Shelbourne Reynolds is replacing its 700 and 800 series flagship hedge trimmer ranges with the new 7000 and 8000 series models.

The five-model 8000 series includes the 8060T with a retracted reach of 4.80m and maximum reach of 6.0m. Comparable figures for the 8070T and 8080T are 5.5m and 7.0m and 6.2m and 8.0m, respectively. There are also two VFRT models with variable forward reach as well as telescopic capability.

The in-house developed S-Touch system is new. This combines joystick control for the immediate operating functions with a 6-inch touchscreen for altering settings and function responses, monitoring service requirements, and accessing a full operator’s manual.

There are two versions. While the operating screen is common to both, the standard S-Touch compact features a compact fingertip operated joystick, while the optional S-Touch max incorporates a larger multifunction joystick.

Standard 8000 series specification includes a 70hp hydraulic pump and a 1.2m GP1200 flail head. There is a 1.5m GP1500 option and 1.2m HC1200 or 1.6m HC1600 heads are also available for high-capacity single-pass cutting.

Further arm specification comprises twin accumulator arm float, auto-reset break-back, 102-degree slew and parallel arm geometry. Additional features include LED road lights and 180-degree strobe.

The 7000 series comprises the 7060T with 6.0m telescopic reach and the 7062VFR with 6.2m outward reach plus variable forward reach. Sharing many of their design features with the larger 8000 models, they are styled similarly, particularly in the oil tank and top cooler cover, improving access to areas such as the oil cooler and oil filters. Upgraded lighting from the 8000 models is integral to the design.

Controller for the new 7000 series is the established digital proportional joystick plus LCD screen. Main functions are fully programmable, and include proportional control of lift, reach and head angling.

Tractor mounting is via a four-point stabiliser kit or five-point axle-mounting arrangement, the latter a new development that uses the tractor link arms.

Other 7000 series features include a self-folding transport cab protector like that on the 8000 series, and improved parking stands. Slew has been increased from 90° to 102°, which reduces transport width.

The new hedge trimmers will be at LAMMA 2022 in May.