If you haven’t heard already, Komatsu have released new additions to their fleet. If you’re looking to buy a backhoe loader, you’re in for a treat! The Komatsu WB97S-8 has been introduced as the first model from the new range of backhoe loaders that will be available to the global market.
What is a Backhoe Loader?
A backhoe loader is a versatile piece of plant that most construction sites would benefit from. A backhoe loader is commonly known in the UK as a JCB, as they were first produced in 1953 by JCB.
They were originally adapted from the tractor design, but are equipped with a front loader bucket and a backhoe attachment at the rear. The reason they are so popular is that various attachments such as a breaker or an auger can be added in place of the backhoe attachment.
They are often used for the following tasks:
- Backfilling
- Transporting materials
- Digging
- Landscaping projects
- Small scale demolition work
The list goes on! If you want to maximise productivity when on site, then the backhoe loader is the perfect choice.
The latest addition to Komatsu
Komatsu describes the WB97S-8 as “the perfect balance between great visibility, operator comfort and productivity”, definitely making it a suitable choice of machinery for any construction worker. What else can you expect from the new backhoe loader?
Performance and Efficiency
The new Komatsu WB97S-8 backhoe loader has an operating weight of 8750kg and an engine with more power. No job will be too much for this machine! Whilst a new, more powerful engine will be present the fuel consumption will be considerably lower.
A new Selective Catalytic Reduction system will also lower the amount of harmful emissions for the operator, and the environment.
Safety, Comfort and Maintenance
Safety is always the number one priority for Komatsu. There are a number of new safety features on the new backhoe loader including:
- A new engine shutdown switch, which can be reached from outside the cab at ground level
- Street mode functionality
- A travel neutral lock
- Optical seat belt alarm
Komatsu has also made the decision to redesign the switch console, fit the backhoe loader with a new accelerator pedal and new air-suspension seats for added comfort for the operator.
All main maintenance points are still easily accessible, and conveniently located.
About Komatsu Europe Ltd
Komatsu is an incredibly well known brand in the construction industry. Having been established since 1921, the japanese manufacturer has definitely gone from strength to strength in terms of the machines on offer.
Being one of the leading manufacturers in the world, it’s no surprise that the hype for a new Komatsu Backhoe Loader is huge. Along with backhoe loaders, Komatsu specialise in the making of excavators, forklift trucks and forest machines for construction and mining purposes.
Against the popular brand of JCB, how will the Komatsu WB97S‐8 compare to the JCB 3CX Backhoe Loader? We shall have to wait and see!
Backhoe Loaders available at International Plant Sales
Although we haven’t got the Komatsu Backhoe Loaders for sale yet, we do have an alternative that is just as good. The JCB 3CX, fitted with a 6-in-1 bucket will effectively take on most tasks at hand. 
When you buy a backhoe loader and other used construction machinery from us you will benefit from the following:
- Warranty on all major components
- Low hours
- Machines come with a manufacturer’s service history
- International Delivery
- Our machines only have one previous owner
Get a quote for our JCB 3CX Backhoe Loaders now while stock lasts.
Looking to buy a Komatsu?
Here at IPS our stock list is made up of used machines originally used by our sister companies, Diggerland and H.E. SERVICES (Plant Hire) Ltd. When machines reach 3 years of age, new machinery is purchased to replace them. This is one of the main reasons our customers love us. Our machines average around 3 years old and have low hours, you’ll be guaranteed excellent quality machinery for competitive prices!
Currently we only have the JCB 3CX Backhoe Loaders on our stock list. There’s no saying that the new Komatsu WB97S-8 won’t end up at our Diggerland parks or on hire with H.E. SERVICES, so we may see it on our stock list in the future!
Additionally, we also have a variety of Komatsu excavators from mini diggers to long reach excavators. View all of our machinery available today.
Get in contact with the sales team for a quote on any of our plant equipment. Call us or send us an email, we would be happy to help!
All information correct as of: 10th September 2020.
