Bobcat S86 vs Bobcat T86

Bobcat

Bobcat S86

$82,000

4.7★ (460)

Bobcat

$96,000

4.7★ (520)

Quick take: The Bobcat S86 costs $14,000 less; the Bobcat T86 has a higher rated operating capacity (3,800 vs 3,400 lbs).

✓The S86 is one of the only machines offering standard-flow, high-flow (36.6 GPM), and super-flow (42 GPM) hydraulics, and owners running planers and mulchers say it powers attachments nothing else in its class can.
✓At 105 hp and 3,400 lb capacity it's the top of Bobcat's wheeled lineup, and heavy-duty contractors praise its raw production capability.
✓The vertical lift with 132-inch hinge-pin height makes loading the tallest trucks and hoppers effortless, a real advantage for aggregate work.
✓The cab-forward visibility and refined, quiet cab carry over from the R-Series, and operators rate it top-tier for comfort and sightlines.
✓Bobcat's unmatched dealer network keeps parts, loaners, and service readily available, minimizing downtime on a machine this productive.
✓Resale value is exceptional — the S86 commands strong used money, softening the high purchase price over time.
✓The 5-link torsion suspension and strong breakout force make it capable across dirt work, loading, and heavy attachment tasks.
✓The super-flow option at 4,061 psi delivers class-leading hydraulic horsepower, which owners running the hungriest attachments specifically buy it for.

✗The S86 is expensive — its premium price and the cost of the super-flow package push it well into large-CTL territory.
✗Bobcat dealer parts and labor rates are among the highest in the industry, and owners feel locked into a costly ecosystem.
✗As a wheeled machine it lacks the flotation of a CTL, so it's less suited to soft or muddy ground where the T86 shines.
✗The proprietary Bob-Tach and controls can complicate running certain third-party attachments, nudging buyers toward Bobcat tools.
✗The DPF/emissions system on the 3.4L engine draws complaints during heavy idling and light-duty cycles.
✗At nearly 10,000 lb it needs a heavy truck and trailer, and the machine's size reduces versatility on tight sites.
✗Tires wear quickly under heavy loads on abrasive surfaces, and a full set of premium tires is a steep recurring cost.
✗Fully optioned with super-flow and premium cab features, the S86's price climbs fast, testing buyers' budgets.

✓The T86 is Bobcat's flagship CTL, and owners praise the combination of 3,800 lb capacity, 105 hp, and track flotation as a do-everything heavy production machine.
✓The three hydraulic options — standard (23 GPM), high-flow (30.3 GPM), and super-flow (42 GPM) — let it run the hungriest mulchers and planers on the market.
✓Vertical lift with a 132-inch hinge-pin height makes loading the tallest trucks and hoppers easy, a big advantage for aggregate and demolition work.
✓The cab-forward visibility and refined, quiet cab are class-leading, and operators single out the sightlines for grading and precise work.
✓The 5-link torsion suspension smooths rough ground and reduces fatigue on a heavy machine, which matters over long production days.
✓Bobcat's dealer network keeps parts, tracks, and loaners readily available, minimizing downtime on an expensive, high-utilization machine.
✓Resale value is exceptional, and the T86's popularity means it holds strong used money to offset the high purchase price.
✓Owners running land-clearing and mulching attachments specifically choose the T86 for its super-flow hydraulic horsepower that rivals can't match.

✗The T86 is one of the most expensive CTLs in its class, and the super-flow package adds even more to an already steep price.
✗Undercarriage and track costs on a 12,000-plus-pound machine are significant, and owners report high replacement expenses on abrasive ground.
✗Bobcat parts and dealer labor rates are among the highest in the industry, keeping ongoing ownership costs elevated.
✗At over 12,000 lb it requires a heavy-duty truck and trailer, which limits mobility for smaller operators.
✗The proprietary Bob-Tach and controls can complicate running certain third-party attachments.
✗The DPF/emissions system on the 3.4L engine draws complaints during heavy idling and light-duty cycles that trigger regen.
✗Its size and weight make it overkill and less nimble for tight residential work versus a medium-frame CTL.
✗Fully optioned with super-flow and premium features, the T86's price approaches that of much larger equipment, testing budgets.