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Krone BiG X Forage Harvesters

By Krone

Last reviewed: February 2026

Self-propelled forage harvesters from 530-1,100 HP with OptiMaxx corn cracker and VariStream chopping technology.

German-engineered self-propelled forage harvesters from Krone with 530-1,100 HP, featuring the OptiMaxx corn cracker and VariStream chopping system for premium silage.

Key Features

  • BiG X 530-1180 Range: 530-1,100 HP self-propelled forage harvesters, including the world's most powerful
  • OptiMaxx 305 Cracker: 305mm diameter corn cracker rolls for aggressive kernel processing
  • VariStream Chopping: Adjustable chop length system for optimizing silage particle size
  • XtraPower Boost: Temporary engine power boost for demanding field conditions
  • CropFlow Headers: EasyCollect and XCollect corn headers for efficient crop feeding

Advanced Features

  • NIR Sensor: Real-time moisture and nutrient analysis during harvest
  • Krone SmartConnect: Telematics for remote monitoring and fleet management

Ideal For

Farm Types: Custom harvesting businesses, Large commercial dairies, High-volume silage operations

Competitive Advantages

What sets Krone BiG X Forage Harvesters apart from alternatives:

  • BiG X 1180 is the most powerful production forage harvester in the world
  • OptiMaxx 305 provides aggressive kernel processing with large-diameter rolls
  • German family-owned engineering with growing North American support
  • Complete forage equipment lineup from mowing through harvest

Pricing Information

Here is the pricing information for Krone BiG X Forage Harvesters:

BiG X forage harvesters range from approximately $450,000-900,000+ depending on model and configuration. Contact your Krone dealer for current pricing.

Pricing Model: Capital equipment purchase

Pros & Considerations

Advantages:
  • World's most powerful production forage harvester (BiG X 1180)
  • OptiMaxx 305 cracker with large-diameter processing rolls
  • XtraPower boost for demanding conditions
  • Complete Krone forage equipment lineup
Considerations:
  • Smaller North American dealer network than John Deere or CLAAS
  • Parts availability can vary by region
  • Premium capital investment
  • Overkill for operations under 1,000 cows

Implementation & Setup

How to implement Krone BiG X Forage Harvesters on your dairy operation:

Implementation Timeline: 6-12 months for new machines; used market available

Training & Support

Training and support options available for Krone BiG X Forage Harvesters:

Support Channels:

    Evaluation Questions

    Key questions to consider when evaluating Krone BiG X Forage Harvesters:

    1. What annual harvesting volume justifies owning vs. hiring custom?
    2. Is maximum power (BiG X 1180) necessary for your conditions?
    3. How close is your nearest Krone dealer for parts and service?
    4. What kernel processing score are you targeting for corn silage?

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