Farm buggy test: JCB Workmax
JCB Workmax 800D 4×4
| Engine | 784cc Yanmar |
| Power | 20hp |
| Transmission | Electronically selected 2/4wd, 2Fx1R CVT |
| Hill climb time | 3:25.2* |
| Towing capacity | 500kg |
| Payload | 600kg |
| Load bay capacity | (DxLxW) 23.5x133x99.5 |
| Suspension | McPherson strut front/Double wishbones with progressive, two-stage coil springs rear |
| Ground clearance | 265mm |
| Weight | 710kg |
| Price | £9,445 |
*Set distance hill climb under load
LIKES
- Good off road
- Clear instrument panel
- Suspension
- Improvement over previous models
GRIPES
- Sloppy handling under load
- Rear tailgate locking system
- Difficulty selecting gear
Load bay
The smaller-engined Workmax was the baby of the test bunch. Tailgate locking could be easier and the load bay was the shallowest on test but it should be adequate for simple duties.
If it’s higher capacity you’re after then go for the 1000D version.
Score: 5/10
Driving
The JCB surprised the test team with its mud-plugging ability. It’s a real improvement over the previous models and was one of the best performers off-road, particularly when it came to keeping all four wheels on the ground.
On road and under load it struggled to set a fast time, but it was the least powerful of the test machines. Top marks go to the suspension – there’s a standard McPherson coils and dampers setup at the front but variable rate coil springs at the rear which squidge down half-way under load but won’t be fully crushed no matter how much you plant on the tail.
Score: 7/10
Controls
JCB controls are simple and clear. The instrument panel is made up of flick and rocker switches including electric engagement of the four-wheel drive.
Like the Kubota, forward gears occasionally proved elusive. Safety beeping can get annoying during start-up and reversing.
Score: 6/10
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