JCB SSL 135 vs Bull AV490: the two differ on 52 of 55 listed specs. The main differences are Engine (Kohler 56 HP vs Kubota 50 HP), Max Torque (225 Nm @ 1500 rpm vs 158.6 Nm), Operating Weight (2950 kg vs 2700 kg), Bucket Capacity (0.36 cu.m vs 0.27 cu.m). The other 3 specs are the same.
Specs from OEM brochures · comparison updated Aug 2026
* Ex-factory price ranges are indicative for Sep 2026 and change with variant, city and offers; confirm with the dealer. On-road cost adds transport, RTO, insurance and accessories. Disclaimer
The comparisons provided are based on the technical specifications published by the respective OEMs on their official websites and brochures. Please confirm these details directly with the OEMs before making any final decision.
Key Highlights
JCB SSL 135
Bull AV490
JCB SSL 135
VS
Bull AV490
Skid Steer Loader
JCB SSL 135 vs Bull AV490: the two differ on 52 of 55 listed specs. The main differences are Engine (Kohler 56 HP vs Kubota 50 HP), Max Torque (225 Nm @ 1500 rpm vs 158.6 Nm), Operating Weight (2950 kg vs 2700 kg), Bucket Capacity (0.36 cu.m vs 0.27 cu.m). The other 3 specs are the same.
Specs from OEM brochures · comparison updated Aug 2026
JCB SSL 135
₹17 – ₹23 Lakhs
Bull AV490
₹20 – ₹25 Lakhs
Particulars
JCB SSL 135
Bull AV490
Bull AV490 vs JCB SSL 135: Which One to Buy?
Both these are compact skid steer loaders, and the numbers on the page already show the JCB SSL 135 has more engine power and a bigger fuel tank, while the Bull AV490 runs a Kubota engine and moves a bit faster. What the numbers don't tell you is who each machine really suits. The Bull AV490 is a lighter machine, simple to run with one joystick, and a good fit for a small contractor doing yard cleanup, loading, and light site work. The JCB SSL 135 is built heavier, with a Stage 5 engine and a bigger tank, so it suits a fleet owner or contractor who needs to run longer shifts without stopping to refuel.
If you work in tight yards, gardens, or small sites where the machine must turn fast and load quickly, the AV490's lighter build and easier controls help. If your work is bigger sites with longer hours and tougher material, the SSL 135's extra power and fuel tank keep it going without breaks. JCB also has a wider dealer and parts network across India, which matters if you need service fast. Check the full skid steer loader range, the JCB skid steer lineup, or read our skid steer loader guide before you decide.
Bull AV490 Skid Steer Loader
Pros:
Kubota diesel engine provides reliable and fuel-efficient performance
Rated operating capacity of 604 kg and operating weight of about 2,610 kg ensures stable loading and material handling
Effective dump height of 2.16 m suitable for various dumping tasks
Hydrostatic drive transmission for smooth operation
Intuitive single joystick control for easy operation
Cons:
Lower engine power output at 50 HP compared to the JCB SSL 135
Smaller fuel tank capacity of 48 L
Maximum speed of 14 km/hr is lower than some competitors
JCB SSL 135 Skid Steer Loader
Pros:
Higher engine power with 56 HP provides better performance
Turbo Charged STAGE 5 engine ensures compliance with emission standards
Higher dump height of 2.32 m for greater operational efficiency
Larger fuel tank of 84 L for extended operation
Heavier operating weight of 2,950 kg which may contribute to stability and lifting capability
Cons:
Maximum speed of 11.9 km/hr is slightly lower than the Bull AV490
Requires servomechanisms for operation which may complicate maintenance
Pros:
Cons:
Closing Recommendation
Both are compact skid steer loaders, but they suit different jobs. The Bull AV490 is lighter, simple to drive with one joystick, and quick to turn, so it works well for small yards and general loading. The JCB SSL 135 carries more engine power, a bigger fuel tank, and a stronger build, so it suits longer shifts and heavier material handling, backed by JCB's wide service network. So match the machine to your work: Bull AV490 for tight, everyday jobs with easy controls, JCB SSL 135 for longer, tougher work that needs more power and fuel range.
JCB SSL 135 Vs Bull AV490 Skid Steer Loader Price, Technical Specifications & Features
The JCB SSL 135 skid steer loader is powered by a reliable 56 hp Kohler diesel engine. It provides consistent performance and good fuel efficiency for tough job sites. This skid machine is designed for productivity, with a rated operating capacity of about 612 kg and an operating weight of 2,950 kg. It ensures stability during lifting and loading tasks. With a dump height of nearly 2.3 m, it allows for efficient material discharge into trucks and hoppers. Compact and easy to maintain, the JCB 135 skid loader is a reliable choice for construction, infrastructure, and material-handling tasks.
The Bull AV490 skid steer loader is driven by a Kubota diesel engine producing about 36.5 kW (50 hp). It offers dependable power and fuel-efficient performance for various job-site tasks. This compact skid steer loader has a rated operating capacity of approximately 604 kg and an operating weight of about 2,610 kg. It provides stable loading and material-handling capability. The machine achieves a practical dump height of around 2.16 m, making it effective for discharging into trucks, bins, or hoppers. With intuitive joystick control, solid hydraulics, and compact maneuverability, the Bull AV490 skid loader balances productivity and reliability.
Bull AV490 vs JCB SSL 135: Which One to Buy?
Both these are compact skid steer loaders, and the numbers on the page already show the JCB SSL 135 has more engine power and a bigger fuel tank, while the Bull AV490 runs a Kubota engine and moves a bit faster. What the numbers don't tell you is who each machine really suits. The Bull AV490 is a lighter machine, simple to run with one joystick, and a good fit for a small contractor doing yard cleanup, loading, and light site work. The JCB SSL 135 is built heavier, with a Stage 5 engine and a bigger tank, so it suits a fleet owner or contractor who needs to run longer shifts without stopping to refuel.
If you work in tight yards, gardens, or small sites where the machine must turn fast and load quickly, the AV490's lighter build and easier controls help. If your work is bigger sites with longer hours and tougher material, the SSL 135's extra power and fuel tank keep it going without breaks. JCB also has a wider dealer and parts network across India, which matters if you need service fast. Check the full skid steer loader range, the JCB skid steer lineup, or read our skid steer loader guide before you decide.
Bull AV490 Skid Steer Loader
Pros:
Kubota diesel engine provides reliable and fuel-efficient performance
Rated operating capacity of 604 kg and operating weight of about 2,610 kg ensures stable loading and material handling
Effective dump height of 2.16 m suitable for various dumping tasks
Hydrostatic drive transmission for smooth operation
Intuitive single joystick control for easy operation
Cons:
Lower engine power output at 50 HP compared to the JCB SSL 135
Smaller fuel tank capacity of 48 L
Maximum speed of 14 km/hr is lower than some competitors
JCB SSL 135 Skid Steer Loader
Pros:
Higher engine power with 56 HP provides better performance
Turbo Charged STAGE 5 engine ensures compliance with emission standards
Higher dump height of 2.32 m for greater operational efficiency
Larger fuel tank of 84 L for extended operation
Heavier operating weight of 2,950 kg which may contribute to stability and lifting capability
Cons:
Maximum speed of 11.9 km/hr is slightly lower than the Bull AV490
Requires servomechanisms for operation which may complicate maintenance
Pros:
Cons:
Closing Recommendation
Both are compact skid steer loaders, but they suit different jobs. The Bull AV490 is lighter, simple to drive with one joystick, and quick to turn, so it works well for small yards and general loading. The JCB SSL 135 carries more engine power, a bigger fuel tank, and a stronger build, so it suits longer shifts and heavier material handling, backed by JCB's wide service network. So match the machine to your work: Bull AV490 for tight, everyday jobs with easy controls, JCB SSL 135 for longer, tougher work that needs more power and fuel range.
JCB SSL 135 Vs Bull AV490 Skid Steer Loader Price, Technical Specifications & Features
The JCB SSL 135 skid steer loader is powered by a reliable 56 hp Kohler diesel engine. It provides consistent performance and good fuel efficiency for tough job sites. This skid machine is designed for productivity, with a rated operating capacity of about 612 kg and an operating weight of 2,950 kg. It ensures stability during lifting and loading tasks. With a dump height of nearly 2.3 m, it allows for efficient material discharge into trucks and hoppers. Compact and easy to maintain, the JCB 135 skid loader is a reliable choice for construction, infrastructure, and material-handling tasks.
The Bull AV490 skid steer loader is driven by a Kubota diesel engine producing about 36.5 kW (50 hp). It offers dependable power and fuel-efficient performance for various job-site tasks. This compact skid steer loader has a rated operating capacity of approximately 604 kg and an operating weight of about 2,610 kg. It provides stable loading and material-handling capability. The machine achieves a practical dump height of around 2.16 m, making it effective for discharging into trucks, bins, or hoppers. With intuitive joystick control, solid hydraulics, and compact maneuverability, the Bull AV490 skid loader balances productivity and reliability.
Questions buyers ask about the JCB SSL 135 vs Bull AV490
Ans.
The Bull AV490 is easier to use in tight spaces. It is lighter and turns quickly, so it works well in small yards, gardens, and narrow site corners. The JCB SSL 135 is bigger and heavier, so it needs a bit more room to work in.
Ans.
The JCB SSL 135 runs longer without refuelling. Its fuel tank holds 84 litres, much more than the Bull AV490's 48 litres. If your job runs long hours far from a fuel pump, the SSL 135 saves you time and trips.
Ans.
Yes, the Bull AV490 is easy to learn. It uses a single joystick for control, which is simple for a new driver to pick up fast. The JCB SSL 135 uses servo controls, which give more precision but take a little more practice.
Ans.
The JCB SSL 135 has an edge here. JCB has one of the largest dealer and parts networks in India, so service and spares come fast in most districts. Bull is a smaller, growing brand, so check your local dealer support before buying.
Ans.
The JCB SSL 135 is stronger for heavy material. It has more engine power, a higher dump height, and a heavier build, so it handles bigger loads better. The Bull AV490 suits lighter loading and general yard work.
JCB SSL 135 Vs Bull AV490 - Compare Price & Availability Across 600+ Locations in India
Compare JCB SSL 135 Vs Bull AV490 price and availability across all major cities in India including Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Indore, Jaipur, Guwahati, and 600+ more locations.
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