The feature enables you to set the machine to whatever the conditions allow. "You can move the joystick to the full forward position, but you're only traveling at 40%, 50% or 60% of the machine speed," Fitzgerald notes.

Being able to maintain a steady speed makes attachment operation more efficient, especially when using attachments such as mowers, trenchers, planers and rototillers, Fitzgerald adds. "You can set it so you don't overload the attachment and run the hydraulics over relief," he explains. "Once you have it set to the proper speed, you don't have to be 'on task' all the time trying to watch your speed and keep the lever in the proper position. You can place the lever in the full forward or backward position, and the machine's maximum speed is set to the load on the attachment. It adds to the efficiency and comfort for the operator."

Horsepower management is another benefit gained with joystick controls in Bobcat models. "When you dig into a pile, the electrical system will help manage the power of the machine and the drive system," Fitzgerald states. "It's more efficient at digging, and the operator doesn't need to work quite so hard to keep the machine in its highest performance zone."

An operator attraction
Joystick controls have the added value of being easier to maintain. "Joystick handles that are running hydraulic controllers are all completely sealed," says Moore. "There's no maintenance, no servicing involved. You don't have any adjustments or greasing."

They can also offer an indirect benefit by enabling you to attract and retain those difficult to find employees, especially younger operators who may be familiar with joysticks used to control video games. "They usually have more experience with joystick controls," says Moore. "They can get acclimated to these types of controls in a skid-steer loader more quickly compared to an operator who has run a machine with traditional controls for a lot of years."