Wheeled or tracked tractors: which to choose
· Povilas Pinelis · 1 min read
How wheeled and tracked tractors compare on traction, soil compaction, road speed and cost.
Both designs have their place. The right choice depends on your soils, the work and how much time the tractor spends on the road.
Traction and soil compaction
Tracks spread the weight over a larger area, which reduces compaction and transfers more power to the ground in heavy draught work such as ploughing or deep cultivation.
Versatility and road work
Wheeled tractors are faster on the road, cheaper to run and more versatile with loaders, mowers and transport work. Most mixed farms choose wheels.
Running costs
Track wear and the price of replacement tracks add to the cost per hour. On a used tracked tractor, measure the remaining track life before you agree a price.