How To Choose the Right Compact Track Loader Tracks

Maximize Your Performance with Genuine Bobcat® Rubber Tracks

Outfitting your compact track loader with the right tracks is key to your machine’s performance - and your bottom line.  

There are a variety of tread patterns and track widths to choose from, and it’s important to understand which tracks best suit your needs. 

While improving your compact track loader’s performance and ride quality, the right tracks can also lengthen your working season, reduce costly downtime and significantly extend track life, saving you time and money.  

Download our Track Buying Guide. 

Choosing the Right Tread 

With multiple tread patterns available, take the time to select the tread best suited for your most common operating conditions and best meets your needs.  Your Bobcat dealer is ready to help you select the best track for your work applications.

Premium C-Pattern Treads

A premium C-pattern tread is available for select Bobcat compact track loaders and provides superior traction in most applications and ground conditions, including dirt, mud, rock and demolition. C-pattern treads are not recommended for snow. Hour Ratings of 1,000+ hours. 

Zig-Zag Pattern Treads  

This tread type works well in conditions where the ground is extremely wet and muddy, on slippery slopes or on clay. The stepped tread design offers improved cleanout and operates smoothly for snow removal. The zigzag pattern isn’t recommended for demolition or turf. Hour Ratings of 800+ hours.

Multi-Bar Lug Pattern Treads  

The multi-bar lug pattern is a durable, all-season track that offers superior traction in wet conditions and extended wear life on hard, flat surfaces. It’s a great choice for general construction work and for working in sand and dirt. It is not recommended for extremely rocky conditions. Multi-bar lug pattern tracks are also available in a non-marking orange option. Hour Ratings of 800+ hours.

Hex Pattern Treads  

The Hex pattern track is incredibly versatile, durable on gravel and turf-friendly. The track pattern offers a smooth and comfortable ride while leaving a minimal footprint on grass and lawns; however, it’s not recommended for extremely wet conditions. It’s a great option for landscaping and performs best on turf, solid dirt or sandy applications. Hour Ratings of 600+ hours. 

Standard C-Pattern Treads  

The standard-duty C-pattern is one of the most versatile tread patterns on the market. It offers durability and traction throughout the seasons and is excellent in dirt and mud. C-pattern treads are not recommended for snow. Hour Ratings of 800+ hours. 

H-Pattern Treads  

A great multi-application track for general use, the H-pattern treads minimize vibration and reduce undercarriage wear. These treads are good for general construction work and applications involving rock, concrete, mud or sloped surfaces. Hour Ratings of 400+ hours. 

The right set of tracks will ensure more comfort, better production and longer treadwear. Follow the charts below to choose the best track for you based on your hours of use and application. 

*Disclaimer: Hour Ratings Listed Above Are Based on Usage in Moderate Working Conditions. 

Choosing the Right Width – Wide or Narrow  

Most compact track loaders can be outfitted with either wide or narrow tracks. If you want to minimize ground disturbance on your worksite, choose wider tracks. Wider tracks also increase your loader’s flotation, making them ideal for working in softer soils, like mud or sand. 

Narrower tracks are a good choice when you need increased traction or force and when flotation is less of a concern. Choose narrow tracks when operating in slippery or icy conditions, or when trying to maximize your loader’s push force on a firm surface. 

Bobcat rubber tracks, made from a combination of natural and synthetic rubbers to maximize wear life - are available in three widths: 320 mm, 400mm, 450mm. 

Choosing the Right Brand  

Not all rubber tracks are created equal and that’s why it’s important to also consider track quality as well as price.  The cheapest tracks may not be the best deal after factoring in their jobsite performance and durability. 

Bobcat® rubber tracks are engineered, designed and tested to give you superior performance and durability. Our rubber tracks are made using a consistent blend of natural and synthetic rubbers to maximize wear life in extreme working conditions. Bobcat stands behind every track with a world-class warranty. 

Next Steps  

Bobcat rubber tracks are available through your local Bobcat dealer, or you can shop for Bobcat rubber tracks online at shop.bobcat.com

View or download the Bobcat Track Buying Guide or the Bobcat Track Brochure.