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.
The new TOP V 6520 C features an innovative pivoting headstock, which allows the rake to follow the tractor accurately when cornering and delivering a central swath. Controlled central tracking is maintained by mechanical stabiliser struts acting on the pivoting headstock, ensuring the machine runs smoothly without swaying side to side and staying in line behind the tractor when raking downhill.
Working width is adjusted mechanically from 5.9 to 6.5 metres, producing a swath between 1.0 and 1.6 metres, making it ideal for heavy forage crops, in combination with smaller balers or harvesters.
The floating rotor suspension ensures three-dimensional ground tracking, with the option of the new MULTITAST jockey wheel, mounted on the headstock, allowing the rake to glide over any ground imperfections.
The company suggests that the machine, equipped with these features, works accurately to ensure a low crude ash content and dirt ingress to deliver high forage quality.
Meanwhile, the tandem axle layout compensates for uneven ground, allowing smooth running, particularly at high speeds.
When lifted at the headland, the machine gently moves and locks into the central position, while also offering high ground clearance, making for easier headland turns and preventing disruption of the already-formed swaths. The machine is also compact during transport with its centre of gravity kept close to the tractor.
www.originagroup.co.nz
