To B or BX?

[johnking]

I am considering a new tractor purchase. My use will be to mow 3 acres at my new house and do work on my small horse/cattle(4 horse/5 cattles) farm. I was thinking that instead of getting a Zero-turn mower I could just get one of the smaller Kubotas with MMM and a front end loader. I could mow quickly while also having a machine that could do other task. The Zero-turn is a one trick pony. Is this a good way to go? Is the small tractor with MMM about as good as the Zero turn? Also after looking at the kubota website it is hard to compare models. What would you recommend? Right now I use a Massey 135 for cutting the field at my farm and am looking forward to a small nimble tractor for around the house and barn.

 

[Mowbizz]

I have the BX25-D which I use as my mower for about 3-4 acres of lawn. It mows wonderfully but to switch between the mower, backhoe, and front loader is, even though simple in theory, can be challenging in some ways.
The key is to have a solid paved or concrete surface on which to attach and detach these implements. I have only sandy soil, lawn and gravel to use (until my garage is built) for detaching and attaching so it can be tricky and frustrating.
I say go for the BX series and have a blast! Even though my situation here is sketchy for removing and remounting my implements, the sweat and frustration is well worth the end result of having a mower and loader and a backhoe, which are very handy!

 

[TripleR]

Look up some of the threads by JOHNTHOMAS and bp fick as they have owned both and reported on their experience with other members chipping in. We have BXs which work well for us, but have bigger tractors when needed. ZTR won't work on our property as it's too steep in many places.

 

[bp fick]

Since you already have the larger Massey, the BX is flat out a barrel of monkeys to own and operate. You used the word nimble and THAT is the BX. I've had them both, in severals models and the B is an outstanding compact tractor. Loved it. But for tight spot handling and big smiles on your face, the BX is handier than a pocket on a shirt.

 

[Scooby074]

B. 5 characters

 

[Code54]

Since you already have the larger Massey, the BX is flat out a barrel of monkeys to own and operate. You used the word nimble and THAT is the BX. I've had them both, in severals models and the B is an outstanding compact tractor. Loved it. But for tight spot handling and big smiles on your face, the BX is handier than a pocket on a shirt.

I have to agree. Owned a B, an L, have an MX and also a BX and the BX is SUPER handy. Fits everywhere the MX does not and is great around the house. I also sold my zero turn when I recently bought the BX and I don't miss it at all. I much rather cut with the BX than the zero turn. Far better "grip" on the hills, smoother, more comfortable, and just feels solid!

 

[JOHNTHOMAS]

Look up some of the threads by JOHNTHOMAS and bp fick as they have owned both and reported on their experience with other members chipping in. We have BXs which work well for us, but have bigger tractors when needed. ZTR won't work on our property as it's too steep in many places.

Since you already have the larger Massey, the BX is flat out a barrel of monkeys to own and operate. You used the word nimble and THAT is the BX. I've had them both, in severals models and the B is an outstanding compact tractor. Loved it. But for tight spot handling and big smiles on your face, the BX is handier than a pocket on a shirt.

I've owned most of the BX models and several B models and one L model. Don't think I can add much to this but agree. I currently own a B2620 FEL BH and often times wish I had the BX25 back.
Bottom line is mostly ground clearance between capabilities between the BX and B with the BX being a bit more nimble and seat sits closer to the ground for a more secure feeling of safety on hillsides.

 

[Cherokee140]

To answer your question I really don't know, to answer the question BX or ZTR...I would say BX because as you say the ZTR is a one trick pony.

I can say that the BX will put it self into places you did not think it would go. Sounds like you have a smaller outfit so I am betting smaller barns, smaller outbuildings, so I would think smaller tractor.

Do not underestimate what the BX will do. I love mine. I think you will find that most people that researched and bought what was really needed do love theirs....there are a few that bought little and should have bought big. Like buying a 1/2 ton and trying to pull that 5th wheel....ahh yea I guess that could work, but the better tool for the job you need done is a bigger truck.

All that said the least fav. thing for me to do with the BX is mow. I have a bad back and a bumpy "yard" I live on 13a and we now mow most of it. Putting on the deck is a supreme PITA for me, and I cuss the tractor every time....but again I am broken, what is easy for some is very hard for me. Now when mowing and going slow so it does not make me pop Percocet it cuts very very nice, very easy to turn, quiet. Really I think if it was not for all the metal in me I would be happy with its mowing ability.

Now put that loader and backhoe on and wow a killer dirt moving machine that little guy becomes.

 

[johnking]

I am planning on a MX 5100 in 2 or 3 years.

 

[Code54]

I am planning on a MX 5100 in 2 or 3 years.

The BX25D and a 5100 is a GREAT combo for us. Covers everything I have needed to do