John Deere unveils new-look 7R and 8R tractors for 2021

New to the 7R series is the 7R 350, with 257kW or 350 horsepower-rated engine - a 20 horsepower increase over the largest model year 2020 7R tractor.

John Deere's tactical marketing segment manager Marko Koelln said with a base weight of about 11,200kg, the 7R 350 would deliver the best power to weight ratio of any of the company's tractors.

It comes standard with triple link suspension and infinitely variable transmission (IVT) and can be ordered with CommandPro controls for precise speed control and easy implement hook-ups.

"Customers will benefit from the manoeuverability and lighter footprint of the smaller chassis offered by this tractor," Mr Koelln said.

"For example, it is ideal to power large mowing and baling equipment or for hauling heavy loads on-farm."

Another key enhancement for 7R Tractors used for hay and forage work was the addition of LSB Ride Control.

"As we know, the high inertial forces imposed by large square balers can subject the tractor cab to strong movements which can result in poor ride quality and place strain on the operator," Mr Koelln said.

"This means that, at times, farmers may go for a larger tractor option than what is required to power their baling equipment to compensate for this," Mr Koelln said.

"LSB Ride Control is an integrated system that controls vibrations on 7R tractors that works in conjunction with a John Deere LSB to mitigate this issue."

It modulated the tractor's IVT to compensate for the rocking motion of the baler plunger. The self-adjusting system improved operator comfort, even as crop density and paddock conditions change, he said.

LSB Ride Control would be available as a factory-installed option for model year 2021 on 7R Tractors equipped with an IVT and is compatible with John Deere L331 or L341 large square balers.

Starting with model year 2021, John Deere will make ActiveCommand Steering 2 available as a factory-installed option on 7R and 8R tractors.

This system replaced the original ActiveCommand Steering system and added more features and capabilities to further improve the driving experience of the tractor in the paddock or on the road, Mr Koelln said.

ACS 2 reduced steering effort for the operator and improved line holding during transport.

He said using ACS 2, operators can adjust steering sensitivity and steering wheel resistance, or turn on or off variable-ratio steering, to best match their application and driving preferences.

John Deere also will offer low sidewall tyres as optional equipment on its three largest 8R tractors, the 8R 340, 8R 370 and 8R 410.

"Our 8R tractors require independent link suspension to be equipped with low sidewall tyres," Mr Koelln said.

"This combination provides outstanding ride quality with all the benefits of a single tyre and a large footprint, such as decreased compaction, in a narrow transport option."