KOMATSU Forest is launching two new forwarders designed to navigate dense stands while maintaining high production. 

The 835T and 825TX, which will bolster the firm’s thinning concept line Thinning Experts (TX), both feature an upgraded look and the latest engine installation and control system. 

The former, a reimagining of the original 835, is an agile forwarder with high ground clearance and good tracking characteristics, while the latter is 9-tonne forwarder aimed at those in the market for the smallest machines. 

Forestry Journal:

Of the 835T, Daniel Grabbe, product manager at Komatsu Forest, said: “Our original plan was to present the new machine at FinnMetko this September, but due to current circumstances, we’ve had to change our plans and will instead embark on a demo tour throughout the autumn.” 

With the Thinning Experts, Komatsu introduces an all-new tracking frame that more than halves the tracking – the difference between the front and rear wheel tracks – to less than 200 mm.

The load space of the TX machines has been optimised for thinning with a special gate (thinning gate) and special bunks (thinning bunks). Both the gate and the bunks are angled five degrees inwards at the top to be as agile as possible in tight spaces. 

This reduces the risk of hitting standing trees when the machine sways from side to side in uneven terrain. 

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Daniel added: “A machine with the smallest possible tracking is more agile and has less impact, which reduces the risk of damage to standing trees.

“Naturally, not only do thinning machines need to be agile, they also need to be productive. This means a spacious load area, a powerful crane and high traction. In short, the same demands placed on the large machines but in a more compact package.”