Mini Track Loader First-Time Buyers

The right Bobcat mini track loader depends on the work you perform most often: consider the MT100 for primarily ground-level work and a lower entry point, or the MT120 for higher-capacity material handling and jobs requiring greater lift height and reach. Both models are 35.6 inches wide with standard tracks, use stand-on operator platforms and support compatible attachments for tight-access work. 

Consider the Bobcat MT100 if: 

• Your work is primarily at ground level: The MT100’s radial lift path supports digging, grading, backfilling and placing materials at or near ground level. 
• A 1,000-pound ROC meets your needs: The MT100 is rated to lift and carry up to its published 1,000-pound rated operating capacity during normal operation.
• Lower operating weight is important: The MT100 weighs less than the MT120, which may affect transport planning. Include the machine, attachment and trailer weights when evaluating towing requirements.
• You want the lower entry point: The MT100 provides the lower entry point into the Bobcat mini track loader lineup while retaining compact dimensions and attachment versatility. 

Consider the Bobcat MT120 if: 

• You regularly load trucks, trailers or dumpsters: The MT120 uses a vertical lift path and provides an 88.2-inch lift height with approximately 22 inches of reach for elevated loading and material placement.
• You need a higher rated operating capacity: The MT120 has a 1,200-pound ROC for lifting and transporting heavier loads.
• You handle heavier palletized materials: The additional capacity may support work involving pavers, retaining-wall blocks, sod and other palletized materials when used with compatible attachments.
• You want additional model features: The MT120 adds features and capabilities beyond the MT100 that may support larger jobsites, multiple operators or expanded machine-management needs. 

Both models support compatible attachments for digging, grading, trenching, material handling, property maintenance and snow removal. Attachment availability and performance requirements vary, so confirm model compatibility, mounting interface, hydraulic requirements and working width before choosing an attachment. 

Compare the Bobcat MT100 and MT120 for a complete side-by-side review of specifications, lift paths, attachments, controls, applications, transport considerations and additional selection factors.

Bobcat mini track loaders generally start between approximately $42,000 and $48,000 USD*, depending on the model and machine configuration. 

The final purchase price may vary based on the following factors:

• Model selection: The MT100 generally provides the lower entry point into the Bobcat mini track loader lineup, while the MT120 adds a higher rated operating capacity, greater lift height and reach, and additional model features.
• Attachment package: Attachments are typically selected separately from the base machine. The final attachment cost depends on the number and type selected, with buckets, pallet forks, augers, trenchers, grapples, soil conditioners and other attachments carrying different prices.
• Optional equipment and accessories: Track options, telematics and accessory packages can change the machine configuration and final purchase price.
• Dealer and regional pricing: Inventory, location, dealer-installed options and local market conditions may affect the final price.
• Freight, setup, taxes and applicable charges: Delivery, setup, taxes and other applicable charges may vary by dealer and location.
• Financing and offers: Available financing terms or rebates may affect payment options or the final transaction amount.

Use Build & Quote to configure a Bobcat mini track loader, explore current buying tools and offers, or contact a local Bobcat dealer for pricing based on the selected model, attachments and options.

*The price range provided is an estimate for the base machine and is subject to change. Attachments, optional equipment, taxes, freight, setup and other applicable charges may not be included. Contact a participating Bobcat dealer for current pricing and complete offer terms.

The best attachments for a first-time mini track loader buyer are the ones that allow you to tackle the challenges of your property or jobsite with efficiency and versatility. Working with a trusted partner or dealer to define the work you hope to accomplish will inform what attachments are most ideal for your unique set of needs.

Generally speaking though, the best attachments are the ones that deliver the greatest versatility across the widest range of applications. With that in mind, these attachments could be defined as most versatile:

• Bucket - General Purpose
• Pallet Fork
• Auger
• Trencher
• Angle Broom

Bucket - General Purpose

The General Purpose Bucket is ideal for digging, grading, backfilling, hauling and loading loose materials, making it the go-to attachment for everyday landscaping, construction and property maintenance tasks.



Pallet Forks

The Pallet Fork attachment lets you quickly lift, carry and place palletized materials, nursery stock, sod, supplies and other heavy loads with greater efficiency and precision than manual handling.



Auger

The Auger attachment makes it fast and easy to drill precise holes for fence posts, trees, shrubs, footings and signs, helping crews complete installation jobs with less manual labor.



Trencher

The Trencher attachment cuts clean, consistent trenches for installing irrigation lines, utility lines, drainage systems and landscape edging faster and with less manual digging.



Angle Broom

The Angle Broom attachment quickly sweeps dirt, gravel, leaves and other debris from sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and jobsites. It can also be used to clear light snow.

Because of their attachment versatility, mini track loaders are valued in the landscaping, construction, property maintenance and snow operation industries. If you’re a first time buyer in these categories, consider these attachment packages:



Landscape and Hardscape Attachment Set

• Bucket - General Purpose
• Pallet Fork
• Trencher
• Auger

Property Maintenance and Grounds Care Attachment Set


• Bucket - General Purpose
• Pallet Fork
• Angle Broom
• Soil Conditioner

Year Round/Snow Operation Attachment Set


• Bucket - General Purpose
• Pallet Fork
• Angle Broom
• Snow Blade or Snow Blower

A Bobcat mini track loader can replace wheelbarrows, shovels, post-hole diggers, dedicated trenchers, walk-behind brooms and other specialty equipment, allowing one machine to tackle a wide range of jobs. As you add more attachments, you expand the machine's capabilities across more applications, helping maximize its value and ROI for first-time owners.

For a complete list of Bobcat attachments and to learn more you can find resources on our attachments page. For more information on what attachment might be best for your job, read our article Top Attachments for Mini Track Loaders, and of course, your local dealer is a great source for information.

For first-time operators, learning the basics of a mini track loader is relatively straightforward.



Before operating a Bobcat mini track loader, thoroughly review the machine’s Operation & Maintenance Manual (OMM), followed by the AEM safety manual.



Bobcat offers a wealth of training videos and tutorials. Reviewing these may also provide insight into ease of operation along with foundational knowledge on operating a mini track loader.



When you purchase a Bobcat mini track loader, your local Bobcat dealer can help familiarize you with the machine and the basics of operation.

Key mini track loader specifications are a measure of the machine's ability to perform tasks and operate in significant areas of focus. These are typically the features that provide unique benefits to the owner and operator.


Understanding these specifications is the foundation for comparing the Bobcat MT100 and MT120 and matching the right machine to your operation.

The most important Bobcat mini track loader specifications a first-time buyer should understand are:

• Lift height: Lift height is the maximum height the bucket hinge pin can be raised. It determines how easily the machine can load trucks, trailers, dumpsters and place materials at elevated heights.
• Reach: Reach is defined as the maximum horizontal distance the attachment extends forward when the lift arms are fully raised. Greater reach makes it easier to place materials farther into truck beds, trailers, dumpsters and other hard-to-reach areas without repositioning the machine.
• Rated Operating Capacity (ROC): Rated Operating Capacity (ROC) is the maximum weight the machine is designed to lift and carry during normal operation. A higher ROC allows the machine to move heavier materials and complete more work with fewer trips.
• Travel speed: Travel speed is simply the maximum forward and reverse speed of the machine while not performing work. Higher travel speeds reduce travel time across jobsites, improving productivity on larger properties.
• Ground pressure: Ground pressure is the amount of weight the machine applies to the ground, measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Lower ground pressure minimizes turf damage and improves flotation on soft, wet or muddy surfaces.
• Engine type: Engine type is defined as the engine configuration powering the machine, including fuel type, cooling system and horsepower. Engine design influences performance, reliability, maintenance requirements and overall productivity.
• Fuel capacity: Fuel capacity is simply the amount of diesel fuel the machine's fuel tank can hold. Larger fuel tanks allow for longer operating periods between refueling stops.
• Lift path: This is the path the lift arms follow as the attachment is raised (radius or vertical). The lift path affects how efficiently the machine loads trucks, reaches over obstacles and places materials at height.

Depending on the type of work, lift path may have a significant impact on first time buying decisions. Industry-specific considerations are worth examination:



Radial lift path: The MT100 supports a radial lift path which is mechanically simple and well suited for everyday tasks. If your projects require you to dump over walls, backfill or load flatbed trucks, consider a radius path loader. This economical option lifts the bucket or attachment in an arc pattern, providing greater reach at mid-range heights compared to a vertical lift path.


A radius lift path is ideal for contractors whose work centers on:

• Digging
• Grading
• Backfilling
• Moving bulk materials
• General landscape maintenance.

Its lift arc naturally favors ground-level work, making it an excellent choice for everyday landscaping tasks.



Vertical lift path: Available on the MT120, a vertical lift path raises the attachment with less forward arc resulting in an enhanced forward reach at maximum lift height. This allows you to safely lift more than an identical radius-lift-path machine. Since you have more reach at full lift height, you dump into the center of the truck — or keep the loader farther away, depending on your needs.

A vertical lift path is the better choice when jobs frequently involve lifting and placing materials at height. 

It excels at:

• Loading trucks and trailers
• Handling palletized pavers
• Handling retaining wall block
• Unloading deliveries
• Placing materials where extra lift height and forward reach improve productivity

Read the MT100 vs. MT120 comparison article for a comprehensive comparison of the MT100 and MT120, or view our product pages for the MT100 and MT120 for a thorough detailing of machine specifications.

A Bobcat mini track loader needs daily inspections and scheduled maintenance at operating-hour intervals specified for the model. 

Always review the Operation & Maintenance Manual before performing any maintenance on your mini track loader.

Bobcat recommends a scheduled maintenance program on engine hours with service being performed:

• Daily or before operation: Inspect fluid levels, filters, cooling areas, hydraulic components, the attachment mounting system, tracks and the overall machine condition.
• First 50 hours: Complete the initial service items identified in the model’s service schedule.
• 250 hours: Perform scheduled inspection and replacement items specified for the machine.
• 500 hours: Complete the applicable fluid, filter and component inspections listed for the model.
• 1,000 hours: Perform the longer-interval maintenance and component inspections identified in the service schedule.

Maintenance requirements can vary by model, serial number, operating conditions and elapsed time. 

Bobcat mini track loaders include design features that help reduce or simplify certain routine maintenance requirements:

• Permanently sealed and lubricated rollers and idlers: Permanently sealed rollers, which are constantly bathed in oil for permanent lubrication, eliminate the need for daily roller maintenance.
• Heat-treated rollers and idlers: Help reduce component wear and support longer undercarriage service life.
• Maintenance-free work-group bushings on the MT120: Eliminate routine maintenance requirements for the applicable bushings.
• Direct-drive system with no belts on the MT120: Eliminates drive-belt inspection, adjustment and replacement.
• Non-DPF diesel engines: Eliminate diesel particulate filter regeneration and associated DPF maintenance.
• Tool-free maintenance access: The lift-up hood provides access to routine maintenance points, including engine oil, coolant, fuel and hydraulic fluid checks.

These model-specific features do not eliminate scheduled maintenance, but they can reduce the number of routine service tasks required for certain components and make regular inspections easier to complete.

Additional Bobcat ownership tools and programs can support maintenance planning:

• Machine IQ (optional on MT120 only): Available telematics can help owners monitor machine information and receive service-related alerts when supported by the model and subscription.
• Protection Plus: Available extended-warranty and maintenance plan options can provide coverage beyond the standard machine warranty, with terms and eligibility varying by plan.

Review the machine’s Operation & Maintenance Manual and the Bobcat mini track loader service schedule for the complete list of maintenance points, intervals and procedures. Contact a local Bobcat dealer for model-specific maintenance support.

The biggest difference between the Bob-Tach attachment system and the Common Industry Interface (CII) mostly concerns your attachment eco-system, resale considerations and whether you plan to operate approved third-party or rented attachments.

Bobcat mini track loaders are available with either the Bob-Tach or Common Industry Interface (CII) attachment mounting system, giving owners the flexibility to use Bobcat attachments or approved CII attachments from other manufacturers.


The following examines both systems, articulates the benefits of the systems and makes some general recommendations.


Bob-Tach Attachment System

The Bob-Tach attachment mounting system is designed for Bobcat mini track loaders, using a quick-attach interface with two over-center locking pins for fast, secure attachment changes. It provides access to more than 40 approved attachments designed for a wide range of applications.



The advantages of the Bob-tach system includes:

• Fast attachment changes: The Bob-Tach system allows operators to change compatible attachments quickly, minimizing downtime between tasks.
• Tool-free operation: Attachments are secured using two over-center locking pins, eliminating the need for tools during attachment changes.
• Secure attachment connection: Spring-loaded, wear-compensating wedges help maintain a secure attachment fit over time, even as components experience normal wear.
• Attachment compatibility: The system supports Bobcat's lineup of more than 50 approved mini track loader attachments, including buckets, augers, trenchers, pallet forks, grapples and brooms.
• Long-term durability: The robust locking pin design is intended to provide a consistent, secure attachment connection through repeated attachment changes.

To that end, first-time buyers should choose the Bob-tach mounting system if:

• You plan to run primarily Bobcat-branded attachments
• You want access to Bobcat-exclusive attachments
• You operate within a Bobcat-focused dealer and service network
• You prioritize factory-engineered attachment compatibility

Common Industry Interface (CII)

The common industry interface uses dual over-center, 90-degree latches to securely connect approved attachments. The greasable, serviceable mounting pin is designed for long service life and gives owners the flexibility to use approved, compatible CII-style attachments across multiple machines.



The advantages of the common industry interface include:

• Cross-brand flexibility: Owners can use approved, compatible CII attachments they already own or source from other manufacturers that support the CII standard.
• Secure attachment connection: The Bobcat CII system uses exclusive dual over-center, 90-degree latches to securely connect approved, compatible attachments.
• Quick attachment changes: The latch design allows approved attachments to be connected and disconnected efficiently, reducing downtime between tasks.

Comparable attachment performance

The CII system provides the same range of motion and usability as the Bob-Tach attachment mounting system while using the smaller, pin-on attachment style common to mini track loaders.



First-time buyers should choose the CII attachment interface if you:

• You plan to run approved attachments from multiple manufacturers
• You frequently rent approved attachments from local rental yards
• You operate a mixed-brand fleet and want approved attachment portability across machines
• You want broader cross-brand resale appeal at trade-in

In summary, if you're building your attachment lineup from scratch, the Bob-Tach mounting system provides access to Bobcat's full lineup of approved, compatible mini track loader attachments, including Bobcat-exclusive offerings. 

If you already own or regularly rent CII-compatible attachments, the Common Industry Interface system may offer greater compatibility across your existing equipment. Your local Bobcat dealer can help you choose the mounting system that best fits your current attachments and future equipment needs.

You can learn more about attachments by reading our Top Attachment article.

Yes, every new Bobcat mini track loader comes with a standard, Bobcat factory warranty. This warranty covers the machine and essential components. First-time buyers may also extend their coverage through Bobcat Protection Plus. You may purchase Protection Plus extended warranty coverage during the machine’s full standard warranty period for these new, never-before-sold Bobcat machines including mini track loaders.

Bobcat Protection Plus® is Bobcat's extended warranty program, available for eligible new machines including mini track loaders, that adds coverage beyond the standard factory warranty. It is designed to help reduce repair costs associated with warrantable failures and is available in three coverage levels:

• Powertrain
• Powertrain + Hydraulics
• Full Protection

The Protection Plus extended warranty in honored throughout the U.S. and Canada by authorized Bobcat dealers, and key benefits of the program include:

• Extended factory-backed coverage beyond the standard warranty.
• No deductible for covered repairs.
• Parts and labor for warrantable repairs are performed by authorized Bobcat dealers.
• The coverage is transferable, which can add resale value if you sell the machine before the plan expires.

Having a plan for unexpected repairs and service protects you against unforeseen costs, that’s why it’s important to explore warranty and coverage options early on. If you don’t know what program might be best for you, your local dealer is always ready to assist.

Yes, financing is available for Bobcat mini track loaders on both the MT100 and MT120 models.

In fact, there are a number of cost-saving opportunities for first-time mini track loader buyers to lower the total cost of ownership and purchase.

It’s important to remember financing and special offers may be impacted by local market conditions and pricing may change depending on dealer location.



Contact your local dealer for current pricing and offers, or see the Bobcat financing page for more information.

You can buy a new Bobcat MT100 or MT120 mini track loader through the authorized Bobcat dealer network in the U.S. or Canada. Use the Bobcat Dealer Locator to find nearby sales, service and support based on your location.

A local Bobcat dealer can help first-time buyers:

• Compare the MT100 and MT120
• Select compatible attachments, mounting interfaces and optional equipment
• Review available inventory, pricing, financing and current offers
• Configure a machine and request a quote

Benefits of working with an authorized Bobcat dealer include:

• Authorized dealer inventory: Purchase a new MT100 or MT120 through an authorized Bobcat dealer and review the applicable Bobcat warranty, machine configuration and product support available with the purchase.
• Trade-in options: Participating dealers may accept eligible equipment as a trade-in and apply its assessed value toward a new machine purchase.
• Local ownership support: Access available parts, maintenance and repair resources through a nearby Bobcat dealer.

You can also use Build & Quote to select a Bobcat mini track loader, add available options and submit the configuration to a local dealer for pricing. Bobcat’s Build & Quote tool supports selecting a base model, customizing available options and submitting the configuration to a local dealer.