When it comes to mini excavators, choosing the right rubber track can make a big difference in your machine’s performance, lifespan,
and operator comfort. Not all tracks are built the same, and different styles are designed for different terrains, tasks, and machine capabilities. Here’s what to consider when shopping
for rubber tracks.
Multi-Bar Rubber Tracks
Multi-bar tracks consist of multiple horizontal rubber bars (or lugs) that are evenly spaced and often have embedded steel cores for strength. These bars are
typically connected with durable rubber pads to create a flexible, grippy surface. Because of the construction of these tracks, they are more flexible in the types of surfaces they can run
on, which makes them the most versatile of the track types. Multi-bar rubber tracks are the best for anyone who utilizes their machine in diverse circumstances and job types.
- Benefits
- • Excellent all-around traction; good on a variety of surfaces
- • Stable performance on mixed or uneven terrain
- • Good wear resistance on abrasive surfaces
Best For:
Contractors working in mixed environments such as gravel, dirt, and pavement. They’re for folks who need a versatile track with reliable grip and durability. These tracks are great for
general construction, small demolition jobs, and utility work.
Solid Rubber Tracks
Solid tracks are made from a single molded piece of dense rubber, often reinforced with steel cables that run the loop of the track or are embedded horizontally into the rubber.
There are no gaps or segments, which gives these tracks more rigidity than multi-bar tracks or padded tracks.
- Benefits
- • Outstanding flotation on soft ground
- • Lower ground pressure, minimizing surface damage
- • Reduced chance of debris buildup between lugs
Best For:
Rubber tracks in stock. Shipped fast. Built to fit.
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Continous Rubber Tracks
Also called seamless tracks, these are made from a single loop of rubber without any joins or splices. These tracks differ from solid rubber tracks
in the way the internal steel cables are structured. Before being embedded, they are woven in a long, flat tube and cut to size, meaning that there is no join point in the loop. This
differs from solid tracks, which have a length of steel that is joined with a rubber-reinforced join. With this continuous loop of metal, continuous rubber tracks are more suited for jobs
where there is more torque applied to the tracks.
- Benefits
- • Long lifespan due to lack of seams (fewer failure points)
- • Smooth, consistent motion
- • Excellent traction on soft or muddy surfaces
Best For:
High-use environments where downtime is expensive. Between the continuous steel loop reinforcement and the solid rubber construction, these tracks are more durable
than other kinds. They’re great for agricultural use, residential construction, and muddy terrain jobs where you need reliable, continuous performance.
Track machine idlers shipped fast, built to last!
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Padded Rubber Tracks
These are similar in layout to multi-bar tracks but include extra rubber padding on each bar or between lugs to absorb shocks and dampen vibrations.
Some designs also include anti-vibration cores. These vibration cores are typically diamond-shaped, and roller-guide mesh that dampens vibrations up to 75% according to some manufacturers.
While it is often not thought about in the realm of safety, long exposure to high vibrations can cause medical issues for operators, and padded
rubber tracks are designed to minimize this health risk. These risks can range from circulatory, neurologic, and osteoarticular (bone) disorders of the arms and shoulders, to sever
lower back pain and slipped disks, so minimizing the impact of vibrations is paramount for operator health and safety.
- Benefits
- • Improved operator comfort
- • Reduced machine vibration and damage to surfaces
- • Smoother operation on rocky or uneven terrain
Best For:
Urban construction, demolition, or utility jobs where operator comfort is key, especially on hard-packed or broken surfaces. They help reduce
fatigue during long shifts and may lower wear on machine components.
Choosing the Right Track for Your Machine
- When it comes to selecting the right rubber track, think about the following:
Keep in mind that some manufacturers even offer hybrid tracks—combining features from multiple types—so you can fine-tune performance even more.
The type of rubber track you choose will directly impact your mini excavator’s traction, wear, stability, and fuel efficiency. Investing a little time to match
your track type to your work environment will pay off in performance, comfort, and reduced downtime.
If you’re unsure which type is best for your machine or job, talk to a dealer or supplier who specializes in compact equipment. They can help you find a track
that balances performance and price based on your specific needs.
Not sure which rubber track you need?
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Our parts experts will match you with the right fit the first time—no guesswork.
