Which motorized towing vehicle should you choose for winter fishing?

We decided to specify the conditions and purposes of using a motorized towing vehicle for a reason, because the model range, configuration options and the number of manufacturers in this area are so large that a person who is faced with the problem of choice for the first time can easily get confused and purchase an option that is not optimal for himself.

It’s good if this option copes with the responsibilities assigned to it and everything is limited to just overpaying for additional functions that in the end are simply not useful, it’s not so offensive. As they say, more is not less. It is much worse if the towing vehicle turns out to be completely useless or even makes it difficult to complete the assigned tasks. In order not to get into such an annoying situation and then write angry reviews about terrible equipment and unscrupulous sellers, let's figure out what should be considered when choosing a towing vehicle for winter fishing.

In fact, as in most cases of choosing such equipment, it is enough to turn on logic and turn off the desire to get as much as possible (more powerful, faster, cooler than Petrovich’s neighbor, underline what is necessary). And then the questions naturally arise:

And why, strictly speaking, an axle box, and not a snowmobile or a tracked ATV?

Answer: high-torque, maneuverability, simplicity of design (as a consequence of operation) and price. The only advantage ATVs and snowmobiles have over a tow vehicle is speed. But due to their size, as well as the characteristics of the chassis (snowmobiles have skis, ATVs have four small tracks), they will never be able to drive through deep snow or through a forest, not to mention dragging any cargo behind them.

Engine and its power

There are a huge number of engines for towing vehicles, but on any forum you can easily find plenty of evidence that the choice ultimately comes down to just a few options.
The leading position in terms of price/quality ratio is clearly occupied by Lifan. Also good engines are Zongshen or Rato. There are options for installing engines from other companies, for example Honda, naturally with a noticeable upward price adjustment. At the moment, manufacturers install motorized dogs with engines ranging from 9 to 24 hp. The choice of engine power is determined by the weight of the cargo being transported. For one person and fishing gear in shallow, flat snow, 13 hp is enough. The carrying capacity of such a towing vehicle is about 250-300 kg. If you plan to transport more than one person, overcome uneven terrain, or travel through the forest, it is better to take a more powerful engine of 13, 15 or 18.5 hp.

Briefly about the variator and gearbox: with a gearbox, the axle box starts moving more smoothly and does not try to get away from you at idle. This is where its advantages end. The variator is less demanding to use, can withstand greater loads, even with constant overloads, the most you can face is replacing the belt. As a rule, one belt lasts for 2-3 years and is not expensive.

There is no clear opinion regarding the drive, because... Both front- and rear-wheel drive have their advantages: rear-wheel drive gives greater controllability by shifting the center of gravity to the steering wheel, but in the absence of cargo it constantly lifts its nose and tends to dig into the snow. Therefore, it seems to us that it is most advisable to opt for front-wheel drive, this increases the high-torque power, the contact patch with the surface, such a towing vehicle drives equally well both empty and under load and is the most optimal option for fishing.

Selection by technical parameters

Conducting an analysis of the models on the market is mandatory before purchasing a snowmobile. Many characteristics are similar to traditional vehicles, but there are also specific differences. They arose due to special operating conditions.

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When choosing, you need to pay attention to the following parameters:

Engine capacity – from 170 to 930 cm³. The best option is about 500 cm³.
Suspension type – telescopic or lever. The first is reliable and rarely fails. Lever is more convenient to operate.
Seat design. They often provide for the possibility of installing additional space for a passenger or trunk.
Heated steering wheel and driver's seat. This is important during long hunts at sub-zero temperatures.
Windshield design – high or low profile. The first protects the driver from the effects of wind, the second is necessary to achieve maximum speed.
Ribbed side steps. To prevent their icing, a ventilation system for the ribbed surface must be provided.
Possibility of installing wide or narrow tracks and control skis.
Availability of safety elements - arches, shields.

Additionally, you need to take into account special equipment - clothing and a protective helmet. To transport large loads, purchase a trailer or make one yourself. It is important that the power of a hunting and fishing snowmobile is designed for such loads.

But often the determining factor in choice is price and manufacturer. As an example, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with reliable snowmobile models that have proven themselves well.

Which motorized towing vehicle should you choose in the end?

Summarizing all of the above, as well as relying on sales statistics, we can summarize that for winter fishing in Russia, the best option would be a front-wheel drive motorized towing vehicle with a large angle of attack on a standard base of 1450 mm, a width of 500 or 600 mm, with an engine of 15-18.5 PM The Muzhik motorized towing vehicle has proven itself to be excellent.

The towing vehicle is equipped with a reverse unit, heated handles, an emergency stop pin, etc. – this is a matter of personal preference, so we will not dwell on this in this article, but will be happy to advise you by phone or in person in the office.

TOP 3 popular models

Yamaha VK540 IV

Among the utilitarian models of snowmobiles, the Yamaha VK540 IV rightfully occupies a leading position. The design has maximum strength, and thanks to a well-thought-out control system, good maneuverability is ensured. The manufacturer installed a 535 cm³ engine, which had a positive effect on the power indicator.

Other features of the snowmobile for hunting and fishing:

adjustable rear suspension with long travel – 385 mm;
the presence of a transmission with reduction gear;
There is a reverse system.

But the manufacturer did not provide for the presence of a tachometer and a temperature sensor for the cylinder block. The average cost of the model is 527 thousand rubles.

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Arctic Cat Bearcat 2000 XT

Of the company’s line of models, this snowmobile is characterized by the lowest price. But this did not affect the traditionally thoughtful layout. The engine capacity of 565 cm³ allows full use of 57 hp. To operate the power plant, two carburetors are provided, the diffuser dimensions of which are 34 mm.

Advantages of the Arctic Cat Bearcat 2000 XT snowmobile:

large volume of luggage space; the passenger seat can be removed to increase it;
fuel tank volume – 64 l;
The pendant is made of particularly durable materials.

The disadvantages usually include the complexity of the design and high cost, which can exceed 794 thousand rubles.

What are the prices and where to buy?

The cost of a mini snowmobile depends on its functionality, its main characteristics and the manufacturer. You can purchase such a vehicle for 60-150 thousand rubles.

You can purchase a mini snowmobile at a specialized store that sells various equipment or at a store that sells fishing accessories. The ideal option is to order online. Firstly, it may cost a little less, and secondly, there is a wider selection, which allows you to choose exactly the model that is most suitable. Although there are pitfalls here too. There is a real opportunity to acquire a fake on the Internet.

A mini snowmobile can be an indispensable vehicle for anglers, especially in snowy winters. In addition, such products can be assembled and disassembled in a matter of minutes, and their dimensions allow the equipment to be stored in conditions where there is a lack of usable space.

Collapsible snowmobiles

Many fishermen prefer to use collapsible ones; they believe that they are much more convenient and practical. But in fact, such models have only a few rather minor design features.

For example:

The weight and size of the vehicle is much larger. Which sometimes becomes a problem, because all the parts may not fit into the trunk of ordinary cars.
The travel speed is much higher; thanks to the larger engine, you can travel 70 km per hour.
Assembling the structure takes much longer, because it is an order of magnitude more complex.
The large size allows several fishermen to comfortably accommodate.
Its carrying capacity is much higher than that of mini snowmobiles.

Reviews

Review of the 7 most reliable snowmobiles

SKI-DOO Freeride 165” 850 E-TEC SHOT

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

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

Cost: 1,673,000 rub.

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

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

Polaris 850 RMK KHAOS 155

The design of the model is quite aggressive, but the characteristics in this sense are not inferior. The model marking indicates that a two-stroke engine is also used here. So the dynamics of the snowmobile are all right. The weight is 191 kg, and coupled with a short 155-inch track, the device has gained amazing maneuverability. However, when confronted with loose snow, the model loses.

The equipment is no less impressive than the basic parameters: three steering wheels that differ in height, high-quality shock absorbers that can be individually configured. High ground clearance and long strokes are an excellent opportunity to fully reveal all the advantages of the engine.

The rear suspension geometry of the model differs from the usual one that the brand is used to using. As a result, the snowmobile “squats” noticeably less during sudden acceleration, which is due to better grip of the track at start. However, the price of such a mechanism is higher than that of others.

Cost: 1,429,000 rub.

Availability of high-quality sports suspension;
Powerful engine;
Amazing maneuverability.

Low cross-country ability on loose snow due to the short and narrow track.

BURAN AE

This snowmobile is considered the most affordable among Russian products. Although the cost is much lower than those described above, the design of the motorcycles is not inferior. It is also worth noting the convenient access in the engine compartment. Resistance to low temperatures and shocks is achieved through injection molded plastic. There is an electric starter, thanks to which the device starts without much effort. The 2-stroke engine has a displacement of 635 cc. see. The flow of cold air masses cools the power unit. The frame is short, and the layout is quite constructive. Thanks to this arrangement, even beginners can easily maneuver in the thicket of the forest.

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The equipment does not require special care. It is ridiculously easy to repair, because any problem can be corrected right in the field. Many call the device the leader among models designed for walking. The unit is affordable, unpretentious, reliable and easy to repair. Disadvantages include instability, intensive fuel consumption and lack of comfort.

Cost: 259,000 rub.

Availability of electric starter;
Fashionable design;
Maneuverability;
Reliability;
Easily amenable to repair work;
Affordable price.

The "cabin" is insufficiently equipped;
Requires a large amount of fuel.

TAYGA PATRUL 800 SWT

This snowmobile is also a domestic product. It has a utilitarian platform and is especially popular among fishermen and hunters. Moreover, the device provides maximum comfort and is capable of moving a trailer weighing more than 500 kg. The manufacturer really made an effort when creating the driver and passenger seats, making them two-level with removable backrests, thanks to which a long journey will take place in maximum comfort. The new steering unit provides heated throttle trigger and grips. An injection gasoline supply system is also used, which allows significant savings on refueling.

The majority of users are very satisfied with the purchase. The main advantages of motorcycles include good assembly and modern design. An equally important fact is that the unit starts up in a snap even in severe frost. However, among the disadvantages is engine overheating when the loads are too large.

Cost: 527,000 rub.

High level of comfort;
Ability to transport a heavy trailer;
Low fuel consumption;
Modern design.

Engine overheating under intense loads.

STELS 800 VIKING

The model is considered one of the most powerful in Russia and is an improved version of the Wolverines. The changes affected functionality, design and ergonomics. The width of the tracks varies from 50 to 60 cm. It is possible to install a winch and a reinforced bumper. The ride is as comfortable as possible thanks to the presence of a blown windshield, heated handles and a comfortable seat. The frame has a welded steel structure. The case is made from elastic and durable plastic. Thus, the product can safely be called high-quality, not requiring special care or attention. Even harsh conditions are not scary for the model, which allows it to be used everywhere.

Many owners appreciate the model for its power and efficiency. It will become indispensable for hunters and fishermen, suitable for driving in deep snow. The main drawback is low-quality fuel hoses.

Cost: 479,000 rub.

High power;
Wide tracks;
Riding comfort;
High quality materials.

Fuel hoses are of poor quality.

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

This Canadian company has been famous for its developments for quite some time. Moreover, the brand’s reputation is only positive. The snowmobile shows excellent results regardless of the conditions in which it is operated. High speed and economical fuel consumption are the main advantages of motor vehicles. The basis of the device is the lightweight REV-XS platform. The track tunnel is made of aluminum, and the frame is equipped with a huge number of stiffeners and has a pyramid shape. So, the driver is located precisely at the center of the mass distribution. This increases the controllability of the unit.

The model is considered one of the lightest in its category. The seat is designed for one person. If the need arises, the driver’s body can move quite far. This has a positive effect on maneuverability and driving dynamics.

The high quality of the chassis allows it to withstand the heaviest loads. Some configurations include a quick-release earring that stabilizes the lateral stability of the device. If necessary, it can be removed, and this does not require additional tools. This technology allows you to change movement tactics in a matter of minutes, taking into account the conditions of movement.

Cost: 8,085,000 rub.

The dynamics are not at a high level;
The ability to easily adjust the suspension, which ensures high and long jumps.

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If used carelessly, the engine does not show particularly impressive results.
Very high cost.

Polaris 850 Pro-RMK 155

The snowmobile is considered one of the best in the world. He will help you get to places where only a few have been. Design features include a lightweight chassis and a powerful gasoline engine. All this gives the device the ability to overcome even the most difficult snow obstacles without much effort. The tracks are built using a special technology that allows the device to be pulled to the surface regardless of the situation. The balance of the product is entirely in the hands of the driver. The system responds almost instantly to every command from the owner. Therefore, quickly changing direction is not a problem. Thus, motorcycles are ideal for maneuvers and high-speed riding. The engine impresses with its ability to constantly maintain a balance between power and weight.

The motor is equipped with an air cooling system. This, although insignificant, facilitates the design, giving it additional maneuverability. The model is distinguished by its unique geometry, the operating principle of which is based on an adjustable distance between the skis. The high strength of the steering knuckles is due to the fact that they are forged. The snowmobile easily “swallows” even serious road irregularities without causing any discomfort to the driver. The unit's monotube shock absorbers are responsible for this. Unit weight – 188 kg. This figure is amazing given its enormous power.

Cost: 1,042,000 rub.

Has excellent maneuverability;
Original design;
Availability of high quality tracks;
The tank is designed for large volumes of fuel.

Adjusting the ski base is difficult and sometimes requires a lot of effort.