TOP 20 best snowmobiles. Rating of the best and most reliable snowmobiles for 2022

Leading snowmobile manufacturers

A snowmobile is a fairly simple technical device, but its reliability and quality largely depend on who its creator is. Now there are not many companies on the market producing such equipment, and among them it is easy to identify certain leaders whose snowmobiles will definitely not let you down.

Yamaha is a very famous old company from Japan that appeared on the market at the end of the 19th century. Now it is the largest manufacturer of musical instruments, but also creates sports equipment and motorcycle equipment. Its products are reliable, durable and work like a clock with proper care.
Ski-Doo is a brand owned by Bombardier Recreational Products that produces snowmobiles. In Canada, its products are considered perhaps the most popular. On the market - since the late 50s of the twentieth century. In addition to the equipment itself, it also produces suits for snowmobiling. By the way, the name of the brand appeared by chance: at first it was supposed to be called Ski-Dog, but a typo accidentally appeared in the brochure at that time, and the brand became known as Ski-Doo.
Arctic Cat is a very famous brand from the USA that specializes in the production of all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles. On the market since the 60s of the last century. In addition to snowmobiles, it produces spare parts for them and clothing for fans of such vehicles. In 2003, one of his models was in 3rd place in popularity on the world market.
Polaris is another American company that produces not only snowmobiles, but also motorcycles, electric vehicles and a number of other similar equipment. Had a major impact on the entire snowmobile world. The history of Polaris began in the 45th year of the twentieth century. Then the company tried to come up with ways to quickly get anywhere in the snow and created the first prototype of a snowmobile.
Taiga is a Russian brand of Russian Mechanics OJSC, whose products you can trust. It has been producing snowmobiles since 1997. The assortment includes several models that have modifications. For example, the most popular model is Taiga Leader. There is also a children's model - Lynx. And the Patrol 551 SWT modification is used by the Russian Ministry of Defense in the Arctic regions.

Arctic Cat Bearcat 2000 XT

Utilitarian Arctic Cat snowmobiles, even in the basic configuration, are equipped, as they say, to capacity.

Take the same engine: the air-cooled unit with a volume of 565 cubic meters has two Mikuni carburetors, with 34 mm diffusers. Thanks to this, the engine not only has enviable traction, but also eliminates any kind of “choking” at high speeds. In addition, the model is equipped with a large cargo area in the rear of the machine, where you can install a trunk for a snowmobile or can be further enlarged by removing the passenger seat. Even if this turns out to be not enough, then there is always the possibility of attaching a sled - everything necessary (hitch) is already included in the basic configuration.

Distinctive features of the model

It would also be worth noting that the utilitarian snowmobiles of this series have an enviable gas tank volume of about 65 liters. Therefore, a long journey will not present any surprises with a lack of fuel. Main advantages: convenient and intuitive control; luxurious basic equipment of the model; long travel suspensions; spacious platform.

the design is too complex for this type of equipment (difficult repairs in road conditions); high price.

The owners leave only positive reviews for the 2000 series. Literally all hunters and those who like to go farther away admire the capacity of the tank and the duration of trips. Users also note the reliability of the design, despite the difficulties of “on-the-knee” repairs.

Types of snowmobiles

To decide which snowmobile to choose, you need to decide on the location and purpose of its main use.

Sports ones are suitable for fans of racing and extreme sports. Minimum vehicle weight, maximum speed and controllability - an excellent choice on a flat track. These snowmobiles are not suitable for driving in deep snow, but they have no equal on packed roads.

Utility snowmobiles are often two-seaters. Traditionally considered “work” models and intended for regular use for practical purposes. As a rule, they have greater cross-country ability (especially snowmobiles with a 60 cm track width) and reliability combined with greater weight. However, the mass and dimensions may be small. For example, the Tundra and Ranger models, despite their compactness and lightness, have almost all the advantages of the subtype and belong to the “light utility” class. In terms of speed, the best utilitarian lightweight snowmobiles are close to sports ones.

Mountain models are ideal for terrain and extreme travel on the slopes. They have the longest and narrowest caterpillar with large hooks. Suitable for driving in deep, loose snow. The low weight allows an experienced pilot to maneuver using his own body weight.

Touring snowmobiles are the most comfortable snowmobiles for traveling on good trails and family trips. It is not recommended for typical “tourists” to drive in deep snow and other “dubious” terrain - there is a high chance of getting stuck or damaging the vehicle. However, in the line of any manufacturer there are snowmobiles that can be called “utilitarian-tourist”. They have high cross-country ability and low gearing, like a “utility”, but the main emphasis in the device is on the comfort of the pilot and passenger, as well as good maneuverability, which is provided by the multi-link front suspension.

Crossovers are another type of snowmobile for extreme travel. Suitable for country trips on snowy roads, deep snow, and can cope with icy areas and jumps.

Children's snowmobiles are used as transport for teenagers. This type is small in size and weight; some models fit into the trunk of an SUV. Unlike “adults”, they have little power and a low maximum speed - for the safety of the young pilot.

Important!

Even if you have experience driving a car or motorcycle, you need to take a snowmobile driving course.

Lynx 59 Yeti 600 ACE

A reliable snowmobile from Canada, ideal for the harsh conditions of the north. The designs equipped the Lynx with a good Rotax 600 water-cooled engine. It copes well with overheating thanks to water cooling, so you can take it for deer hunting. In addition, the Rotax is a four-stroke engine, which means it has a longer service life and is more economical in consumption.

The transmission is CVT, with low gear and reverse. It is perfect for deep snow and snowdrifts, because... Its cross-country ability is above average.

Pros:

Minor fuel consumption - 8/100. This is very little for a snowmobile.
Good traction motor.
Excellent maneuverability, even in snowy conditions.

And only minus 1 is the price. It is 1,007,000 rubles.

The best utilitarian snowmobiles

BRP EXPEDITION SE 1200 4-TEC

BRP EXPEDITION SE 1200 4-TEC is positioned as a lightweight touring snowmobile with small dimensions, but its characteristics are more similar to a utilitarian model. The vehicle has many useful functions and features combined with an interesting design and attractive overall characteristics. It can be used not only as a pleasure ride, but also as the main form of transport. He can often be seen on travels, expeditions, and during rescue operations.

Representing the design of a stroller on a powered skid, the device with hurricane power can easily transport 2 people. The vehicle is lightweight and has best-in-class cross-country ability. The model’s power is 130 hp, it has an EFI fuel system, hydraulic brakes, and an excellent steering column with well-thought-out ergonomics. In front there is a digital panel that displays information on the screen, including data from the speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and heated grip indicator.

YAMAHA VK PROFESSIONAL II EPS

The YAMAHA VK PROFESSIONAL II EPS snowmobile was created specifically for the Russian North to satisfy the basic needs of customers, but can also be used as a mountain transport. The device has a powerful 4-stroke engine with a volume of 1049 cc. cm, liquid heating, fuel injection system. The fuel tank capacity is 44 liters, which is quite enough for long journeys. The 2022 model has been modified, the front suspension geometry and its length have been changed, resulting in improved handling.

Camso® Cobra WT tracks provide a smooth yet powerful ride. After the modification, cross-country ability in snow drifts increased, an easy ride was ensured, and fuel consumption decreased. The model is equipped with an adaptive EPS system, which also improves safety parameters, helping to maintain controllability in the most difficult weather conditions. The car has improved aerodynamics and was tested in a wind tunnel. A durable, large windshield protects the driver from snow and wind.

Polaris 800 Titan

The Polaris 800 Titan is a fairly expensive all-purpose snowmobile with more advanced technical characteristics.
It is used for trips to nature, for doing housework, including as a cargo transport (load capacity up to 544 kg). The machine has excellent maneuverability, which is facilitated by the rear suspension with an extended articulated design. Adaptively adjusts to driving modes: with a passenger, with cargo or alone. The vehicle can move at idle, at low speed without turning off the equipment, which is provided by a special voltage generator. The machine is equipped with Corba tracks, which facilitate movement on any snow, maintaining balance and control even at high speed in bad weather. The Polaris 800 Titan is characterized by improved build quality, progressive design, and advanced technical implementation. All features are complemented by the 800 HO Cleanfire engine, which provides the sled with explosive power.

STELS

released a new budget snowmobile Stels “Moroz”, built according to the formula “one ski - two tracks”. The model combines advanced design solutions already implemented in the Ermak snowmobile, original design and low cost.

The new product is equipped with a reinforced frame with an inclined front tunnel wall to provide additional space for the pilot's legs and increase the torsional and bending rigidity of the frame. The new 2-stroke, 2-cylinder, in-line, air-cooled engine with a carburetor for each cylinder produces 49 hp. With.

Stels "Frost"

The snowmobile is equipped with a modern programmable ignition system, a cooling fan without a drive belt (axial drive), and steering with anti-vibration bearings to reduce vibrations on the steering wheel. Other important components and parts have also been improved, including the steering column and vibration protection for the engine base.

The snowmobile is available in two versions - regular and extended. Additional options are also provided: a power front bumper, a case for storing accessories, a finder headlight, and ski protection.

Review of the 7 most reliable snowmobiles

SKI-DOO Freeride 165” 850 E-TEC SHOT

The model is long-tracked, and its name is fully justified. Movement is absolutely free, and the driver gets great pleasure. The two-stroke engine allows you to literally take off and confidently pick up speed. Experienced riders will appreciate the ability to customize the device as much as possible.

If we consider the Gornik objectively, then we can safely say that it is very close to the sports Renegade. They have similar platforms and suspensions. What especially stands out about the model is the track, which is capable of “breaking” when turning, while maintaining excellent traction with snow.

Cost: 1,673,000 rub.

Incredible dynamics, characterized by appropriate “pickup”;
High cross-country ability;
Ability to customize;
Increased sensitivity to control.

Most buyers prefer four-strokes because... 2T motors are famous for their specific pickup.

"Taiga Varyag 500"

Utilitarian snowmobiles from the Rybinsk plant remain the most inexpensive equipment of this kind. The Taiga engine has a two-stroke unit model RMZ-500 (500 cubic meters) and is equipped with a Mikuni carburetor.

The car does not have enviable power, like previous respondents, only 43 hp. s., therefore, to ensure proper dynamics, engineers had to significantly lighten the weight of the entire structure. As a result, we have a snowmobile weighing 265 kilograms.

Advantages and disadvantages of the model

And although the dynamics were clearly improved with the loss of weight, the car lost its electric starter: the engine can only be started in manual mode. As for the transmission, the Varyags were equipped with a classic CVT with mechanical reverse and steps. The design turned out to be very simple, and this automatically added reliability to the snowmobile.

Advantages of "Varyag":

Disadvantages of the model:

The owners are also satisfied with the driving characteristics of the snowmobile. But the fly in the ointment in our cars was and remains the build quality.

The best Russian snowmobiles

Russian mechanics RM Vector 551I

Among domestic manufacturers there are those who can compete with their Western colleagues in the technical superiority of snowmobiles. We are talking about the Russian Mechanics brand and their model RM Vector 551I. Let us immediately note that this is not a variation of the Taiga-Ataka model, well known to users, but a snowmobile on a completely new platform of a respected Russian brand. It provides economical fuel consumption, is included in the best ratings, and is sold at an affordable price for Russian rubles in any corner of the Russian Federation, but this is not the main thing.

The Patriots can really be proud. First of all, the model requires only standard maintenance and does not require additional investments. The new platform combines excellent maneuverability, handling and interesting design. The technical solution is distinguished by an injection engine, lightweight, all-aluminum construction. When driving this car, you never leave the feeling of reliability and safety. The snowmobile was completely developed at MSTU. Bauman, this is a completely advanced solution.

RM VECTOR 551

RM VECTOR 551 is another new snowmobile from Russian Mechanics that will delight you during winter fishing trips. With it you can get to any inaccessible places and transport cargo with trophies. The manufacturer kept the intrigue until the end, without informing the media about the new model range and how much the car would cost. According to many experts, this is the most advanced snowmobile. Let us note that Russian mechanics is distinguished by a record number of scientific developments being implemented in its transport.

The main features of the new model are the construction made of structural aluminum and the fuel-injected engine. The design has been “weighted” with high precision. As a result, the car passes any sharp turns even at high speed and overcomes obstacles. When developing the model, the so-called bionic approach was used. Each structural element is distinguished by excellent ergonomics in relation to the person and other parts to ensure high speed even on very difficult snow.

Extreme sportsmen

Touring ones have narrower tracks, which makes them more manageable. But it is not suitable for deep snow, but for a snowy plain or a well-worn road it is quite suitable. They can have a powerful two or four-pin motor. They are distinguished by high prices and maximum comfort. They have many accessories to make your trip enjoyable. For example, they can be equipped with xenon, heated grips, and adjustable suspension.

On the utility platform, snowmobiles are created with a powerful two-stroke engine that provides high speed. Such models are no longer completely utilitarian; they are created more for entertainment and adrenaline than for work.

The best sport mountain snowmobile models

Yamaha SR Viper X-TX SE

This rather practical vehicle is equipped with a four-stroke engine and has a special chassis in its design that allows it to easily overcome various types of terrain. The engine capacity is 1049 cubic centimeters, its power can reach 130 horsepower. The suspension design is such that this snowmobile maneuvers with ease even on difficult terrain. He easily passes uncleared roads and slopes covered with a thick layer of snow. The product can withstand even sharp turns, which is most important in forest conditions when you have to maneuver between trees.

The caterpillar is metal, has ridges, the height of which is 1.6 inches, they perform excellently both on newly fallen snow and on already packed snow, and they break through thick crust well. The ski stand is narrow - 1067 mm, which gives the snowmobile additional confidence in deep snow. The engine is an injection type and starts well even at very low temperatures. The torque is quite decent, the engine instantly reacts to changes in the throttle grip, and it does so very smoothly. This gives additional comfort while driving off-road. On straight sections it can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h. The suspension is of high quality, based on a high-pressure aluminum gas shock absorber, which provides a suspension travel of about 368 mm.

Advantages:

Reasonable cost;
Excellent workmanship;
The suspension is easy to adjust and behaves excellently in all conditions.

Flaws:

Not too high engine power for a sports model.

Yamaha SR Viper X-TX SE

BRP Ski-Doo RENEGADE X-RS 800R E-TEC

This Canadian brand has been on the market for quite a long time, during which time it has managed to establish itself only on the good side. This snowmobile performs excellently in any conditions, is characterized by high speed characteristics and economical fuel consumption. The device is based on the lightweight REV-XS platform. The caterpillar tunnel is made of high-quality aluminum, the frame has a large number of stiffening ribs, it is made in the shape of a pyramid, due to which the driver is strictly in the center of the mass distribution, which has a positive effect on the controllability of the device. This model is one of the lightest in its environment. The seat here is single; if necessary, the driver’s body can be shifted a considerable distance, which greatly increases maneuverability and dynamics while driving.

The chassis perfectly withstands absolutely any load. The front suspension is based on double wishbones, made in the shape of the letter A, they are also complemented by special gas shock absorbers HPG Plus R. Depending on the configuration, the model can be equipped with a quick-release shackle that stabilizes the lateral stability of the snowmobile. If necessary, it can be removed without using any additional tools. The use of such technology allows you to quickly change movement tactics depending on driving conditions.

Advantages:

Excellent dynamics;
The suspension is very easy to adjust, allowing you to perform high and long jumps.

Flaws:

With aggressive operation, the engine resource is not very long.

BRP Ski-Doo RENEGADE X-RS 800R E-TEC

Polaris 850 Pro-RMK 155

Considered one of the best snowmobiles in the world. With its help, you will be able to reach places where only a few have reached. The design is based on a lightweight chassis and a fairly powerful gasoline engine, which allows the unit to easily overcome even serious snow obstacles. The tracks are designed in such a way as to pull the model onto the surface of the snow cover. It is not difficult for the driver to maintain full control over the balance of the product. The response to the rider’s actions is almost instantaneous, thanks to which a person can change the direction of movement in a matter of seconds and perform maneuvers even in the most difficult conditions. The engine maintains an ideal balance between power and weight.

The engine cooling system is air, which greatly facilitates the design and gives it additional maneuverability. This snowmobile has a unique geometry based on an adjustable ski spacing. The steering knuckles are forged, therefore, their strength is quite high. The snowmobile's shock absorbers are single-tube; they are quite sufficient for the model to absorb even serious unevenness in the snow cover without creating discomfort for the driver and passenger. The product weighs 188 kg - not too much for a snowmobile of such high power.

Advantages:

Excellent maneuverability;
Beautiful and stylish appearance;
High-quality track base;
Capacious fuel tank.

Flaws:

The ski base adjuster is quite tight and requires a lot of effort to get it into the desired position.

Polaris 850 Pro-RMK 155

Arctic Cat ZR 9000 137 Thundercat

This is one of the most powerful models among all that are currently on the market. This was achieved largely due to the installation of a turbocharged four-stroke Suzuki engine, the volume of which is 1056 cubic centimeters. Thanks to this, it is possible to achieve a power of 177 horsepower and high torque. However, the snowmobile took first place among the best sports products not only due to its high-speed qualities, but also due to some additions that can make movement more comfortable. First of all, this technique has a new seat: it has been given a new shape, the upholstery is made of non-slip artificial leather.

The height of the snowmobile is made slightly higher so that the driver can comfortably see what is happening directly under the skis. There is plenty of knee room. The steering wheel has a curved shape. The brake system is hydraulic and very sensitive. Its power is quite enough to quickly stop such a fairly heavy car. The ARS front suspension features custom Fox Float 3 shock absorbers that provide up to 10 inches of vertical travel. In turn, this makes almost any surface irregularities invisible. A distinctive feature of this device is the presence of a small space that can be used to store luggage.

Advantages:

Excellent acceleration dynamics;
The suspension automatically adjusts to any surface.

Flaws:

Decent fuel consumption.

Arctic Cat ZR 9000 137 Thundercat

RUSSIAN MECHANICS

For the 2022 season, the company is introducing an updated Buran. The legendary snowmobile was improved taking into account the suggestions and expectations of the owners and received a “prefix” to the name: “Buran Leader”. Key changes concern increasing the strength of the ski, improving handling and extending the service life of the snowmobile through the installation of standard carbide undercuts SHT "Taiga". Thanks to them, during long-term use, the turning radius of the snowmobile does not increase and there is no need to replace the entire ski - only undercuts that retain their functionality for a mileage of up to 3000 km.

"Buran Leader"

The updated Buran is equipped with an automatic chain tensioner on the reverse box. The device allows the owner to save time on maintenance, eliminates manual work and the need to check the condition of the chain before each trip. Improved traction and dynamic characteristics and the ability to save fuel are provided by a new centrifugal regulator of Russian Mechanics' own production. The Buran Leader model is distinguished by a high molded windshield, the geometry of which eliminates the possibility of its deformation.

The glass protects the driver from headwinds and flying snow, and the reinforced bumper prevents damage to equipment when driving through forests and dense bushes. A high steering wheel with heated grips and throttle trigger adds ease to driving the snowmobile. The Buran Leader is also equipped with an LED tail light.

RMS 551 Tour

The appearance of the snowmobile has also been changed: now it is made in bright black-orange and white-orange colors. In addition, the company plans to release a special series in winter camouflage intended for hunters. Another new product from Russian Mechanics will tentatively be released in January 2022. This is the new snowmobile RMS 551i Tour - a touring model built on the Taiga base with a two-stroke two-cylinder engine with a volume of 553 cm3 and a power of 65 hp. With. with liquid cooling and separate lubrication system. The front suspension is wishbone with a travel of 225 mm, a track 500 mm wide and lugs 32 mm high.