Snowmobile Yamaha Viking 540: technical specifications

The Japanese manufacturer Yamaha is one of the world's best developers of a wide variety of equipment, among which snowmobiles occupy a worthy place .

Well, among them, the Yamaha Viking 540 model is especially distinguished. This device is the most successful development of the company .

It is very popular and is used all over the world. The reason for this is the excellent performance characteristics.

When starting a conversation about this snowmobile model, from the first words I would like to note its great cross-country ability, excellent endurance and ability to transport cargo.

At the same time, we can talk about this snowmobile as an economical and reliable device.

But these qualities, however, can be attributed to any Yamaha equipment.

Features of Yamaha snowmobiles

Yamaha snowmobiles come in four types:

Utilitarian, for movement in difficult conditions;
Tourist, for thrills;
Sports, providing more active recreation;
Mountain, for snow-capped peaks.

These vehicles have engines of approximately 40 horsepower, long and wide tracks, and can be equipped with trailers and luggage racks. Sports models can accelerate to 200 km/h .

They easily cope with obstacles.

The legendary Yamaha Viking 540 family

In addition to high power, snowmobiles of the Yamaha Viking 540 family have good handling .

And this property makes them suitable for any need.

The plastic body kit of the Japanese snowmobile hides a two-cylinder two-stroke engine, the volume of which is 535 cubic meters.

The efficient carburetor of the Mikuni model ensures economical fuel consumption . At the same time, the engine produces 46 horsepower.

Forced air cooling is used here, so the equipment can be used at low positive temperatures.

Regardless of the two-stroke engine, the snowmobile will smoke only during warm-up. And when the operating temperature is reached, the smoke is almost invisible.

The power unit is equipped with a separate automatic lubrication system , so the owner does not need to prepare a mixture of gasoline and oil.

The octane number of gasoline poured into the tank must be at least 92. Well, the lubricant tank is filled with 2.5 liters of two-stroke oil specialized for snowmobiles.

It should be noted that similar models of domestically produced snowmobiles are not capable of mixing gasoline with oil automatically, but their price is much lower.

Test drive Yamaha VK540 III Viking

Yamaha VK540 III Viking is one of the most popular snowmobiles in Russia among foreign vehicles. But last year, Rybinsk launched its new snowmobile “RM Taiga-Varyag 550” to the market. The goal is not hidden: to squeeze out the Japanese Viking in the domestic market.

Who are the real Vikings and Varangians and what do they have in common? Let the experts of the early Middle Ages figure it out. Snowmobiles Yamaha VK540 III Viking and Taiga-Varyag 550 are almost twins in their technical characteristics.

Production of the Yamaha VK540 began somewhere in the early 90s of the last century. The model was last upgraded in 2001, and the third generation Yamaha VK540 III Viking is now on sale. "Taiga-Varyag 550", according to the Hamburg account, is also a device designed far from from scratch. The first Taiga rolled off the production line at the turn of 1998–1999. The snowmobile was designed in the image and likeness of the Bombardier Skandic 1996 model year. In mid-1998, there was talk about organizing a joint Canadian-Russian enterprise. However, the financial crisis struck and Russian Mechanics and Bombardier (BRP did not exist at that time) parted ways like ships at sea. Nevertheless, Rybinsk businessmen brought the Taiga project to mass production. Today there is a whole family of “taiga” snowmobiles on the market: “Taiga-Classic” (38 hp, price 189,000 rubles), “Taiga-Lux” with lever front suspension (55 hp, price 212,600 rubles .), “Taiga-Attack” (65 hp, price 241,600 rub.), “Taiga-Patrol” 550 SWT (55 hp, price 228,200 rub.). In principle, with minor reservations, all these machines, especially, in my opinion, the Taiga Patrol with a 600 mm wide SWT (Super WideTrake) track, can be considered potential competitors of the Yamaha Viking. Meanwhile, this seemed not enough, and it was decided to create a real clone of the VK540 III Viking (in terms of technical characteristics) and enter into open competition with Yamaha. And the struggle is worth the candle. Every year, such utilitarian machines are sold in the price category of 200,000–300,000 rubles. About 2,000 units are sold in Russia. Rybinsk snowmobile builders are not going to give away such an enviable “piece of the pie” just like that. Moreover, in recent years the situation has clearly not been developing in their favor. The popularity of foreign cars is growing steadily. That is why the Taiga-Varyag model was thrown into battle against the most dangerous and experienced opponent - the Yamaha VK540 III Viking.

Taiga-Varyag and Viking are equipped with 2-stroke, 2-cylinder air-cooled power plants. Each has one Mikuni carburetor. The engine power of the Japanese snowmobile is 46 hp. s., for the domestic one - 50 l. With. The advantage of 4 “horses” is purely formal. The Varyag is not superior to the Viking either in terms of acceleration dynamics or maximum speed. Moreover, from a purely personal impression, the Rybinsk engine is inferior to its Japanese counterpart in terms of traction at low speeds and shows a much greater fuel appetite. Offhand and very roughly - about 30-32 liters per 100 km versus 22-25 liters for the Viking. Apparently, it’s no accident that our “fighter” has a 7-liter larger fuel tank. It is clear that gasoline consumption depends on the snow, driving style, carb settings, etc., etc. But the fact that the Varyag is more gluttonous is for sure.

At medium and high speeds, the performance characteristics of both engines are quite comparable. In the same conditions, with two passengers, both snowmobiles reached their honest maximum 80 km/h. The Varyag's engine is louder. (But you only notice this when a Viking is standing next to you with the engine running.) The Japanese has a separate lubrication system. One tank of oil is enough for 4-5 full tanks. Fuel for a domestic device must be prepared the old fashioned way, by manually mixing gasoline with oil. This is not a minus, but rather just a distinctive feature. Sometimes, in frosts above thirty, the “old-fashioned method” of pouring oil directly into the tank is preferable to relying on the reliability of the oil supply system. It’s better to personally protect yourself in severe frost from extraordinary engine overhauls. True, such troubles happen extremely rarely with Viking. On average, Japanese “snowballs” travel 20,000–25,000 km; there are also specimens with a mileage of 60,000–75,000 km. At the moment, the new RMZ-550 engine from Russian Mechanics does not promise such miracles. However, the manufacturer provides a warranty of two years or 3000 km. But they promise to significantly increase the warranty period soon. Agree, this is encouraging information that allows us to speak in advance about the high quality of RMZ-550.

The driver's seating position on both snowmobiles is radically low. In general, you feel more comfortable behind the wheel of the Viking due to the slightly higher seat and adjusted control ergonomics. On the Varyag, the “sofa” is stiffer and 4–5 cm shorter. Two hefty kids weighing over 100 kg will have to ride in an embrace. In addition, on the Japanese vehicle the passenger handles are plastic (hands don’t get so cold) and raised high. On the Varyag, the passenger handles are open steel (but you can install heating), and you have to reach for them. The underseat space on the Varyag is noticeably larger, but due to the battery (by the way, from this year on the new Taiga models the battery has been “relocated” under the seat), you cannot hide the unfolded gun there.

On the Varyag, the transmission mode control lever is located on the left side of the driver and works, to put it mildly, a little stiffly. The gear selector on the Yamaha functions clearly, without any jamming. It is designed in automotive style and is cleverly located under the pilot’s right hand. We add the Viking’s best performance in terms of smoothness, since its suspension is objectively more energy-intensive, and we conclude: in terms of overall comfort and handling in our small comparative test, the device from the Land of the Rising Sun becomes a favorite. But there won’t be a categorical verdict that Varyag is not a competitor to Viking. Yes, in Rybinsk it was not possible to create an exact copy of the legendary “indestructible” (as people say) Japanese snowmobile. “Varyag” is a successful car with an extremely attractive price/quality ratio. But most importantly, Varyag has rich potential for growth. I have absolutely no doubt that Russian Mechanics will definitely take advantage of this potential. So Yamaha has every reason to be concerned.

Text: Automobiles Magazine

Maximum performance on snow

To move on any snow, the Viking 540 is equipped with wide skis.

This guarantees excellent cross-country ability in deep snow, as well as good handling.

The snowmobile has individual features:

Rear torsion bar suspension, which is responsible for comfort;
With tracks of increased width, as well as a star equipped with external gearing, this allows the driver to easily overcome virgin snow;
Simplicity for everyday use;
Attractive design.

History of the Viking 540 model range

The Yamaha Viking VK540 snowmobile lineup is the result of continuous improvement of this technology.

Japanese manufacturers always try to ensure high quality, reliability and at the same time achieve maximum simplicity of design.

The first snowmobile of this line came out in the early 80s. To this day, a lot has changed in it, only its high popularity has remained unchanged.

From 2001 to 2011, the Yamaha Viking VK540 III model was used and actively improved.

In 2012, the world saw an improved version of the Yamaha Viking VK540 IV.

Wide plastic skis and a new adjustable rear suspension are already used here.

A new variator belt has also been used, the service life of which has been significantly increased.

In 2014-2015, fans of snow racing could enjoy the wonderful sensations of riding the Yamaha Viking 540 IV Limited camouflage.

All these models have their differences , and most importantly, improvements that were used on the basis of the latest modern developments.

Viking 540 models and their features

In 2010, a new and improved model, the Yamaha Viking 540 III, entered the market.

Its capabilities have received the best ratings from ordinary users and professionals.

Yamaha Viking 540 III

This snowmobile will undoubtedly become a faithful assistant . He is strong and very pliable.

It has already received high marks from residents of the north and hunters, who were able to fully experience the benefits of the Yamaha Viking 540 III.

It has a 535 cc 2-stroke engine with a power of 53 horsepower.

It is air-cooled, and the snowmobile itself weighs less than similar 4-stroke counterparts. The chassis is durable .

ProAction model rear suspension. The damping of the gas-directed shock absorber can be adjusted. The spring hardness is also adjusted and this ensures a smooth ride .

The track is wide - 508 mm, equipped with 25 mm lugs, which provide better traction with loose snow. This ensures the snowmobile can handle any conditions.

The Viking 540 III snowmobile is all about convenience.

Electric starter, soft seat, capacious trunk, heated handles, all this is created to ensure maximum comfort during trips.

Unlike a car, a motorcycle DVR will not only record everything you see, but will also remember the track and mark the acceleration.

This Yamaha motorcycle turned out to be not only solid and beautiful, but also very reliable, for which it is still in demand today.

Yamaha Viking 540 IV

This model provides a variety of options. But, in addition, the Yamaha Viking 540 IV has a reduced weight .

First of all, you should pay attention to the improved unique rear suspension mechanism .

Here you can also change the spring stiffness and the level of shock absorber deformation.

A reverse function is also provided, and the transmission is equipped with an increased number of gears.

Wide skis, stars with torsion clutch, as in the previous model, contribute to good maneuverability.

The reverse chassis was equipped with a twelve-inch vertical suspension.

Viking VK540 IV Limited

This improved model has features such as a powerful engine, an air-cooled system, a new torsion bar rear suspension, wide skis, and tracks.

Few serious players in the snowmobile market can provide a model that can compete with the Viking VK540 IV Limited.

What's so special here?

Firstly, the two-cylinder two-stroke engine has been retained from previous models. However, the skis have become even wider and more comfortable , equipped with optimized skates.

There is also a two-speed transmission with good reverse. The chest trunk has become stronger, and the double seat has become more comfortable.

Secondly, higher quality footrests are used here; they are stronger and more reliable . Enlarged windshield glass provides better protection.

In our article, we examined in detail Kawasaki ATVs, which have always combined and combine incredible reliability, the latest technology and a bright, easily recognizable design.

All components of this Kawasaki motorcycle are mounted on a diamond-shaped frame. When creating it, pipes made of high-strength steel were used.

Viking 540 IV Tough Pro

Maximum reliability and affordability - this is the Viking 540 IV Tough Pro.

It is these two properties that domestic consumers are always lacking.

This new modification, which appeared in 2015, was created specifically for use in Russia . All the features of the difficult conditions of this country are taken into account here.

A specially prepared mixture of oil and gasoline (premix) is used for lubrication. The result is high reliability in sub-zero temperatures.

And the use of manual start provides a significant reduction in weight . It also features a simple but particularly robust bumper design.

As a result of these innovations, the VK540 Tough Pro snowmobile is 16 kg lighter than its predecessor.

As a result, controllability, stability and mobility have increased, and the operational capabilities of the vehicle have become wider.

So the latest model of the VK540 snowmobile has excellent consumer qualities .

Specifications and price

540 III

Let's start with the first option, which is the Yamaha Viking 540 III. It is with his example that we will consider the standard characteristics of this type of transport. The dimensions of the Yamaha Viking 540 snowmobile are 3055 / 1190 / 1355 mm, which allows you to confidently maneuver even in limited space.

The two-stroke engine of the unit has a volume of 535 cm3.

Air cooling avoids engine overheating.

540 III

The shock absorbers are gas-directed, which allows you to seriously reduce various vibrations that one way or another arise during movement. 2.5 cm lugs allow vehicles of this type to obtain maximum traction on the snow surface.

The fifty-centimeter caterpillar will help to obtain the simplest possible control of the unit. An electric starter allows you to put the equipment into operation under any conditions.

Yamaha Viking 540 III will cost approximately 500,000 rubles.

In the video there is a Yamaha Viking 540 3rd generation snowmobile

540 IV

Dimensions

The structural length of the snowmobile is 3055 millimeters.
Width with skis – 1190 millimeters.
The total height with the windshield is 1355 millimeters.
Track type: Camoplast Ripsaw.
The total length of the track is 3922 millimeters.
The track width is 508 millimeters.
The height of the caterpillar belt is 35 millimeters.
The track width between the ski centers is 900 millimeters.
The track base of the snowmobile is 508 millimeters.

Operational values

Structural weight – 316 kilograms.
The type of engine installed is gasoline.
Engine starting type – manual.
The type of rear shock absorber of the propulsion unit is hydropneumatic single-tube.
Fuel tank capacity – 31 liters
The type of transmission installed is a variator with low gear.
Number of speeds – 4: low, high, reverse, neutral.
Control type – hydraulic.
Braking mechanism type: mechanical disc.

Engine

The Yamaha Viking 540 IV snowmobile uses a two-stroke gasoline power plant. The block has two cylinders with a diameter of 73 millimeters. Their total working volume is 0.535l. It has one Mikuni model carburetor with a chamber diameter of 38 millimeters. This engine uses the DUCATI CDI ignition system, which ensures smooth operation of the engine in all operating modes. The cooling system is of forced air type, which allows the snowmobile to be used at warm ambient temperatures.

How much does it weigh

The weight of the Yamaha Viking 540 IV snowmobile is less than the previous model, which makes it possible to increase the cross-country ability of this vehicle.

540 IV

The cost of a Yamaha Viking 540 IV snowmobile starts from 400 thousand rubles and up to 600,000 rubles.

The video shows a Yamaha Viking 540 4th generation snowmobile.

540 IV Limited

The Yamaha VikingVK540 IV Limited is equipped with the widest possible skis, which allows for increased handling and maneuverability. In addition, the snowmobile of this modification is equipped with an extended trunk, and the driver’s seat is much more comfortable.

VK540 IV Limited

To protect the driver from gusts of cold wind, a larger glass area is used.

Used units can be purchased for 40 percent less than the original cost.

Estimated cost

The cost of the Yamaha Viking 540 IV Tough Pro snowmobile - 2014-2015 model year is within 400,000 rubles.

Its predecessor, the Yamaha Viking 540 IV, produced in 2013, will cost about 350,000 rubles.

And, of course, the Yamaha Viking 540 III, produced in 2010, was valued at 300,000 rubles on the domestic market.

There is also a 1994 model - Yamaha Viking 540 E, for which you will need to pay 200,000 rubles.

But the Yamaha Viking 540, 2007 costs 240,000 rubles.

To ride a Husky snowmobile, you don’t need any special skills; it can be used by both adults and teenagers.

The presence of a special bag helps snowmobile owners decide how to transport certain things and objects.

Considering utilitarianism

Reverse gear is standard on high/low gearboxes

Since the Yamaha RS Viking Professional snowmobile was designed as a utilitarian snowmobile, it is equipped with Yamaha's most advanced 4-stroke engine. The Genesis 120 was designed specifically as a snowmobile engine, i.e. with high torque and high efficiency due to the fuel injection system. The air-cooled Viking 540 engine also has plenty of torque, but being a 2-stroke, it tends to gradually lose power once it reaches its mid-range level. The 4-stroke RS Viking Professional pulls three times longer, peaking at around 8200rpm, making it an excellent replacement for the VK 540. And although the liquid-cooled engine has a relatively high 11.3 compression ratio, it runs just fine on regular 87-octane petrol.

Video

We bring to your attention a video featuring the hero of our article. The author of this video shows us how easily the Yamaha Viking 540 moves through deep snow.

The equipment shown in the images may differ from the production models. Phone number for feedback: +7 (495) 225-94-81. Any information contained on this website is for informational purposes only and under no circumstances can be regarded as an offer to enter into an agreement (public offer).

Tuning and additions

Yamaha allows you not only to purchase a really high-quality Viking 540 snowmobile, but also all kinds of add-ons for it.

They will significantly expand the capabilities of the unit:

a finder headlight will help you in the dark so that the driver can easily illuminate absolutely any area, regardless of the direction of travel;
protection from branches for confident driving in areas where there are trees;
an improved driver's seat, which will provide even more comfort;
case for snowmobile Yamaha Vikingt 540;
various additions that will help improve engine performance;
all kinds of external tuning options;
trailer so that you can transport even really massive and oversized loads.

Thus, the Yamaha Viking 540 will be an excellent snowmobile that will allow you to cover long distances on snow without any problems.

Whichever sled you choose, it's worth remembering that you may also need an AI sled license.