CLAAS is showcasing two of its latest machines at Nampo Cape 2026, including the CEREX 760 RF round baler, which was released in June, and the AXION 9.450 CMATIC tractor, making its first Western Cape appearance.
Dustin Bishop, CLAAS product specialist at Kempston Agri, spoke to Farmer’s Weekly at Nampo Cape in Bredasdorp about the AXION 9.450’s increased hydraulic capacity and the emphasis placed on efficient operation at lower engine speeds.
New CEREX baler
The CEREX 760 RF forms part of CLAAS’s new CEREX range of variable-chamber round balers, which the manufacturer positions for professional users requiring high throughput and heavy-duty construction.
The 760 RF produces bales from 0,9m to 1,6m in diameter and uses a ROTO FEED intake system. Unlike the ROTO CUT versions in the range, the RF model is not equipped with knives.
Its stated tractor power requirement is 75kW, or 102hp, and the baler operates at a PTO speed of 1 000 rpm.
During operation, the crop is collected through a 2,1m MULTIFLOW HD pick-up with five rows of tines operating at 146 rpm. CLAAS says the design provides a 20% higher raking frequency, while the reinforced cam track requires 20% less drive power.
The CEREX also features a newly developed variable bale chamber using two endless heavy-duty belts and a separate hydraulic system. Sensors on the belts monitor bale formation, while CLAAS says pressure is controlled continuously to maintain bale shape and compaction at higher working speeds.
Power is transferred through a heavy-duty split drivetrain, with separate power trains for the bale chamber and rotor. CLAAS says this arrangement improves torque transmission and increases the service life of the drive chains.
ROLLATEX COMFORT net wrapping and CEMIS 700 control are standard on the 760 RF. A moisture sensor, camera and ISOBUS cables are listed as optional equipment.
AXION 9 makes Western Cape debut
The wheeled AXION 9.450 CMATIC forms part of CLAAS’s new AXION 9 tractor range and is making its Western Cape debut at Nampo Cape 2026.
It is powered by an 8,7-litre six-cylinder engine producing 439hp at rated output and a maximum of 448hp. Maximum torque is 1 850 Nm at 1 400 rpm.
The tractor uses CLAAS’s CMATIC continuously variable transmission and has a 712-litre fuel tank.
Its hydraulic system delivers 220ℓ/minute as standard, with an optional second pump increasing total output to 370ℓ/minute.
According to Bishop, the increased hydraulic capacity is intended to better accommodate complex, hydraulically demanding implements, while allowing the tractor to operate efficiently at lower engine speeds.
CLAAS positions the AXION 9 range for large-scale farms and contractors and says its hydraulic capacity is suited to complex implements. The manufacturer also highlights automatic management of engine and ground speed through the CMATIC transmission.
The wheeled 9.450 has a maximum rear-linkage lift capacity of 12 000kg and a front-linkage capacity of 6 500kg.
It is equipped with the CEBIS connect onboard information system. CEMOS, GPS PILOT readiness and a five-year Machine Connect licence are also listed for the 9.450, while the cab can be equipped with one or two 12-inch CEBIS connect touchscreens.
