The best snowmobile for hunting: the fastest, most reliable, passable

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.

Recommendations: 14 best motorized dogs and motorized towing vehicles

7 Best Snowshoes

8 best children's snow scooters

How to choose a utilitarian snowmobile

Which utilitarian snowmobile is better to choose? Among the leading brands are Yamaha, Arctic Cat, Polaris, Buran, Lynx, Taiga, etc. If you are a beginner and have decided to purchase your first snowmobile, then models from leading brands will come in handy.

Of course, more expensive types of snowmobiles, domestic or imported, are more durable and of higher quality. Among the above in terms of reliability, I would like to buy imported Yamaha ones. A low-price vehicle with a Chinese engine on board is unlikely to last long enough. And the operation of such a snowmobile cannot be called comfortable. Soon breakdowns will begin, the need to replace parts of the track, transmission and engine.

Let's say we are choosing a snowmobile for hunting - this is one of the most common reasons for buying a utilitarian type snowmobile. Usually, hunting requires a powerful, passable and reliable vehicle. All these parameters must be combined in one design. To choose a snowmobile for hunting, it is better to pay attention to the quality of the engine and the suspension on which the skis are attached. As for the engine, it is better to give preference to models with a four-stroke engine and a CVT. If you have settled on any model, find out its engine number and look at reviews on the Internet on this topic: does it run smoothly? How long will it take to replace piston rings, gaskets and other parts? Remember, a good engine is not only powerful, but also reliable.

If you are going to hunt on your all-terrain vehicle, then also pay attention to the availability of a sufficient number of components and optional features. Is the steering wheel heated? Are drag sleds included, is the snowmobile equipped with a tow bar, and how convenient is the luggage? Regarding the latter, there must be a sufficient number of luggage compartments. It is better to choose a snowmobile with panniers for storing equipment than to later regret the lack of them.

We have already said above that it is better to purchase snowmobiles from leading brands. Perhaps other manufacturers also have good models, and at a price that would seem to be much cheaper. But is it easy to find spare parts for them when you have to repair or replace the main components of the snowmobile? And if you are not very knowledgeable about repairs, how many qualified service stations undertake repairs specifically for your model? These questions are very important, since the service life of the all-terrain vehicle depends on it.

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:

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.

Foreign-made utilitarian snowmobiles

The 2015 Arctic Cat Bearcat 5000 XT Limited doesn't come cheap. Equipped with a 125 hp two-cylinder four-stroke engine. With. from Suzuki, the snowmobile is simply designed to delight its owner. This model is often chosen for use at ski resorts for transporting goods.

According to user ratings, the second place among foreign snowmobiles was taken by the Lynx 49 Ranger 600 ACE 2015. This powerful snowmobile is equipped with a two-cylinder four-stroke Rotax engine on board. Thanks to the combination of three main parameters, price, quality and power, this snowmobile has already become a favorite of many drivers.

In third place is the 2014 Yamaha RS Viking Professional, a reliable 2014 snowmobile with a three-cylinder, four-stroke Genesis 120 engine producing 120 horsepower. With. Yamaha always produces quality equipment, and this snowmobile is no exception.

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.

Utilitarian snowmobiles: rating and description of the best

First, let’s figure out what “utilitarian snowmobile” means.

This term applies to a very large number of models. The distinctive features of this type of equipment are its resistance to active use, that is, work under serious loads. Utilitarian snowmobiles will drag bulky sleds behind them and start in any frost.

Owners of such equipment rarely pay attention to the maximum speed, acceleration characteristics, comfort of the machine, or the presence of any additional ergonomic accessories. As for the aspects of maintainability and reliability, very serious requirements are imposed here than for the same ATVs, cars or any other motor vehicles, because snow cover, terrible frost or short daylight hours can easily turn a small malfunction into a tragedy with human casualties.

A person on foot overcomes deep snow in 24 hours, while special equipment covers the same path in about half an hour - that’s what a utilitarian snowmobile means. The owners of “salvage” are huntsmen, oil workers, reindeer herders, gas workers, as well as other people who cannot be called amateurs. Below we will present a rating of utilitarian snowmobiles, the participants of which are popular and high-quality equipment in many respects.

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.

For tourist trips

Unlike sports ones, touring models are not designed for fast driving. These are good if you want to walk in the snow. As a rule, they have a spacious trunk and seating for several seats.

Lynx Xtrim Commander 800R E-TEC

Option for “professional tourists”. A good cross-country snowmobile for deep snow with an 800 cc two-stroke engine and 163 hp.

The cooling system is liquid, so there is no need to worry about engine overheating. Equipped with comfortable seats with good vibration damping.

A 40-liter fuel tank will ensure a long trip without refueling. Light weight and independent suspension significantly increases maneuverability even on loose snow.

Ski Doo Expedition SE 1200 4 TEC

A great option if you like active walks. Ski Doo Expedition SE 1200 4 TEC is equipped with a 150 hp engine. with turbocharging, which is more typical for sports models. At the same time, there is a comfortable two-seater seat with excellent vibration dampening.

The trunk is roomy, but this did not greatly affect the dimensions. But what sharply distinguishes this model from a sports one is the short suspension. In this regard, the move is quite tough. This will not cause great discomfort, but the uneven landscape will be noticeably felt.

Advantages:

Quite a high level of comfort if you are not going on too long trips.
Good dynamics and quick-reacting brakes.
Modern wind protection.

Flaws:

Short pendant.

Yamaha RS Venture TF

One of the most successful models from Yamaha. It features a three-cylinder, four-stroke engine with an efficient hydrocooling system. Kayaba HPG cushioning significantly reduces vibration and impacts from uneven terrain. If you are wondering which snowmobile is best for long trips, pay attention to this Yamaha.

Advantages:

Powerful yet economical.
Good wind protection.
Convenient dashboard.
Long travel suspension.

The disadvantage is the narrow track, which is inconvenient during sharp turns.

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.

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 snowmobiles and lineup

Most snowmobile manufacturers have proven themselves in the market, and their products are in great demand among buyers. There are several manufacturers to choose from:

Snowrunner;
Polaris;
Stels;
Woideal 300cc.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with the model range of Chinese snowmobiles in more detail.

"Snowrunner"

This vehicle is large in size, weighing approximately 125 kg when fully equipped. According to reviews from owners of these Snowrunner snowmobiles, the product of this brand has advantages.

The manufacturer independently carries out maintenance - 1, maintenance - 2. This incentive attracts possible buyers, while the price of this brand is the most affordable. If the vehicle is used according to the rules, there is no overload and good care is provided, then the snowmobile will last a long time.

Polaris

These vehicles have been popular on the market for more than 50 years. The very first ones were most preferred by consumers - ordinary workers who allowed themselves to buy Polaris. The trust continues today. The Polaris brand is still relevant, although the manufacturing plant has gone through difficult times.

The company's managers have often changed; despite the difficulties, the plant is operating successfully and is ready to please customers. Now interest in snowmobiles from the Chinese manufacturer has grown significantly; not only ordinary workers, but also professional athletes are ready to buy them. The model range is constantly updated. The latest model is manufactured taking into account all modern standards.

Woideal 300cc

The world market has recently released this brand. The new snowmobile offers the following features:

four-stroke engine;
power 17 hp;
liquid cooling and electric starter.

The Woideal 300cc snowmobile has such an important function as heated handles and trigger Hi - Lo - Off. The vehicle is equipped with a CVT device L - N - R. For convenience, a multifunctional control panel is built in, it displays the fuel level in the tank and the temperature mode in the engine. The snowmobile is suitable for driving in forest areas. According to the manufacturers' plans, this vehicle can be purchased by fishermen who like to spend time far from the city in their personal “fishing” places. The model will also be interesting for young people, it will be good entertainment in the winter. Of course, the weight of the device is quite large - about 135 kg. You can accelerate on it up to 70 km/h. For reserve, the car needs 20 liters. gasoline.

"Stealth" (made in China and Russia)

This is not only a Chinese brand, but a joint production of two countries. The plant initially produced other products before snowmobiles: bicycles, ATVs and mopeds. Later, the list of manufactured products was expanded to recently include a snowmobile. One of the snowmobiles has become the most popular - the V-800 model. It was not produced by any company. They presented their meaning: domestic and.

Snow machines of this brand are produced in Russia, that is, in the Bryansk region (Zhukovka). Speaking about the configuration, it must be on par with foreign models. The transport is even equipped with an additional device for lifting and moving various weights. Although certain consumers consider this a negative quality, in general the model’s equipment is very convenient and functional:

There is a panel for the driver, a seat for the passenger, which is equipped with a backrest. This is an important advantage because you are less likely to fall while moving.
Stealth has a built-in function for heating the gas control and steering wheel grips.
There is a trailer attachment - a towbar. The price is the same as for models of other brands in the Russian Federation.

It’s too early to talk about high quality and practicality, because the Stealth vehicle has only recently appeared on the market.

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.