THE SECONDARY snowmobile market comes from two sources. The first - gradually decreasing - is the import of used devices from the New World and Finland. There they were, as a rule, used for rental. The second is snowmobiles previously purchased new at Russian motorcycle dealerships. More such cars are offered.
In any case, I do not recommend (especially for novice snowmobilers) purchasing sports models. At least when choosing them, special meticulousness is required and, preferably, the help of a specialist. After all, owners who want to get more adrenaline from their snowmobile rarely think about such prosaic things as, for example, engine life. This is especially true for rental cars. In addition, sports devices are more complex to operate and manage.
Utilitarian appliances from Canada or Finland are unlikely to bring very unpleasant surprises. In its “first life” it ran on good gasoline, good oil, and if some parts had worn out excessively, they were probably replaced before sale. However, do not forget: used rental snowmobiles, as a rule, have very high mileage, so the closest attention should be paid to the condition of the engine.
“Russian” specimens have managed to put fewer kilometers on tracks, but they are usually not spoiled with high-quality fuel. In general, as they say, options are possible. And during inspection, one must show the same claims to the equipment - regardless of whether it was used here or abroad. It is important not to run into a pig in a poke.
Which snowmobile is better to buy?
Snowmobiles are most in demand among residents of the northern regions, as well as among lovers of extreme pastimes. To choose the right device, you need to decide how you are going to use it.
All snowmobiles are usually divided into categories:
- Mountain bikes, the design of which is designed for extreme travel on slopes and relief terrain. These models have a long track with large hooks and are ideal for riding in loose, deep snow.
- Utilitarian models, also called working models, are used for practical purposes. Snowmobiles of this type have high cross-country ability and are often double-seater.
- Tourist models are the most comfortable models, allowing for travel on good trails covered with a light layer of snow.
- Crossovers - on these snowmobiles you can safely go on a trip over rough terrain covered with deep, loose snow.
- Sports models are chosen by fans of racing and extreme travel. Such snowmobiles are distinguished by their low weight, high speed performance and good handling.
- Children's snowmobiles are light and compact with low engine power.
It will be easier to choose a snowmobile if you have some idea of the structure and main components of this vehicle.
The snowmobile's suspension can be telescopic or lever: the first is more durable, the second provides better maneuverability and stability. Often a suspension of one design or another is used for models of a certain manufacturer, for example, the PPS suspension is used on Lynx snowmobiles, tMotion is more universal and is installed in mountain models of various brands.
The transmission used in new vehicles acts as a clutch and gearbox. On snowmobiles of the tourist and utilitarian type, as a rule, there is a separate gearbox, which includes low and reverse gears.
The most advanced versions are equipped with a RER system - when reverse gear can be engaged with a button.
The fuel supply system for snowmobiles can be carburetor (most often on domestic models) or injection - more economical and environmentally friendly.
Modern snowmobiles use one of two types of engines:
- two-stroke – light weight, manual starter, and not too demanding on fuel quality;
- four-stroke engines are more economical and durable, and also less noisy.
Depending on the type of fuel used, such engines are either gasoline or diesel. The cooling system of the snowmobile power unit can be air or water.
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Prices and manufacturers
Naturally, you need to decide on a budget. Don't be afraid to make mistakes - this is just an initial estimate to help the seller. If it’s really difficult, then think about how much more money you’ll definitely be sorry to spend on a snowmobile.
There are currently seven independent snowmobile manufacturers operating in the world:
- Alpina Snowmobiles - Italy;
- Arctic Cat - USA;
- Bombardier (BRP) - Canada, Finland;
- Polaris Industries - USA;
- Yamaha Motor Corporation - Japan;
- JSC "Russian Mechanics" (Rybinsk) - Russia;
- OJSC UMPO (UFA) - Russia (no longer produced).
Each manufacturer offers their snowmobiles with a different set of standard options, and the number of included options may vary. Here you should rely on your taste, recommendations of sellers and reviews of other owners. When choosing, also take into account the warranty period and the availability of the nearest service center.
The best mountain snowmobiles
Mountain snowmobiles differ from other types of this transport in their ability to move at a large angle on loose and deep snow.
Such machines must have low weight, which is often achieved by reducing the level of comfort of the model.
Polaris PRO RMK 850 Patriot 3
5.0
★★★★★
editorial assessment
97%
buyers recommend this product
The Polaris PRO mountain sled is powered by the Patriot 3 engine, which features high-performance pistons with increased compression height and thick canopy. The average cost of the model is 1.25 million rubles.
Advantages:
- lightweight SLS shock absorbers;
- durable forged control arms;
- low vibration level;
- carbon fiber VForce reed valves;
- 4 years warranty on the engine.
Flaws:
- price.
The Polaris PRO RMK 850 Patriot 3 snowmobile is easy to control, predictable and reliable. The design features of the model allow you to perform large slopes in deep snow and on slopes.
BRP Ski-Doo Freeride 137 800R E-TEC
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
94%
buyers recommend this product
When creating the BRP Ski-Doo Freeride snowmobile, tMotion suspension was used, which allows significant body roll relative to the track bogie. The average cost of the model is 1.2 million rubles.
Advantages:
- good dynamic performance;
- impeccable handling;
- special FlexEdge track cord design;
- REV-XM RS platform with reinforcements and stiffeners.
Flaws:
- not suitable for beginners;
- high fuel consumption.
The BRP Ski-Doo snowmobile's suspension is conveniently adjusted using the easily accessible Kayaba PRO shock tuning wheels.
Arctic Cat ZR 9000 137 Thundercat
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
The Arctic Cat ZR 9000 137 Thundercat snowmobile is equipped with a 200 hp engine. with., which has a turbocharger with an intercooler, providing maximum performance in all conditions. The average cost of the model is 950 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- soft switching;
- optimal performance;
- maintainability;
- reduced weight;
- Sturdy and functional ProCross chassis.
Flaws:
- high fuel consumption.
For more comfortable driving of the Arctic Cat ZR 9000 137 Thundercat snowmobile, two seat heating modes and a 28-centimeter windshield are provided.
The best utilitarian snowmobiles
The most “conservative” category of snowmobiles is the so-called utilitarian models, which are subject to fairly typical requirements: reliability, maintainability, ease of maintenance, affordable cost.
Such snowmobiles are preferred by users who need confidence that the machine will not break down due to heavy loads, will start in 30-degree frost and will calmly tow a heavy load.
Tayga Patrul 800 SWT
4.7
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The Tayga Patrul 800 SWT snowmobile provides a wide range of suspension settings, which allows you to select the optimal operating mode and quickly change it when travel conditions change. The average cost of a model is 500 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- Koso multifunctional instrument panel;
- reinforced front suspension;
- adjustable rear suspension;
- two-level seat;
- spacious trunk.
Flaws:
- not always high-quality assembly.
The Tayga Patrul snowmobile can easily carry two adults or pull a 500-kilogram load.
Stels 600L Ermak
4.6
★★★★★
editorial assessment
86%
buyers recommend this product
The utilitarian snowmobile Stels Ermak is equipped with a two-cylinder engine with a capacity of 50 hp. With. with Mikuni carburetor. The cooling system is air type. The average cost of a model is 200 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- modular frame with underbody protection;
- lightweight caterpillar track;
- heated steering wheel grip and throttle trigger;
- the main fuel tank is 58 l and the additional fuel tank is 32 l.
Flaws:
- difficult to get to the carburetor;
- Poorly assembled models come across.
If necessary, the Stels 600L Ermak snowmobile can be equipped with a power front bumper, rear LED headlights, a searchlight, fuel level sensors, exhaust gas temperature and ambient temperature sensors.
Buran 4T
4.5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
82%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The power unit of the Buran 4T snowmobile is a four-stroke Kohler engine with a power of 29 hp. With.
The model is equipped with an electric engine start system. You can buy such a snowmobile for an average of 300 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- convenient access to the engine compartment;
- spotlight;
- cargo area;
- luggage compartment under the seat;
- acceptable cost.
Flaws:
- heavy;
- assembly errors are possible.
The utilitarian snowmobile Buran 4T may be one of the best options for winter hunting and fishing, as well as for household use in the northern regions.
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Snowmobiles (Trail Luxury / Enduro-Venture)
The highest comfort, convenience, modern design, sophistication, versatility - these are the main characteristics of this class. Rest assured, all the latest snowmobile solutions and gadgets are already integrated into these models. A premium snowmobile will provide you with not only a comfortable but also a fast ride. New generation snowmobiles have become even more spacious, practical, ready to conquer kilometers of snow-covered off-road terrain with you!
The best touring snowmobiles
Visually, the touring snowmobile looks lighter and more elegant than its counterparts. Most often, such models are used for trips with the family along compacted forest roads, where there is no deep snow and difficult obstacles.
Yamaha RS Venture TF
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
94%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The Japanese snowmobile Yamaha RS Venture is created on the basis of proven technologies, and also has an original and distinctive design.
Due to the extended rear chassis, the rider can maintain control of the snowmobile even when hitting a serious obstacle.
Advantages:
- EPS electric power steering;
- EBRS engine braking system;
- switching engine operating modes D-Mode;
- YCC-T electronic throttle control.
Flaws:
- heavy weight;
- price 1.3 million rubles.
Maximum control and comfort when riding long distances on a Yamaha snowmobile is provided by a wide handlebar with handlebars shifted 20 mm forward.
Ski-Doo Grand Touring Limited
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
90%
buyers recommend this product
The Ski-Doo Grand Touring Limited is one of the best models in the touring snowmobile segment. The device is equipped with a Rotax-900ACE engine with a power of 150 hp. With. True, the cost of such equipment exceeds 700 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- heated seats;
- wind protection;
- wide platform GEN4;
- increased ergonomics.
Flaws:
- There are problems with gear shifting.
The air suspension of the Ski-Doo Grand Touring snowmobile can be adjusted on the fly using special buttons on the steering wheel.
Stels 800 Viking
4.6
★★★★★
editorial assessment
84%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The developers of the Stels 800 Viking snowmobile chose an original exterior for the model and equipped it with an LED headlight, a windshield with optimized aerodynamics, and heated steering grips. The average cost of the model is 470 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- informative dashboard;
- multifunction steering wheel;
- waterproof rear light;
- a case made of durable plastic behind the back of the passenger seat.
Flaws:
- the steering wheel is a bit heavy;
- The build quality is sometimes poor.
The frame of the Stels 800 Viking snowmobile is made of high-quality Russian-made steel, which is not inferior in strength to the best imported samples.
The best crossover snowmobiles
Snowmobiles from the crossover category most often have metal studs on the track, ensuring the most efficient use of torque even on compacted snow and icy road sections. Shock absorbers of such models provide a large number of settings.
Lynx Xtreem Commander 800R E-TEC
5.0
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
The Lynx Xtreem Commander snowmobile has a rather aggressive design. Instead of traditional telescopic struts, the model is equipped with A-arms, complemented by a roll stabilization system.
Advantages:
- high dynamic performance;
- responsive and precise control;
- excellent stability;
- heated steering wheel grips and seats;
- instant start with one click on the electric starter.
Flaws:
- price 1.2 million.
Featuring a one-piece chassis and sloping tunnel, the Lynx Xtreem Commander sled provides a natural riding position.
Arctic Cat M8000 Hardcore Alpha One 165
5.0
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The power unit of the Arctic Cat Alpha One snowmobile is based on a 160 hp engine. s., volume 794 cm3. The unit is equipped with an Arctic Drive System in a magnesium housing.
Advantages:
- innovative Alpha One rear suspension;
- lightweight Power Claw track with lugs;
- CVT Team;
- good shock absorbers Fox Float 3 QS3.
Flaws:
- price 1.36 million rubles.
The Arctic Cat snowmobile features the new Pro Climb G2 front skis, which provide increased stability and balance in deep snow.
Polaris 850 Switchback Assault
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
90%
buyers recommend this product
The Polaris 850 Switchback Assault snowmobile, equipped with the new Patriot 850 engine, provides an active driving style over rough terrain, including complete off-road driving. The average cost of the model is 1.2 million rubles.
Advantages:
- large LCD display (109 mm);
- GPS support;
- durable footrests;
- Walker Evans Piggyback Needle shocks.
Flaws:
- high fuel consumption;
- The aluminum steering wheel can become deformed when colliding with obstacles.
The Polaris 850 Switchback Assault features an AXYS chassis and IGX 144 rear suspension for comfortable handling, full ride control and exhilarating acceleration.
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YAMAHA
In the new season, the Japanese manufacturer will offer domestic snowmobilers updated utilitarian models VK540 V and VK Professional II EPS.
Yamaha VK540V
The VK Professional II EPS received a new Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, as well as new front high-pressure gas shock absorbers in an aluminum body, new 8HG steering knuckles, new wide skis based on the Yamaha MQRD MTX skis, designed to reduce the load on the steering column and improve handling, lightweight driver's seat backrest and passenger back support, as well as a lightweight mudguard.
Yamaha VK Professional II EPS
The best sport snowmobiles
Sport-class snowmobiles are equipped with powerful engines, long tracks with mid-height toe, highly adjustable suspension, and a wide ski base for stability. They differ from other models in their single-seat layout.
Yamaha Sidewinder-X-TX-SE-141
5.0
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
The Yamaha Sidewinder sports snowmobile is considered the most powerful mass-produced model in the world. Its three-cylinder engine produces 182 hp. With. Such a device costs 1.4 million rubles.
Advantages:
- turbocharged engine;
- two-section instrument panel;
- stopping the engine when it rolls over;
- high throttle response.
Flaws:
- high price.
Unlike other internal combustion engines, which lose almost a third of their power at an altitude of 3000 m, the Sidewinder engine maintains its performance in all conditions.
Linx Rave RE 850 E-TEC
5.0
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
The Linx Rave snowmobile uses a Rotax 850 E-TEC engine with 165 horsepower. With. demonstrates high efficiency. The average cost of the model is 1.35 million rubles.
Advantages:
- new generation variator pDrive;
- soft suspension front and rear;
- Blade XC skis;
- KYB HLCR sports shock absorbers.
Flaws:
- Expensive.
The Linx Rave RE 850 E-TEC snowmobile is the winner of many international competitions. Protection against collapse in this case is ensured by precise weight distribution and placement of the engine strictly in the center.
Welsmotor 250
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
89%
buyers recommend this product
The Welsmotor 250 snowmobile is equipped with a 21 hp engine. With. volume 250 cm3. The cooling system is water, the gearbox is CVT, the fuel tank volume is 18 liters. The average cost of this model is 200 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- easy;
- extended track for improved cross-country ability;
- autonomous heated handles;
- sports shock absorbers;
- acceptable price.
Flaws:
- it is inconvenient to change the variator belt;
- narrow caterpillar.
The Welsmotor 250 snowmobile belongs to the budget category. It can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h, is started by an electric starter button and can easily transport two adults.
The best children's snowmobiles
Snowmobiles for children have less power and size compared to adult versions, are easy to use and have a high degree of safety.
Motax Micro Snow
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
Motax Micro Snow is a versatile children's snowmobile that can transform into an ATV. The device is equipped with a 7 HP engine. With. volume 110 cm3.
Transmission – CVT, semi-automatic. Air cooling system. The cost of a mini snowmobile is 50 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- front LED headlight;
- rear marker signal;
- maximum speed – 39 km/h;
- reliable hydraulic brakes.
Flaws:
- there is an age limit (up to 10-12 years);
- maximum load – up to 60 kg.
For child safety, the Micro Snow snowmobile is equipped with a speed limiter and a parental control function that allows you to monitor trips.
ZRobot SQ-1 Snowquadro
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
87%
buyers recommend this product
The ZRobot Snowquadro children's snowmobile can be converted into an ATV if necessary. The device is designed for children aged 4 to 12 years and can accelerate to 25 km/h. The average cost of the model is 37 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- easy start and simple control;
- compactness;
- maneuverability;
- reliable disc brakes;
- rear pendulum suspension with central monoshock absorber;
- front suspension in the form of wishbones on springs.
Flaws:
- maximum load limit – 60 kg;
- a decrease in performance typical for any transformer.
The ZRobot SQ-1 snowmobile can be not only a good gift for a child, but also a full-fledged means of transportation if you need to get, for example, to school in snowy weather.
Storage and transportation
If you bought a snowmobile, then you will be faced with the question of where and how to store it, as well as how to bring the snowmobile to the forests and rivers of our vast homeland. Agree, if you are a city resident and it’s 100–300 km to get to the forest, you won’t ride a snowmobile around the city. You need a trailer to transport your snow horse to the location. The trailer is also convenient for storing a snowmobile in paid parking lots. But for those who have garages, you can store it there in the summer and rent a trailer or rent it from a friend.
