Russia is a country of endless expanses, most of which in cold weather are covered with a thick layer of snow and ice. This dictates the need to purchase special means of transportation - snowmobiles. They are used both for tourism, entertainment, and household, utilitarian purposes. In some areas of the country, snowdrifts in winter can be so high that snowmobiles become the only available mode of transportation.
The production of domestic types of winter transport is relatively young. But today it is quite possible to talk about the best Russian snowmobiles. Domestic design engineers have developed and put into production dozens of models of varying power, maneuverability, load capacity, and maneuverability. Depending on the requirements, anyone can choose a Russian model, comparable in build quality and reliability to foreign analogues, but at a much more affordable cost.
Pegasus
The vehicle bears little resemblance to a conventional snowmobile, which is immediately noticeable. Its weak power (only 6 hp) also does not speak in favor of the purchase. Most experienced drivers who understand these types of equipment will most likely pass by and opt for more powerful and presentable models. However, there is no need to rush. Pegasus also has advantages:
- Its weight is only 65 kg. Easily disassembled, which simplifies storage and transportation.
- Ideal for hiking in snowy expanses. Equipped with full steering and a comfortable double seat.
- It has a dual purpose: it can move on snow and ice surfaces or be used as a means of towing (equipped with a hitch for drags). Can tow up to 500 kg of cargo over rough terrain.
- The maximum travel speed without load is 25 km/h, fuel consumption is about 1.5 l/h.
- Transport is not subject to registration.
- It is distinguished by high-quality assembly from domestic materials, which, if necessary, will provide cheaper and more accessible repairs.
- Relatively low cost (up to 100 thousand rubles).
Top 10. Pegasus
Rating (2021): 3.24
- Characteristics
Average price: 95,000 rub.
- Engine capacity: 200 cc
- Power (hp): 6.5
- Own weight (kg): 75
- Cooling system: air
- Track width (mm): 380
- Maximum speed (km/h): 40
Before us is the most unusual, one might say awkward, Russian snowmobile. Even a person buying equipment for the first time will pay attention to the inconvenient form factor. An experienced user will not at all look in the direction of a bulky, clumsy unit with a 6.5 horsepower engine. The technical parameters of the device are more suitable for a motorized towing vehicle, but this is a snowmobile, and the company positions it as a tourist one. However, this device cannot be discounted. Firstly, it has an attractive price, and secondly, it is easy to repair, and finding spare parts is not difficult. The production is completely Russian, and you don’t have to order parts and wait several months for them.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Wide track base
- Maintainability
- Availability of spare parts without long waits
- Uncomfortable fit
- Low technical parameters
- Weak motor
- Clumsiness
S.MOTO Snowmax 200
This model can hardly be called domestic, although it is registered in Russia. However, everything else: materials, engine and assembly are Chinese. Due to registration in the Russian Federation, we managed to reduce the cost a little, but the quality cannot be called excellent. Users especially have a lot of complaints about the quality of the plastic: it turns out to be very fragile and gets damaged at the slightest load. As a result, it has to be changed frequently. The advantages include:
- more powerful engine (4-stroke, 20 cubic cm, 12 horses);
- the presence of electric and pull starters that guarantee starting at low temperatures;
- reinforced rubber-fabric tracks give the transport the necessary stability;
- Disc brake system and emergency engine shutdown system ensures safe movement;
- automatic transmission simplifies control;
- The presence of effective lighting makes the vehicle clearly visible in the dark, which increases the level of safety in low visibility conditions.
Rusich 200C
The main advantage of the model is its disassembly. The structure can be disassembled and placed in the trunk of a car without the use of additional devices (including screwdrivers), and upon arrival at the site, it can also be easily assembled in 10-15 minutes.
There is one seat, but it is large enough and can easily accommodate two passengers (if the total weight does not exceed 170 kg). Below it is a small luggage compartment. The machine is extremely easy to operate. The single-cylinder engine with a volume of 150 cubic centimeters allows you to reach speeds of up to 35 km/h. The transmission is automatic, the tank volume is 4 liters. The transport is equipped with:
- electric starter;
- carburetor and handle heating devices;
- emergency brake cord;
- disc brakes;
- fastening for towing cargo.
Shikhan D-2
Typically, a snowmobile is equipped with two skis. This increases traction on the surface, making transport more stable and safe. In this case, domestic engineers took a different approach. They left only one ski, but increased the track base. This innovation has significantly increased the maneuverability of the vehicle: now it can handle even the sharpest turns, while the speed of movement does not need to be reduced. The snowmobile is controlled by the front ski and a comfortable motorcycle handlebar.
The second advantage of the machine is its powerful engine (34 hp) and, as a result, excellent speed (55 km/h) combined with a load capacity of 250 kg. Next, I would like to note the high cross-country ability provided by the extended tracked base.
Thanks to it, a fully equipped unit, weighing about 550 kg, exerts low pressure on the ground and can move equally effectively on ice crust, fresh and dense snow. The tracks are designed in such a way that they can self-clean from snow accumulation.
Shikhan D-2 is equipped with:
- electric starter;
- roller suspension;
- towbar;
- reverse;
- luggage compartment;
- a spacious driver's seat that can accommodate a passenger.
The average price is quite high - about 270 thousand rubles.
Top 5. Tiksi-250
Average price: 200,000 rubles.
Country Russia.
Rating: 3,6.
Tiksi-250 is the brainchild of Russian Mechanics, a fairly simple single-seat snowmobile. Equipped with a medium power engine - RMZ-250, 22 liters. With. "Tiksi-250" was conceived as a transitional model between a children's and adult snowmobile. Suitable for riding on snowmobile trails and short trips. It will be useful for hunters and fishermen who do not need a heavy-duty snowmobile. Alas, Tiksi is not intended for serious work and transportation of large cargo.
A small 28-liter gas tank, but the car is quite “gluttonous”: consumption is about 30 liters per 100 km. The weight of the model is 180 kg, which is 100 kg less than the Taiga. Note that Tiksi-250 borrowed a significant part of the components and assemblies from Taiga.
The snowmobile's carrying capacity is 120 kg. Cross-country ability is average, does not drive well in wet snow, and gets buried if the snow cover is more than 25 cm thick.
The supporting frame is of a rigid welded structure, made of steel sheet, angles and pipes. There is a cargo area in the rear. Fiberglass hood. It is equipped with a headlight, windshield, fairing, speedometer and alarm elements. Some controls are located on the instrument panel. For the first time, a Rybinsk vehicle uses removable sidewalls instead of a solid hood. The “Lux” modification is equipped with an electric starter, steering wheel heaters and a tow hitch, making it possible to tow loads.
The cost of the Tiksi 250 snowmobile is about 220,000 rubles for the Luxury package. The price is very reasonable, if you do not take into account future repairs and the purchase of new spare parts - the snowbike cannot boast of reliability.
Taiga Varyag 500
When developing this model, the engineers set themselves the goal of creating a vehicle for traveling on snow that would be as practical as possible, but without losing basic comfort and driving performance. We can say that the idea was a success. The transport is designed in such a way that you can get to any node without any problems, which greatly facilitates repair and maintenance.
The car is equipped with a high heated steering wheel and gas trigger (all this greatly simplifies control), high protective glass and a powerful halogen lamp that can illuminate the path even in complete darkness. The driver is provided with a two-level, very roomy seat, which can easily accommodate another passenger. There is a spacious trunk under the seat. Behind the seat there is a tow bar that allows you to hook and transport a load weighing up to 250 kg.
"Varyag 500" is equipped with:
- 2-stroke air-cooled engine with a power of 43 “horses”;
- 2-speed gearbox with low gear;
- program-controlled ignition system;
- telescopic front and rear suspensions with travel of 105 and 190 mm, respectively;
- wide 500mm Composite track;
- hydropneumatic shock absorber rear suspension.
Burlak Jaeger Forwarder
This option is ideal for transporting goods. The manufacturer positions it as a motorized towing vehicle. The main advantage is its compactness (length only 270 cm and width 110 cm). Its dimensions are almost one and a half meters smaller than similar models of others and can move up to 300 kg of cargo at a speed of about 40 km/h, which is not so bad for rural areas with off-road conditions.
The advantages of the model include:
- durable steel body coated with an anti-corrosion compound;
- convenient control (high heated steering wheel) and the ability to drive in the dark (for this, a powerful headlight is installed in front);
- the presence of an electric starter, which simplifies starting the engine at low temperatures;
- roller suspension;
- presence of reverse gear;
- comfortable seat.
The manufacturer uses a Lifan engine with a power of 18.5 horsepower, which is characterized by fairly high quality and long service life.
The model is widely used for fishing and hunting in winter, as it has high maneuverability and does not get stuck in melted snow that has turned into mush. By the way, the car performed well in the summer when moving through wetlands, on soils with varying densities, as well as on terrain with numerous bumps.
IRBIS Tungus 600L
This new product was released in 2022 and won the sympathy of users with many technical solutions that allow you to safely and effectively perform various tasks. First of all, let's focus on the suspension. Typically, snowmobiles are equipped with one suspension - either a roller or a skid. Irbis is equipped with both, which do not need to be switched: each works under its own conditions. This technical solution makes the ride much smoother.
Engines are installed by either LIfan or Zongshen. Both have proven themselves to be reliable, durable and powerful units, allowing acceleration of up to 45 km/h. A high, heated steering wheel with a cocked throttle trigger makes driving the car much easier. Wide tires (500 mm) increase traction, adding stability to the vehicle on any surface.
The advantages of the new product include:
- presence of an electronic instrument panel;
- 12 V socket;
- hydraulic braking systems;
- waterproof ignition switch;
- high-capacity rechargeable battery;
- enlarged windshield;
- reinforced frame, resistant to deformation and increased mechanical loads;
- comfortable seat;
- spacious trunk.
Leader Alpha 2
Anyone who understands snowmobile models will at first glance recognize the similarity of the Alpha with its foreign analogue, the Dingo T150. The fact is that the imported model was indeed taken as a basis, but was heavily redesigned and adapted to the much more severe conditions of the climate and roads of Russia. One of the big disadvantages is that they are not disassembled, which means additional difficulties during transportation.
But there are also many “goodies”. For example, a powerful towbar will allow you to attach a sled and move a load weighing up to 150 kg onto it. The presence of an electronic panel will provide the driver with all the necessary information about engine operation, fuel quantity, etc. An external 12 V socket, located right there on the dashboard, will allow you to connect, for example, a navigator or charge your phone.
Other advantages of the configuration are:
- adjustable roller-slide suspension with high-quality shock absorbers;
- hydraulic disc brake system;
- emergency jamming system;
- automatic transmission-variator;
- extended caterpillar.
“Leader Alpha-2” is designed for not too long and long trips, but is excellent for hunting and fishing. And if we take into account the average cost, which does not exceed 90 thousand rubles, then we can say that this is the most economical snowmobile of Russian production.
Ten of the best Russian-made snowmobiles in 2022
Pegasus
It has a design that is far from the most familiar for snowmobiles. The form factor seems very inconvenient to many users. The engine power of the model is 6.5 horsepower. Belongs to tourist class. The product is characterized by a very reasonable price. The snowmobile also has a simple design, so if necessary, you can repair it yourself; there is a large selection of spare parts, and they are inexpensive.
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Fuel consumption is low, however, it is unlikely that it will be possible to accelerate this snowmobile to a speed of more than 40 km/h. The engine is equipped with an air cooling system and its volume is 200 cubic meters. cm. The manufacturer has come up with a fairly light design - the snowmobile weighs 75 kg, the tracks are not very wide - 380 mm, so driving on deep or loose snow will be problematic.
Advantages:
- It's not too expensive;
- If necessary, you can repair it yourself;
- Spare parts are sold in each respective store.
Flaws:
- You won’t be able to ride comfortably in deep snow;
- The ergonomics of the seat are poorly thought out;
- Low engine power;
- Handling leaves much to be desired.
Snowmobile Pegasus
C.MOTO Snowmax 200
Although this equipment is manufactured in domestic factories, it is unlikely to be completely called Russian. This snowmobile is equipped with a Chinese engine, body kits and tracks are also Chinese. This approach to joint production had a positive effect on the cost of the device, but this could not but affect the quality. First of all, this concerns body kits. They are made from plastic, which becomes woody in the cold; therefore, even minor contact with crust or ice can cause these elements to simply burst.
The snowmobile is equipped with a Lifan engine, there is not the slightest complaint about it. Its volume is 170 cubic meters. cm - not too much, as it might seem at first glance, but quite enough for comfortable walks and travel. Engine power 10.5 horsepower. This device is already significantly heavier compared to the previous one - its weight is 135 kg, the motor has an air cooling system. The snowmobile is equipped with tracks whose width is 310 mm; it can reach speeds of up to 45 km/h.
Advantages:
- Reliable and durable motor that can withstand significant loads;
- A convenient and comfortable seat in which you can easily spend more than one hour.
Flaws:
- Body kits are made of thin plastic;
- The windshield is low - snow can easily fly through it.
Snowmobile C.MOTO Snowmax 200
Rusich 200A
The key distinguishing quality of this equipment is that it can be completely disassembled if necessary - this greatly facilitates the transportation of the snowmobile. When disassembled, the device will even fit into the trunk of a car. Assembly will take no more than 10 minutes. Nevertheless, the design turned out to be quite powerful - it is equipped with a two-stroke engine with a capacity of 11 horsepower and a volume of 150 cubic meters. cm. It has an air cooling system. The snowmobile itself is quite heavy - it weighs 130 kg and can accelerate to 40 km/h.
For this vehicle there is no need to purchase a trailer to transport it. The fastenings at the connection areas are mostly hinged - you don’t have to use screwdrivers and wrenches. The snowmobile itself turned out to be quite compact, but there is only one seat.
Advantages:
- Completely collapsible design;
- Can be assembled in a very short time;
- The key elements are connected on hinges.
Flaws:
- Basic operational parameters are low;
- There is only one single seat provided.
Snowmobile Rusich 200A
Taiga Varyag 500
The company that manufactures this vehicle has placed additional emphasis on increased reliability of all structural elements of the structure and overall repairability. The snowmobile is made in such a way that you can get to any mechanism or unit of interest in just a few seconds - this greatly simplifies the maintenance of the device. The snowmobile's engine capacity is 497 cubic meters. cm, which allows for a power of 43 horsepower. The model is heavy - its own weight with an empty gas tank is 265 kg. The device is equipped with tracks 500 mm wide and can reach speeds of up to 50 km/h.
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Production is entirely domestic, so there is no question of a shortage of spare parts. The engine here is located directly under the seat, which, if necessary, can be completely removed and access to all key structural elements. Minor repairs or replacement of any parts can be done with only a screwdriver and a small set of keys.
Advantages:
- Very easy to repair;
- The modules are reliable and rarely fail;
- There is instant access to the engine, suspension, and chassis.
Flaws:
- Trunk capacity is small.
Snowmobile Taiga Varyag 500
Burlak Jaeger Forwarder
One of the most compact domestically produced models among all available on the market today. The length of the device is only 270 cm, its width is 110 cm, which is approximately 50 cm less than other utilitarian models. The engine capacity of the snowmobile is 120 cubic meters. cm, maximum power 18.5 horsepower, the model has a decent weight - 275 kg. The motor is equipped with a natural air cooling system, the width of the snowmobile tracks is 380 mm. All these qualities of the device are enough to accelerate to a speed of 40 km/h.
The device has excellent cross-country ability and has a towbar for a trailer. In general, this model has been on the market for a very long time - it began to be produced about 50 years ago. Of course, since then the design has undergone a number of serious changes, but all the basic principles and components remain the same.
Advantages:
- High quality engine;
- Reasonable cost;
- The device is capable of transporting significant loads.
Flaws:
- It will not be possible to develop high speed on it.
Snowmobile Burlak Jaeger Forwarder
IRBIS Tungus 600L
The device is equipped with a unique skid and roller suspension, thanks to this design feature it is able to easily move both on deep and loose snow, and on knurled ski tracks, ice or crust. Many users in reviews speak positively about this type of suspension, since there is no need to rearrange it. The manufacturer has placed two modules under the tracks, which are activated depending on road conditions. This approach has made the device truly universal - you can use it for walks, go hunting or fishing, and transport various loads.
It has a 620cc engine. cm, its power is 21 horsepower and weighs 220 kg. The device is distinguished by a natural air cooling system, the width of its tracks is 500 mm, and it is capable of reaching speeds of up to 45 km/h.
Advantages:
- Unique independent suspension;
- Universal use;
- Can carry significant loads.
Flaws:
- Accelerates slowly;
- The maximum speed is only 45 km/h.
Snowmobile IRBIS Tungus 600L
Leader Alpha 2
Another utilitarian model, which will cost buyers about half the price compared to vehicles with similar characteristics, but foreign production. As the manufacturer himself notes, the snowmobile is not designed for very long trips, but its capabilities are quite sufficient for a long walk - about 4-5 hours of driving. A trailer can be connected to the snowmobile, the maximum load of which should not exceed 90 kg.
This vehicle is perfect for hunting and fishing enthusiasts. The device is equipped with a Chinese Lifan engine, the volume of which is 150 cc. cm with a power of 9.25 horsepower. The snowmobile has a decent weight - 153 kg, and its maximum speed does not exceed 40 km/h.
Advantages:
- Reasonable cost;
- Compact overall dimensions;
- It is easy to access any of the modules.
Flaws:
- It will not be possible to transport heavy loads;
- Limited travel distance;
- It goes quite slowly.
Brief review of the Leader Alpha 2 150 cc snowmobile in a new design
Snowmobile Leader Alpha 2
Russian mechanics RM Vector 551
The third position in our ranking of the best Russian-made snowmobiles is occupied by a very powerful tourist option, designed for long-distance travel. It is distinguished by the highest build quality, so you can not be afraid to make long trips and not be afraid that anything in the device will fail. In general, the snowmobile manufacturer has long been able to establish itself as a manufacturer of very high-quality vehicles. Two people can ride a snowmobile; the maximum weight of cargo transported in a sled reaches 500 kg.
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The highest speed is 100 km/h, the suspension is independent, it has a stroke of as much as 220 mm, so you can comfortably overcome uneven areas on it. Any problems with this snowmobile can be easily fixed with your own hands.
Advantages:
- Capacious fuel tank;
- Stylish exterior design;
- Capable of developing decent speed;
- All components of the snowmobile can be repaired independently.
Flaws:
- High price.
Summary of the year of ownership of RM Vector 551i snowmobile Russian mechanics vector 551, TAIGA VARYAG 550 V
Snowmobile Russian mechanics RM Vector 551
Stels Viking S600 ST 2.0
This brand is well known not only to Russian buyers, but also far beyond the borders of our country. The company manufactures a wide variety of equipment, including snowmobiles with fairly high performance characteristics. In particular, the model presented in our review has a very high speed - it can accelerate to 95 km/h and is characterized by excellent maneuverability even if it has two skis installed in front. Engine capacity – 565 cc. cm, its power is 54 horsepower. The device weighs 470 kg and is equipped with 600 mm wide tracks.
It is comfortable to ride thanks to the independent hydraulic suspension, which is also equipped with a spring mechanism. The snowmobile behaves stably both on groomed ski tracks and off-road.
Advantages:
- Capable of developing decent speed;
- Carefully designed suspension;
- Suitable for covering long distances;
- A very popular brand.
Flaws:
- The in-line cooling system often fails to cool the engine to operating temperature.
Review of the STELS VIKING 600 ST snowmobile version 2.0
Snowmobile Stels Viking S600 ST 2.0
Sharmax SN-650 Pro
An excellent representative of utilitarian technology. The snowmobile runs on a four-stroke engine, the big advantage of which is economical fuel consumption (10-12 l/100 km). There are three shock absorbers on the rear suspension, so if the snowmobile breaks on an obstacle, they will allow you to go through the area smoothly. A hydraulic brake is installed, which guarantees no snagging.
The snowmobile performs excellently in deep snow: thanks to the lever suspension, the turning angle is smaller and the roll is greater. This type of suspension is characterized by greater structural simplicity and maintainability.
The seat is positioned so that your knees are lower than your pelvis, making it easy to get up after a long ride. Comfortable footrests are installed: they are wide along the entire length, which is convenient for passengers, and metal holes with teeth prevent snow from sticking, as a result, the feet do not slip. There is a full-fledged internal trunk where you can put the necessary things, as well as a large external trunk, which is often used for a trunk for fuel tanks.
You can buy a good utilitarian snowmobile Sharmax SN-650 Pro using the link!
Advantages:
- 3 seats;
- Backrest for passenger;
- Teak cover and saddlebags;
- Electric start and heated grips;
- Power 32 l. With.
Flaws:
- Small windshield.
Stuck in the Forest! Snowmobile Sharmax SN 650 MaxPro
Sharmax SN-650 Pro
Russian mechanics RM Vector 551
This modification belongs to the tourist category. It is distinguished by maximum ease of control, comfort, safety, increased maneuverability, and ergonomics thought out to the smallest detail. The car participated in several European exhibitions, where it was recognized as quite competitive with the possibility of export deliveries.
The snowmobile frame is mounted from aluminum alloys used in shipbuilding and aircraft construction. This makes the car unusually light and durable. High build quality will ensure the driver’s safety both on a flat road and on a rough one (in the forest, on a steep slope or rise).
The domestically developed liquid-cooled engine “RMZ-551” is distinguished by increased power (67 hp) and efficiency. The car seats two passengers and can simultaneously transport cargo up to 500 kg.
History of the Russian Mechanics brand
In 2022, Russian Mechanics celebrated a significant anniversary: 50 years. Half a century ago, this manufacturer began mass-producing the first Soviet snowmobiles, the Buran. This line is still being produced, and the models are very similar in appearance to the first samples (we will talk about this in more detail below).
Production is based in Rybinsk (Yaroslavl region). Currently there are more than 700 employees. Product production is organized according to a full cycle: from design development to sales and maintenance of equipment.
Stels Viking S600 ST 2.0
Our review of the best snowmobiles in Russia is completed by a model that has proven itself excellently in long-term expeditions in the harsh Russian North.
The 2-cylinder engine has a volume of 560 cubic centimeters and a power of 56 “horses” and allows a speed of up to 70 km/h. Fuel tank capacity – 45 liters. The front suspension is telescopic with a stroke of 150 mm, the rear suspension is sliding spring with shock absorber, the brake mechanism is hydraulic disc. All parts are additionally reinforced and strengthened, which reliably protects against breakdowns and premature failure under significant mechanical loads or exposure to too low temperatures.
How to choose the right Russian snowmobile?
Experts recommend purchasing domestically produced equipment, since it is designed for the key climatic features of our country - temperature and humidity conditions, thickness of snow and ice cover, and so on. In general, all snowmobiles on the market can be divided into five key groups - sports, mountain, touring, utilitarian and children's.
Sports ones fully reveal their capabilities on groomed trails or on icy surfaces. It is very problematic to move on them in deep snow; their seat is designed for only one person. Under ideal conditions, such vehicles can accelerate to 200 km/h. Mountain-type models are optimally suited for movement in deep snow - this is ensured by elongated tracks with decent grips.
Choosing a snowmobile. Specifications. We understand the technical nuances. What to choose?
Tourist snowmobiles have decent overall dimensions and weight, but they are very stable, regardless of snow depth and slope. The seat is designed for two people; on such models you can cover a considerable distance. Utilitarian options have performed well on flat terrain. They are equipped with a wide track and a significant amount of luggage compartments. Many models have towbars to which you can attach a sled with a load; its maximum weight should not exceed 500 kg. Such snowmobiles can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h.
When choosing a snowmobile, you should definitely take into account the nature of the terrain on which you will need to ride. In particular, buyers often prefer options with an extended track, which significantly increases the maneuverability of the equipment. The type of engine is also very important - its minimum volume is 550 cubic centimeters, cooling is usually air.
When we selected products for inclusion in the ranking of the best Russian snowmobiles, all the previously discussed factors were taken into account. However, in addition to them, we also took into account some other points, the main ones being the price-quality ratio, as well as user reviews. We tried to compile a review of not the most expensive options so that our readers could afford the purchase of such equipment.
