Bobcat T86 vs Takeuchi TL12V2
Quick take: The Takeuchi TL12V2 costs $1,000 less; the Takeuchi TL12V2 has a higher rated operating capacity (4,107 vs 3,800 lbs); the Takeuchi TL12V2 has more engine power (111 vs 105 hp).
| Spec | Bobcat T86 | Takeuchi TL12V2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $96,000 | $95,000 |
| Rating | 4.7★ (520) | 4.6★ (420) |
| Type | Compact Track Loader | Compact Track Loader |
| Lift Path | Vertical Lift | Vertical Lift |
| ROC | 3800 lbs | 4107 lbs |
| Engine HP | 105 hp | 111 hp |
| Operating Weight | 12393 lbs | 13040 lbs |
| Tipping Load | 10857 lbs | 11734 lbs |
| Lift Height | 132 in | 134 in |
| Hydraulic Flow | 23 GPM | 22.5 GPM |
| Engine | Bobcat (Doosan) 3.4L | Kubota V3800-CR |
| Tracks | Yes | Yes |
| Vertical lift | Yes | Yes |
| High-flow | Yes | Yes |
| Enclosed cab | Yes | Yes |
| Two-speed | Yes | Yes |
| Self-leveling | Yes | Yes |
| A/C & heat | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 yr / 2000 hr | 2 yr / 2000 hr |
Pros & cons
Bobcat T86
- ✓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.
Takeuchi TL12V2
- ✓At 4,107 lb capacity the TL12V2 is one of the highest-lifting CTLs on the market, and heavy operators say it out-muscles machines that cost more.
- ✓The 111 hp Kubota V3800 engine delivers strong, reliable power, and owners praise it for pulling hard through the toughest dirt and material work.
- ✓Takeuchi invented the compact track loader, and the TL12V2's rugged undercarriage has a reputation for durability and long track life under commercial use.
- ✓Vertical lift with a 134-inch hinge-pin height makes loading the tallest trucks and hoppers effortless, a real advantage for aggregate work.
- ✓Takeuchi pricing typically undercuts a comparably-spec'd Cat 299D3 or Bobcat T86, so value-focused buyers get flagship capability for less.
- ✓The cab is comfortable with good visibility, and owners appreciate the straightforward, durable controls over long production days.
- ✓Resale value is strong because Takeuchi's durability reputation keeps used demand high among owner-operators and contractors.
- ✓The high-flow option and strong hydraulics let it run demanding attachments, adding versatility to its heavy-lift capability.
- ✗Takeuchi's dealer network is smaller and more regional than Bobcat or Cat, so parts and service access varies a lot by location.
- ✗At over 13,000 lb it's a heavy machine that requires a serious truck and trailer, limiting mobility for smaller operators.
- ✗Undercarriage and track costs on a machine this size are significant, especially on abrasive ground.
- ✗Because dealers are independent, warranty and service experience can be inconsistent depending on the specific dealer.
- ✗The attachment and used-implement ecosystem is smaller than Bobcat's, so sourcing tools locally can be harder.
- ✗Some operators note the cab and controls, while durable, feel less refined than the latest Cat and Bobcat interiors.
- ✗Its size and weight make it overkill and less nimble for tight residential work versus a medium-frame CTL.
- ✗The premium price for a flagship machine, while lower than Cat, is still a major investment that tests smaller-operator budgets.