The Bobcat S70 skid steer loader stands out as the smallest loader in the Bobcat lineup, but don’t be deceived by its size. This compact machine is designed for a wide variety of jobs and environments. Despite standing only six feet tall and three feet wide, the S70 is capable of tackling tasks that would be too big to shovel by hand, but not big enough to merit a larger piece of equipment.
The S70 was introduced in 2007. At the time of its introduction, the construction and landscaping industries were witnessing a growing need for compact yet powerful equipment. The S70, with its compact size and range of capabilities, was a response to this demand. It was designed to offer the power and performance of a larger machine, while being small enough to navigate in tight spaces, which made it an instant hit in the market.
The S70’s compact size becomes a significant advantage when working in confined spaces such as narrow doorways or tight side yards. However, the small footprint doesn’t limit its capabilities. The S70 is compatible with a wide range of attachments like snow blowers, trenchers, and soil conditioners, making it a highly-adaptable piece of equipment
Bobcat S70 Specs
The Bobcat S70 is powered by a 23.5 horsepower engine, it boasts a rated operating capacity of 760 pounds, and an operating weight of 2892 pounds. The S70 also features a travel speed of 6.3 mph, allowing for quick navigation across work sites.
The fuel tank capacity of 6.5 gallons ensures extended operation times before refueling is required. Moreover, the machine’s Tier 4 engine helps in reducing emissions, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
In terms of dimensions, the S70 measures 75.6 inches in length, 35.5 inches in width, and has a height of 71.4 inches with the operator cab. The compact width is particularly important as it allows the S70 to navigate through narrow spaces that would be inaccessible to larger machines. The machine’s turning radius is 58.7 inches, further enhancing its maneuverability in tight spaces.
Creature comfort features
The Bobcat S70 is equipped with a variety of features designed to enhance operator comfort and safety. These include an adjustable seat, backup alarm, operating lights, parking brake, seat belt, and suspension seat. Optional features such as a cab enclosure, sound option, cab heater, and top window further enhance the user experience, making the S70 a comfortable and safe machine to operate.
One key safety feature of the Bobcat S70 that contributes to its uniqueness is the Bobcat Interlock Control System (BICS). This system requires the operator to be seated with the seat bar in place and the engine running before it allows certain functions, such as lift and tilt functions or travel, to operate. This ensures that the machine can’t be operated unintentionally, contributing to a safer work environment.
Also, the compact size of the S70 itself can be seen as a safety feature. Its small size and agility allow it to maneuver in tight spaces where larger, heavier machines might be at risk of tipping over or causing damage.
What is the price of a Bobcat S70?
The price range you can expect when looking at the Bobcat S70 for sale depends largely on the machine’s condition and age. As with any piece of equipment, a brand new S70 will command a higher price than a used one. However, the condition of a used S70 can significantly impact its value. A well-maintained machine with low operating hours can fetch a price closer to that of a new model, while an older machine with high hours or maintenance issues will be priced accordingly. A brand new Bobcat S70 skid steer ranges from approximately $20,000 to $25,000, while used models can vary widely based on the factors mentioned earlier, typically starting from around $10,000.
Here’s a pricing breakdown of the Bobcat S70 by model year. Our pricing data is supplied by Rouse which is the gold standard for heavy equipment and machinery prices globally.
| Model | Year Range | Price Range |
| S70 | 2008-2012 | $13,900 – $14,700 |
| S70 | 2013-2017 | $15,000 – $19,900 |
| S70 | 2018-2022 | $15,800 – $27,100 |
Changes and updates to the S70 over the years
Since its debut in 2007, the Bobcat S70 has undergone a series of updates to improve its performance, efficiency, and comfort for operators.
Early in its evolution, the S70 saw updates to its engine. The most significant of these was the adoption of a Tier 4 engine, which was incorporated to meet stringent emission standards and to improve overall efficiency. This update came into effect around 2015, aligning with the increased environmental awareness and the push for more sustainable practices in the industry.
In terms of operator comfort and safety, the Bobcat S70 has seen a consistent addition of features since its launch. Notable advancements include the addition of an adjustable seat, backup alarm, operating lights, parking brake, seat belt, and suspension seat. These became standard features on all S70 models by 2010, providing operators with increased safety and comfort on job sites.
Further enhancing operator comfort, Bobcat began offering optional features such as a cab enclosure, sound option, cab heater, and top window in 2012. These options give operators the flexibility to customize the S70 to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Final thoughts
Overall, the Bobcat S70 Skid Steer stands as a testament to the power of compact machinery. Its unique blend of size, versatility, and performance make it a good choice, whether for large-scale construction projects or smaller home renovations. As we’ve explored, the cost of this machine can vary based on a number of factors, but its consistent performance and wide range of applications offer significant value for the price. Whether you’re considering a brand new model or a used one, the Bobcat S70 Skid Steer remains a stalwart in the industry, adapting and evolving since its inception to meet the ever-changing demands of its users.