Small Motor Grader Buying Guide: 5 Models Compared for Tight Sites

A proper small motor grader buying guide starts with a simple truth: small graders are different from their bigger brothers. They weigh under 15,000 pounds, have engines under 150 horsepower, and their blades measure 8 to 10 feet wide. Because of these specs, they fit perfectly through standard gates and doorways.

This small motor grader buying guide includes models from Caterpillar, Deere, Volvo, Komatsu, and Champion. Each brand builds its machine with a very different operator in mind. To see how these smaller units perform on site, read our detailed post covering proper motor grader construction applications.

The first model in this small motor grader buying guide is the Caterpillar 120. This machine weighs 12,500 pounds, runs on a 135-horsepower engine, and features a 9-foot blade. The turning radius is an impressive 18 feet.

The small motor grader buying guide suggests this model heavily for residential construction and landscaping work because it shines on fine grading and utility jobs. The Cat 120 uses joystick controls, has a quiet cab, and maintains strong resale value.

One contractor graded 100 lots, finishing each in just 3 hours. This small motor grader buying guide choice saved him almost 2 weeks on that project because the tight turning radius meant he rarely had to back up.

The second model in this small motor grader buying guide is the Deere 570G. Weighing 13,000 pounds with a 140-horsepower engine, the blade is 9.5 feet wide, and the turning radius is 19 feet. It is highly recommended for municipal crews.

Using lever controls, the cab is comfortable and offers unparalleled visibility. Furthermore, the small motor grader buying guide highlights the 570G’s fuel economy. It burns about 4.5 gallons per hour.

A county fleet supervisor used the 570G for 50 miles of gravel road each month. This small motor grader buying guide choice delivered real savings, cutting 500 gallons of fuel over a single season.

The third model in this small motor grader buying guide is the Volvo G70. Weighing 11,800 pounds with a 130-horsepower engine, its blade is 8.5 feet wide. The turning radius is incredibly tight at 17 feet.

The small motor grader buying guide suggests this model for landscaping and utility contractors needing to slip through narrow passages. Its articulated frame bends in the middle for maximum agility.

A landscaping contractor used the G70 to grade around pools, patios, and retaining walls. This small motor grader buying guide choice gave him a competitive edge, allowing him to charge premium rates for flawless finishes.

The fourth model evaluated in this small motor grader buying guide is the Komatsu GD555. Weighing 12,800 pounds, it has a 138-horsepower engine, a 9-foot blade, and an 18.5-foot turning radius. It handles a wide variety of jobs flawlessly.

The small motor grader buying guide points out the GD555’s simple operation, derived from its hydrostatic transmission. It gives smooth speed control without shifting gears, letting new operators pick it up fast.

A rental company owner added 5 units to his fleet. Because it requires very little maintenance, this small motor grader buying guide choice proved extremely profitable, paying for itself in rental income within 3 years.

The fifth model in this small motor grader buying guide is the Champion 660. Weighing 14,200 pounds with a 145-horsepower engine, it has a 10-foot blade and a 20-foot turning radius. It is built for tough utility work.

With a rugged frame and drivetrain, the small motor grader buying guide notes the 660’s incredible long life. These machines often run 15,000 to 20,000 hours with standard maintenance.

A site development contractor used the 660 for building pad prep in hard clay. This small motor grader buying guide choice was spot on, enduring rough conditions for 5 years with very little downtime.

The small motor grader buying guide also covers operating and purchase costs. Maintenance runs $5,000 to $8,000 per year, and fuel consumption ranges from 4 to 5.5 gallons per hour.

If looking to buy used, ensure you hire a mechanic to check the circle, drawbar, and hydraulic system to avoid buying someone else’s problem.

The small motor grader buying guide helps you figure out total ownership costs, financing, and warranty options before making a massive financial commitment.

• Need dealer support? Go Caterpillar.
• Need fuel efficiency? Go Deere.
• Need tight agility? Go Volvo.
• Need easy operation? Go Komatsu.
• Need rugged durability? Go Champion.

If your work involves asphalt or fine finishing, pair your grader perfectly with the Typhon Fury 1 Ton Vibratory Compactor.

Identify your main applications, ground conditions, budget, and operator experience. Match these factors to the small motor grader buying guide above and make your purchase with absolute confidence.