Skid-steer loader (wheeled, vertical-lift path)
Bobcat S650: specs & used buying guide
Last reviewed . We review this page periodically for accuracy.
Quick answer
The Bobcat S650 is a mid-to-large vertical-lift skid-steer loader with a rated operating capacity around 2,690 lb and roughly 74 horsepower. It suits contractors who load trucks, handle pallets, and run demanding attachments. On the used market, its vertical lift and wide dealer/parts support make it a popular, well-supported choice.
Key facts
- Machine type: wheeled skid-steer loader with a vertical-lift path (better reach at full height for loading and pallet work)
- Rated operating capacity: approximately 2,690 lb (35% of tipping load, North American rating)
- Operating weight: approximately 8,327 lb (3,777 kg), varies by configuration
- Engine: approximately 74 hp
- One of the most common skid steers on the used market, with broad Bobcat dealer and parts support
Overview
The Bobcat S650 is a vertical-lift-path skid-steer loader positioned in the upper-middle of Bobcat's radius/vertical lineup. The vertical-lift geometry keeps the load farther forward at full lift height, which helps when loading high-sided trucks or placing pallets on stacks.
It is one of the most frequently traded skid steers in North America, so parts, attachments, and dealer service are easy to find. That liquidity cuts both ways: strong resale support, but also many hard-worked rental and fleet units in circulation, so condition and history matter more than the model name.
Key specifications
| Machine type | Skid-steer loader, vertical-lift path |
|---|---|
| Rated operating capacity | ~2,690 lb35% of tipping load (North American rating). Some regional sheets list a higher ROC at 50% of tipping load — confirm which basis a listing uses. |
| Operating weight | ~8,327 lb (3,777 kg)Varies by tires, cab, and options. |
| Engine power | ~74 hp |
| Lift path | Vertical |
The S650 is a specific vertical-lift skid-steer model in Bobcat's 600-frame lineup. Bobcat has published more than one series of the S650 over its production run, and some figures below vary slightly by model year and market. Confirm the exact figures on the data plate and spec sheet for the specific unit and year you are considering.
Figures reflect commonly published North American specifications and vary by model year, market, and options. Rated operating capacity depends on whether it is quoted at 35% or 50% of tipping load — compare like-for-like. Always verify against the specific unit's spec sheet and data plate.
Common applications
- Loading trucks and hoppers
- Pallet and material handling on site
- Grading and site cleanup with attachments
- Snow pushing and removal
- Running demanding attachments (planers, mulchers, breakers) when equipped with the right hydraulics
Strengths
- Vertical-lift geometry for loading height and forward reach
- Strong parts, attachment, and dealer availability
- Well-understood platform with a large service knowledge base
- Good resale liquidity
What to check on a used one
- Many units come from rental or fleet duty — verify how hard it worked, not just the hour count
- Confirm whether it has standard or high-flow hydraulics if you plan to run high-flow attachments
- Check for hydraulic leaks and weak lift/tilt under load
- Wheeled skid steers wear tires and can be hard on soft ground — inspect accordingly
How hours affect value
Hours matter most in combination with service history and how the machine was used. A well-maintained S650 can run well beyond mid-life hour counts, but a neglected or rental-thrashed unit at lower hours can be the worse buy. Weigh the hour meter against documented maintenance and a load test.
Inspection checklist
- Hydraulics: leaks at cylinders and hoses, and smooth, strong lift/tilt under load
- Drivetrain: even, strong drive on both sides with no unusual noise
- Loader arms, pins, and bushings for slop or play
- Quick-coupler and auxiliary hydraulic couplers for clean operation
- Tires for even wear; uneven wear can hint at alignment or operating issues
- Cold-start behavior, smoke color, and hour-meter consistency with service records
Maintenance & records to ask for
- Confirm engine, hydraulic, and final-drive service was done on schedule
- Ask for records of any major hydraulic or drivetrain repairs
- Check air filter, cooling package, and for debris packing in the engine bay
Attachments & transport
Attachment capability depends on the hydraulic configuration. Standard-flow and high-flow machines run different attachments — confirm the unit's flow rating matches the attachments you intend to use, and confirm coupler compatibility.
At roughly 8,300 lb plus attachments, the S650 is towable behind a suitable truck and trailer, but confirm your trailer's rating and tie-down points. Factor delivery into the total price when comparing distant units.
Questions to ask the seller
- Was this a rental, fleet, or owner-operated machine, and what work did it do?
- Is it standard-flow or high-flow, and which attachments has it run?
- Are there service records, and were any major hydraulic or drivetrain repairs done?
- Why are you selling it, and can I run it under load and cycle every function?
Comparable models
- CAT 262D
Comparable-class wheeled skid steer; compare ROC on the same tipping-load basis.
- Kubota SVL75-2
A compact track loader shoppers often cross-compare when ground conditions are soft.
- Bobcat S770
Larger Bobcat skid steer with higher capacity and power.
Head-to-head comparisons
Side-by-side spec comparisons with the models buyers cross-shop most.
Frequently asked questions
Related buying guides
Sources & verification
Specifications on this page were triangulated against the publishers below and reviewed on the date shown. Figures vary by configuration and model year — always confirm the exact specs on the spec sheet and data plate of the specific unit.
- Bobcat — official product specificationsS650 rated operating capacity, operating weight, engine power, and lift path
- RitchieSpecs equipment specification databaseIndependent cross-check of operating weight, rated operating capacity, and engine power across configurations
Ready to find a Bobcat S650?
Tell us the machine, your budget, and your location. We search the market and send you a ranked Scout Report of the strongest candidates.
Get help finding a Bobcat S650
Tell us what you need. A Scout will follow up — no account required to start.