Claas Balers Turn 30
Claas built its first variable chamber round baler - the Variant 100 - in 1996, so 2026 marks 30 years and the fifth generation of the Variant name, recently complemented by the new Cerex Series introduced in 2025.
For 2023, the three-cylinder versions of the 5E Series will be available in 5050E, 5060E, 5067E and 5075E versions, with the former as an open station and the three larger models in open platform, standard or a new premium cab format.
The Premium Cab features a redesigned right-hand console for easy operation and includes electronic, quick raise/lower buttons that allow a single button activation to raise or lower implements to pre-set positions. Improved operator comfort is provided with an adjustable air seat, factory-installed instructor seat, Bluetooth radio, USB port and cab microphone for hands-free operation of mobile devices. In addition, the engine emissions systems remove the need for a DPF engine regeneration function.
There will also be updates to the 5M Series Tractors, with the availability of more, horsepower and transmission options and the integrated AutoTrac™ system.
Engines from the larger 6M tractors will be used in the four-cylinder versions of the 5M, bringing with them an extra 5hp five additional horsepower, in the 5095M, 5105M, 5120M and 5130M. The 5075M remains in the range as a three-cylinder, 74hp option, available with a cab or open station. Meanwhile, high-crop and low-profile models will also receive the additional hp boost and include the 5105MH, 5105ML, 5120ML and 5130ML versions.
Transmission options include the PowrReverser, a two-lever option to change ranges and gears, available on the 75- to 120-horsepower models. The PowrQuad™ PLUS and Powr8™ transmissions, available for the larger 95- to 130-horsepower models, offer a single shift lever that allows range and speed changes, without the need to use a foot clutch. All 5M transmissions continue to have a left-hand reverser for direction changes.
Said to increase the range’s versatility, the 5M is will be available with a bar-axle option, allowing tyre spacing up to 90 inches, allowing the tractor to straddle wide windrows when baling, and more stability when working on hillsides.
