"Anyone considering the purchase of a bi-directional tractor should take a look at the new Valmet. It's a better machine -- and a better buy -- than New Holland," says sales rep Terry Sexton of Moorhead, Minn., who recently helped introduce the new Finnish-built tractors to the U.S. Valmet bi-directionals run at speeds up to 25 mph in either direction with a full 3-pt. hitch and pto on each end.

One unique feature is that only the seat -- not the entire console -- swivels 180 degrees to face the rear where there is a duplicate set of controls including a steering wheel, clutch, brake, and throttle. "Turning the seat instead of the entire console, like on New Holland's bi-directional, eliminates wear and tear on wires and hoses," notes Sexton.

Another difference is that the bi-directional feature is offered on 12 to 15 models that range from 80 to 200 hp. "New Holland offers only one bi-directional model. Valmet tractors are equipped with a 12-speed synchronized transmission -- either manual or power shuttle -- that's fully shuttled in either direction and offers 36 forward or reverse speeds. The New Holland model is articulated, while ours is not. That means you can steer with the front wheels for field or loader work," says Sexton.

The tractors are powered by 4 or 6-cyl. diesel engines made by Valmet in Finland. "It's one of the best diesel engines on the market and is used by several other tractor manufacturers," adds Sexton, who notes that the tractors also sell for about 20 percent less than the New Holland bi-directional.

The tractors are available in red, blue, white, green and yellow.