CAT and Bobcat both build compact track loaders used across construction, grading, land clearing, utilities, and landscaping. If your goal is to compare the brands from a rubber-track and undercarriage standpoint, the useful question is not which badge is universally better. It is how the exact model, undercarriage configuration, track size, parts availability, and support fit your work.
Start by Comparing the Correct Machine Type
A wheeled skid steer and a compact track loader are not the same undercarriage system. Bobcat S-Series machines are wheeled skid steers; Bobcat T-Series machines are compact track loaders. CAT likewise sells both wheeled and tracked machines. CTL-style replacement rubber tracks should be selected only for the tracked machine and exact model configuration.
Track Fitment Varies by Model, Not Brand
Neither CAT nor Bobcat uses one universal rubber-track size. A CAT 259D3, CAT 299D3, Bobcat T76, Bobcat T770, and Bobcat T870 all belong to different governed track families or configuration rules. Treat any chart that assigns one size to an entire brand as a starting point at best.
Undercarriage Exceptions Matter
Some machines have configuration-specific fitment. A strong example is the Bobcat T870: TrackTECH has a cataloged 450x86B58 fitment for the suspension-mount configuration and a 450x86B60 fitment for the torsion-mount configuration. The model name alone is not enough in that case.
What to Compare Before Buying
- Exact fitment evidence: model, size, guide family, serial or undercarriage notes.
- Tread availability: choose tread after the correct track identity is established.
- Undercarriage condition: worn sprockets, rollers, idlers, alignment, and tension can shorten new-track life regardless of brand.
- Parts and support: compare how quickly the supplier can
- Total operating fit: access width, ground conditions, attachment work, transport constraints, and dealer/service support can matter more than a generic brand ranking.
Avoid Stale Purchase-Price Comparisons
Machine pricing changes by year, region, hours, options, financing, and dealer inventory. A fixed web article quoting one Bobcat price against one CAT price quickly becomes misleading. For track replacement, use current machine-specific fitment and current product pricing instead.
Browse CAT tracks, Bobcat tracks, or use the Rubber Track Finder to match a specific machine.
Use This Guide with the Live Catalog
The resources below connect this topic to the current machine, track-size, tread and undercarriage catalog.
Related Rubber Track Resources
Quick Buying Answers
Which rubber track rides the smoothest? For a verified fitment that offers it, Multi-Bar is usually the first tread to compare when lower vibration and smoother travel matter most.
Which track lasts longest on pavement? On asphalt and other hard, relatively flat surfaces, Multi-Bar is a strong first choice because it spreads contact across more tread bars. For harsher abrasive work such as broken concrete, rock, or demolition debris, compare a heavier C-Block or Staggered Block pattern instead.
What is the best track for paving? Start with Multi-Bar when ride quality, steady contact, and hard-surface travel are priorities. Confirm that the exact pattern is available for your machine before ordering.
What is the most affordable track? Price depends on the exact width, pitch, link count, guide type, and tread. Once fitment is confirmed, compare the live compatible options rather than changing dimensions just to save money.
What about mud, snow, or soft ground? Zig-Zag is usually the better pattern to compare when cleanout and bite matter more than pavement manners.