Bobcat
Bobcat S86
The Bobcat S86 is Bobcat's largest and most powerful wheeled skid steer, with a 105 hp engine and vertical lift. It uniquely offers standard-flow, high-flow, and super-flow hydraulics in one machine for maximum attachment capability.
Specifications
Features
Pros
- ✓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.
Cons
- ✗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.
Compare the Bobcat S86
Related skid steers
More from Bobcat →
Bobcat
Bobcat S76
The Bobcat S76 is a medium-frame vertical-lift wheeled skid steer and one of the best-selling machines in Bobcat's R-Series. It's a contractor favorite for its lift performance, refined cab, and huge dealer network.
Bobcat
Bobcat S64
The Bobcat S64 is a small-frame vertical-lift wheeled skid steer built by Doosan Bobcat in North Dakota. It slots just below the popular S66 in the R-Series lineup for buyers who want Bobcat quality in a lighter, more affordable package.
Bobcat
Bobcat T76
The Bobcat T76 is a medium-frame vertical-lift compact track loader and one of the most popular CTLs sold in North America. It pairs strong lift performance with Bobcat's refined cab and huge dealer support.