Can a John Deere 1025R lift a round bale?

A John Deere 1025R is a sub-compact tractor rated at about 23.9 horsepower with a Category 1 three-point hitch and a small front loader, and whether it can lift a round bale depends on bale size and weight and how you attempt to lift it. Typical round bales can weigh 500 to 1,200 pounds or more, with 4x4 bales around 500 to 800 pounds and 4x5 or 5x5 bales 800 to 1,200 plus. The 1025R's front loader model 120R has lift capacity around 750 to 850 pounds at the pivot and less at full height, so it can lift small 4x4 dry bales on level ground with proper ballast but is at or beyond its safe limit for larger bales, especially if bales are wet and heavy. The three-point hitch lift capacity is around 680 to 900 pounds at 24 inches, so rear lifting with a bale spear is also marginal for large bales. Safety concerns include front axle overload, loss of stability, and tipping. Many owners use a 1025R for small square bales or small 4x4 rounds with caution, but for regular round bale handling a larger tractor of 35 horsepower plus is recommended.