Wheeled vs Tracked Stump Grinders

Choosing the right stump grinder is one of the most important decisions for any tree care or land clearing operation. And one of the first questions you’ll need to answer is: wheeled or tracked?

Each configuration has distinct advantages depending on the type of work you do, the environments you operate in, and the level of performance you need.

In this article, we’ll compare wheeled and tracked stump grinders, outline their pros and cons, and showcase our top-performing models to help you make the best choice for your business.

Wheeled Stump Grinders: Fast, Compact, and Built for Access

Wheeled stump grinders are known for their mobility and maneuverability. They’re typically lighter, faster on hard surfaces, and easier to transport—making them ideal for residential jobs and frequent site changes.

Advantages of Wheeled Grinders

• Faster ground speed for quicker repositioning
• Compact for tight-access sites
• Easier to tow and move between jobs
• Lower entry cost for contractors and councils

Best suited for:

Urban environments, flat terrain, residential work, and contractors prioritising speed and access.

Our Top Wheeled Stump Grinders

Rayco RG25HD
A compact and dependable machine for tight-access grinding and day-to-day residential work.

Key Features:

• 25 HP Kohler petrol engine
• Manual controls
• Narrow profile & can fit through standard 76.2cm gates
• Great for small contractors and landscapers

Rayco RG55
A popular mid-range grinder offering solid performance in a compact wheeled chassis.

Key Features:

• 53.4 HP Kubota petrol engine
• Hydraulic backfill blade
• Narrow design for easy manoeuvring
• A balanced choice for both residential and commercial use

Rayco RG80-R
Big power in a compact footprint. The RG80-R is an excellent option for contractors needing versatility and output.

Key Features:

• 85 HP Ford petrol engine
• Remote control for safer operation
• Great for high-output residential and commercial jobs

Tracked Stump Grinders: Stability and Control in All Conditions

Tracked stump grinders provide excellent traction, slope stability, and ground pressure distribution, making them the go-to choice for sites with uneven ground, soft soil, or limited access.

These machines shine in challenging terrain and offer improved operator safety—especially when paired with remote control functionality.

Advantages of Tracked Grinders

• Superior stability on slopes or wet ground
• Better traction in loose or uneven conditions
• Lower ground pressure reduces site damage
• Many models include full remote control for added safety

Best suited for:

Bush blocks, sloped sites, wet conditions, and high-production commercial grinding.

Our Top Tracked Stump Grinders

Rayco RG37 Trac
Compact and rugged, this tracked model delivers reliable performance where wheeled machines might struggle.

Key Features:

• 37 HP Vanguard petrol engine
• Tracks for improved terrain handling
• Narrow enough for tight access jobs
• Ideal for uneven ground and soft soil

Rayco RG55T-R
The tracked version of the RG55 adds increased terrain capability and the benefit of remote control operation.

Key Features:

• 53.4 HP Kubota petrol engine
• Remote control for precision and safety
• Tracks provide excellent slope and soil stability
• Suited for residential and commercial applications

Rayco RG74T-R
Built for power and control, the RG74T-R is a serious machine for contractors needing more muscle and versatility.

Key Features:

• 74 HP Cummins diesel engine
• Wide tracks for added stability
• Fully remote operated
• Handles large, dense stumps in challenging terrain

Rayco RG165T-R
The largest in the Rayco lineup, the RG165T-R is engineered for high-volume and heavy-duty stump removal.

Key Features:

• 165 HP Ford petrol engine
• Remote operation for optimal safety and control
• Exceptional cutting power for large, deeply rooted stumps
• Ideal for land clearing, councils, and large-scale contractors

Wheeled vs Tracked: Key Comparison

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between a wheeled or tracked stump grinder comes down to the type of work you do most often. If you’re working in built-up areas with level terrain and need to move quickly, a wheeled grinder will serve you well. If your jobs involve slopes, rough ground, or more demanding conditions, tracked models offer better stability and control.

Many professional contractors run both—a nimble wheeled machine for smaller jobs, and a tracked unit for heavier or more complex work.

Need Expert Advice?

Our team at Monitor specialises in helping arborists, contractors, and councils across Australia choose the right equipment for their needs. Whether you’re upgrading, expanding your fleet, or buying your first grinder, we’re here to help.

Explore our full range of Rayco stump grinders:
https://monitor.net.au/tree-care-and-forestry/stump-grinders/

Or contact us today for a one-on-one equipment recommendation.

FAQs

Are stump grinders safe to use?

Yes, when used properly and with protective gear. Many modern grinders come with remote control operation to keep the operator at a safe distance. Always follow safety guidelines and training procedures.

Should I choose a wheeled or tracked stump grinder?

Wheeled models are ideal for flat, urban areas and quick repositioning. Tracked models are better for rough, sloped, or wet ground and offer more stability.

Can I get a stump grinder through finance?

Yes, at Monitor Lifts we offer finance options to help businesses manage cash flow while upgrading their equipment.

What size stump grinder do I need?

It depends on your workload. Small grinders like the RG25HD are perfect for light residential work. Larger models like the RG74T-R or RG165T-R are better for commercial, council, or land-clearing projects.