Komatsu Showcases the new CK50-8 at SaMoTer

Compact tracked loaders, have long been a popular choice of machine in North America and are increasing in popularity in all markets these days, especially in Europe, with all the major manufacturers now offering models.

At the recent SaMoTer show in Verona, Italy, Komatsu were highlighting the new 5-tonne class CK50-8, which we first saw as a protype model during Bauma, last year in Munich. These machines are part of Komatsu’s European Utility range of products, which coincidentally are manufactured by Komatsu Italia Manufacturing S.p.A. in Este, Italy, so Samoter was effectively on home turf for them.  

According to Komatsu the machines are engineered for outstanding stability and jobsite flexibility, and feature a streamlined powertrain that reduces overall maintenance and running costs while maximizing traction, drawbar pull and bucket breakout force.

With an operating weight of 5,290kg, power comes from an in-house built Komatsu EU Stage V compliant 4-cylinder diesel engine delivering 53.7kW (72hp) @2,500 RPM. Operating capacity is 1630kg, fitted with a standard 0.45 m³ bucket or 1490kg with (0.50 m³) “Deep profile bucket.

For powering oil hungry attachments such as flail mowers or planers, the machine features “Super Flow” delivering 140l/min with drain line and electrical connection coming as standard.

It always impresses me as to just how much work these compact tracked loaders can churn out when in the right hands, they really are rapid hard-working pieces of kit, often underestimated by site management.

I've not been able to find any videos of the machine in action, but here is a walkaround of it at Bauma last year as the prototype.