It took decades for the compact track loader (CTL) to gain traction, but now it’s hard to imagine a modern jobsite without one. Since the first concept in the 1980s, CTLs have rapidly evolved into one of the most in-demand machines in construction, landscaping, and utility work. And recent data proves it.
Between March 2024 and February 2025, more than 54,000 new CTLs were financed—over five times the number of wheeled skid steers sold in the same period. This dramatic shift confirms what many in the industry already know: tracks offer greater versatility, stability, and productivity across a wide range of terrains and applications.
The origin of the CTL is still debated. ASV and Takeuchi both have claims to the first commercial machine. Takeuchi’s TL10 prototype came in 1986, while ASV’s Ag-Track followed in 1988, leading to their MD-70 Posi-Track hitting the market in 1990. Takeuchi launched its TL26 a year later. What matters today, though, is how far these machines have come.
Modern CTLs now feature powerful engines, enhanced hydraulics, spacious cabs, intuitive controls, and compatibility with a growing list of attachments. Operators benefit from improved safety, comfort, and performance. Manufacturers like Caterpillar, Bobcat, ASV, John Deere, Takeuchi, and more are pushing innovation forward every year.
ASV, for example, continues to focus on its signature Posi-Track system, which uses rubber-on-rubber contact and fully suspended frames. This setup minimizes track wear, improves ride comfort, and increases traction—making ASV machines a favorite for contractors who need dependable performance across varied terrain.
What does this mean for equipment owners and fleet managers? Choosing the right CTL is only part of the equation. Equally important is having reliable undercarriage support. Track loaders depend heavily on a high-quality undercarriage to handle heavy loads, soft ground, and constant wear.
That’s where LoaderParts.com comes in. We specialize in supplying premium undercarriage solutions designed specifically for CTLs—from drive sprockets and idlers to rollers and rubber tracks. Our components are engineered for durability and performance, helping your machine stay productive longer with less downtime.
Whether you’re operating a Bobcat T770, Cat 259D, or a Takeuchi TL12, our team can help match the right parts to your loader and application. With fast shipping, expert support, and parts for every major CTL brand, LoaderParts.com is your go-to source for keeping your compact track loader working at its best.
Looking to upgrade or maintain your CTL’s undercarriage? Contact us today for a quote and experience why so many contractors trust LoaderParts.com.
Fulian Operation Team
2025.8.14
