RBrown, I've been looking at the same tractors, though I started looking a little smaller. Now I've pretty much narrowed it to the
B2710/TC25D or
B2910/TC29D. I've found the
B2910 to be $600 more than the
B2710 which is still $4-500 less than the TC25D (w/o supersteer). (The Kubota prices include a folding ROPS.) I haven't priced the TC29D yet. I drove a
B2710 yesterday and LIKED it. Didn't have any problems with layout of controls. The flat deck is nice. Maneuverability is great. Shifting was a little stiff, but I don't have any basis of comparison.
Have sat on a NH but haven't been able to drive one yet. Was nice to sit on /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif. I was a little concerned about getting on and off the right side with the joystick location there. I was initially drawn by the bells and whistles too, but after thinking alot about how I'd be using it and what's really important I have come to the conclusion that only really significant thing is the flexible hitch ends (lacking on the
B2710). I really don't know if I'd want the seat to swivel! But I might change my mind when I actually drive one. The fixed steering wheel on the
B2710 was fine for me (I'm 6' 220lbs). If you haven't driven them, DO. It's the only way you can really decide if these things are really important to you.
One big question I have about the TC29D is that it specs are identical to the TC25D except for HP. The engine displacement is even the same as the 25 but it is rated at 29hp at 2800rpm instead of 25hp at 2600rpm (similarly for PTO HP). Hmmmm, makes me wonder. First question that I'll have when I get back to the dealer.
Let me know what you decide. I'm still at least a couple of months from putting any money on the line.
