ASV debuts new MAX-Series loaders

ASV, a manufacturer of compact track loaders and skid-steers, introduced its new MAX-Series loaders during a virtual event on Aug. 18.

The MAX-Series was designed by ASV engineers to feature maximum comfort, productivity, visibility, speed, performance, durability and return on investment. The new series will replace the original models for the RT-65, RT-75, RT-75 Heavy Duty and VT-70 machines.

“I’ve been doing this a long time, and this is one of the most exciting products I’ve seen from ASV,” said Buck Storlie, product manager. “For us, the MAX-Series was all about the maximums… We sent a list of goals and objectives to the engineering team and we really think they achieved them.”

To improve visibility, the MAX-Series loaders have the industry’s first three-panel rear window, which provides 31% more visible area. The all-glass side panels provide 68% more visible area as well.

“It’s a lot more visible space,” Storlie said. “By going to a three-panel rear window, you get rid of a lot of the blind spots operators are accustomed to.”

One of the most noticeable features on the MAX-Series machine is the roof-hatch emergency escape – another industry first. Other safety features include larger roof site openings and all-glass sides with sliding windows.

“For compact construction this is something we’re bringing to the table and we’re really excited about it,” Storlie said of the roof-hatch escape. “It gives us a much faster and easier emergency escape. You don’t have to crawl out the back over the hot engine compartment, like you would in our competitor’s machines. It’s also a lot easier to re-install. You can go in and out in seconds.”

The machines also provide increased comfort with an extended cab. The cab is two inches wider, with eight inches of additional room at knee-level and four inches more room in the foot well.

“The all new, next-generation cab is the first thing you see when you walk up and is something that really stands out,” Storlie said. “Customers can sit back and relax. There’s a lot more room than previous designs.”

Inside the cab, operators will also notice the new single-sided lap bar and four-way adjustable controls and armrest. There’s also a seven-inch, color display with six gauges and an operator key-codes system that acts as an anti-theft feature.

Operators can also utilize the Bluetooth radio and cellphone holder. Other features include revised hose routing; standard, front and rear, LED lighting; and an all-new wire harness with sealed fuse panels.

“(LED lighting) is something that’s a very expensive option from a lot of our competitors is now standard on these machines,” Storlie said. “There’s also optional LED side lighting, which will provide 360-degree LED lighting.”

The machine’s newly improved HVAC system features a seven-vent system for lower cab temperatures and better pressurization.

The MAX-Series machines also feature ASV’s Posi-Track Technology. Posi-Track allows for better traction and weight distribution through a wider track and more wheels. The under-carriage technology provides !0% more power than the competition.

“Our under-carriage technology enables operators to be productive in conditions that might otherwise prevent other equipment from working at all,” said Regan Meyer, marketing manager with ASV.  

The machines will feature a two-year / 2,000-hour track warranty and the industry’s only track anti-derailment guarantee.

While packages range from premium to basic, Storlie said the MAX-Series pricing is comparable to the previous models.

“We’ve brought these products forward without a price increase,” Storlie said.

ASV was founded in 1983 by Edgar Hetteen and Gary Lemke. For more information on the MAX-series, click here.