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Bateman RB50 review: A familiar platform with major performance upgrades
Warwickshire farmer David Jones is no stranger to Bateman sprayers. Currently operating an RB35 with a 32m boom, David has worked with the RB platform for almost three decades.
When the opportunity arose to test-drive the new RB50 on home ground, it provided the ideal opportunity for David to see how the latest machine compares with a setup he knows inside out. This is what David had to say…
An intuitive cab layout for more efficient operation
“Straight away, the console on the right-hand side is noticeably very different. The minute I sat into the seat, you naturally settle into the armrest and console, everything comes nicely to hand. When you activate a function, it immediately appears on the screen, you know exactly what you’ve done at that moment, I really liked that.
“For me, that’s a big part of operating efficiently. Nowadays machines do so much via automation, it’s still important to know exactly what command you’ve given. That clarity is a real step forward.”
A smarter joystick design improves control and ease of use
“The new joystick also stood out. The transition from standstill into forward or reverse was smooth and progressive, you could gently move from zero into working speed. It felt positive and works with you.
“Cruise control resume settings and forward speed functions are obviously in slightly different places, compared with what I’m used to. However, it all becomes clearer when you make a selection, there’s an immediate illumination and confirmation on the screen. You know exactly what function you’ve engaged.
“There are functional buttons on the back of the joystick. You can tell a lot of thought has gone into the layout to access these controls. It feels much more like the modern tractors and combines we use, where a lot is done through thumb movements and rear switches.”
Boom control and stability is enhanced on slopes and contours
“Boom control was very impressive. Our current machine is fitted with Bateman Boom Levelling, but this was noticeably more responsive, especially across our steep banks and contours, which can be very challenging.
“Speed braking downhill is even better on the RB50. Using the E-Drive+ system to maintain target speed both uphill and downhill, the machine, when left to its own devices, felt completely in control at all times.”
Increased tank capacity without compromising sprayer size or stability
“For us, improving efficiency has always meant looking at more capacity. Moving up to the RB50 gives us the opportunity to go to a 5,000-litre tank, but importantly within a machine size that still feels familiar.
“When you look the RB50, the machine doesn’t seem any bigger than our RB35, although the tank is slightly taller and wider. It still feels very agile yet stable – the same ‘planted’ feel as our current machine. To gain another thousand litres and potentially step up to a 36m boom, genuinely doesn’t feel like moving into a larger machine.”
New features help save time and support resale value
The obvious updates are impressive, but some of the smaller details stood out equally as well.
“I liked the soft-lift induction bowl. It isn’t about using it once or twice a day, it’s about those fifteen or sixteen hour long spraying days when you’re constantly handling it. Having that soft up and down movement makes a real difference.
“I also liked the adjustable mudguards. We like to keep our machines tidy because presentation matters. Looking after the paintwork and keeping everything smart makes a huge difference to second-hand values and helps maintain the reputation of the machine.
“We’re not changing wheels regularly like some vegetable or potato growers, but having a system where it’s simply one pin and a clip to move the mudguards in and out is a simple improvement that makes life easier.”
Is the Bateman RB50 a game changer for UK arable farmers?
“To sum up the new RB50, I would say it’s a game changer.
“The obvious talking points are the new controls, increased capacity, updated boom and filling systems, but it’s the smaller changes that stand out – the beefed-up pins and rams, larger hoses and couplings, better boom sensors and the soft damping on the final breakback section.
“All these refinements and others have clearly come from conversations out in the field. I’m delighted Bateman have taken that feedback on board and I’m very confident a lot of farmers will be impressed with these new machines. I certainly was.”
RB50 key features at a glance
- New cab & controls
- Improved joystick response
- Better boom levelling
- Increased tank capacity
- Operator comfort upgrades
Learn more about the RB50
You can find the complete specification for the RB50 self propelled crop sprayer here ››
Want to see the RB50 in your own fields? Book your demo here ››