Thanks for the replies folks!
I chose the Kioti DK40 se HST over the Bobcat for a few reasons. There is not a decent Bobcat dealer who focuses on tractors within 70 miles of my house. I found a reputable Kioti dealer who's life blood is selling/servicing these tractors and he's been in business for a long time. He was recommend by another member on this forum who strikes me as a straight shooter, so that dealer got my business. Also, the dealer worked around my unique situation (I'm military living in Hawaii, but will move home to the farm in the summer) enabling me to negotiate a price with the good Kioti rebate and hold the tractor until I'm able to pick up it up in July. In addition, this dealer also stocks and services many of the other types of equipment I need; Bad Boy mower, attachments, trailers, etc, so I may be able to do all of my business with him. Finally, since I live some distance from said dealer, his reputation for service after the sale convinced me on the Kioti. In summary, the tractors are very similar, but the dealers available were not, so Kioti got my business.
Note: I've not even driven this particular tractor I purchased. I've looked at and tested the CK30 in the past and like it, but needed a larger machine. Testimony here regarding the DK40se HST is very positive, so that machine is the one I purchased.
Why did I buy a tractor well before I needed it? I'm concerned with the dollar's weakness against foreign currency and how inflation continues to devalue the dollars I've accumulated over the years. Basically, I'd rather have the tractor in hand rather than a fist full of dollars that continue to lose value. Given our government's spending/borrowing situation, I believe it could get much worse before it gets better. If I'm right, I made a smart move. If I'm wrong, I've got a tractor - and that just makes me smile, so a win-win situation!
I'll be reporting my experiences with the dealer and tractor as this unfolds.
Thanks,
Mike
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