Robotic Slope Mowers: Tracked vs Wheeled - which is better?

The debate between tracked and wheeled robotic mowers has shifted in recent years. Where once tracked systems dominated the commercial robot mower market, wheeled alternatives have closed the gap and now exceed their tracked counterparts in several key areas.

For vegetation management professionals considering their next slope mower investment, the choice isn't as clear-cut as it once was. Both systems bring distinct advantages, but understanding where each excels can make all the difference in your operational success.

Cut quality: Where wheels take the lead

When it comes to delivering a pristine finish, wheeled robotic mowers now outperform their tracked cousins. The secret lies in their ground contact patterns. Wheels create minimal surface disruption, allowing cutting decks to maintain consistent height across varied terrain. This translates to an even, professional-looking cut that clients notice.

Tracked mowers, while powerful, can leave slight impressions on softer ground. These minor depressions can create an uneven cutting plane, resulting in a less uniform finish. For contractors working on high-visibility commercial properties or premium residential sites, this difference becomes significant.

Traction and terrain adaptability

Modern wheeled slope mowers have revolutionised traction through advanced tyre compounds and tread designs. They now handle slopes up to 45 degrees with confidence while delivering superior manoeuvrability on level ground.

Tracked systems still hold the advantage on extreme slopes (up to 55 degrees with spiked tracks) and in hazardous conditions. The McConnel Robocut range, for instance, excels in situations where maximum stability is non-negotiable. Their broader ground contact distributes weight more evenly, making them ideal for very soft or unstable surfaces.

However, for most commercial slope mowing applications, wheeled systems now provide adequate traction with better versatility. They transition seamlessly from steep banks to flat areas without the track-related limitations that can slow productivity.

Discover our range of slope mowing solutions and find the perfect fit for your terrain challenges.

Speed and efficiency: The productivity factor

Wheeled robotic mowers typically achieve higher travel speeds (up to 7 kph) and quicker direction changes. This translates directly to increased productivity, particularly on larger sites with varied topography. The lighter weight of wheeled systems also means reduced fuel consumption and easier transportation between jobs.

Tracked slope mowers prioritise stability over speed. While they may not cover ground as quickly, their methodical approach suits specific applications where precision and safety trump raw productivity. The ROBOCUT's remote control operation with 150m range exemplifies this approach, keeping operators safely away from hazardous areas.

Ground impact and versatility

One of the most significant advantages of modern wheeled systems is their minimal ground impact. They're less likely to damage delicate root systems or leave lasting marks on pristine turf areas. This makes them particularly valuable for golf courses, sports fields, and high-end landscaping projects.

Tracked slope mowers inherently create more ground disturbance, but this isn't always a disadvantage. In rough terrain management or brush-clearing operations, the additional ground engagement can actually improve cutting effectiveness and debris management.

Technology integration and safety features

Both systems now incorporate advanced safety and productivity features. GPS auto-steer technology (available on ROBOCUT models) delivers precise navigation with 25mm accuracy, dramatically improving efficiency regardless of the undercarriage choice.

Remote control operation removes operators from dangerous situations, a benefit shared across both tracked and wheeled platforms. The difference often comes down to specific application requirements rather than fundamental technology limitations.

Making the right choice for your operation

The decision between tracked and wheeled slope mowers ultimately depends on your primary use cases:

Choose wheeled systems when:

• Cut quality is paramount.
• You need versatility across different terrain types.
• Productivity and speed matter for your business model.
• Ground preservation is important.
• You're working on mixed commercial and residential properties.

Choose tracked systems when:

• You regularly work on extreme slopes (over 45 degrees).
• Operating in hazardous or unstable conditions.
• Maximum stability is the top priority.
• You need the ultimate in remote-controlled safety features.
• Rough terrain and brush clearing dominate your work.

The AgriQuip advantage

At AgriQuip, we understand that no single solution fits every operation. It’s important to find the commercial robot slope mowers that best serve your clients and conditions.

If your work centres on maintaining high-end properties where appearance matters and you need the flexibility to handle various terrain types efficiently, the wheeled advantage is clear. If you're regularly facing genuinely hazardous conditions, extreme slopes, or situations where operator safety can't be compromised, tracked systems with full remote capability become the obvious choice.

The McConnel ROBOCUT represents the most advanced tracked technology available, with GPS precision and extensive attachment options that extend far beyond basic mowing. For many contractors, this versatility opens revenue streams that weren't previously accessible.

Ready to see these machines in action? Request a demo of our robotic slope mower and discover which system best fits your business needs.