Super CTLs Guide 2026: The Biggest Compact Track Loaders and How to Choose the Right One for Your Jobsite

Compact track loaders (CTLs) have become the backbone of modern construction, landscaping and forestry projects, especially in the large frame segment where “super CTLs” now rival small dozers and wheel loaders in power and versatility. For equipment owners and fleet managers, understanding the biggest CTL models, their specifications, and how to match them with demanding applications is crucial for maximizing ROI and uptime.

What Is a Super CTL and Why It Matters

Over the last decade, manufacturers have pushed compact track loaders into a new category of high horsepower, high capacity machines often called super CTLs. These units deliver industry leading lift heights, breakout forces and auxiliary hydraulic flows while keeping the maneuverability and low ground pressure that define CTLs.

Key reasons contractors are upgrading into this size class include:

– Higher rated operating capacities to handle heavy pallets, pipe bundles and attachments

– Superior performance in mud, sand and soft ground versus wheeled machines

– Ability to replace or complement small dozers, wheel loaders and telehandlers on tighter sites

– Advanced cabs, telematics and grade control that boost productivity and reduce fatigue

With CTLs now representing a dominant share of the compact loader market in North America, choosing the right large frame model has become a strategic decision for contractors and rental houses.

The Biggest Compact Track Loaders on the Market (2026 Overview)

Today’s largest CTLs focus on delivering high lift, strong auxiliary hydraulics and operator focused technology. Below is an overview of the flagship giant models featured in this guide.

– Cat 285 and 285 XE

– ASV RT 135 / RT 135F

– Case TV620B

– Bobcat T86

– John Deere 335 P Tier

– JCB 3TS 8T Teleskid

– Takeuchi TL12V2

– Yanmar TL100VS

– Develon DTL35

These machines target applications like forestry mulching, heavy grading, material handling and road work, where power and hydraulic performance are non negotiable.

Cat 285 and 285 XE: Dozer Style Super CTLs

Caterpillar’s 285 and 285 XE are the company’s largest compact track loaders, built specifically for contractors who need maximum lift height and stability. Both models offer an impressive lift height of 12.5 ft, which is especially valuable when loading high sided trucks or stacking materials.

Key specs and features:

– 12.5 ft lift height with vertical lift design for superior reach at full height

– 285 XE rated operating capacity up to 4,816 lb with counterweight

– Cat C3.6TA diesel up to 134 hp on the XE

– Dozer style E bar undercarriage for better stability and grading performance

– Closed center auxiliary hydraulics with three flow options

– Rear auxiliary hydraulics for winches, scarifiers and other rear mount tools

These super CTLs are ideal for grading, high lift material handling and heavy attachment work where stability and precision are critical.

ASV RT 135: High Flow Forestry Powerhouse

The ASV RT 135 is one of the most powerful CTLs in its class, particularly popular in forestry and high demand attachment applications. Its Cummins diesel delivers 132 hp, paired with up to 50 gpm auxiliary hydraulic flow for mulchers, planers and other aggressive tools.

Highlights:

– 132 hp Cummins diesel engine

– Up to 50 gpm max auxiliary hydraulic flow

– RT 135F forestry variant with guarding, limb risers and roof escape hatch

– Max Series cab with 360 degree visibility and 7 in touchscreen

– Dual throttle control for fine metering of engine speed

– 20 in tracks with very low ground pressure

For contractors tackling land clearing, right of way work or abrasive terrain, the RT 135 offers a strong blend of power, comfort and low ground disturbance.

Case TV620B: High ROC and Feature Rich

The Case TV620B is engineered for contractors who need a high rated operating capacity and robust standard features. With 114 hp and a ROC of 6,200 lb, it delivers excellent breakout forces and productivity in heavy material handling and attachment work.

Key features:

– 114 hp engine with high flow and Enhanced High Flow options

– 6,200 lb rated operating capacity

– Adjustable electro hydraulic controls and one way self leveling

– Auto reversing fan and LED work lights

– Hydraulic coupler and multiple hydraulic configurations

– Automatic Ride Control and optional suspension undercarriage

– Five year telematics subscription and 8 in LCD display

The TV620B is well suited to contractors who want a fully loaded CTL with advanced hydraulics, operator comfort and telematics built in.

Bobcat T86: Triple Mode Hydraulics and Comfort

The Bobcat T86 focuses on hydraulic flexibility and operator comfort, making it a versatile large frame CTL for mixed fleets. Its Premium Power Performance management system optimizes power distribution between the engine and workgroup.

Core capabilities:

– Three hydraulic flow modes: standard, high flow and super flow

– Power management that automatically routes power where needed

– One piece sealed cab for better sound isolation and reduced vibration

– Ergonomic joystick controls for precise handling

– Compatibility with a wide range of Bobcat attachments via the Bob Tach system

The T86 is often chosen by contractors who run varied attachments and need a flexible hydraulic package in applications like construction, agriculture and snow removal.

John Deere 335 P Tier: Technology Driven Large Frame CTL

The John Deere 335 P Tier is the brand’s largest CTL, combining higher horsepower with an emphasis on grading and operator technology. It is designed for contractors who value in cab displays and integrated grade aids.

Notable features:

– Large frame CTL with enhanced horsepower and performance

– 8 in premium touchscreen with Onboard Grade Indicate to help maintain slope

– Heated and ventilated seats with ergonomic controls

– Standard Attachment Manager for operator friendly tool changes

– Surround View for enhanced situational awareness

– Optional anti vibration undercarriage for smoother travel

This machine fits well on jobs that involve frequent grading, finish work and tight site maneuvering where technology helps less experienced operators perform more consistently.

JCB 3TS 8T Teleskid: Telescopic Track Loader Innovation

The JCB 3TS 8T Teleskid is one of the most unique CTLs on the market, integrating a telescopic boom into a tracked platform. It offers unmatched reach for stacking, loading and below grade digging.

Key attributes:

– Track loader with a full telescopic boom

– 74 hp engine with rated operating capacity of about 3,695 lb

– Extended reach to lift higher, reach farther and dig deeper than conventional CTLs

– Side door entry for improved safety and ease of access

– Strong stability for construction, agriculture and landscaping

For users who routinely load trucks from one side, work over obstacles or need telehandler like reach in compact spaces, the Teleskid can effectively replace two machines on the jobsite.

Takeuchi TL12V2: Heavy Duty Construction Focus

Takeuchi’s TL12V2 is the company’s largest track loader, designed with heavy construction and grading in mind. With an operating weight of up to 13,190 lb with cab, it pairs a robust frame with strong lifting capability.

Highlights:

– Approx. 13,190 lb operating weight with cab

– Around 4,107 lb ROC and 111 hp engine

– Updated undercarriage design for reduced vibration and noise

– Massive loader arms, oversized lift cylinders and heavy duty pins

– High capacity cooling package and LED lighting front and rear

– Operator station with color multi information display and rocker switches

– Deluxe high back suspension seat for long day comfort

Contractors who prioritize durability, cooling and grading performance often favor the TL12V2 for demanding construction environments.

Yanmar TL100VS: Smart, High Flow Workhorse

The Yanmar TL100VS compact track loader blends strong performance with intuitive operator features and telematics. It targets construction, utility and rental markets where uptime and easy operation are paramount.

Key points:

– 103.5 hp Tier 4 Final Yanmar diesel

– Standard 40 gpm high flow hydraulics

– 3,600 lb standard operating capacity with over 10,000 lb tipping load

– 360 degree visibility and 7 in color display

– Optional load sensing system, work tool positioner, return to position, self leveling and ride control

– Smart telematics with error detection, daily work reports and theft protection

– Two year or 2,000 hour warranty and service friendly design

The TL100VS is a strong option for fleets seeking a balance of power, visibility and telematics driven fleet management.

Develon DTL35: Newcomer with Premium Features

Launched in 2024, the Develon DTL35 is a vertical lift CTL targeted at operators who want a modern machine loaded with comfort and visibility features. It combines 115.3 gross horsepower with a large lifting capacity.

Core features:

– 115.3 gross hp and rated operating capacity around 3,807 lb

– High dump reach suitable for loading trucks and hoppers

– Standard 2 speed travel up to about 9.2 mph

– Ride control, reversible fan and torsion suspension included

– Adjustable air suspension heated seat and polycarbonate door

– Fleet telematics, rearview camera and optional around view monitor

– Warranty coverage for 36 months or 5,000 hours

The DTL35 appeals to owners who value operator comfort and all around visibility in combination with strong performance.

Compact Track Loader Undercarriages: Rigid vs Suspended

Undercarriage design is one of the most critical factors in CTL life, ride quality and maintenance cost. Track loaders typically use either rigid or suspended undercarriages, and choosing the right design helps align performance with jobsite conditions.

Rigid undercarriage

– Track frames bolted or welded directly to the main frame

– Fewer moving parts, lower maintenance and higher durability

– Typically higher rated operating capacities and tip loads

– Best suited for grading, pushing and dozer style work

Suspended undercarriage

– Movable track frames supported by torsion springs or suspended rollers

– Smoother ride with less shock and vibration

– Ideal for high speed travel and longer load and carry cycles

A solid, fully welded frame, integrated cross members and strong boom stops help transfer shock loads through the frame rather than into loader arms and rear pins. For contractors, matching undercarriage type to primary applications, such as grading versus transport or mixed use, is a key step in specifying a super CTL.

Top 3 High Value Applications for Super CTLs

Large frame CTLs shine when their power and hydraulics are fully leveraged across demanding tasks.

1. Earthmoving and Grading

Super CTLs excel in clearing land, building pads, fine grading and landscaping thanks to powerful hydraulics and wide buckets. Their low ground pressure lets them operate in mud and soft soils where wheeled loaders struggle.

2. Material Handling and Lifting

High rated operating capacities and vertical lift designs make these machines ideal for loading trucks, moving palletized materials and stacking on congested jobsites. Telescopic models like the JCB 3TS 8T add extra reach, sometimes replacing dedicated telehandlers on smaller sites.

3. Excavation and Trenching

With augers, trenchers and backhoe attachments, CTLs can manage small to medium excavation, utility installation and drainage work. Their maneuverability and precision help reduce rework, especially on urban and residential sites. With the right attachments, super CTLs can also handle demolition, snow removal and vegetation management, increasing annual utilization.

How to Choose the Right Giant CTL for Your Fleet

When narrowing down which giant compact track loader to buy or rent, focus on matching machine characteristics to your most frequent applications.

1. Define Your Primary Applications

– Forestry and land clearing: prioritize high flow hydraulics and forestry guarding.

– High lift loading: consider models with very tall lift heights and strong vertical lift performance.

– Tight urban grading: look at technology rich units with grade assistance and visibility enhancements.

2. Balance ROC, Weight and Transport Limits

Ensure the machine’s rated operating capacity and operating weight align with your trailer and permit constraints. Oversizing the machine without considering transport can limit its flexibility and increase costs.

3. Evaluate Hydraulics and Attachments

If you run cold planers, mulchers or heavy drills, prioritize models with high flow or enhanced flow options and robust cooling systems. Check compatibility with existing attachments, especially quick coupler systems and electrical connectors.

4. Prioritize Operator Comfort and UX

Modern cabs with low vibration, intuitive joysticks, large displays and good visibility reduce fatigue and improve safety. Machines with ride control, suspension undercarriages and heated seats can significantly improve day to day productivity on longer shifts.

5. Do Not Overlook Telematics and Support

Telematics platforms help track utilization, maintenance and location. Strong dealer support, warranty terms and parts availability are crucial for fleet uptime.

Comparison Table: Leading Giant Compact Track Loaders

Note: Some values are rounded or summarized based on manufacturer descriptions. Always verify detailed specifications with your dealer.

Model	Approx. Power / Key Spec	Standout Strength
Cat 285 / 285 XE	Up to 134 hp, 12.5-ft lift height, ROC to 4,816 lb	Dozer-style undercarriage, high lift, rear hydraulics
ASV RT-135 / RT-135F	132 hp, up to 50 gpm aux flow	Forestry-ready power, very low ground pressure
Case TV620B	114 hp, 6,200-lb ROC, Enhanced High Flow 4,000 psi	High ROC, rich standard features, telematics
Bobcat T86	High and super-flow options, power management	Flexible hydraulics, sealed quiet cab
John Deere 335 P-Tier	Large-frame, tech-rich cab and grade tools	Onboard Grade Indicate, Surround View, comfort
JCB 3TS-8T Teleskid	74 hp, 3,695-lb ROC, telescopic boom	Telehandler-like reach in CTL footprint
Takeuchi TL12V2	111 hp, ROC ~4,107 lb, 13,190-lb weight	Heavyduty build, strong cooling, grading focus
Yanmar TL100VS	103.5 hp, 3,600-lb SOC, 40 gpm high flow	Visibility, telematics, operatorfriendly options
Develon DTL35	115.3 hp, ROC ~3,807 lb	Premium comfort, AVM camera, high travel speed

Maintenance and Undercarriage Best Practices for Longer CTL Life

Because undercarriages and hydraulics represent major ownership costs, applying proactive maintenance practices is essential for super CTLs.

Recommended habits:

1. Inspect and clean the undercarriage daily, removing packed mud, rocks and debris that can accelerate wear.

2. Monitor track tension closely; over tightening increases wear, while loose tracks risk de tracking.

3. Rotate and inspect attachments, couplers and hydraulic hoses regularly, especially when running high flow tools.

4. Use telematics alerts and maintenance schedules to plan service before failures occur.

5. Train operators on smooth operation, avoiding aggressive turns and high speed travel on abrasive surfaces whenever possible.

Following these steps can significantly extend track life, reduce unplanned downtime and lower total cost of ownership for high value machines.

Take the Next Step: Choose and Configure Your Super CTL

Super CTLs have evolved into highly specialized machines that can transform productivity on complex jobsites, but real gains come from pairing the right model with clearly defined applications, disciplined maintenance and the right attachments. If your fleet handles heavy grading, forestry work, high lift loading or year round municipal projects, this is the time to evaluate which giant compact track loader will deliver the greatest long term value for your operations. Define your core tasks, shortlist two or three models that match your power and hydraulic needs, and schedule on site demonstrations so you can see how each machine performs under real conditions. By making a data driven choice today, you set up your crews, your schedules and your bottom line for stronger, more predictable performance in the years ahead.

FAQs About Giant Compact Track Loaders

1. What qualifies as a “giant” compact track loader?

Giant or super CTLs typically sit at the top of a manufacturer’s CTL range, offering higher horsepower, rated operating capacities and hydraulic flow than mid frame models. They are designed for heavy attachment use and demanding applications that go beyond everyday site work.

2. Are larger CTLs always better for my business?

Not necessarily. While larger CTLs provide more power and capacity, they may increase purchase price, fuel consumption and transport complexity. The optimal size depends on typical jobsite access, trailer capacity, and the weight of your heaviest attachments and loads.

3. How important is hydraulic flow when choosing a giant CTL?

Hydraulic flow is critical if you run power hungry attachments such as mulchers, cold planers and heavy trenchers, which may require high flow or enhanced flow systems. For bucket only work or lighter tools, standard flow systems can be sufficient and more cost effective.

4. Should I prioritize rigid or suspended undercarriages?

Choose rigid undercarriages if your primary work involves grading, pushing and dozer style tasks on varied ground. Suspended undercarriages are better when you travel at higher speeds, perform longer load and carry cycles or want maximum ride comfort for operators.

5. How can telematics improve CTL ownership?

Telematics platforms provide real time data on machine utilization, fuel burn, fault codes, location and maintenance intervals, helping you plan service proactively and reduce downtime. They also support theft protection and make it easier to manage multi machine fleets across different jobsites.

Reference URLs

1. https://compactequip.com/compact-track-loaders/giant-track-loaders-here-are-some-of-the-biggest-models-in-the-industry/

2. https://compactequip.com/compact-track-loaders/the-state-of-skid-steers-and-compact-track-loaders-in-2026/

3. https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/compact-track-loader-market-23034

4. https://www.strategicmarketresearch.com/market-report/compact-track-loader-market

5. https://compactequip.com/compact-track-loaders/the-hottest-new-compact-track-loaders-of-2024/

6. https://compactequip.com/compact-track-loaders/monster-track-loaders/

7. https://www.futuremarketreport.com/industry-report/compact-track-loaders-market

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