Putting the Platform Basket 2095 Spider Through Its Paces (with BTS Filming Tips)
If you’ve ever wondered how a spider cherry picker performs in the real world, tight gateways, narrow quadrants, roof inspections, gutter cleaning, and all, the Platform Basket 2095 just got the full weekend workout at Trent College.
Promax Access kindly loaned me the machine so I could test it across a site I know well, and while I was at it, I filmed a full behind-the-scenes of how I capture these jobs.
👉 Want to see it all in motion? Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/srsdaTFwDtk
Why This Test Matters
I’ve used the 1890 Pro for years and know exactly what it can and can’t do on this campus. Testing the 2095 hybrid here gives a proper like-for-like feel: narrow access, tracking across courtyards, and the ability to reach up to 20m for clock tower checks and roof surveys. With the site quiet at the weekend, I could take my time, try different approaches, and document honest pros and cons.
First Challenge: The Clock Tower & Those Dodgy Bird Spikes
Job one: get the 2095 up to the clock tower to inspect and refix some loose bird spikes, a spot the 1890 couldn’t reach previously.
On full tilt and right at the limit, the 2095 made it. Result. I removed old adhesive, cleaned the surfaces, and safely reattached the spikes, because the last thing anyone wants is kit falling on passers-by.
Behind the Scenes: How I Actually Film These Jobs
You said you like a bit of BTS, so here’s how I roll:
- GoPro Hero 13 Black (two of them) on mini tripods and GoPro mounts dotted all over the 1890 for creative angles.
- Close-ups for B-roll while I’m up in the basket, because missing a shot is the fastest way to complicate an edit later.
- DJI mics into the phone for distance audio. (When they behave. Cue whisper-test to check they’re working…)
Narrow Access Test: Can the 2095 Thread the Needle?
One of the best measures of a spider lift is not just how high it goes, it’s how easily it gets there. The 2095 handled tight gates, speed humps, and a sharp corner into a small quadrant. Narrowing the tracks is straightforward (pull pins, stow them in their holders), and removing the basket is genuinely easy, handy when space is at a premium.
Verdict: It’s a compact, maneuverable bit of kit that earns its “spider” name.
Real-World Pros & Cons (Not a Brochure)
What I liked:
- The Return-to-Home button is brilliant, press it and the machine retracts to base. For solo operators and quick repositioning, it’s a standout.
- Hybrid power means quiet, cleaner running when needed, with outdoor capability when you need the grunt.
What slowed me down:
- The manual control handover between control modes is a faff. If you forget to swap, you’ll hop out, switch, and go again. Small thing, but it adds up over a day.
Gutter Clearing & Roof Notes: Maintenance That Actually Matters
While I had the height, I gave the gutters a proper check and looked over nearby roofs. A few slipped and missing slates stood out for future attention. Trent College is great on maintenance, but with so many buildings, prioritisation is key. My report will flag the areas I think should be next in the queue.
Sunday Session: Intros, Outros & Prettier Backdrops
I was back on Sunday to grab a clean intro and outro for a dedicated “Meet the 2095” video—talking specs, capability and features with some nicer backdrops. The plan is to layer in B-roll to point out individual components so you can see how the machine is put together and what each part does.
2095 vs 1890: Where I Land (For Now)
Spending time with the 2095 reminded me how at-home I am with the 1890 Pro, I’m faster on it because it’s second nature. That’s not a knock on the 2095; it’s just the reality of muscle memory. With more time, I’d smooth out those small frictions and be quicker. But as an access solution for narrow, complex sites, the 2095 makes a strong case.
Watch the Full Test in Action
There’s only so much a blog can show. The best way to judge the Platform Basket 2095 is to see it working, tight corners, clock tower reach, basket removal, and all the little moments that make or break a job.
👉 Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/srsdaTFwDtk
Before You Go: Get Involved
Have a question about the 2095, spider lifts in general, or gutter/roof maintenance? Pop it in the comments wherever you’re reading this. And if this kind of on-site, no-nonsense testing is useful, share it and follow along for more.
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Note: The Platform Basket 2095 was loaned to me by Promax Access Ltd for testing. Learn more about them here: https://promaxaccess.com/
You can also watch my related videos:
- Meet The Platform Basket 2095 Spider – Full Specifications: https://youtu.be/4X6kgYInZCM
- I Tested the Platform Basket 2095 Spider Cherrypicker for 4 Days – Here’s the Truth: https://youtu.be/YpZtT7G4bZ0
My workwear is sponsored by Granite Workwear, and all of the clothing I’m wearing in the video can be purchased on their website: https://www.graniteworkwear.com/
