Bateman Sprayers | News | Customer Testimonials | First impressions: Willes Farming’s new Bateman RB60
First impressions: Willes Farming’s new Bateman RB60
Just a few months after taking delivery of a new Bateman RB60, Farm Manager Rob Down is already seeing the benefits of investing in a larger-capacity, future-focused sprayer.
Based at Willes Farming’s recently acquired Lincolnshire operation, Rob is overseeing the development of a livestock-focused enterprise where every acre is geared towards feeding cattle.
Having worked with Bateman sprayers in Devon, the decision to purchase a Bateman was driven by reliability, performance and confidence in the support behind the machine. With spraying windows becoming increasingly difficult to hit and plans for the business to grow, the RB60 was selected to provide the capacity, flexibility and technology needed both now and in the years ahead.
Building a new farming enterprise in Lincolnshire
Willes Farming has its roots in North Devon, the business is focussed solely on dairy cattle. Around 12 months ago, the Willes family expanded into Lincolnshire, purchasing approximately 2,500 acres.
The long-term vision centres on livestock production, with plans for a dedicated calf-rearing unit and beef enterprise. The aim is to fatten calves for the dairy unit and rear heifers so that a better line is introduced to the herd. As a result, everything grown on the farm is intended to feed livestock, with cropping focused on winter wheat, winter barley, maize and grass.
Why the RB60 was the right choice
Having previously operated Bateman sprayers, Rob was already familiar with the brand’s reputation for reliability and performance.
“When we looked at the options, it came down to Bateman and a rival brand,” Rob explains. “Among other reasons, the RB60 gave us the capacity we need for the future. We’ve probably got more capacity than we need today, but as the business develops we’ll need it.”
With weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, Rob wanted a machine capable of covering large areas quickly when spraying opportunities arise.
“Hitting timings is getting harder with changing weather patterns, so I wanted a machine that had more than enough capacity. This is a long-term investment and we wanted to future-proof the business as much as possible.”
Specified for performance and future flexibility
The RB60 supplied to Willes Farming includes a 6,000-litre tank, 36-metre VG boom, Bateman boom levelling, Pinpoint III pulse width modulation, E-Drive transmission and modified lower back frame for larger wheels. For Rob, PWM technology was a key factor in the purchase decision.
“In Lincolnshire, it’s invaluable for fungicides and herbicides, but we’ve also found it extremely useful when applying liquid fertiliser. We can increase the dose on outside sections around headlands where they’re not receiving as much slurry, which brings real benefits.”
The machine was also specified with Fast Fill capability to maximise filling efficiency, particularly when handling liquid fertiliser.
To improve crop clearance and reduce compaction, Rob opted for 38-inch wheels.
“The larger wheels give us more clearance when spraying maize later in the season helping to avoid crop damage. They’ve also improved compaction, which is beneficial on our heavier clay soils.”
Adapting to Lincolnshire conditions
Although Rob has extensive experience farming and spraying in Devon, he says the challenges in Lincolnshire are very different.
“Here we’re dealing with east winds, more sunshine and much narrower spraying windows. There’s a lot more early-morning and late-evening spraying. In Devon we see almost double the rainfall and much of the spraying is on grassland rather than arable crops.”
These differing conditions reinforced the need for a machine capable of carrying significant volumes and covering ground efficiently whenever suitable weather conditions arrive.
First impressions of the new RB60
After a few months in the field, Rob’s initial impressions have been overwhelmingly positive.
“The cab is a really nice place to be. The new joystick is a dream, it’s intuitive, easy to use and very user-friendly. I like that they’ve kept the manual switches as well, which means you’ve always got a backup, should you need it.”
Rob has also been impressed by the redesign of the machine’s plumbing and filling systems.
“What Bateman have done with the pumps, plumbing and induction hopper is a huge improvement. Filling is faster and everything is so much easier to use.”
The move to larger three-inch couplings has also made a noticeable difference.
“With the larger couplings and the 6,000-litre tank, we’re able to get product and water into the machine much faster, it’s helping us hit our timings. The whole layout is cleaner and more practical than previous designs.”
Surprised by the running costs
One aspect of ownership that has particularly impressed Rob is the RB60’s operating economy.
“The RB60 is incredibly economical to run. I can comfortably get through two days of spraying – around 800 acres on single tank of fuel.”
He adds that fuel efficiency isn’t the only surprise.
“AdBlue usage is minimal as well. For a machine of this size, it’s remarkably economical.”
Confidence in Bateman support
While machine performance was important, support and backup played an equally significant role in the decision-making process.
“Ultimately, it’s a Devon-built machine. If we ever needed a part urgently, we know the support is there.
“It doesn’t matter what colour the paintwork is – every machine will need support at some point. What matters is how you’re looked after. Bateman have never failed to deliver on that.”
Looking ahead
As Willes Farming continues to develop its Lincolnshire operation, Rob believes the RB60 is well positioned to support the business’s growth.
“We’re hoping it will continue helping us hit those crucial timings because farming only seems to get busier and more challenging.”
And with expansion plans firmly in place, Rob sees the RB60 as a machine that can grow alongside the business.
“We’re hoping the business will keep growing – and our relationship with Bateman will grow with us.”
Finally, as Bateman marks its 50th anniversary, what message would Rob like to send:
“I think they’ve cracked every sprayer operator and farm manager’s dream with the new machines. Our RB60 is so economical to run and a privilege to drive. Congratulations on fifty years and thank you.”
The RB60 – our FAQ summary
What tank capacity does the Bateman RB60 offer?
The RB60 features a 6,000-litre spray tank, providing the capacity needed to maximise output and reduce filling stops during busy spraying periods.
What is PWM spraying technology?
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) allows operators to maintain consistent pressure and droplet size while varying application rates. This helps improve application accuracy across changing field conditions and varying travel speeds.
Why is PWM useful for liquid fertiliser applications?
PWM enables operators to adjust application rates across individual boom sections, helping target areas such as headlands more accurately and improving nutrient placement.
What boom widths are available on the RB60?
The RB60 is available with a range of boom configurations up to 42 metres. The machine featured in this case study was specified with a 36-metre VG boom.
How does the RB60 help improve spraying efficiency?
The combination of a large tank, Fast Fill system, high-capacity plumbing and efficient filling layout helps minimise downtime and maximise productive spraying hours.
What support does Bateman provide after purchase?
Bateman is well known for customer support that is second to none. Parts availability and engineering expertise, helping operators minimise downtime and keep spraying when conditions are right.
Learn more about the RB60
You can find the complete specification for the RB60 self propelled crop sprayer here ››
Want to see our demo RB50 in your own fields? Book your demo here ››
