Versatile subsoiler unveiled
Grégoire Besson unveiled its Helios 70 subsoiler at the French Innov-Agri trade fair, with interchangeable tines and a choice of rollers aimed at a range of cultivation tasks.
Designed for tractors from 210 to 400 hp, the machine was offered in working widths of 4.50 m with nine tines and 5.50 m with 11 tines. Both versions used a double-beam chassis that folded in two parts.
Interchangeable tine options
Two interchangeable tine designs allowed the Helios 70 to be configured for different cultivation requirements.
- The Low Disturbance tine was designed to fissure soil at depths of 25–40 cm without mixing the soil horizons. Grégoire Besson said it promoted aeration while preserving the structure of the layers and provided effective penetration in dry conditions.
- The Helikrak tine was intended for restructuring soil after late harvests. It mixed residues and improved soil porosity, with a design suited to both shallow and deeper work, according to the manufacturer.
The two tine configurations allowed the same machine to be adapted to different soil conditions and farming practices.
Two protection systems
Buyers were offered a choice of two tine protection systems to suit different ground conditions.
- Bolt safety, rated at 5,600 kg resistance, was recommended for stone-free ground.
- Non-stop hydraulic safety, rated at 1,450 kg resistance, was intended for stony ground and offered continuous adjustment from 160 to 200 bar.
Both protection systems were available across the range.
Clearance for residue flow
The Helios 70 provided 800 mm of under-frame clearance, 500 mm between tines, 1,000 mm between tine rows and 500 mm between the tines and the roller. Grégoire Besson said the layout helped residues pass through the machine, improved visibility from the cab and reduced the risk of blockages in heavy residue conditions.
Hydraulic adjustment from the cab
Hydraulic roller adjustment and wing folding were provided, with a function selector allowing the operator to control the main settings from the cab.
Four roller choices
Four interchangeable roller options were offered for different soil conditions and finishing requirements.
- Single square bar roller, Ø 600 mm: designed to work aggressively on residues, produce a uniform mulch and encourage stubble decomposition.
- Emopak P roller, Ø 630 mm: a heavy-duty option that broke up clods and consolidated the soil, particularly on clay and stony ground.
- Double spike roller, Ø 650 mm: designed to break up clods, mix surface layers and prepare a seedbed, particularly in sticky soils.
- Double roller with notched discs, Ø 575 mm: designed to cut, level and consolidate the soil during surface mixing.
Additional equipment
- Anti-projection devices guided material across the working width to help deliver a clean finish and prevent material spilling onto the worked area.
- Depth control wheels allowed accurate working-depth control without rear equipment.
- LED lighting and road signs with elastomer suspension were also listed among the equipment.
- Grégoire Besson said all axles were ringed, treated, greased and locked against rotation to improve durability.
Manufacturer background
The French agricultural machinery manufacturer traced its family ownership back to 1802 and eight generations. In its launch information, Grégoire Besson described a presence on every continent and said its focus was on durable machinery for productive, sustainable agriculture.
Related news: