In sugar-beet circles Matrot’s M41 self-propelled harvester has something of a cult following.

Originally launched in 1989, the French machine found favour for its light footprint and cheap price.

In fact, its price is about half that of a similar output tanker-harvester. And, with a holding hopper of just 3t capacity, it is considerably less likely to cause severe compaction. 

The M41’s replacement – the Magister – made its debut at the SIMA show in Paris.

Main changes involve a shift in the Mercedes engine from alongside the cab to the rear of the machine. This means that the new cab – borrowed from New Holland’s top-spec combines – can be centrally located.

The chassis has been altered to improve views from the cab. Two rails now run around the outside of the lifting gear and turbines, rather than running directly over the top. These rails run back to an articulation point behind the cab which aims manourability by swinging to 30deg.

At the business end skid-and-disc lifters are employed (although walking shares are available) but paddles flip roots up onto the six turbines which now run higher in an effort to maximise the cleaning effect.