Styling-wise, the M125X is very similar to the M105 model we tested early in 2005. If anything, it is a bit bigger and a tad more aggressive-looking with a full set of weights attached. (watch our video of the tractor test)

On first impressions, the machine appears more sophisticated than the M105 model, the cab boasts more buttons and levers than the older one, but in reality even the biggest technophobes will cope at the controls of this straightforward stockman tractor.

Getting into the cab is easy for the smaller operator, but those less vertically challenged may be unimpressed with the location of the stereo and heater controls – they tend to make contact with your head.

Once seated, the steering column can be tilted back, but again at a cost to the larger operator who will find his left knee regularly clashes with the plastic trim, which can get annoying after a while.

Other than that, the cab is bright and airy, and visibility all round is substantial. The cab boasts a semi-sophisticated look, with a raft of controls and buttons to the right-hand side.

It is just a pity the heater controls look like they have been whipped out of a 1985 Vauxhall Cavalier.

The transmission is a two-range, eight-speed powershift unit offering 16 forward and 16 reverse gears. It is possible to increase this to 24 forward and 24 reverse with the creeper option.

On the main gear lever – which selects the high or low range – are two buttons for selecting through the powershift gears and these are doubled up on the right-hand armrest.

To get the machine moving, the gear range and the direction of travel – via the left-hand shuttle lever – needs to be selected. Once on the move, the operator can shift through the possible eight powershift gears in both high and low.

Manoeuvrability

Coupled to a four-furrow reversible plough, the tractor is easily negotiated out of the tight barn, the black cab-like steering lock coming into its own.

The machine owes its tight turning circle to its bevel-gear front axle – a Kubota exclusive, according to the manufacturer. The turning circle is greatly improved by the firm’s bi-speed turn assist.

This function – which can be turned on or off at the flick of a switch – operates when the steering angle exceeds 35°.

The front wheels are driven twice as fast as the rear, effectively pulling the front of the tractor around in a tighter circle.

The bi-speed works well and has major advantages when working in tight spaces at low speeds, but is not ideal on a headland with a plough swinging about.

In work

On the road, the transmission shifting is a tad sharp on the downward, but smoother on the upshift. In the field, though, it is very effective, especially when working through a tough spot.

In work, the machine pulls very well. The five-cylinder turbocharged engine can comfortably work in fifth gear at low engine revs and isn’t troubled by the plough at all.

The armrest controls – namely the hitch controls and the gear shift function – fall easily to hand, and the lift control is ideally positioned, ensuring that the front furrow can be kept level.Kubota has fitted an auto function for the transmission, which offers two modes – field and road.

On the road, the transmission downshifts a maximum of three gears and back up again, depending on road conditions and engine speed.In the field, the auto function also tries to maintain the set gear, but will downshift if conditions get tough.

Field mode is also paired with the lift control switch when the linkage is raised, the transmission downshifts three gears for smoother operation.

In reality these three downshifts don’t happen fast enough and the operator can just use the armrest buttons to complete the task.

FWi verdict

The M125X is a simple machine to operate and will sit well with those who want a basic tractor with decent lugging ability and excellent manoeuvrability.

There is nothing to suggest that reliability is likely to be an issue, although the cab finish quality leaves a bit to be desired.

The engine produces ample power and torque. It isn’t afraid of hard graft, while servicing should be straightforward, as access to the relative components is unhindered.

Related articles:

• Watch our exclusive video of the125hp Kubota M125X