SharpGrade Adds Hydraulic Retracting Front Wheel Assembly to the G116 Grader Blade

SharpGrade has expanded the capability of its G116 grader blade with a new hydraulic retracting front wheel assembly. The update gives operators more control from the cab and expands how close they can grade to structures and tight features. The G116 now uses a hydraulic Walking Beam-style retract system that raises or lowers the front wheels directly from loader joysticks. Operators can grade tight to walls, curbs and foundations, straddle a windrow or move around obstacles without leaving the seat. The system also speeds up resets and cuts downtime on complex sites. From the press release:

“The G116 has long been a favorite among contractors running large-frame loaders,” said Rodney Sharp, SharpGrade President. “After the award-winning launch of the G109, customers told us they wanted the same hydraulic front wheel feature in a larger frame machine. We listened — and delivered.”

Built for Large-Frame Loaders

The G116 targets large-frame skid steers and compact track loaders in the 75- to 100-hp range. SharpGrade designed it to merge the feel of a compact grader with the maneuverability of a CTL. Operators can work in forward or reverse and hold tight tolerances on base, stone or finished surfaces. The attachment relies on SharpGrade’s patented QuadRod linkage. The design keeps the blade parallel through its full range of movement and prevents cross coupling. Its sealed, shielded and lifetime-lubricated bearings remove greasing from daily maintenance. The adjustable hitch plate helps keep the chassis level on varied terrain. The underslung walking beam reduces wheel scuffing in turns. The new hydraulic retracting front chassis adds another layer of control for tight work, fine work or 3D-controlled grading.

Key Features on the G116

• New Hydraulic Walking Beam-style Front Retract: Raise and lower the front wheel assembly from the joysticks for seamless grading around obstacles or close to walls, curbs and foundations.
• QuadRod 3 Linkage: Keeps the blade perfectly parallel throughout its movement with Zero Cross Coupling, for accurate results and no “duck walking.”
• Sealed, Shielded, Lifetime-Lubricated Bearings: Zero maintenance required.
• Adjustable Hitch Plate: Maintains chassis level for precision grading and reduced wear.
• Underslung Walking Beam: Minimizes wheel scuffing in turns.
• Dual Reversible Blades: Front fixed and rear pivoting design reduces packing between the blades.
• Hydraulic Side Wings: Cut, carry, and windrow material both forward and backward.
• QuadGrade 2D System: Electronically adjust grade height to within 1/25 in. (1mm) from the cab; compatible with all 3D machine control systems.

Contractors can fine grade with ±3 mm accuracy and move faster than bucket-based methods. The G116 connects to most large-frame loaders without modifications and integrates with 3D machine control from leading providers.

A Look Back: G73 Grader Blade for Compact Machines

Earlier this year SharpGrade launched the G73 grader blade for compact track loaders and articulated wheel loaders. The small-frame attachment brought precision grading to 30- to 50-hp machines and opened new options for contractors working in tight residential, sidewalk or utility-heavy spaces. Fully articulated and only 45.5 in. wide with wings closed, the G73 proved nimble in curb lines and narrow corridors. The blade expanded to 73 in. when open and paired with side wings that folded hydraulically for obstacle work or linear finishing. It is grade control ready, lightweight and sized for rental fleets. The G73 launch underscored SharpGrade’s push to bring pro-grade accuracy to both large and small loaders. The G116 update continues that strategy in the high-horsepower class.

What’s Next: Grade Control Keeps Advancing

SharpGrade continues to invest in 2D and 3D control features across its lineup. The G116 ships ready for QuadGrade 2D and can integrate with all major GPS, GNSS and total station systems. The broader grade control category is evolving fast. Compact Equipment explored that trend in last year’s Grade Control Buyer’s Guide, which covered SharpGrade’s systems alongside offerings from HitchDoc, Kubota by Land Pride, Blue Diamond Attachments, Bobcat, John Deere, Caterpillar and Trimble. Contractors now expect compact loaders to carry advanced guidance tech once reserved for big iron. That shift will only accelerate. SharpGrade’s new hydraulic retracting wheel assembly on the G116 reinforces how attachment makers continue to push precision, speed and control into smaller machines. Stay tuned for more grade control coverage as compact equipment takes on work traditionally handled by graders and dozers.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

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