Please do not skimp on the parts for your BOBCAT. It does suck to pay full price for these type of parts, but just think of how long you will never have to worry about a lower quality / inferior part. At the end of each paying job, it should deserve the very best that you can give it. I hope you give her the love she needs.....$54 doesn't seem too bad to me.
You could possibly get re-enforced vacuum hose instead, but not sure what that would cost you.