapple. 

Head to our YouTube channel to watch a full version of this interview, which will be published in the coming weeks.