B2650 for 3 acres?

Jrums

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Searching
Aug 31, 2018
2
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Suffolk
Hi all. I’m new here and decided since I was enjoying reading all these posts I would create an account and ask a question. I’m moving from a small condo to a home I’m building on 3 acres. I really want a tractor. I also need a lawn mower. Would a B2650 with 72” mmm be excessive? I want something that holds value and will stand the test of time. Also, having the capability of other projects than cutting grass would be nice. I’m trying to talk myself into a tractor instead of a zero turn. The land is flat with no trees. Thanks.


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PaulL

Well-known member

Equipment
B2601
Jul 17, 2017
2,439
1,364
113
NZ
1. Would a B2650 do the job? Absolutely yes.

2. Would other Kubota models also do the job? Also yes.

Take a look at this thread with the table of the lower end Kubota models: http://www.orangetractortalks.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37655 You can see that there are two sizes smaller than the B50 series - the B01 and the BX. Realistically either of those would also do the jobs you describe, 3 acres is probably getting towards the top end of what most people would recommend a BX for, but it probably depends how tight for money you are - if your budget doesn't easily stretch to the B50, then a B01 or BX are cheaper.

Random advice:
  • People will tell you to fill the wheels. On flat land, and with mowing duties in mind, I wouldn't. You can ballast using a ballast box or an implement instead when you're using the loader
  • All the models will hold their value well - everyone would love to buy one second hand, but there are more buyers than sellers so the resale seems to hold up well
  • I have a BX, I'm going to move from 54 inch to 60 inch when I get a new one. 72 inch is a big mower. Should mow fast though.
  • The B50 is just that bit bigger than the BX. Some things that's a benefit, but it also means every implement is that bit bigger. Removing the deck, fitting the blade etc etc is all just a bit more physical. I can kick around my implements to get them lined up, with a B50 you start to need the extending arms and/or quick hitch to make some of this stuff easier, or do as some do and store your equipment on dollies
  • Think about transporting it if you're ever going to take it places - visit family to do jobs, or to friend's places. A B50 requires a bigger rig to transport it
  • At a minimum you need a front end loader, quick attach bucket, quick attach forks, and maybe snow blower, box blade or rear blade depending on what sort of climate you're in and what sort of driveway you have. Looks like Suffolk is Virginia, so not much snow? Blade is probably plenty, maybe even just the bucket.

Overall, on 3 acres you can easily justify a B50 - nobody will really look at you sideways thinking "what's he doing with that size of tractor on his property". On my 1 acre I think a BX is all I can really justify. If you can afford it I very much doubt you'll ever regret it. And it's definitely the right thing to do to get it up front - if you wait a year then get it, you'll suddenly realise how easy your life could have been during that time.
 

SDT

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multiple and various
Apr 15, 2018
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SE, IN
Hi all. I’m new here and decided since I was enjoying reading all these posts I would create an account and ask a question. I’m moving from a small condo to a home I’m building on 3 acres. I really want a tractor. I also need a lawn mower. Would a B2650 with 72” mmm be excessive? I want something that holds value and will stand the test of time. Also, having the capability of other projects than cutting grass would be nice. I’m trying to talk myself into a tractor instead of a zero turn. The land is flat with no trees. Thanks.


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Most likely.

Both 60" and 72" MMMs are offered for the 2650.

Chose according to the ground to be mowed, e.g., obstacles, terrain, etc.

If your ground is not flat, the 72" mower will be more likely to scalp.

SDT
 

Jrums

New member

Equipment
Searching
Aug 31, 2018
2
0
0
Suffolk
1. Would a B2650 do the job? Absolutely yes.



Random advice:
  • People will tell you to fill the wheels. On flat land, and with mowing duties in mind, I wouldn't. You can ballast using a ballast box or an implement instead when you're using the loader
  • All the models will hold their value well - everyone would love to buy one second hand, but there are more buyers than sellers so the resale seems to hold up well
  • The B50 is just that bit bigger than the BX. Some things that's a benefit, but it also means every implement is that bit bigger. Removing the deck, fitting the blade etc etc is all just a bit more physical. I can kick around my implements to get them lined up, with a B50 you start to need the extending arms and/or quick hitch to make some of this stuff easier, or do as some do and store your equipment on dollies
  • Think about transporting it if you're ever going to take it places - visit family to do jobs, or to friend's places. A B50 requires a bigger rig to transport it.

    That’s great advice. I’ve been told by many friends that getting the tires filled is a must. I doubted them with what I plan to to with it. Thanks for backing that up.





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Clover13

New member
Jul 27, 2018
220
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0
NJ
I just went through the same exercise for the last month+ reading, watching videos, and asking questions. I'm on 5 acres with 3/4 acre of lawn and the rest woods, 500-600ft gravel driveway, grading, plowing snow, moving firewood, cleaning up woods, and likely mowing. I initially felt like the B2650 might be too big, then I started to feel like maybe I needed something even bigger since I was doing ground engaging work. But ultimately, I think the B2650 should fit the bill perfectly for my needs. By all accounts, it's a very popular homestead tractor.

I'm a novice in the tractor world, but from all I've been researching, the advice given thus far by others is excellent. You'll want to consider weight when mowing, and filling the tires and keeping the FEL on will increase the chances of rutting out your lawn. So that's why I opted out of filling the tires. I also opted to go with the heaviest 60" box blade Land Pride makes both for it's use and also for ballast those times I need it (using FEL, plowing, etc). This gives me the flexibility to make the tractor lighter for mowing, and heavier for ground work. Once the tires are filled, well...they're staying heavy. From what I've been told, the wide rear tires are less of an issue than the narrower front tires (especially when the FEL is on, that added weight really drives them down).

One other big consideration for me between the BX and B initially was ground clearance. The BX is lower to the ground, and I plan on being in my woods quite a bit with it, so that extra height certainly helps. Not an issue for you if mowing is your primary task.

What other plans do you have for the tractor? Sounds like you're all grass. Maybe a garden? Driveway paved or dirt or gravel? Grading? Plowing? Any backhoe work?

If it's 90% mowing, the cabbed B2650 will be sweet. It may be a little "overkill", but it's the luxury model of tractors in that class. Many on here and other forums have talked about it's finish mowing quality being very good. When going between the 60 and 72, that really comes down to the ground flatness as others have mentioned. The less flat, the greater the chance of scalping the wider you go with the mower.

Another consideration is backhoe. The BX series you have to buy the BX model with the integrated backhoe or choose a model without and add an aftermarket one later. Kubota doesn't have one that can fit onto the other BX models later. The B series however does allow for it. So that too was another aspect that pushed me to the B, since I may want a backhoe in the future and would prefer a genuine Kubota BH if I do.

Good luck with your choice, exciting times! The hardest part for me has been committing to the purchase, it's A LOT of money and you want to be sure it will do what you have planned and even what you have not YET planned. So take the time to think of all the things you are likely to do, and then get the tractor that fits those tasks. Also keep in mind for bigger tasks, you can always rent a bigger machine for a day or two versus spending many thousands more for that bigger machine that you hardly use for those bigger tasks and sacrifice the lightness and agility and whatever other features you'd benefit from using with your primary tasks. Hope that makes sense! :)
 

Dunbar

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L2501 LA525 QA PFL2042 Forks RCR1860 FDR1672 BB1560 EA55 WR Grapple FitRite TnT
Aug 2, 2018
215
6
18
Texas
I have 3.75 acres with 1 acre of pasture to mow. I took delivery of my L2501 today and am glad that I did not get a smaller tractor. I have lots of trees and jungle to deal with. I used the forks to get the box blade off of the delivery truck. The bucket with a chain would not lift high enough to clear the goose neck bed.
 

PaulL

Well-known member

Equipment
B2601
Jul 17, 2017
2,439
1,364
113
NZ
That***8217;s great advice. I***8217;ve been told by many friends that getting the tires filled is a must. I doubted them with what I plan to to with it. Thanks for backing that up.
My logic is you can always fill the wheels later. It's really hard to unfill them.

On the 72 inch mower and scalping, I've gone down the path of making my property fit my machine, rather than the other way round. The bits that scalp eventually get flatter.....and actually I just use my machine to make that flat anyway by bringing dirt or levelling. I made all the radiuses on my edges big enough to run the tractor round, my aim is to mow without getting off the tractor. Sounds like you have a new property you're going to build on, nothing stopping you landscaping to suit your machinery.
 
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ItBmine

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Equipment
B2620, RTV-X1100C
Jan 21, 2014
1,376
379
83
Canada
If you wanted a cab then the B2650 is the way to go, but otherwise a BX or B2601 is all you need, and will save you a bunch of money.
They are also lighter for mowing.

The new BX's are really nice and packed full of features. And they hold their resale value.
I have a B though just because I build lots of bush roads and work in my bush so I want the extra ground clearance. Otherwise a BX would also do all the jobs I have done.
 

PHPaul

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Equipment
B2650, Pronovost snow blower, Landpride rotary mower, Howard tiller, box blade
Apr 2, 2015
1,025
975
113
Downeast Maine
www.eastovershoe.com
I have just short of 4 acres. I replaced a John Deere 750 (that I owned for 28 years) with a B2650 with a cab.

I've never felt the need for a smaller tractor. I mow everything but the front lawn with the Cabota and a 60" rear finish mower. I have implements to grade the driveway (box blade), clear the drive in winter (64" rear mount snow blower), till the garden, mow rougher fields, bucket, forks, grapple and log splitter and use them all regularly.

My land is essentially flat except for a couple of areas and I've never regretting having the rears filled. I also run Ag (R1) tires and really appreciate the traction when blowing snow.

The AC in summer and heat in winter is priceless...
 

SDT

Well-known member

Equipment
multiple and various
Apr 15, 2018
3,255
1,042
113
SE, IN
1. Would a B2650 do the job? Absolutely yes.



Random advice:
  • People will tell you to fill the wheels. On flat land, and with mowing duties in mind, I wouldn't. You can ballast using a ballast box or an implement instead when you're using the loader
  • All the models will hold their value well - everyone would love to buy one second hand, but there are more buyers than sellers so the resale seems to hold up well
  • The B50 is just that bit bigger than the BX. Some things that's a benefit, but it also means every implement is that bit bigger. Removing the deck, fitting the blade etc etc is all just a bit more physical. I can kick around my implements to get them lined up, with a B50 you start to need the extending arms and/or quick hitch to make some of this stuff easier, or do as some do and store your equipment on dollies
  • Think about transporting it if you're ever going to take it places - visit family to do jobs, or to friend's places. A B50 requires a bigger rig to transport it.

    That***8217;s great advice. I***8217;ve been told by many friends that getting the tires filled is a must. I doubted them with what I plan to to with it. Thanks for backing that up.





    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


  • I have 8 tractors, including 5 Kubotas. I never use liquid ballast partially because I change all of my own tires and have no way to handle liquid. Besides, tubeless punctures are easily plugged in minutes if air filled.

    I do use cast iron weights and ballast boxes for FEL tractors.

    This week, I discovered that my new B3350, delivered a couple of months ago has Rim Guard in the rears even though I did not order it or pay for it.

    Dealer said that they made a mistake because just about everyone specifies it. Not real happy but will put up with it since it was free.

    SDT
 
Last edited:

SDT

Well-known member

Equipment
multiple and various
Apr 15, 2018
3,255
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SE, IN
My logic is you can always fill the wheels later. It's really hard to unfill them.

On the 72 inch mower and scalping, I've gone down the path of making my property fit my machine, rather than the other way round. The bits that scalp eventually get flatter.....and actually I just use my machine to make that flat anyway by bringing dirt or levelling. I made all the radiuses on my edges big enough to run the tractor round, my aim is to mow without getting off the tractor. Sounds like you have a new property you're going to build on, nothing stopping you landscaping to suit your machinery.
I researched both 60" and 72" MMMs when I bought my B3350 but bought neither at this time. May do so in the future.

I much prefer the design of the 72" mower to the 60" but it does cost more, requires more power, and is more likely to scalp.

I'll continue to mow my lawn with my B1750 HSDT, Bi-Speed Turn and 60" mower for the time being. The older design of the 60" MMM used on my 1750 is the same as the current 72" MMM.

SDT
 

mpham

Member

Equipment
B 2650 cab
Nov 15, 2016
152
1
18
Massachusetts
I use my B2650 on 1acre. It works great. I have a 60 inch mower on the 3pt.
Wouldn’t want to go any smaller.
 

skeets

Well-known member

Equipment
BX 2360 /B2601
Oct 2, 2009
14,558
3,309
113
SW Pa
I do 5 1/2 acres with my BX haul wood plow snow and mow, I have a 60 inch deck and it cuts very well, even down to bamboo wild roses and blackberries, though those things really dull the blades. A 2650 is sweet but remember where you have to park it,, head clearance for one thing, tree branches for another.
 

Oliver

Active member

Equipment
L2501, JD 3520
Feb 2, 2011
540
129
43
Preston County, WV
Hi all. I’m new here and decided since I was enjoying reading all these posts I would create an account and ask a question. I’m moving from a small condo to a home I’m building on 3 acres. I really want a tractor. I also need a lawn mower. Would a B2650 with 72” mmm be excessive? I want something that holds value and will stand the test of time. Also, having the capability of other projects than cutting grass would be nice. I’m trying to talk myself into a tractor instead of a zero turn. The land is flat with no trees. Thanks.
B2650 with a 60 or 72" mid mower would work well. I'd also look at a B2601 which is a little shorter, lower, and narrower so a 60" deck will extend out a bit more than on a B2650, making it easier to mow up to stuff.
 

Hillhigh Guy

Member

Equipment
B2601, BH, RFM
Mar 18, 2018
31
1
8
Round Hill, VA
As many others recently here, I went through this same exercise and just completed the construction of my house on a little over 3 acres. Unlike you, my property is on a hill and stability was important to me. Additionally, my jurisdiction only let me clear a small portion of the property so I'm left with a bunch of property to improve that includes field grass, rocks, etc... Borrowed a buddy's bx to try it out and the unimproved nature of the terrain beat the crap out of me with the small tires. I also felt that the B2650 was a little too tall for my comfort level working on the slopes. I drove a B2601 and it felt perfect. to ME, it's a perfect middle ground between the bx and 50 series. Plus, call me old school, but I don't like the digital dash on the 50. I know that a minor nitpick... So far the B2601 has exceeded my expectations.

Since I did have some grass to cut but not really a "lawn", I opted for a 5' RFM and it surprisingly does a nice job on the field grass that I do have and I don't worry about high centering a MMM.
 

Oliver

Active member

Equipment
L2501, JD 3520
Feb 2, 2011
540
129
43
Preston County, WV
..... I drove a B2601 and it felt perfect. to ME, it's a perfect middle ground between the bx and 50 series. Plus, call me old school, but I don't like the digital dash on the 50. I know that a minor nitpick... So far the B2601 has exceeded my expectations........
I went back and forth between a 2650 and 2601 and ended up with the larger B2650 which was probably a good decision as I have added more acreage to what I already had.
Agree with you regarding B2601's traditional analog gauges I think they look better too. And for the OP a B2601 might be the perfect size tractor.
 

Freeheeler

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Equipment
b2650 tlb
Aug 16, 2018
706
523
93
Knoxville, TN
I opted for the 2650 but I don't mow with it and mainly use the bucket and backhoe. I went with the turf tires and love them. I did request them not to be filled, but they were filled when I picked her up. They didn't charge me for it and from what I hear, it can be expensive. So far, the extra weight has helped out on backhoe work, and it has not caused any rutting in the yard which is what I was worried about. Either way you go, if the price includes filling the tires, let them fill them, but make sure they will remove the fluid for free if the extra weight causes problems. If it costs extra to weight them new and you are primarily mowing, don't get them filled. I think different dealers approach the filling differently.
 

fj40dave

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B2650, LA534, BH77, TPD35, RCF2060, BB1566, RGA1258
Sep 24, 2009
421
256
63
Yelm, WA
I bought a 2650.....we have a 5 acre wooded and underbrush area I wanted a tractor to work with....
I didnt do hardly any research beforehand....which makes what others are posting here good info for ya.
I agree with the tippy feeling....
I like the power....and size of my 2650
If mowing side hills/slopes are something you will be doing....I'd look at something lower and wider.
If the size and strength is a bigger consideration....think about the 2650.....
Ok....my 0.02 worth. :)