Heft with effortless lift. The R70.28 S PLUS Roto
The R70.28 S PLUS delivers heavy-duty weight capacity (15,400 lbs.) and a versatile lift height to meet the most demanding job site requirements, all within a compact footprint.
Performance
There is a lot that can be done with a lift height of 92’, maximum lift capacity of 6,600 lbs. and a reach of 76’ that easily handles 1,800 lbs. The R70.28 S PLUS has nimble maneuverability thanks to the hydrostatic transmission (up to 25 mph) with its electronic Eco Power Drive control and three steering modes. The EPD allows the RPM to vary, independent of the speed of the machine. The Load Sensing and Flow Sharing hydraulic circuits seamlessly supply multiple, simultaneous boom movements with rapid 360° turret rotation for precision load placement.
The chassis is surrounded by a 3” ring of steel. This lowers the center of gravity, provides greater protection of the machine, and supplies perfect weight distribution. The robust Iveco 4 cylinder engine delivers 170 HP.


Perfection found. The cab and controls.
Supplementing Merlo’s well-known 360° operator view (over 46 square feet of glass surface for brightness and visibility) is the 20° tilting cab. The tilting cab ensures an operator has continuous, visual sight lines of the boom and its load. Access to the Roto cabs is now easier and safer with the addition of handles and steps on both sides of the turret.
Designed for premium operator efficiency, The S-Plus Roto has a touch-control SMART multi-functional armrest; two horizontal capacitive sensitive joysticks; and a touch-sensitive dashboard. Functional controls, such as independent stabilizer placement and machine suspension, are integrated into the armrest. The cab is mounted on isolation pads, reducing noise and vibration. Plus, the no flex boom’s Tac-lock system is safely controlled from the cab for quick, safe attachment of accessories.
A wide, split door leads into the spacious command center. The cab air filtration, with its HEPA filter, is located on the side of the cab.
The 8-vent AC/heat system efficiently delivers optimal airflow.

Safety & Stability. Not an afterthought.
The Advanced Safety System (ASCS) incorporates the best of Merlo telehandler safety systems. The ASCS collects and analyzes real-time data of the Roto’s parameters—stabilizer position (65 sensors), boom extension angle, turret position, carriage rotation, load position, weight, and attachment in use—to be displayed on the highly visible LCD. The active suspension system automatically corrects the machine’s position in relation to the terrain.
The four independent, multi-positional stabilizers can be individually deployed for precise placement on tight job sights. Merlo stabilizers are designed to tightly retract, keeping the compact footprint for safe jobsite movement. The load indicator display reflects the necessary data for safe load placement, with or without stabilizer activation.
Plus, high power, and high dynamic braking make it possible for this S PLUS Roto to be static, even on steep slopes.

The check list
- Rotating turret (360°) with tilt cab (20°)
- Load sensing and flow sharing hydraulics allow for multiple, simultaneous boom movements, and rapid turret rotation
- Automatic load management system (ASCS) displays operating and safety parameters in real-time on very visible LCDs
- Hydrostatic transmission ensures precision machine movement
- Active suspension system automatically corrects machine placement on uneven terrain for consistent, safe lifting
- Multi-positional stabilizers can be individually or automatically deployed for precise placement on tight job sites
- Compact footprint: 27’3” x 8’2” (stabilizers deployed 20’8”) x 10’10”

The R70.28 S PLUS is just one of Merlo’s Roto family of telehandlers for the construction industry. All are designed to ensure greater safety, strong performance and unparalleled efficiency.
See the R70.28 S PLUS overview here.
View the entire range of Rotos here.
Rotos are available for rent and sale. For more information, contact AMS-Merlo at 803-327-4949, or info@appliedmach.com.