Snowmobile Ermak Stealth 800: owner reviews

Motorcycle and all-terrain vehicles produced under the Stels brand are very popular among residents of our country. Despite the fact that it is considered relatively young in comparison with the giants of the global industry, in twenty years it has managed to establish itself as a manufacturer of affordable and high-quality equipment.

In the arsenal of the Moscow enterprise:

• scooters;
• mopeds;
• motorcycles;
• bicycles;
• snowmobiles;
• ATVs.

The Russian-made Stels s800 Viking snowmobile belongs to the utilitarian class and has a powerful and economical engine. Its main feature is that it costs an order of magnitude lower than its foreign analogues.

User manual

Each new snowmobile comes with a detailed instruction manual and warranty card. The main components of the machine, inspection and maintenance procedures are described here. In addition, the manual contains recommendations for running in and operating the all-terrain vehicle.

Maintenance

To keep your snowmobile in good working order, vital components must be inspected and serviced regularly. This helps in time to detect a minor malfunction, which can subsequently cause a serious breakdown. The driver can do some maintenance himself, but larger repairs will require the assistance of a qualified technician.

Types of maintenance:

All subsequent maintenance is carried out every 2 thousand km or once a year during conservation.

Break-in recommendations

Any new engine requires mandatory running-in. Of course, this only applies to new cars purchased from an official Stealth dealer, and not on the secondary market. This period is very important, since its further functionality and service life depend on how the power unit is operated during the first 500 km.

Run-in modes:

Daniila Rukin

Snowmobile specialist "Buran". I go fishing in my free time.

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During the break-in period, the engine may consume more fuel and engine oil than stated in the technical specifications. This is due to the fact that the engine parts are run-in and ground to the required gap sizes.

Controls

Like any other snowmobile, on the Viking the main control elements are located on the steering wheel and dashboard. On the display, the user can see the speedometer, odometer and current time. Also located here are the buttons for switching the instrument panel display and the indicators themselves:

• turning on low beam, high beam, side lights;
• heated handles;
• emergency voltage range;
• turning on reverse, “Parking” mode;
• oil pressure;
• motor overheating;
• coolant temperature;
• malfunctions of power unit control systems.

The emergency brake and throttle control lever are located on the right steering handle. There is also a button to turn on the ignition and electrical appliances.

Controls located on the left handle:

• brake lever;
• lever lock;
• engine stop button;
• cover of the main brake fluid reservoir.

The engine stop button does not have a latch, so it must be kept pressed until the engine stops completely.

Polaris Widetrak LX reviews

• “Very reliable snowmobile. I have been using this model for more than 5 years. I mainly use it for winter fishing trips. Since the fishing spot is more than 15 km away, the cooling system plays an important role for me. Fortunately, Polaris has liquid cooling. When moving through steppe terrain, where there is a lot of snow, the equipment does not heat up at all. I don’t even think about letting the snowmobile cool down for a couple of minutes. A fairly roomy seat allows you to take your son with you fishing, who is simply delighted with the Widetrak LX. Even he, a 10 year old boy, is able to operate this unit without any problems. The engine is powerful, the traction is simply excellent. I tried to attach the sled, it was easy! The frame is durable and can withstand accidental bumps on rocks or steep hills.”
• “I would like to note the good maneuverability, as well as good maneuverability. The snowmobile, to be honest, is not small, but you can move through a dense forest. A decent speed limit can be traced, 105-110 km/h is accurate. Cruising speed is somewhere around 70-85 km/h. The rear case is great for storing essentials on the go. I'm pleased with the good dashboard, the cost of a snowmobile is low. I recommend!".

• “The snowmobile seems to be good, but after 3 months of operation I would not recommend buying it. A friend has a Yamaha Viking, that’s where the really cool “snowball” is. A big difference (to the bad side) is felt in the controls. The towbar is not very reliable and needs to be redone. The design is outdated, from the 90s.”

Characteristic differences in configuration

The Viking 800 M differs from the manufacturer’s previous models in its modern design, wide windshield, and the presence of a powerful headlight. The frame is made of heavy-duty steel alloy that is resistant to premature corrosion. The material for the hood and body is a special elastic plastic, which does not lose its properties even in severe frosts.

The basic equipment of this snowmobile bike includes:

• informative dashboard and functional steering wheel;
• heated grips and throttle trigger;
• hydraulic brake;
• rear light protected from moisture;
• ski extensions;
• towbar;
• passenger seat back;
• spacious underseat trunk and trunk protected by a steel frame;
• front bumper.

The snowmobile is equipped with a 50 or 60 cm track. Optionally, you can also install a winch and a reinforced bumper. The model is produced in three colors - with a white, yellow or black body.

What are snowmobiles for?

The scope of application of such vehicles is very wide: they are used both for normal driving and for hunting and transporting goods.

The driver of a vehicle such as a snowmobile can calmly move at high speed and quickly maneuver, overcoming even serious and difficult obstacles.

This is precisely what explains the widespread use of such machines in snowy areas.

The design of any snowmobile is quite simple: instead of wheels, it has skis and tracks, which are ideal for moving on snow, and otherwise the movement process is similar to other types of transport.

The best snowmobiles in the world in this video:

Performance characteristics of the unit

The Stealth Viking 800 snowmobile has improved technical characteristics. In the new model, the two-stroke engine was replaced with a more powerful four-stroke, the fuel system and air intake system were updated. The vertical placement of the batteries made it possible to increase the luggage compartment. The latest variation, V800 M 2.0 CVTech, has a 12-volt socket for external devices. All wiring is additionally equipped with moisture protection. Below is a detailed overview of the main components of this snowmobile track.

Body and how much it weighs

The body is based on a steel riveted-welded frame. The dry weight of the all-terrain vehicle is 370 kg, while the utility vehicle is capable of pulling cargo sleds weighing up to 500 kg.

Dimensional characteristics (in meters):

The snowflake has two skis 1.065 m long and 18 cm wide. In addition, the machine has 15 cm ground clearance.

Suspension, brakes, track

The suspension consists of two parts - telescopic front and rail rear. Both have a spring mechanism and a hydropneumatic shock absorber. The stroke of the first is 15, and the second is 17 cm. For braking, as in most modern models, a hydraulic disc brake is used. Installed on the gearbox output shaft.

Daniila Rukin

Snowmobile specialist "Buran". I go fishing in my free time.

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The role of propulsion is performed by a rubber-fabric caterpillar of the Taiga 600 brand with a front-mounted drive sprocket.

Caterpillar parameters:

Fuel and consumption

The snowmobile is equipped with a spacious 45-liter fuel tank. The manufacturer recommends using gasoline grade AI-92 and higher.

According to the technical data sheet, the average consumption is 12 liters per 100 km. However, in practice, depending on the type of terrain, this figure can increase to 15-25 liters per hundred.

Transmission

The chassis is equipped with a manual transmission, which is a variator with a V-belt. Three gears are available:

• reduced;
• increased;
• reverse

In addition, the box also has a neutral position.

Engine and dynamics

This snowflake has a V-shaped four-stroke injection engine with liquid cooling. It differs from earlier models in increased efficiency and good power. The unit is controlled using an on-board computer.

Main parameters of the power unit:

An electric or manual starter is used to start. The maximum design speed according to the technical data sheet is 70 km/h. However, on smooth surfaces and ice the car can accelerate to 95 kilometers.

Specifications

Dimensions:

• length – 3251 mm;
• width – 1105 mm;
• height – 1295 mm;
• the distance between the central axes of the skis is 965 mm.

Track dimensions:

• length – 3453 mm;
• width – 500 mm;
• lug height – 31.7 mm.

The dry weight of the snowmobile is 278.1 kg.

Characteristics of the main elements:

• front suspension type - IFS;
• front shock absorbers – Nitrex;
• front suspension travel – 184 mm;
• rear suspension type – WideTrak with articulated extension;
• rear shock absorbers – Nitrex;
• rear suspension travel – 229 mm;
• ski type – PRO-FLOAT;
• brake system – disc with hydraulic drive;
• transmission – gearbox with low gear and reverse;
• CVT – P-85/Polaris Button with reverse gear.

The weight of the towed trailer with a snow depth of 300-600 mm is 300 kg. The maximum speed on snow is 80 km/h, on snowy ice – 120 km/h.

How much does Viking 800 cost?

A new Stels Viking from an official dealer costs about 469 – 614 thousand rubles. This difference in the price of a new snowmobile is explained by the fact that stores can offer both 2022 and 2022 models without mileage. In addition, the “Viking” marked “M” is considered an outdated version in comparison with cars that have the M 2.0 CVTech additive in their name.

However, the previous version will cost less – around 260 – 450 thousand rubles. In the second case, the price depends on the year of manufacture and technical condition. So a 2014 snowmobile with PSM and in good condition will cost about 280, and a 2022 model without mileage will cost 470 thousand rubles.

Reviews

• Semyon, Krasnoyarsk. This device was purchased in 2011. The machine immediately went into service, it was my first snowmobile, and I couldn’t wait to try it out in harsh conditions. The car drives excellently in the snow, however, that’s what it’s designed for. The travel modes are as follows: I go hunting in fields and forests twice a month, with the total length of the route being 100 km. Thus, the round trip is 200 km. My friend has a Yamaha Wiking 540, which is definitely worse than the Polaris in terms of handling. The machine is equipped with liquid cooling, thanks to which you don’t have to worry about the engine overheating. In addition, it will never freeze even at minus 35 degrees Celsius. The handle is heated to prevent your hands from freezing at high speed (under the influence of wind). Overall, the snowmobile turned out to be successful and economical.
• Yaroslav, Irkutsk. I have owned the Polaris WideTrack LX500 snowmobile for three years. I have two impressions from the car. Firstly, I’ll say that the device immediately impressed me with its power and dynamics, but with tongue-twisting. At the same time, I can definitely say that the snowmobile moves confidently even at minus 30 degrees, nothing freezes. But over time, the build quality and the design as a whole began to deteriorate - I mean, some parts began to fall off. After just two years, it was time to change the pistons, which had to be ordered from abroad. Three is expensive. Over time, shortcomings also appeared in the suspension, which began to weaken and knock noticeably, and vibrations from it transferred to the steering column. It often breaks through shock absorbers, and sometimes it gets to the point where the bolts are destroyed, and some screws need to be tightened regularly. Factory fastenings are unreliable, freeze and break. In short, what I liked most about this car was the engine. He seems alive and perky. But it’s unlikely that I would purchase this model a second time.
• Boris, Novosibirsk. Overall I liked the Polaris WideTrack LX500, but its age is still showing. At the moment, the mileage is 5000 km, which was completed in two years. Naturally, there were breakdowns, and I’ll start with them. Most of the problems relate to the suspension, in which the springs at the front and rear had to be replaced. The bolt securing the front trailing arm also wore out quickly. Unfortunately, I waited a very long time for the necessary parts to arrive. In terms of carrying capacity, the snowmobile showed its best side - for example, you can easily transport up to 400 kg at a temperature of minus 40 degrees. Fuel consumption at a calm pace does not exceed 20 liters, and you can fill in 92-grade gasoline. Overall, the car justified itself for hunting trips.
• Vladimir, Vladivostok. Over two years of operation, the meter of my snowmobile shows a mileage of more than 5 thousand kilometers. The machine is used as a “tug” - for transporting sleighs, and even with large cargo containers. Of course, the equipment entered regular use immediately after the test run, which lasted several hundred kilometers. The load weighs 300 kg, the flight is normal - the snowmobile pulls confidently at a speed of 30-35 km/h. The main part of the journey is 300 kilometers, and during this time the car consumes 75 liters of 92-octane gasoline. Over the course of two years, the suspension performed well, except that a couple of bolts were lost. The engine pulls great and starts at minus 20, but after that it is not always possible to start on the first try.

Equipment from Ermak company

One of the most reputable domestic manufacturers of equipment of this type is the Ermak company. The organization represents top-class equipment that successfully competes with foreign analogues. The manufacturer is constantly improving its models, thanks to which the line of snowmobiles is expanding every year.

This speaks not only of the successful development of the company, but also of a wide choice for any buyer.

Ermak snowmobiles are presented in various versions, target audiences and price categories. Therefore, everyone will be able to choose exactly the version of the snowmobile that will be optimal in technical and financial terms.

So that you can choose the most suitable model for yourself, you should familiarize yourself with the most popular equipment from this company, which will allow you to get a complete picture of snowmobiles. This is presented in the video and photographic materials published in the article.

Optional equipment

Ermak, as well as Yamaha snowmobiles (especially Yamaha Viking), allows you not only to purchase equipment for driving on snow, but also to improve it, making it as comfortable as possible for the owner. By purchasing STELS series snowmobiles, you can install the following types of additional equipment on them:

• a branch breaker that will help you move in wooded areas without fear of damage from branches and other dangers that may await you in such areas;
• LED rear lights that will help make your snowmobile more visible in the dark so that other equipment does not accidentally crash into it;
• seeker. This xenon headlight is designed for those who like to hunt on snowmobiles and allows them to “comb” the area in the dark in search of game, or simply illuminate any objects without getting up from their snowy vehicle;

Vivid advantages of the STELS line

Some of the most common snowmobiles are considered to be models from the STELS series : 600 and 800. This equipment is truly modern, reliable and controllable, like the Cayman walk-behind tractor, the Champion walk-behind tractor, the Shmel grain crusher, the Mantis cultivator and the MTZ 82 trator.

Therefore, both modifications of STELS have become quite widespread and have proven themselves to be excellent.

They almost completely ousted Buran snowmobiles from the Russian Mechanics company from the market, which were previously really widespread.

Serious obstacles

How do the Stealth 600 Viking snowmobiles overcome serious obstacles? Reviews, testing by professionals - after studying this information, we will be able to understand this issue. Snowmobile owners find significant obstacles near lakes with steep banks. This is where boulders, streams and gullies are located. Some tested their cars by reaching the mountains, maneuvering between trees. Many people say that they are afraid of breaking glass because it looks too flimsy: its resistance is 20% in warm weather, and in cold weather it can instantly burst if it comes into contact with an obstacle.

Drivers tell how they wind their way up the mountain on a snowmobile, overcome a swamp with bumps, and enter the forest on a 45-degree climb. They say that the lack of reserve under the stern does not allow some bumps to be passed, the car rests on its bottom and buries itself in the snow. But by engaging reverse gear and pressing the gas, you can get the Stealth Viking 600 out of the hole - the Stels Viking 600 will confidently go backwards. It is known that it is impossible to pull off such a trick on other snowmobiles. Pilots are surprised when they see how the car easily climbs a mountain in a low gear.

Some test it in a swamp with passengers: they claim that control in this case is easier. Others are upset that along the highway the car’s bottom touches the space between the tracks. Many people say that the racks need to be enlarged and the front part needs to be raised by at least 5-10 cm.

Reviews about the “Stealth (Wolverine) 600 Viking” snowmobile can be heard as follows: the owners of the cars claim that they are fully satisfied with the test. Some people say that they are not satisfied with the noise in the box: there is a feeling that the chain is unstable and is beating against the body. The pilots tried different modes up to 45 km, but the ringing and knocking did not disappear. Owners fear that the chain may break and damage the box.

Some checked the product at idle speed: there was no rumble. Therefore, the version with the box remains. Many owners indicate that the brakes work great: they did not notice any wedge, distortion, grinding or other malfunctions.

Some professionals suggest bringing the heat removal system to the glass area so that it warms the driver's face when driving in the cold. They also want the manufacturer to raise the pillar a little and do a good job of upholstering the seat. They also indicate a suspicious noise in the box (apparently, the teeth are placed incorrectly at a certain moment).

In general, buyers praise the Stealth 600 Viking snowmobile. Owner reviews contain positive information. Many people write that this machine is one step away from success. They recommend putting it in order immediately, following the consumer’s recommendations.

Engine

The Stealth 600 Ermak snowmobile is equipped with a two-stroke two-cylinder power plant capable of developing a rated output power of 36.78 kilowatts, which translates to 50 horsepower. The total working volume of these two cylinders is 0.565 liters. The exhaust system of this unit includes a muffler with a resonator. A single Mikuni model carburetor is used. The cooling system of the unit is air type.

Description

The Stealth 600 Viking receives excellent reviews. The front part of this device has a more than original appearance. Not every specialist will immediately identify the machine from which it could have been copied. Neither Polaris, BPR, nor Yamaha have any sleds with this design. Moreover, no manufacturer installs LED headlights on these cars. But they shine luxuriously! If you turn on the low beam, you can get visibility up to 50 meters, and if you turn on the high beam, you can see objects at a distance of 120-150 meters. In general, the optics here are much better than those of the Wolverine 800.

What other reviews does Stealth 600 Viking receive? Customers say the snowmobile's hood has amazingly smooth lines. There are no incomprehensible design delights here, such as creases and recesses where snow can accumulate. It should be noted that plastic for Viking has extraordinary plasticity, as it is produced on the plant’s personal equipment. In fact, it cannot be broken. The windshield, especially its height, does not cause any complaints. The only disadvantages of the new glass include a slight distortion of reality.

Models

The all-terrain vehicle "Stealth Ermak" is produced in two modifications. The cars have the same characteristics in terms of power unit, gearbox and fuel tank volume. Differences are observed in overall dimensions and tracked propulsion.

STELS ERMAK 600S

This modification is more compact in size and has relatively less weight. However, this does not affect the utilitarian properties of the all-terrain vehicle. The snowmobile is well suited for household work and trips into nature. Thanks to its small width, it rides well in forested conditions. Designed for one person.

STELS ERMAK 600L

This variation has an extended base, which allows you not only to add a passenger seat, but also to place another luggage compartment at the rear. The model is more suitable for long trips over long distances. This all-terrain vehicle has a relatively large track, it is taller and weighs more, thanks to which it can easily walk through loose snow.

This model allows for the installation of a full range of additional options. This makes it possible to take into account all the individual preferences of the owner.