Is sub compact big enough?

[Jofang]

I have a 2008 Kubota BX2350 sub compact + FEL along with 4 acres of lawn, vineyard and mixed woodland, which provides 8-10m3 of oak & chestnut firewood each year. I have a 60cm diameter circular saw, 4" capacity chipper, 4 foot flail, a 4 foot rotavator, a 12" hole borer, 3 point pallet forks and a 3 point 4 foot box. All these implements have worked hard for the past 8 years and the tractor has never faltered or been underpowered. My only concern is tipping over sideways in the forest, as the BX is quite narrow, so have to keep the FEL low at all times unless on flat ground. I fitted Pat's quick change a couple of years ago which has been great. I also bought a 20 ton splitter with a Honda motor, as the BX doesn't produce enough gpm oil flow for splitter use. Bottom line is don't let anyone tell you a sub compact isn't a 'real' tractor, as they're very capable, albeit not as productive as their bigger brothers.

 

[fishdrivel]

How about a small compact!?
For example:
Kubota B2601, Deere 2025r, LS MT225S, Massey 1526, Kioti cx2510, Branson 2610H, Mahindra Max, etc

They are more capable than a sub-compact, but agile enough to be close to the house and able to maneuver.

I have a B2601. It is small and light enough to be maneuverable around the house and in the woods.

It is also strong enough to run implements and the FEL had decent lift capacity.

Quite happy with this purchase of 160 hour machine for under $10k

 

[Fxfymn413]

I own a BX2660 and an L4060 HSTC. The BX is my primary mower and the L is used for pretty much everything else, but mostly for snow plowing and moving firewood, a chore the BX cannot do.

Is the BX a capable machine? Sure for what is designed for, but not heavy lifting. I have used it to power a post hole auger, but only in sandy soil with a 6" bit. It did fine, but I wouldn't try it with my 18" bit in rocky soil.

My neighbor just bought a 26 HP B model and while it is a tad bigger than the BX I think it will go anywhere the BX could and it is much more of a tractor than a lawn tractor. I really like it and if I was in your position I'd look for something in that class.

 

[nknelsen]

As if there aren't enough of these threads! Sort of an old question I know. I've been eyeing a newer tractor for a long time. Was hoping the market prices would correct themselves, but it don't look like that will happen soon.

I own 18 acres (no hills). 2-3 around the buildings, 10 acres field (rented out), 6 acres woods. I've got access to large tractors if needed for any ag type work. I cut 4-6 cords of firewood every year, but mostly not in my own woods. I've owned a JD 2010 with loader for 2+ years. It's had its typical problems, but I knew that going in. I only put 15-20 hrs on it a year, mostly cutting firewood and doing random loader work. The 3pt hitch is nearly useless so that has kept me from doing any brush cutting, etc.

If money and space were no object I would buy a 40 hp tractor and a SCUT as well. In reality, I've got 4 children to feed and clothe so $ is an issue! I'm mechanically inclined with 2 diesel mechanics in the family so I'm not afraid of used machines.

I really like the Kubota L30 series (31-43 hp) they seem like a good fit and value, but I'm not ready to pay that much just yet. I keep coming back to the SCUT class for 2 reasons: price and "handiness". I have to ask myself, what could a small tractor not do that I really HAVE to do? FEL lift height and capacity are really the biggest disadvantages of the SCUT. But then, it would take a 60+ hp tractor to really lift everything I would like.

A local Massey ferguson dealer has a used GC1705 coming in next week. I told him to call me when it does. With a tractor this size, I would probably use it 60-100 hrs per year. It bugs me that a larger compact tractor would sit in the barn unused much of the year. Purchasing a small tractor would also allow me to sell my Simplicity Sovereign garden tractor. (Have ZTR for lawn). Having 1 machine instead of 2 would be great. The Simplicity is mostly used for snowblowing (2010 is way too clumsy), lawn rolling, pulling sm trailer loads of mulch, and navigating the narrow trails in the woods.

Feel free to comment on any of the above. Several questions in addition:
How much will a GC1705 (or similar) track up a soft lawn or trail?

Will it run a 5ft brush cutter? Dealer says it will. By brush cutter I really just mean tall grass.

Is it dumb to purchase a tractor as a 2-5 year 'trial'?

I just sold my SCUT CS2410 Kioti and bought a CUT CX2510 Kioti. The new tractor still has a mid mounted mower, allowing me to cut grass like the old one. It comes with a suspension seat which helps as the old one hurt my back after a few hours of working it.

With this new tractor I added a 3rd function for using a grapple and it already included a quick attach so now I'm able to use a set of forks.

I find the new tractor small enough to accomplish and fit in like the old one yet its much much more capable for hauling wood or buckets of gravel, it lifts 1200 pounds versus the 700 with the old one and it has twice the ground clearance which helps in the Bush. Grapple is awesome for cleaning up and burning brush after cutting trees.

We never have the tractor that we need so we make compromises. Please look at the Kioti CX2510. The only concern that I have is with a higher center of gravity I may not be able to cut a few side hills the way I did with the old unit.

 

[Gord Baker]

I think you already have or have access to enough equipment.

 

[charles todd]

I have a 72 hp cab utility tractor with a 3500 lb capacity loader. Sometimes its too small!

Having personally used SCUT through 300+ hp row crop tractors, I would suggest the 35-50 hp range tractor for you.

CT

 

[rocco611]

I have an 04 kubota b7800 it was the largest of their compact tractors at that time. some times its the perfect size,(gets into tight places, runs 5ft flail mower or 5' rototiller no problem) sometimes its too small when I need to lift something heavy or pull someone's vehicle out of the mud.

 

[blueman2]

As if there aren't enough of these threads! Sort of an old question I know. I've been eyeing a newer tractor for a long time. Was hoping the market prices would correct themselves, but it don't look like that will happen soon.

I own 18 acres (no hills). 2-3 around the buildings, 10 acres field (rented out), 6 acres woods. I've got access to large tractors if needed for any ag type work. I cut 4-6 cords of firewood every year, but mostly not in my own woods. I've owned a JD 2010 with loader for 2+ years. It's had its typical problems, but I knew that going in. I only put 15-20 hrs on it a year, mostly cutting firewood and doing random loader work. The 3pt hitch is nearly useless so that has kept me from doing any brush cutting, etc.

If money and space were no object I would buy a 40 hp tractor and a SCUT as well. In reality, I've got 4 children to feed and clothe so $ is an issue! I'm mechanically inclined with 2 diesel mechanics in the family so I'm not afraid of used machines.

I really like the Kubota L30 series (31-43 hp) they seem like a good fit and value, but I'm not ready to pay that much just yet. I keep coming back to the SCUT class for 2 reasons: price and "handiness". I have to ask myself, what could a small tractor not do that I really HAVE to do? FEL lift height and capacity are really the biggest disadvantages of the SCUT. But then, it would take a 60+ hp tractor to really lift everything I would like.

A local Massey ferguson dealer has a used GC1705 coming in next week. I told him to call me when it does. With a tractor this size, I would probably use it 60-100 hrs per year. It bugs me that a larger compact tractor would sit in the barn unused much of the year. Purchasing a small tractor would also allow me to sell my Simplicity Sovereign garden tractor. (Have ZTR for lawn). Having 1 machine instead of 2 would be great. The Simplicity is mostly used for snowblowing (2010 is way too clumsy), lawn rolling, pulling sm trailer loads of mulch, and navigating the narrow trails in the woods.

Feel free to comment on any of the above. Several questions in addition:
How much will a GC1705 (or similar) track up a soft lawn or trail?

Will it run a 5ft brush cutter? Dealer says it will. By brush cutter I really just mean tall grass.

Is it dumb to purchase a tractor as a 2-5 year 'trial'?

As if there aren't enough of these threads! Sort of an old question I know. I've been eyeing a newer tractor for a long time. Was hoping the market prices would correct themselves, but it don't look like that will happen soon.

I own 18 acres (no hills). 2-3 around the buildings, 10 acres field (rented out), 6 acres woods. I've got access to large tractors if needed for any ag type work. I cut 4-6 cords of firewood every year, but mostly not in my own woods. I've owned a JD 2010 with loader for 2+ years. It's had its typical problems, but I knew that going in. I only put 15-20 hrs on it a year, mostly cutting firewood and doing random loader work. The 3pt hitch is nearly useless so that has kept me from doing any brush cutting, etc.

If money and space were no object I would buy a 40 hp tractor and a SCUT as well. In reality, I've got 4 children to feed and clothe so $ is an issue! I'm mechanically inclined with 2 diesel mechanics in the family so I'm not afraid of used machines.

I really like the Kubota L30 series (31-43 hp) they seem like a good fit and value, but I'm not ready to pay that much just yet. I keep coming back to the SCUT class for 2 reasons: price and "handiness". I have to ask myself, what could a small tractor not do that I really HAVE to do? FEL lift height and capacity are really the biggest disadvantages of the SCUT. But then, it would take a 60+ hp tractor to really lift everything I would like.

A local Massey ferguson dealer has a used GC1705 coming in next week. I told him to call me when it does. With a tractor this size, I would probably use it 60-100 hrs per year. It bugs me that a larger compact tractor would sit in the barn unused much of the year. Purchasing a small tractor would also allow me to sell my Simplicity Sovereign garden tractor. (Have ZTR for lawn). Having 1 machine instead of 2 would be great. The Simplicity is mostly used for snowblowing (2010 is way too clumsy), lawn rolling, pulling sm trailer loads of mulch, and navigating the narrow trails in the woods.

Feel free to comment on any of the above. Several questions in addition:
How much will a GC1705 (or similar) track up a soft lawn or trail?

Will it run a 5ft brush cutter? Dealer says it will. By brush cutter I really just mean tall grass.

Is it dumb to purchase a tractor as a 2-5 year 'trial'?

I'd go with a compact (and did). A sub compact is basically a lawnmower with attachments. If ground clearance is a concern, I'd check what it is? Good luck

 

[88S2PLAY]

The Massey was one of my choices, but I chose the Simplicity Legacy XL 4WD model ending 1524 w/540 pro mid mount and rear 61” deck and 47” snow thrower with rear wheel weight counter balance. It has 33hp with hydrostatic drive and power steering, 3pt hitch.
It fills my 5 acre needs with 2,000ft. Driveway paved, and two 15 car turn arounds. Shared with next door neighbors 6acre flag lots.
This tractor was just the ticket for my needs!

 

[cdaigle430]

As a MF GC2410 owner for 12 years and I would recomend going with a compact or subcompact tractor with bigger drive train and bigger tires for handling 18 acres. While the MF GC1705 will get it done, the question is cost of tractor vs cost of your time.

In other words a 72 inch brush hog will get your field done faster than a 48 inch brush hog.

The tractor is the cheapest part of your homestead. Think about the implements you need and go from there. You won't be dispponted.

 

[TreeToad]

If you ask the question is it big enough the answer is it is not big enough.

I have the GC1705 and could not be happier. It also is my only experience with a "tractor" Soft Spring lawns from melting snow and rain- you will leave tracks/indentations with the R4 tires (loaded). I have used it to load and dump a few dump truck loads of sand (wet) no problems. I have a 4' King Kutter tiller that works just like I hoped it would. Dug the beginnings of a pond 20x30 but need and excavator to finish it. Haul fire wood for deer camp. Dug out some stumps, keep the 2 tracks in)landscape trailer and travel trailer). I have a landscape rake (5') that I havent used yet. I purchased it new and it now have roughly 125 hours on it now. Maintenance is easy and being on the north side of 70, easy is a good thing. I I had to buy it again, would I? In a heart beat. It has done everything I ask it to do. I give the GC1705 a thumbs up

.As if there aren't enough of these threads! Sort of an old question I know. I've been eyeing a newer tractor for a long time. Was hoping the market prices would correct themselves, but it don't look like that will happen soon.

I own 18 acres (no hills). 2-3 around the buildings, 10 acres field (rented out), 6 acres woods. I've got access to large tractors if needed for any ag type work. I cut 4-6 cords of firewood every year, but mostly not in my own woods. I've owned a JD 2010 with loader for 2+ years. It's had its typical problems, but I knew that going in. I only put 15-20 hrs on it a year, mostly cutting firewood and doing random loader work. The 3pt hitch is nearly useless so that has kept me from doing any brush cutting, etc.

If money and space were no object I would buy a 40 hp tractor and a SCUT as well. In reality, I've got 4 children to feed and clothe so $ is an issue! I'm mechanically inclined with 2 diesel mechanics in the family so I'm not afraid of used machines.

I really like the Kubota L30 series (31-43 hp) they seem like a good fit and value, but I'm not ready to pay that much just yet. I keep coming back to the SCUT class for 2 reasons: price and "handiness". I have to ask myself, what could a small tractor not do that I really HAVE to do? FEL lift height and capacity are really the biggest disadvantages of the SCUT. But then, it would take a 60+ hp tractor to really lift everything I would like.

A local Massey ferguson dealer has a used GC1705 coming in next week. I told him to call me when it does. With a tractor this size, I would probably use it 60-100 hrs per year. It bugs me that a larger compact tractor would sit in the barn unused much of the year. Purchasing a small tractor would also allow me to sell my Simplicity Sovereign garden tractor. (Have ZTR for lawn). Having 1 machine instead of 2 would be great. The Simplicity is mostly used for snowblowing (2010 is way too clumsy), lawn rolling, pulling sm trailer loads of mulch, and navigating the narrow trails in the woods.

Feel free to comment on any of the above. Several questions in addition:
How much will a GC1705 (or similar) track up a soft lawn or trail?

Will it run a 5ft brush cutter? Dealer says it will. By brush cutter I really just mean tall grass.

Is it dumb to purchase a tracto maintenance is very easy. Being on the north side of 70

 

[TreeToad]

As if there aren't enough of these threads! Sort of an old question I know. I've been eyeing a newer tractor for a long time. Was hoping the market prices would correct themselves, but it don't look like that will happen soon.

I own 18 acres (no hills). 2-3 around the buildings, 10 acres field (rented out), 6 acres woods. I've got access to large tractors if needed for any ag type work. I cut 4-6 cords of firewood every year, but mostly not in my own woods. I've owned a JD 2010 with loader for 2+ years. It's had its typical problems, but I knew that going in. I only put 15-20 hrs on it a year, mostly cutting firewood and doing random loader work. The 3pt hitch is nearly useless so that has kept me from doing any brush cutting, etc.

If money and space were no object I would buy a 40 hp tractor and a SCUT as well. In reality, I've got 4 children to feed and clothe so $ is an issue! I'm mechanically inclined with 2 diesel mechanics in the family so I'm not afraid of used machines.

I really like the Kubota L30 series (31-43 hp) they seem like a good fit and value, but I'm not ready to pay that much just yet. I keep coming back to the SCUT class for 2 reasons: price and "handiness". I have to ask myself, what could a small tractor not do that I really HAVE to do? FEL lift height and capacity are really the biggest disadvantages of the SCUT. But then, it would take a 60+ hp tractor to really lift everything I would like.

A local Massey ferguson dealer has a used GC1705 coming in next week. I told him to call me when it does. With a tractor this size, I would probably use it 60-100 hrs per year. It bugs me that a larger compact tractor would sit in the barn unused much of the year. Purchasing a small tractor would also allow me to sell my Simplicity Sovereign garden tractor. (Have ZTR for lawn). Having 1 machine instead of 2 would be great. The Simplicity is mostly used for snowblowing (2010 is way too clumsy), lawn rolling, pulling sm trailer loads of mulch, and navigating the narrow trails in the woods.

Feel free to comment on any of the above. Several questions in addition:
How much will a GC1705 (or similar) track up a soft lawn or trail?

Will it run a 5ft brush cutter? Dealer says it will. By brush cutter I really just mean tall grass.

Is it dumb to purchase a tractor as a 2-5 year 'trial'?

I have the GC1705 and could not be happier. It also is my only experience with a "tractor" Soft Spring lawns from melting snow and rain- you will leave tracks/indentations with the R4 tires (loaded). I have used it to load and dump a few dump truck loads of sand (wet) no problems. I have a 4' King Kutter tiller that works just like I hoped it would. Dug the beginnings of a pond 20x30 but need and excavator to finish it. Haul fire wood for deer camp. Dug out some stumps, keep the 2 tracks in)landscape trailer and travel trailer). I have a landscape rake (5') that I havent used yet. I purchased it new and it now have roughly 125 hours on it now. Maintenance is easy and being on the north side of 70, easy is a good thing. I I had to buy it again, would I? In a heart beat. It has done everything I ask it to do. I give the GC1705 a thumbs up

 

[m1garand762]

It's not all about HP. Some of the small utility tractors didn't have much horsepower, but I wouldn't call them sub compact. You saw them more 20/30 years ago than now.
These were real little tractors. But smaller. Apparently they were normal ag machines in a lot of the world, they just looked funny by US standards.
They had most big tractor features: a 15 to 18 hp diesel, 4wd with regular differential lock, steering brakes. A 6 or 8 speed standard transmission with high and low range, a regular size PTO., a real loader with a full length subframe that would handle 750 lbs. and a full size cat 1 3pt hitch that would lift 1000 lbs at the hitch points. Extra hydraulic and PTO if wanted.
There's still a few around.
rScotty

Take the farmall cub as a prime example that little tractor was rated at 9 hp and was a true work horse

 

[California]

Seems to me many of the replies overlook what OP specifies that he needs. And then recommend an ag-size tractor because that's what fits their own application.

He's mostly replacing a garden tractor that has been sufficient for the 2-3 acres at his home. He needs a loader, and if he no longer had the poor-condition elderly Deere, then the replacement needs to do the '15-20 hours per year' of firewood hauling. (I presume, pulling a small trailer over flat rough ground).

Does he really need 50 hp?

I own 18 acres (no hills). 2-3 around the buildings, 10 acres field (rented out), 6 acres woods. I've got access to large tractors if needed for any ag type work. I cut 4-6 cords of firewood every year, but mostly not in my own woods. I've owned a JD 2010 with loader for 2+ years. I only put 15-20 hrs on it a year, mostly cutting firewood and doing random loader work.

A local Massey ferguson dealer has a used GC1705 coming in next week. I told him to call me when it does. With a tractor this size, I would probably use it 60-100 hrs per year. ... Purchasing a small tractor would also allow me to sell my Simplicity Sovereign garden tractor. (Have ZTR for lawn). Having 1 machine instead of 2 would be great. The Simplicity is mostly used for snowblowing (2010 is way too clumsy), lawn rolling, pulling sm trailer loads of mulch, and navigating the narrow trails in the woods.

How much will a GC1705 (or similar) track up a soft lawn or trail?

Will it run a 5ft brush cutter? By brush cutter I really just mean tall grass.

Is it dumb to purchase a tractor as a 2-5 year 'trial'?

 

[Jstpssng]

^^^^^

Maybe I missed it but also don't remember seeing what is wrong with the 3pth on the 2010. Come to think of it, I'm also not sure why he's locked into a 5 foot mower. If he already has it and finds the Massey isn't big enough to run it, that can be traded for something it will have power to run. Based on comments made by people with that sized machine and who actually read the entire thread it seems that the tractor he's looking at would be a good fit.

 

[Little Red Tractor]

I'll add my 2 cents worth, from one preacher to another. Even if you have mechanics in the family, shop the dealer. Nothing like dealer knowledge.
I had an Iseki-built tractor years ago in the same horsepower range, branded as a Bolens and it was tough as nails. Ran as well when I sold it as when I bought it. I went bigger because I needed a loader and had to add a bush hog to my equipment list. The tractor just wasn't heavy enough for it.
I've pulled a 48 inch cutter behind a 6284 Cub Cadet and now with a 21 horse B series Kubota with no problems.

 

[bartjoebob]

I have a GC 1705 on 3 acres and I'm averaging about 80 hours per year. That's snow removal in Winter mowing in summer then whatever projects in between. I have found the limit on this machine using the loader - haha. So yeah the wish I I bought the bigger model thought has already crossed my mind. But I'm super happy with the GC 1705 and everything it can do. I actually have better lift capability with this than a buddy of mine who has a larger Kubota. For the size of property you're describing though I would go bigger. Check out the Massey Ferguson 1700e/1800e or a Yanmar SA424. Both will have better ground clearance and lifting capability when you inevitably start moving logs and larger items

 

[Hermio]

As if there aren't enough of these threads! Sort of an old question I know. I've been eyeing a newer tractor for a long time. Was hoping the market prices would correct themselves, but it don't look like that will happen soon.

I own 18 acres (no hills). 2-3 around the buildings, 10 acres field (rented out), 6 acres woods. I've got access to large tractors if needed for any ag type work. I cut 4-6 cords of firewood every year, but mostly not in my own woods. I've owned a JD 2010 with loader for 2+ years. It's had its typical problems, but I knew that going in. I only put 15-20 hrs on it a year, mostly cutting firewood and doing random loader work. The 3pt hitch is nearly useless so that has kept me from doing any brush cutting, etc.

If money and space were no object I would buy a 40 hp tractor and a SCUT as well. In reality, I've got 4 children to feed and clothe so $ is an issue! I'm mechanically inclined with 2 diesel mechanics in the family so I'm not afraid of used machines.

I really like the Kubota L30 series (31-43 hp) they seem like a good fit and value, but I'm not ready to pay that much just yet. I keep coming back to the SCUT class for 2 reasons: price and "handiness". I have to ask myself, what could a small tractor not do that I really HAVE to do? FEL lift height and capacity are really the biggest disadvantages of the SCUT. But then, it would take a 60+ hp tractor to really lift everything I would like.

A local Massey ferguson dealer has a used GC1705 coming in next week. I told him to call me when it does. With a tractor this size, I would probably use it 60-100 hrs per year. It bugs me that a larger compact tractor would sit in the barn unused much of the year. Purchasing a small tractor would also allow me to sell my Simplicity Sovereign garden tractor. (Have ZTR for lawn). Having 1 machine instead of 2 would be great. The Simplicity is mostly used for snowblowing (2010 is way too clumsy), lawn rolling, pulling sm trailer loads of mulch, and navigating the narrow trails in the woods.

Feel free to comment on any of the above. Several questions in addition:
How much will a GC1705 (or similar) track up a soft lawn or trail?

Will it run a 5ft brush cutter? Dealer says it will. By brush cutter I really just mean tall grass.

Is it dumb to purchase a tractor as a 2-5 year 'trial'?

IMHO, though Kubota is a great tractor, it is a bit pricey. I ended up getting a Mahindra 5035 HST. That is a bit bigger than you might be looking for, but the loader can lift 2700# and the 3-point can lift about 3000#. Lift height is about 10 feet, if I recall. It weighs about 1500# more than the same Hp Kubota, has larger tires and a larger stance. All for about $10,00 less than a Kubota. Will it last as long as a Kubota? I don't know. But at the rate you are putting hours on, it will probably outlast you. I know it will outlast me. Size might be an issue for some uses. I use mine to bush hog fielsds and to drag logs out of my 80 acres of woods. It has no trouble dragging 4000# logs up steep hills (It is 4WD). I suspect it might go for $20K if model year 2013 or later. Don't get an earlier one with a loader; earlier years had loader bolts back out and fail.

 

[twowoode]

I have a Massey 1723gc tractor loader backhoe that I use on 14 acres with hills. It is a good tractor and surprises me what it will do. It runs a 4 ft bush hog just fine and I run a pto chipper. The loader is fine if you are only interested in picking up about 500 pounds. The tractor is very unstable without a counter weight for loader work. It is my understanding that the 1723 and 1725 which I believe came out in 2019 are a far better tractor than the 1705. I went with mine because I didn’t want to deal with the emissions and didn’t want the turbo on the larger Massey. If you want loader capability I would look at some of the offerings from Korea.

 

[BlueBerry Farmer]

As if there aren't enough of these threads! Sort of an old question I know. I've been eyeing a newer tractor for a long time. Was hoping the market prices would correct themselves, but it don't look like that will happen soon.

I own 18 acres (no hills). 2-3 around the buildings, 10 acres field (rented out), 6 acres woods. I've got access to large tractors if needed for any ag type work. I cut 4-6 cords of firewood every year, but mostly not in my own woods. I've owned a JD 2010 with loader for 2+ years. It's had its typical problems, but I knew that going in. I only put 15-20 hrs on it a year, mostly cutting firewood and doing random loader work. The 3pt hitch is nearly useless so that has kept me from doing any brush cutting, etc.

If money and space were no object I would buy a 40 hp tractor and a SCUT as well. In reality, I've got 4 children to feed and clothe so $ is an issue! I'm mechanically inclined with 2 diesel mechanics in the family so I'm not afraid of used machines.

I really like the Kubota L30 series (31-43 hp) they seem like a good fit and value, but I'm not ready to pay that much just yet. I keep coming back to the SCUT class for 2 reasons: price and "handiness". I have to ask myself, what could a small tractor not do that I really HAVE to do? FEL lift height and capacity are really the biggest disadvantages of the SCUT. But then, it would take a 60+ hp tractor to really lift everything I would like.

A local Massey ferguson dealer has a used GC1705 coming in next week. I told him to call me when it does. With a tractor this size, I would probably use it 60-100 hrs per year. It bugs me that a larger compact tractor would sit in the barn unused much of the year. Purchasing a small tractor would also allow me to sell my Simplicity Sovereign garden tractor. (Have ZTR for lawn). Having 1 machine instead of 2 would be great. The Simplicity is mostly used for snowblowing (2010 is way too clumsy), lawn rolling, pulling sm trailer loads of mulch, and navigating the narrow trails in the woods.

Feel free to comment on any of the above. Several questions in addition:
How much will a GC1705 (or similar) track up a soft lawn or trail?

Will it run a 5ft brush cutter? Dealer says it will. By brush cutter I really just mean tall grass.

Is it dumb to purchase a tractor as a 2-5 year 'trial'?

I have a MF 1720. Been very impressed with it's power. There is a place for a smaller, lighter tractor with a short turn radius to get into tight areas. Attachments I have so far are a front snowblower, Curtis cab with heater, Woods back blade, Hydraulic feed wood chipper,(some expressed concerns that the 1720 couldn't lift it and run it but it does), front quick hitch with forks. Going to purchase a rear ripper to tear apart pot holes and general use at the farm. The 1720 and 1710 come with a back hoe,
used that a lot for various jobs. I wish it had more ground clearance but I learned to work around that.