New 25hp tractor purchase

[helmdog25]

Hi everyone.
I'm looking to buy a new 25hp tractor/FEL, my first brand new tractor. I'm replacing/upgrading my old Kubota B7100. So I'm seeking a little advice. My first instinct was either Kubota or JD as I've owned both, but after a quick look and comparison, they come with a premium price tag. I'm not a heavy user, nor brand loyalist, so I started looking at more affordable options.

My next knee jerk reaction was to look at RK and the RK25. We have a store in our town, so convenient. The RK25 has every spec I wanted, plus some nice extras, like a suspension seat (my butt is very happy about that one). While they aren't one of the big 2 (or is it 4, 5?), they are a re-branded TYM T25, and as far as I can tell, just as good as an orange or green tractor, at least at for my needs.

Since the RK is basically a TYM, I started looking at them as well and happened upon the Dixie Horse and Mule website, which brings me to two questions:

1. Has anyone had any experience purchasing from Dixie Horse? I'd be buying online and having the tractor shipped to me in FL.
2. They have the Solis 24H+ listed on their site. It is priced significantly less than even the RK/TYM and looks to have very comparable specs. I know Solis is a Chinese Indian company and fairly new to the US, but from my initial research, they seem to be solid enough for my needs.

Hopefully this won't start a brand debate, it's not my intent, and god knows, there's plenty of those discussions out there. But any advice or shared experience would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Joe

 

[JeepHead]

Hi everyone.
I'm looking to buy a new 25hp tractor/FEL, my first brand new tractor. I'm replacing/upgrading my old Kubota B7100. So I'm seeking a little advice. My first instinct was either Kubota or JD as I've owned both, but after a quick look and comparison, they come with a premium price tag. I'm not a heavy user, nor brand loyalist, so I started looking at more affordable options.

My next knee jerk reaction was to look at RK and the RK25. We have a store in our town, so convenient. The RK25 has every spec I wanted, plus some nice extras, like a suspension seat (my butt is very happy about that one). While they aren't one of the big 2 (or is it 4, 5?), they are a re-branded TYM T25, and as far as I can tell, just as good as an orange or green tractor, at least at for my needs.

Since the RK is basically a TYM, I started looking at them as well and happened upon the Dixie Horse and Mule website, which brings me to two questions:

1. Has anyone had any experience purchasing from Dixie Horse? I'd be buying online and having the tractor shipped to me in FL.
2. They have the Solis 24H+ listed on their site. It is priced significantly less than even the RK/TYM and looks to have very comparable specs. I know Solis is a Chinese company and fairly new to the US, but from my initial research, they seem to be solid enough for my needs.

Hopefully this won't start a brand debate, it's not my intent, and god knows, there's plenty of those discussions out there. But any advice or shared experience would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Joe

Have you considered a used Kubota L2501? I see them all the time for sale around me with around 100 hours for 16-$17k. I would buy a used L2501 over a new TYM any day.

 

[helmdog25]

Have you considered a used Kubota L2501? I see them all the time for sale around me with around 100 hours for 16-$17k. I would buy a used L2501 over a new TYM any day.

I did look at the L2501. While it's work capabilities may be compatible, even better if I remember, it lacks a lot of comforts. My old bones will appreciate those comforts and since I will just use it to maintain my property and in my hobby business, I'm willing to sacrifice some duty for comfort. The Kubota line most comparable to RK/TYM seems to be the LX series, which runs about 20% higher in price ($25k vs $20K). As far as new vs lightly used, I'll just say for this discussion, I prefer new (it's a wife & accountant thing).

 

[chim]

Welcome aboard! It appears to me that you really want the most bang for the buck, are trying to convince yourself, but have legitimate concerns about the value of the "also rans". I've bought 4 "replacement" tractors since 1990. The last 3 have been Kubotas. While the first Kubota was the result of a search FOR a Kubota, the next two were just the best choices at the time. I did look at Mahindra (seat didn't go back far enough in the cab), Kioti, Bobcat (aka Orange Kioti), New Holland and TYM.

First B7500HST Kubota bought new in 2002 and sold 10 years later without losing money.

Second L3200HST Kubota bought new in 2012. Made a cab for it and sold it after 6 years with a RFM and re-conned blower for $2K more than I paid for it.

Current Kubota L4240HSTC bought used with 977 hours at the end of 2018 for $26K. Has over 1,600 hours now and still looks liike new. Could probably sell it now for what I paid for it.

Not that resale should necessarily be the only thing to consider, but it is a component.

 

[Carl_NH]

I also agree with the Kubota 2501 new is a great choice, and you can get a suspension seat, but probably will be 10-20% more expensive than the TYM etc,

Personally I would not buy rebranded tractor e.g. RK as history proves these rebranded units come and go over time.

The TYM T25 is a nice tractor, but also look at Massey Ferguson, Mahhindra, and Kioti as they all make a similar model and features.

 

[tradosaurus]

Hi everyone.
I'm looking to buy a new 25hp tractor/FEL, my first brand new tractor. I'm replacing/upgrading my old Kubota B7100. So I'm seeking a little advice. My first instinct was either Kubota or JD as I've owned both, but after a quick look and comparison, they come with a premium price tag. I'm not a heavy user, nor brand loyalist, so I started looking at more affordable options.

My next knee jerk reaction was to look at RK and the RK25. We have a store in our town, so convenient. The RK25 has every spec I wanted, plus some nice extras, like a suspension seat (my butt is very happy about that one). While they aren't one of the big 2 (or is it 4, 5?), they are a re-branded TYM T25, and as far as I can tell, just as good as an orange or green tractor, at least at for my needs.

Since the RK is basically a TYM, I started looking at them as well and happened upon the Dixie Horse and Mule website, which brings me to two questions:

1. Has anyone had any experience purchasing from Dixie Horse? I'd be buying online and having the tractor shipped to me in FL.
2. They have the Solis 24H+ listed on their site. It is priced significantly less than even the RK/TYM and looks to have very comparable specs. I know Solis is a Chinese company and fairly new to the US, but from my initial research, they seem to be solid enough for my needs.

Hopefully this won't start a brand debate, it's not my intent, and god knows, there's plenty of those discussions out there. But any advice or shared experience would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Joe

Looking at the RK25 and the L2502:
L2502 - $26K (cash price) package deal including trailer and implements
RK25 - $19.5K cash price

Doesn't look like the Kubota is too far off considering the implements.

 

[Carl_NH]

From your description you mentioned accountant and using this for your hobby business, so you will write off some of the investment and use it for personal use too.

As Chim points out, Kubotas hold their value well, and you now have a Kubota. With a few more dollars and the potential to write some of this off, the future value in 10 years, your accountant may see this as a better long-term value.

BTW the new Kubota 2502 replaces the 2501 and has more creature comforts like the suspension seat etc. its worth a look. I am seeing prices with a 526 loader in the $28K range.

 

[JeepHead]

Not sure what creature comforts you're looking for but my 2502 is very comfortable and the suspension seat works really well. I can't think of anything I am missing or would want extra for it.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Hi everyone.
I'm looking to buy a new 25hp tractor/FEL, my first brand new tractor. I'm replacing/upgrading my old Kubota B7100. So I'm seeking a little advice. My first instinct was either Kubota or JD as I've owned both, but after a quick look and comparison, they come with a premium price tag. I'm not a heavy user, nor brand loyalist, so I started looking at more affordable options.

My next knee jerk reaction was to look at RK and the RK25. We have a store in our town, so convenient. The RK25 has every spec I wanted, plus some nice extras, like a suspension seat (my butt is very happy about that one). While they aren't one of the big 2 (or is it 4, 5?), they are a re-branded TYM T25, and as far as I can tell, just as good as an orange or green tractor, at least at for my needs.

Since the RK is basically a TYM, I started looking at them as well and happened upon the Dixie Horse and Mule website, which brings me to two questions:

1. Has anyone had any experience purchasing from Dixie Horse? I'd be buying online and having the tractor shipped to me in FL.
2. They have the Solis 24H+ listed on their site. It is priced significantly less than even the RK/TYM and looks to have very comparable specs. I know Solis is a Chinese company and fairly new to the US, but from my initial research, they seem to be solid enough for my needs.

Hopefully this won't start a brand debate, it's not my intent, and god knows, there's plenty of those discussions out there. But any advice or shared experience would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Joe

I would like to point out that Solis is based in India.

 

[JTKub]

What are your expectations in terms of warranty service should you need it? Rural king has a long warranty, but you are at the mercy of a Rural King store for that, which can be very hit/miss. If the stores ever go away, you're on your own and will have to lean on TYM dealers for parts and service for things you can't do. Do you have a TYM dealer nearby? Even if you don't, most will happily ship you anything they can get.

I really liked my dealings with my closest RK store that is a bit over 100 miles away in a different state. Their store manager in charge of their tractors called me directly and spent some time on the phone with me. I was interested in an RK21 at the time, but wound up getting a slightly better price on a new leftover TYM T224, loader/mower package. I am a sucker for the underdog when I can find one at a price I like. I generally have low expectations for dealers and warranties on anything as well. They're great when they come through for you, but I plan for the worst. TYM has a 6yr/2000hr warranty. I am like you in that I am not a heavy user. My machine is basically a garage queen (yes, not even a barn) and if it sees 5-10hrs per month of use, that would be a lot.

 

[gstrom99]

Welcome. Do you have a trailer (own or rented) to get it yourself? I personally would never buy a tractor (maybe sight unseen) and then have it shipped. I drove to and from and then back to (with a trailer), the dealer 100 miles away in the same day to buy my JD 855. That's about as far as I'd want to go, for a decent deal. Look around (and only at name brand machines IMHO) w/in that range.

 

[aba4430]

As stated above, Solis is from India. I believe it is identical to the Summit other than some trim and perhaps standard features; uses a Mitsubishi 3-cyl engine. You may want to check it out, or a Summit at a big box store. I have a Yanmar SA425 and have been pleased with it. I am dreading the day my hood cracks though; it does have a plastic hood.

 

[helmdog25]

Looking at the RK25 and the L2502:
L2502 - $26K (cash price) package deal including trailer and implements
RK25 - $19.5K cash price

Doesn't look like the Kubota is too far off considering the implements.

Not really same features though. It's not hydrostatic, doesn't have QA loader, R14 tires, fender joystick, worklights, etc. If you try to find a 25hp Kubota with those features you'll be well over 25K. And again, I understand it's a heavier tractor, a work horse, a Kubota.

 

[helmdog25]

I would like to point out that Solis is based in India.

Oh, yep, think I did know that, but brain doesn't always output what's input.

 

[paulsharvey]

Just so you know, about 2 years ago, I went through a similar process. Almost the entire search is on here "Full figured 25 hp tractor". I ended up with a Kioti Ck2610, but looked at multiple machines; from the RK25, and up.

If i had it all to do again, the upgrade to the CK3510 was only like $2500; or so (thats documented in that thread as well), I probably should have splurged. As background, i upgraded from a Kubota L285.

 

[paulsharvey]

Big part of the decision is; do you want a 25hp, Large subcompact (Rk25, TYM T25, Solaris, Massey 1526, Kioti Ck2510) or a small compact (Tym 2515, Kioti ck2620, Kubota L2502, Massey 1M25, Massey 1E25).

If you decide on the big subcompact, look into the Massey 1526

If you decide on the small compact; I do like my Kioti, but the TYM 2515 was a close runner-up. If I had more money, I would have gone with a Massey 1840M (now a Massey 1M40)

 

[helmdog25]

From your description you mentioned accountant and using this for your hobby business, so you will write off some of the investment and use it for personal use too.

As Chim points out, Kubotas hold their value well, and you now have a Kubota. With a few more dollars and the potential to write some of this off, the future value in 10 years, your accountant may see this as a better long-term value.

BTW the new Kubota 2502 replaces the 2501 and has more creature comforts like the suspension seat etc. its worth a look. I am seeing prices with a 526 loader in the $28K range.

No doubt, Kubota does have great value. I have 2 right now, the little B7100 with FEL (the one I'm replacing) and a B6200HST my dad bought new in 1989. Both have performed well and considering their age and abuse, have required very little repair. I paid 5K for the B7100 about 10 years ago and I'll probably sell it for at least that. I suspect it cost about that new (it owes me nothing). Just not sure the $8k premium will translate for me. I'll likely own this tractor past depreciation, probably well into retirement and pass it to my son. I guess what I'm saying is resale isn't my top priority.

 

[helmdog25]

What are your expectations in terms of warranty service should you need it? Rural king has a long warranty, but you are at the mercy of a Rural King store for that, which can be very hit/miss. If the stores ever go away, you're on your own and will have to lean on TYM dealers for parts and service for things you can't do. Do you have a TYM dealer nearby? Even if you don't, most will happily ship you anything they can get.

I really liked my dealings with my closest RK store that is a bit over 100 miles away in a different state. Their store manager in charge of their tractors called me directly and spent some time on the phone with me. I was interested in an RK21 at the time, but wound up getting a slightly better price on a new leftover TYM T224, loader/mower package. I am a sucker for the underdog when I can find one at a price I like. I generally have low expectations for dealers and warranties on anything as well. They're great when they come through for you, but I plan for the worst. TYM has a 6yr/2000hr warranty. I am like you in that I am not a heavy user. My machine is basically a garage queen (yes, not even a barn) and if it sees 5-10hrs per month of use, that would be a lot.

I agree totally with the low expectations in dealerships. No much I can't do myself, and usually prefer to. Professional these days doesn't translate to quality. Mine will be more of a barn rat and probably spend some rough days left out in the rain, as my current ones do. I've put about 600 hours on my current Kubota in the past 10yrs, so about the same use as you as well.

There is a RK about 5 miles from me, so convenient. TYM dealer about 45 miles. So not terrible if I would need service. And I get most of my parts online anyway.

 

[WM75Guy]

As stated above, Solis is from India. I believe it is identical to the Summit other than some trim and perhaps standard features; uses a Mitsubishi 3-cyl engine. You may want to check it out, or a Summit at a big box store. I have a Yanmar SA425 and have been pleased with it. I am dreading the day my hood cracks though; it does have a plastic hood.

Summit was an independent brand, the tractors were manufactured by ITL. ITL also manufactures and markets Solis tractors. Summit has been bought out by ITL, which now owns, manufactures, and distributes the Summit brand.

 

[helmdog25]

As stated above, Solis is from India. I believe it is identical to the Summit other than some trim and perhaps standard features; uses a Mitsubishi 3-cyl engine. You may want to check it out, or a Summit at a big box store. I have a Yanmar SA425 and have been pleased with it. I am dreading the day my hood cracks though; it does have a plastic hood.

Funny you mention the hood. Solis quickly points out it has a metal hood. Is nice, but tractor will still work with a busted hood, I have a plastic welder and my repairs might not be pretty, but they are functional.