Agile and versatile, the revamped ultra-low-profile tractors of the Bcs Fighter series now come equipped with oversized rear tires that enhance their traction capabilities without compromising vertical clearance, which remains under 170 centimeters thanks to the option of fitting the ultra-low “Compact Pro” cab
Manufactured by a European industrial consortium that includes the Italian company Leonardo, the “EuroFighter” jets are advanced fourth-generation multirole combat aircraft. These planes are extremely agile and versatile, thanks to a design centered around forward-mounted canard wings that provide additional lift. This reduces the load on the delta-shaped main wings, thereby ensuring exceptional maneuverability.
As true multirole aircraft, they can successfully adapt to a wide range of missions without sacrificing operational efficiency. These same characteristics are mirrored in the agricultural world by the BCS isodiametric tractors—ultra-low-profile and equipped with oversized wheels—aptly named “Fighter” as well. These high-end machines combine the traditional agility of isodiametric tractors with enhanced traction and rear load capacity, thanks to the larger rear wheels.
Named “Fighter 85 RS” and “Fighter K90 RS,” they feature rear tires up to 24 inches in diameter, compared to the 18 or 20 inches found on standard isodiametric tractors. This solution also provides a larger footprint on soft ground, benefiting both soil preservation and machine stability.
As a result, the Fighter tractors can safely operate even in the most challenging conditions. This is further supported by the standard inclusion of the exclusive BCS “OS-Frame” articulated oscillating chassis, which allows the front axle to pivot up to 15 degrees relative to the rear. This ensures maximum tire grip on uneven terrain. These are complete and multi-functional machines, equipped with proven, reliable technical solutions that make them easy and intuitive to operate—even for less experienced users.
In this vein, the powertrain features two 75-horsepower engines, sourced from either Kubota or Rehlko (the rebranded name for Kohler engines as of late 2024). These are paired with synchronized mechanical transmissions offering four gears across four ranges, providing 16 forward and 16 reverse speeds. Reverse gears can be engaged using a synchronized shuttle lever. With this setup, the BCS Fighter 85 RS and Fighter K90 RS are extremely versatile and multi-functional.
This is further enhanced by a dual-circuit hydraulic system that supplies 33 liters per minute for onboard services and an additional 51 liters per minute for the rear lift (with a 2,700 kg max capacity) and seven hydraulic outlets. These outlets are controlled via mechanical levers conveniently positioned on the right fender for ergonomic and user-friendly operation.
In the same area, you’ll also find the controls for the PTO (Power Take-Off), which—as is tradition for Bcs—features a long-lasting, oil-bath independent clutch. The gear lever is placed toward the front, making it easier to access the driver’s seat without having to step over a high tunnel. This design is especially valuable when equipping the machines with the ultra-low-profile “Compact Pro” cab, which is pressurized and Class 4 certified. This keeps overall height at just 170 centimeters—a unique feature currently exclusive to the Lombardy-based BCS Group. It allows these tractors to operate under low canopies, pergola-style vineyards, and in greenhouses without damaging crops.
Comfort and Safety
Built from a one-piece steel frame isolated from the chassis via special silent-blocks, the Compact Pro low-profile cabs (Class 4 certified) are enclosed on all four sides with heat-insulated glass panels and topped with an insulated roof that houses the air conditioning and ventilation system. This system is electronically controlled through an LCD display mounted on the right cab pillar.
Triple-layer activated carbon filters block any type of solid, liquid, or gaseous contaminants, allowing the operator to always maintain ideal temperature and humidity levels regardless of outside conditions. It’s essentially an automotive-grade system, and the cab comes standard with must-have features such as USB ports and a built-in radio.
Two Engine Options
The BCS Fighter series isodiametric tractors with oversized wheels are available with two engine options: the Rehlko “KDI 2504 TCR” and the Kubota “V3800-CR-T-EW03.” While the former are simply rebranded Kohler units, both engines offer identical power ratings of 75 horsepower. They meet Stage V emissions standards through a combination of EGR intake systems and DOC/DPF exhaust systems. Both use turbocharged and intercooled forced induction and electronically controlled high-pressure common rail fuel injection systems.
However, the engine displacements differ, which affects performance. The 3.8-liter, four-cylinder Kubota engine provides greater torque flexibility compared to the Rehlko’s four-cylinder engine. This is backed by the Japanese engine’s higher torque reserve and better low-end torque. The Kubota also has a lower stress index, suggesting it’s more suited for heavy-duty, continuous operations.
These advantages, however, come at the cost of greater weight and size. This required BCS engineers to design a specific hood for the Fighter K90 RS, which is bulkier than the sleeker design found on the Fighter 85 RS. The latter, being around 200 kg lighter, is quicker and more responsive, especially on roads while towing light trailers or during on-farm maintenance work.
Title: Bcs Fighter series: comfort and maneuverability
Translation with ChatGPT
