Drop forged links
At the heart of the track are the metal cores, or drop forged links, that the sprocket connects with to turn the track. Those links, with the steel cords, make up the bulk of the weight and strength.
Rubber tracks
Z / zigzag rubber tracks
Best for maximum traction. This tread was originally designed for snow and ice, and it also provides the best grip in wet and muddy conditions.
How rubber tracks work
Continuous steel cords
Steel cords run the entire length of the track. They stabilize the track and add to the overall strength.
Rubber and tread
The cords and links are coated in a reinforced rubber compound. That compound is also where the tread pattern comes from.
Width, pitch, and links
- Width, commonly in millimeters: 300, 320, 400, 450, and other widths.
- Pitch, the distance between links, also in millimeters: 52.5, 86, and others.
- Number of links: a count such as 52, 56, 58, 60, or 80.