Bomford has introduced a completely new range of flail verge mowers, the RAPTOR, which is available in three working widths and suitable for use with tractors as small as 40hp.

The new RAPTOR is designed to meet the needs of those needing a robust, high output mower for roadside verges and banks, that leaves a quality finish but is also suitable and stable enough to use on smaller tractors.

The new RAPTOR is available in three working widths – 1.20m, 1.60m or 2.00m, with minimum power requirements of just 40hp, 45hp and 70hp respectively. With weights ranging from just 640kg for the smallest RAPTOR 1200 up to 840kg for the largest version, this ensures that the RAPTOR can be used safely with smaller tractors for maximum operating economy. All three models offer a high level of specification for optimum output and ease of use.

The RAPTOR has a heavy duty Cat II linkage and built into the mainframe is an offset linkage that allows the mower to be hydraulically offset by up to 750mm. This moves the cutting deck beyond the tractor wheel so not only allows the working width to be fully utilised, but when operating alongside banks ensures the rear wheel of the tractor is kept well away from the edge for greater stability and safety.

For maximum flexibility, the RAPTOR can be used over a 140 degree arc, from +90 degrees through to -50 degrees when working alongside ditches or embankments.

The RAPTOR features a heavy duty flail rotor as standard, which as standard is fitted with Bomford multi-purpose Pro-Flails. Operating at a tip speed of 45 metres per second at 540rpm, these flails are designed to provide excellent suction for a clean and even finish, even in laid grass, or can be used on scrub up to 35mm thick. Alternatively the RAPTOR can be fitted with dual purpose hedge and vegetation Boot flails or reversible Back-to-Back flails. A 150mm diameter roller is also fitted as standard for a tidy finish.

The RAPTOR is suitable for use at a PTO speed of either 540rpm or 1000rpm and the drive to the flail rotor is via a gearbox powered by a heavy-duty Quad drive belt. The RAPTOR is designed so that the cowl hinges around the input shaft of the gearbox, so ensuring that maximum power is easily transferred to the flail rotor regardless of the operating angle.

The standard specification also includes front and rear rubber guards to contain cut material and a gravity link breakout system is also incorporated into the linkage.
In addition to differing flail options, a hands-free hydrocushion float kit is also available that allows the cowl to automatically follow ground contours through its operating arc. In addition, a front-mounted version is also available which then provides the opportunity to mount a standard reach arm mower on the tractor’s rear linkage for greater versatility.