The Bobcat S185 skid steer loader has a Kubota V2003-M-DI-T four-cylinder diesel engine producing 61 horsepower. It has an operating weight of 6,220 pounds (2,821.3 kg). It comes standard with auxiliary hydraulics, Bob-Tach attachment system, engine shutdown and a Bobcat Interlock Control System (BICS). It is also available with optional joystick control, air conditioning, cab enclosure, heater, suspension seat, deluxe instrumentation, high flow hydraulics, power Bob-Tach, ride control, and hydraulic bucket positioning. Its hydraulic system delivers fluid at a rate of 16.9 gallons (64 L) per minute at a system pressure of 3,300 pounds per square inch (PSI) (22,752.7 kPa).

The S185 stands 6.4 feet (1.9 m) tall and 5.7 feet (1.7 m) wide and can reach speeds of 7.3 miles per hour (11.7 km/h). It is compatible with more than 20 Bobcat attachments.