High-capacity dual-purpose forage wagon popularity continues to increase, but following last season’s tricky conditions contractors are seeking larger tyres to ensure they can get the job done in even the softest conditions. Schuitemaker’s answer is a new 48m³ flagship triple-axle dual-purpose Rapide 8400 Plus, which is shod as standard with 1.57m tall 750/60 R26.5 FL630 Super BKT tyres, with different tyre sizes and brands available up to a diameter of 1.62m and width of 85cm.
The Dutch firm says these larger boots, and the optional tyre pressure control system (axles prepared for this are standard) not only increases operator comfort on the road but also helps to reduce ground pressure in the field. The Rapide 8400 Plus comes as standard with a 40t-rated hydraulically-sprung, electro-hydraulically-steered BPW tridem (front and rear steered), which is claimed to be well suited to long-distance road travel. The standard spec also includes a hydraulic front board for working in maize.
The touch screen is the same as that launched in 2016 for the Rapide 100 and 1000 Series, and it is also possible to operate the wagon via ISOBUS. Optional equipment includes a weighing system and an NIR sensor for real-time DM measurements and grass composition. The first models will be out in Dutch fields this season, and the company hopes to bring a model to the UK at some point.
