Snowmobile "Taiga Varyag 550 V": owner reviews, description, technical characteristics, pros and cons

Domestic snowmobiles have a special character, focused on practicality and utilitarian operation. Of course, there are exceptions, but harsh conditions and the average level of infrastructure development in the regions themselves set such requirements for the properties of equipment. Nevertheless, ergonomic nuances are never ignored - to the extent possible, they are calculated even in budget versions.

The balance in characteristics, in particular, is confirmed by snowmobiles from Russian Mechanics, a manufacturer from Rybinsk. One of the most successful developments of this company in recent years can be called the modification “Taiga Varyag 550 V”. The device has an optimized technical base, which also causes a number of its disadvantages. However, based on the totality of performance qualities, taking into account the price tag, this option at least deserves attention when choosing a utilitarian snowmobile.

Specifications

In terms of its main parameters, the unit corresponds to the general trend in the class of utilitarian mountain models. Of course, this version is not included in the narrow circle of massive high-power equipment, but the possible lack of performance is compensated by the dynamics of the Taiga Varyag 550 V snowmobile. The technical characteristics of the device are presented below:

Engine capacity – 2 cylinders of 553 cm3.
Power potential – 55 liters. With.
Fuel tank volume – 40 l.
Suspension travel is 150 mm at the front and 385 mm at the rear.
The caterpillar dimensions are 397 x 51 x 3.5 cm.
Overall dimensions – 299 x 105 x 142 cm.
Track size – 96 cm.
Speed limit is maximum 80 km/h.
Number of places – 2.

Thanks to its relatively compact platform and considerable power, the snowmobile provides good dynamics and maneuverability. This is an advantage over large representatives of the mountain utility segment. Compared to younger versions, the Varyag has advantages in the form of high cross-country ability and technical reliability. Although these indicators also have their own conventions, which were noticed during the operation of the device.

Controls

The snowmobile is provided with a standard set of monitoring and control equipment, including handles, throttle levers, ignition switch, engine mode switches, etc. The main control element is the steering wheel. It is represented by a motorcycle-type device and is designed for the traditional style of directional travel. The left side of the steering wheel is also provided with a brake actuator, which, when released, automatically returns to its original position. It is worth noting the optics control system of the Taiga Varyag 550 V snowmobile. Owner reviews indicate convenient linking of headlight operating modes to the speedometer panel. The user can monitor the current state of the optical configuration through a special indicator. The mechanical handle for switching the lights (from low to high, and vice versa) is located on the remote part of the left steering wheel grip.

Brake system

The mechanism for forcing the snowmobile to stop is based on a hydraulic circuit. As already noted, on the left side of the steering wheel there is a brake cylinder, as well as a container with liquid. Before starting a trip, you should always check the fill level of the tank. It can be controlled through a transparent window, which is located directly in the cylinder wall. At the same time, for the correctness of the indicator, it is important that the Taiga Varyag 550 V snowmobile be maintained in a strictly horizontal position. Owner reviews also note the ergonomic interface of the handle with the parking brake mechanism. There is also a special lever for it on the left side of the steering wheel, but this configuration does not affect the ease of manipulation.

Suspension and brakes

Since most of the time the snowmobile moves over rough terrain, it needs a reliable and energy-intensive suspension. The driver and passenger must feel confident in the saddle, covering tens and even hundreds of kilometers.

The developers chose technical solutions that have proven themselves in practice for their brainchild, installing a telescopic fork with a stroke length of 105 mm at the front, and a skid plate suspension at the rear with a stroke of 190 mm. The vibration energy is absorbed by monotube gas-oil shock absorbers.

By giving the name Varyag to the Taiga snowmobile, its creators seemed to want to emphasize that the car was created to conquer the snow-covered Russian expanses. The chassis copes with this task quite successfully, without causing problems for riders in the saddle.

Hydraulic disc brakes allow you to quickly stop a car accelerated to 80 km/h. But this does not mean that you can rush across snow-covered fields without looking back. Under a thick layer of snow, any surprises can await you. You have to always be on your guard.

Control devices

One of the key drawbacks, in terms of functionality, is the lack of a tachometer. Competitive models of the same class are provided with similar devices that reflect information about engine overheating, speed data, temperature conditions, etc. And yet it is worth noting the advantages of the speedometer, which is located on the hood of the Taiga Varyag 550 V snowmobile. The description of this device can be presented as follows: a small information panel, which displays information about the current operating parameters, as well as alarms. Of course, the main information is related to the dynamic characteristics, and in particular the speed limit. It was already noted above that the speedometer is also provided with an indicator of the activity of the optics operating mode. The mileage display function, traditional for tachometers, is also included here. You can update information using a special button located on the device.

Reviews

Igor, Smolensk. I've driven several thousand kilometers on this car, and I still can't say anything bad. A good device by domestic standards. Not a foreign car, of course, but it behaves very decently. The unit does not have significant problems, unlike its predecessors, and evokes mostly positive emotions. In my opinion, this is a good alternative to the Buran snowmobile, which is too long and clumsy. The Taiga Varyag 550 model is, on the contrary, nimble and maneuverable, suitable for hard-to-reach places. In addition, the car drives briskly uphill and pulls a loaded sled perfectly. Fuel consumption is very high per 100 km, which is almost the only drawback.
Valentin, Tambov. This model has undergone 300 kilometers of running-in, and has already begun to break down regularly. Some kind of arch broke, which was poorly welded - this is an element for the muffler mounting spring. After the bow broke, the mounting bracket on the muffler fell off. I somehow welded it myself, and also had to fasten other structural elements. But everything that was my doing did not help, as it fell off again after 100 kilometers. The service center fixed everything as expected, but demanded payment, despite the presence of a warranty. After this snowmobile I have only negative emotions, I will never get involved with domestic equipment again.
Valery, Yaroslavl. I am a huntsman by profession, and I decided to buy a snowmobile. Purely for work purposes, since the official vehicle did not suit me in terms of handling and cross-country ability. It's strange that he hasn't been written off yet. The army seems to be strong, but still they are in no hurry. In short, I have only positive emotions from the Taiga Varyag 550 snowmobile, and I never expected it from a domestic car. This model is no worse than foreign cars like Yamaha, which I also had the opportunity to drive with friends. The snowmobile actively accelerates and is controlled, and is able to quickly turn and go around obstacles - branches, trees, stones, etc. At the moment, the range is 1,100 kilometers. The Yamaha Viking snowmobile, which my work friend owns, is not much different in quality and controllability, and at the same time costs much more. After that, I decided for myself that we need to support the domestic auto industry. All that remains is to write off the old snowmobiles...
Nikolay, Primorsky Krai. A good Russian car, but nothing more. And it is good in the sense that it is easy to repair, and there are many cheap spare parts that you don’t have to look for. All I say is that the Taiga Varyag 550 snowmobile is like a broken construction kit that needs to be regularly repaired and lubricated. It was run-in, as it should be at the beginning of use. After running-in, the car was plagued by major and minor malfunctions - oil seals were leaking, problems arose with the variator, and the wiring and electrics of the snowmobile often malfunctioned. The instruments showed something incomprehensible, incompatible with reality - the reason was related to a malfunction in the control unit. I regularly did repairs - I went to the garage just like I was going to work. In short, then I came to the conclusion that this device was not intended for long trips, and began to drive mainly close to home - I drove the children, wife, mother-in-law, etc. - and so on until the car completely fell apart. After 800 kilometers it was time for a major engine overhaul. Sold the car for parts.

Model features

To ensure that the reduction of individual operational parameters does not lead to outright compliance with budget modifications, the manufacturer decided to use a number of non-standard solutions. First of all, the front suspension of the Taiga Varyag 550 V snowmobile stands out, which is represented by a telescopic design with a stroke of 150 mm. The basis of the machine is also worthy of attention - the power plant, equipped with two Mikuni system carburetors. Although the RMZ-550 engine itself cannot boast of anything special, the two-channel fuel mixture supply configuration increases its efficiency.

The developers also provided a programmable ignition circuit, with which you can easily control the equipment in different operating modes. In order to improve physical ergonomics, the landing zone of the Taiga Varyag 550 V snowmobile was also optimized. The design features in this part are due to the two-level seat, which has the ability to remove the backrest, and also has handles for the passenger.

Modifications

There are several different modifications of the snowmobile of the same name, which differ in purpose and set of capabilities.

Model Varyag 550V. This machine is an improved version of the original snowmobile. Among the features of this device is an expanded configuration with additional options. In particular, this model has a two-carburetor Mikuni system, improved air cooling and a two-speed gearbox. In addition, there is also Ducati CDI electronic ignition from a foreign supplier. The technology is a programmable system that can be tuned to optimize powertrain performance at low or high loads.

Taiga Varyag 550 limited. This snowmobile complies not only with basic standards, but also with advanced equipment elements typical of more expensive imported models. We are talking about a continuously variable transmission, which is a simplified analogue of a car CVT. The rated power of the power plant is 55 horsepower. The engine has a dual cylinder system, as in the previous version. There are changes in the design part, as well as the design of the dashboard. Overall, the 550 Limited is slightly better equipped than the 550V. The Limited modification entered mass production in October 2016.

User reviews about the model

Practicality has become the main positive aspect of using a snowmobile for many owners. They note design flexibility, ease of operation, ease of maintenance and other qualities quite characteristic of utilitarian technology. The possibilities of regrouping, transforming and replacing individual components deserve special attention. This is not so common in domestic devices. For example, many emphasize the value of the 500 mm wide snowmobile track, which is provided as standard. With such equipment, the equipment can provide stable operation even in harsh conditions that require increased traction. In general, the main delivery set itself deserves a positive review, since, in addition to additional tracks, it also includes lugs and a tow bar.

Maintenance Requirements

The main work involves cleaning the engine. It should be regularly removed from dirt and deposits. The condition of the cylinder-piston group and the quality of tightening of threaded connections are also checked. It is advisable to clean surfaces with hair brushes or scrapers without damaging the plastic consumables. Functional spare parts must have sufficient fastening reliability. The same snowmobile track is installed on the base with the optimal load level for the mounting force. Next, the electrical equipment, connections in the wiring contacts, as well as the operability of the devices are checked.

Pros of a snowmobile

The device turned out to be well-assembled, reliable and functional - these are its main advantages. As for the quality of the element base, there are some complaints about it, but in general, thanks to the widespread use of imported parts, the design is wear-resistant and durable. In terms of the overall configuration, we can talk about the ambiguity of the Taiga Varyag 550 V snowmobile. The pros and cons in this case overlap - for example, reducing the size of the relatively larger representatives of the class made it possible to achieve good maneuverability, but at the same time had a negative impact on the power characteristics.

Cons of a snowmobile

Still, the model can hardly be considered a full-fledged all-terrain mountain utility vehicle. It can be used in this capacity, but with serious limitations. There are many more attractive solutions on the market, the creation of which focused on power as the main consumer characteristic. In this case, we can talk about the desire to make a hybrid device, which determined the operational limitations for the Taiga Varyag 550 V snowmobile. Reviews from equipment owners, for example, indicate the low effectiveness of the model as an assistant in critical operations during transportation. The same applies to the possibility of providing assistance to equipment stuck in the snow.

Transmission

For efficient and comfortable transmission of torque from the engine to the track, the developers equipped the snowmobile with a CVT operating in four modes - high, low, reverse and neutral. But reviews from owners indicate that this particular node causes certain complaints from users.

Problems arise due to the inconsistency of the springs installed on the variator with the required parameters and poor fit of the weights of the centrifugal regulators. I would like to hope that the quality of the assembly will be improved in the near future.

In the meantime, the owners are forced to fine-tune it themselves. A description of this procedure with a detailed listing of the necessary actions can be found on many forums.

When the CVT works as it should, the car accelerates smoothly on flat surfaces and confidently moves up slopes. Among the important properties of such a transmission is increasing the service life of the engine operating in optimal modes.

Alternative proposals from Russian Mechanics

The Rybinsk manufacturer not long ago released a junior version of the model in question called “Varyag 500 V”. Accordingly, the engine size was reduced, as was the power output. This version costs about 50-70 thousand rubles cheaper. It has a separate lubrication system, a simplified suspension and a short transmission stroke. Interesting snowmobiles from Russian Mechanics are also represented in the Bars line.” In particular, modification 850 can be considered, on the contrary, as an older snowmobile relative to the Varyag 500 V. This option is suitable just for those who want to get a real utilitarian snowmobile, and with a hint of touring performance.

Snowmobiles of Russian Mechanics. Our response to the Chamberlains

I was, understandably, skeptical about the invitation (from the same one that produces the legendary Burans) to test their utilitarian snowmobiles not just anywhere, but in the Khibiny Mountains, where only recently we rode top-end imported mountain bikes: “scrap”, yes still Russian, in the mountains? This is strange, to say the least. And very curious

Natalya Umnova
“Russian Mechanics” brought four models of utilitarian snowmobiles to Khibiny: “Taiga Varyag 550 V”, “Taiga Attack 551”, “Taiga Bars 850” and, one might say, a new device - “Taiga Varyag 500”.

The windshields of all snowmobiles distort visibility, especially in the sun: the slope or depth of the holes is difficult to understand. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

I will give credit to all the snowmobiles (except for the “Attack” - due to a poorly tuned variator it is impossibly nervous and jerky, riding it is torture!) - they showed themselves very worthy and dispelled my skepticism. Although there was some luck in this: in April the snow in the Khibiny was already very dense, there was no powder in which you could get stuck, and we rode the slopes only for pleasure, and not out of necessity. And yet, no one expected that on the horse-drawn, at first glance, “Varyags” you could bundock, traverse, climb a steep mountain, and jump. Still, “scrap” is often capable of much more than it seems.

Taiga Varyag 500

Lightning-fast response from the Rybinsk company to the updated Yamaha Viking 540 Tough Pro (read the test of this snowmobile in one of the upcoming issues of “5 Wheels”). The essence of the transformations of the standard Varyag is to reduce the cost as much as possible. By removing the separate lubrication system, installing the old proven, but less powerful RMZ-500 engine and a simple suspension with one shock absorber, the cost of the snowmobile was lowered just below the psychological mark of 200 thousand rubles! And for the target audience of such equipment, even 20–30 thousand is a serious amount. At the same time, the heating of the steering wheel grips and throttle trigger remained in the “base”!

The windshields of all snowmobiles distort visibility, especially in the sun: the slope or depth of the holes is difficult to understand. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

The resulting minimalistic utilitarian snowmobile nevertheless has a comfortable soft two-seater seat and a high steering wheel, thanks to which it has become much more comfortable to ride this “cut-off” “Varyag” both sitting (knees do not rest against the steering wheel when turning) and standing. And you have to get up on it quite often: the suspension practically does not smooth out ridges on compacted roads and just potholes and bumps.

The “five hundred” handles a little worse than the “main” “Varyag”, it is more “tight”. The motor is paired with a variator made according to the drawings of Russian Mechanics: unlike the Canadian analogues installed on other RM snowmobiles, this one does not handle starts and low speeds well - the snowmobile “stalls” for a long time before moving off and becomes noticeably nervous when driving slowly and twitches. But as soon as you increase the speed, the snowmobile levels out and goes smoothly.

Snowmobiles of Russian Mechanics. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

The transmission provides low and high “gears” for pulling loads and more active driving, respectively. And 43 “horses” are enough for him to do everything, including climbing a steep slope 500 meters high.

The mechanical brake requires serious physical effort, but even after pressing hard, the snowmobile is in no hurry to stop. In general, the Varyag 500 is capable of overcoming almost any obstacle that comes along its utilitarian path.

Taiga Varyag 550 V

Surprisingly, in terms of ease of control and comfortable landing, the more expensive Varyag 550 V is perhaps even inferior to its “undressed” version of the Varyag 500. The 550 is very rolly! “Pyatisotka” too (both have a ski base of only 90 cm, while the same Yamaha Viking 540 has a 96 cm), but at least it has a higher handlebar, and you can tilt the snowmobile by standing up. On the “older” “Varyag”, the low steering wheel immediately rests on your knees, as soon as you make a sharp turn, and does not allow you to not only drive normally while standing, but even just stand up if necessary. This is also hampered by the manual starter handle, which you hit with your knee during any jerk or braking.

Snowmobiles of Russian Mechanics. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

A more modern suspension with two shock absorbers, it feels, does not handle unevenness much better than the simple suspension of the “five hundred”. However, 50 l. With. power and a fairly wide, 50 cm, caterpillar with 2.2 cm “teeth” (the same is found on the 500) “equip” the “Varyag 550 V” with sufficient cross-country ability for both compacted and medium-powder snow. An additional 60 thousand in cost stems from the presence of an electric starter, a larger engine, a more advanced suspension and a couple more goodies for comfort.

Taiga Bars 850

A luxurious soft seat with a passenger backrest, digital instrumentation, a wide - 60 cm - track, a high windshield, an 850 cc Weber engine, a steering wheel high enough for comfortable steering and standing, the beginnings of design - the Taiga Bars 850 is a real touring snowmobile with a hint of premiumness for 360,000 rub.

But even here there were some minor problems. The Bars has very slippery footboards, with almost no uneven surfaces for your boots to cling to: when riding standing, your foot can easily slip on uneven surfaces.

Due to the heavy nose and the position shifted forward, the rear is noticeably carried away, which is good in turns - you can “swerk” and go in steeper, although with caution, but it’s bad on the straights, on which, despite almost a “windtrack” and widely spaced skis, the snowmobile stands not very confident. The same property of the stern and the large weight must be taken into account when descending from long slopes: the Bars accelerates strongly, the engine does not brake effectively enough, and if you press the hydraulic disc brake, the rear skids.

At Bars, the rubber bands on the hood keep coming off. And the transmission mode selector is inconveniently located - you keep knocking your knee on it. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

This year we worked hard and tried to eliminate previously identified problems with possible engine overheating and high collector temperatures, and simplified the process of servicing the fuel pump and filter.

In general, I cannot help but note that the snowmobiles of Russian Mechanics, even after tests of famous brands, did not cause rejection or strong negative emotions. Yes, there are mistakes and shortcomings, but it is clear that the company is working, developing, becoming more and more “civilized” and producing increasingly high-quality equipment. Keep it up!

“Russian Mechanics” brought four models of utilitarian snowmobiles to Khibiny: “Taiga Varyag 550 V”, “Taiga Attack 551”, “Taiga Bars 850” and, one might say, a new device - “Taiga Varyag 500”.

The windshields of all snowmobiles distort visibility, especially in the sun: the slope or depth of the holes is difficult to understand. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

Taiga Varyag 500

The windshields of all snowmobiles distort visibility, especially in the sun: the slope or depth of the holes is difficult to understand. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

Snowmobiles of Russian Mechanics. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

Taiga Varyag 550 V

Snowmobiles of Russian Mechanics. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”

Taiga Bars 850

At Bars, the rubber bands on the hood keep coming off. And the transmission mode selector is inconveniently located - you keep knocking your knee on it. Photo: “Russian Mechanics”