Snowmobiles are in great demand among residents of the northern regions and the Arctic Circle. Sometimes, such all-terrain vehicles become the only possible means of transportation. They are used to move across snowy plains, forests and mountainous regions.
Cars are used for various purposes: for transporting goods, hunting and fishing trips, in sports competitions and tourist trips. When there is an endless blanket of snow all around, wherever you look, and the air has barely warmed up to minus fifteen, it is very important to have reliable equipment at hand. This is exactly how Yamaha products have proven themselves.
Yamaha snowmobiles
The Japanese manufacturer pleases fans of outdoor activities with a variety of equipment.
Here we will talk about brutal winter transport, which is vital not only for sports and entertainment lovers, but also for those who, due to their occupation, need such an assistant. These are Yamaha snowmobiles. When snow machines were first developed, they were not divided into classes. They were all similar and handled the same set of functions. But today, advanced developments make it possible to create narrowly targeted transport: for residents of the north and geologists, athletes, children, etc. The Yamaha-Ostrovtsy company presents snowmobiles from the Yamaha model range from six options, suitable for different categories. Let's look at how they differ from each other.
Yamaha representatives reported
Previously, Yamaha representatives reported that they would limit the production of snowmobiles in Japan, and that in the new 2022 model year, as many snowmobiles would be built as dealers ordered. At the moment, both Yamaha and dealers have plenty of 2022 and earlier machines in stock. These machines fully meet the needs of customers. But several high-end limited edition models will still be built. Dealers with high turnover and low returns will have an advantage in ordering new snowmobiles. Last year's best-selling snowmobile was the children's model Snoscoot. Definitely not Yamaha's dream. But they should pay attention to the experience of Polaris and Arctic Cat, because both of these companies have had periods of decline in their history. One of the ingredients for successful snowmobile sales is the 2x2 design: two cylinders and 2 strokes.
Of course, we can’t ignore the engine, which produces more than 200 hp when you crush mountains and smooth out bumps on a snowmobile, but still the Sidewinder models are a bit heavy for the mountain class. Yes, the Yamaha Sidewinder B-TX and M-TX have a good power-to-weight ratio, but they still require you to lean over the handlebars to control them. While lighter models of competitors literally fly, and this does not require any effort.
Yamaha have the engineering resources to create a fantastic two-stroke engine. Yamaha already has a great Textron/Arctic Cat chassis, all that's left is to go back to its roots, its motocross roots with the YZ 250, and create an inline fuel-injected two-stroke twin-cylinder engine.
Once upon a time, Nissan could not compete with Toyota, Dodge, GM and Ford in the powerful pickup class. But after a while, they started building full-fledged half-ton trucks, and now Nissan is back on the horse. We believe that Yamaha will be able to overcome all difficulties. After all, their cars are distinguished by unsurpassed quality and durability. Develop Genesis engines, but also create new two-stroke, two-cylinder engines with a volume of 600 and 850 cm3, tear everyone apart!
Sports
They are designed with minimal weight so that nothing interferes with the fast pace. They are not able to carry a large load, because they are created for speed and extreme sports. Racing through the snow the fastest is the main task. This is helped by a powerful turbocharged engine and a rigid, adjustable sports suspension that can withstand any sharp turns and jumps. To prevent the rider from freezing, the seat and steering wheel have been heated. Special glass makes control more convenient.
Sidewinder X-TX SE 141 is designed for sporting victories. Snow cross, trials and mountain competitions - everything is within reach. It is difficult for him to walk in deep virgin soil; the cross-country ability is not so high. But on groomed or specially prepared trails, it has no equal in speed. Jumps and spectacular turns - the pleasure of extreme driving is guaranteed.
Characteristics of Yamaha Sidewinder B-TX LE and M-TX LE
General characteristics of Yamaha Sidewinder B-TX and Sidewinder M-TX: 998 Genesis Turbo engine. This is a four-stroke engine with three cylinders and electronic injection. The stated power is 200 hp. Although this mark is quite approximate, because in reality the engine produces about 205-210 “horses”; The YRSC transmission, drive and driven clutches were designed specifically for smooth operation of the Genesis engine to prevent overheating of the motor and drive belt. Each clutch receives power and torque from the engine, shear force from the crankshaft, and then they transfer all this energy to the track drives; new for 2019 is the Stealth Control System, which includes controls located on the left handlebar. They allow you to choose one of several operating modes for the hand and thumb warmer on the go. The information displayed on the multifunctional instrument panel is selected using a convenient switch; The electronic exhaust valve (Air Bypass Valve—ABV) is significantly different from a traditional exhaust valve. It redirects airflow back toward the compressor intake to eliminate excessive oscillation and maintain impeller speed.
Utilitarian
In this category there are options of different weights intended for professional purposes. Their features: traction engine, wide and long tracks, extended snow hooks. Even under heavy workload they retain their dynamic performance. They are complemented by a spacious trunk and a towbar for towing cargo. Easy to use in everyday use.
Lightweight compact models have a reduced weight, they are easy to control and extremely passable on any route: on a flat, compacted one or on virgin soil. At any temperature (even above zero) they cope with the assigned tasks. This is the choice of geologists and rangers, fishermen and hunters, oil workers, residents of the north and more. Their main characteristics are reliability, maneuverability, maintainability, low noise level and affordable price.
Heavyweights have other advantages. They warm up instantly, operate quietly, ride smoothly, carry people in comfort and are able to tow any load. They cope with complex and varied work with flying colors. Thanks to the four-stroke engine, they can overcome steep slopes without problems and a characteristic roar. Their cost is higher, but the extended equipment justifies it.
Our company offers two options:
- the legendary Yamaha Viking VK 540, already on the market in its fifth generation;
- Viking VK Professional II EPS is the main choice of the organizers of the Sochi 2014 Olympics.
Manufacturer country
was founded in 1887 in Japan. The main specialization was the development and production of musical instruments. Almost seventy years later, the company was divided into two. The first one also continued to produce tools, and the second one received a fundamentally new direction - the production of motor vehicles. Yamaha Motors was destined to become a world famous corporation.
First motorcycle
In 1955, the manufacturer's first motorcycle, the YA-1, rolled off the assembly line. At that time, design engineers only had aircraft manufacturing machines at their disposal. But this did not stop us from making a reliable and powerful device that won local races. The new motorcycle became the best advertisement for Yamaha Motors.
People all over the world are accustomed to trusting technology made in Japan. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was a technically backward country, but in a couple of decades it caught up. Likewise, the company’s employees, following the best traditions, were constantly looking for new production methods and improving existing ones. Every year, the staff was replenished with highly qualified employees, thanks to this, fifteen years later it was possible to move to a new level of production.
In 1970, the company began producing motorcycles with four-stroke engines.
First snowmobile
Following the success in the motorcycle market, management decided to start producing other oversized vehicles - scooters, mopeds, and jet skis. The first snowmobile appeared in 1968 - it was the Yamaha SL350 model.
Tourist
Universal maneuverable machines that combine high speed and high controllability. Suitable for numerous tasks:
- work in regions with harsh climates. No problems even in severe frost;
- long trips;
- comfortable transportation of people on a comfortable double seat with a backrest for the passenger.
The Yamaha RS Venture TF easily replaces the car in regions where there is a lot of snow. The passenger seat can be easily converted into a cargo compartment, making the Yamaha snowmobile multi-tasking.
Athlete ergonomics
And the Viper engine sounds! It doesn’t give you some 2-stroke treble “drz-drz-drz”... A liter of displacement of a 4-stroke engine fills the area with an all-encompassing guttural growl. The branches of the nearest trees are trembling, and just a moment an avalanche will come (maybe it’s for the best that I’m not in the mountains...)! As soon as you lightly press the throttle trigger, the roar rises a couple of octaves, gives way to a roar, and the 280-kilogram vehicle rushes forward.
In order to smoothly move off on the SR Viper MTX, you need to operate the throttle trigger incredibly delicately: the variator does not pick up instantly, and if you go too far with opening the throttle, by the time the drive belt starts moving, the engine will already have time to “swallow” the “bottoms” and start “ hoof" in anticipation of a rapid start. In this case, the start of movement is usually noticeably sharper than expected. The pilot needs to hold on tight! Fortunately, the ergonomics of the “workplace” allows you to endure more serious overloads.
The high, vertically mounted T-shaped handlebar is very conducive to driving while standing. And it is in this position that it is most convenient to ride. This is understandable - it’s unlikely that anyone will be able to effectively “play” weighing just over a quarter of a ton from a sitting position... However, in case of a long quiet journey, the SR Viper MTX seat is equipped with heating with two temperature settings. The “Sofa” even allows two people to ride, but its shape does not allow for this. In addition to the seat, the steering grips and the massive throttle trigger are heated. The latter is made of truly enormous dimensions, probably so that it can be easily operated in the snow or with large, warm gloves.
In general, to say that the Yamaha SR Viper MTX is a recreational and 100% friendly snowmobile would be a lie. “Viper” has a pronounced athletic build and character. Equipped with an uncompromising 162-inch Claw-assisted track with giant 3-inch lugs, it can only be truly conquered by a professional. Definitely, snowmobiles of the same series, but with a smaller track, will be much more comfortable for amateur riders: such devices are much better adapted to the conditions of central Russia, where, as you know, there are problems with the Alps... But if you are lucky enough to live in a place where you can see snow-white mountain peaks, Yamaha SR Viper MTX LE is a great choice!
Children's
A real winter all-terrain vehicle “like dad’s” - every child will appreciate it. It is similar to “adult” models, but has a lot of features that allow you to adapt winter transport to a specific small rider:
- steering wheel height adjustment;
- track sizes;
- a safety system that includes speed limits, power limits, and an emergency engine switch.
If you're considering a Yamaha snowmobile for your young rider, consider the SRX 120. Easy handling, stylish design and safety are guaranteed for a truly family-friendly experience.
Sidewinder M-TX S LE 2022
The power that a 4115 mm long snowmobile receives from a turbocharged four-stroke engine remains virtually unchanged at any altitude, even at 30 meters, even at 3000 meters above sea level. The Sidewinder M-TX is a blast to ride for fun, with the PowerClaw track digging into the snow with its 76mm claws. The difficulty comes when you have to chase light two-stroke mountain bikes. The weight of the M-TX is challenging for even the most experienced rider, and the terrain and changing weather conditions must always be understood. The Yamaha Mountain Ski actually handles a heavy motor quite well. On the highway the engine behaves perfectly, delivering power smoothly and without interruption. But if you need to drive around trees or actively use the gas, the situation does not change—the engine is still reliable. If you first fully unscrew the throttle, open the throttle completely, and then quickly release, the Sidewinder M-TX LE does not stand rooted to the spot, but continues to idle, almost like snowmobiles equipped with a two-stroke engine.
One simple thing Sidewinder M-TX owners need to understand is that their sled is very heavy compared to its two two-stroke rivals. But, and we will not tire of repeating this, this shortcoming is compensated by turbocharged power. The engine produces 200 to 205 hp (some say 210) all day long at any altitude. This is what makes the Sidewinder M-TX a crazy sled that can climb any height. Where its two-stroke rivals begin to suffocate from lack of oxygen, the M-TX continues to race upward thanks to its specific power.
As mentioned above, the Sidewinder M-TX perfectly distributes its crazy power using a transmission specifically designed for the turbocharged engine - the YSRC High Performance Clutch System. In the low range, the Sidewinder M-TX starts off very smooth, then in the mid range it goes all out and jumps sharply into the high rev range.
The sled is equipped with FOX Float QS3 (Quick Switch 3) shock absorbers front and rear on the front rail, with three selectable settings, soft, medium and hard. Mounted on the rear rail of the rear suspension is a Fox Float 3 QSL (Quick Switch Lockout 3) shock absorber, which has the following settings: soft, partially disabled and fully disabled. In fully disabled mode, the nose of the snowmobile is kept pressed to the road.
The Yamaha Sidewinder M-TX LE is a wonderful mountain snowmobile, but it requires attention and care due to its heavy weight. The narrow ski spacing (914mm) and chain guard positioned low and rearward make it incredibly maneuverable. Moreover, the snowmobile is equipped with narrow running boards and neat, “polished” body panels.
Yamaha is renowned for producing truly durable powertrains, so the Sidewinder M-TX LE, like the B-TX LE, will provide many years of enjoyment. If you are concerned about weight, then you can be sure that 200 “horses” can cope with it without any problems. Of course, when cornering at slow speeds or avoiding obstacles such as bushes and trees, the driver will need to use all his skill, but a real master will cope with the Sidewinder M-TX LE 162.
Choose
For Yamaha snowmobiles, the price in Moscow is optimal from official dealers. Yamaha-Ostrovtsy has been offering the best prices on advanced models from the Japanese manufacturer for more than 5 years. When purchasing from us, you can count on pre-sale preparation, warranty service and convenient delivery to anywhere in Russia. Our specialists will help you make a choice if you have not yet decided. You can call or request a call back to clarify the cost and availability. All products comply with environmental standards and have appropriate certificates. Choose the best with Yamaha!
To the Alps
Unfortunately (or fortunately), I didn’t have to give up anything: I, like millions of compatriots, was not allowed to exchange such interesting positions as the Syrian issue or fresh market quotes of black low-sulfur gold for some sparkling snow-capped peaks because the standard of living had collapsed into tartar. And therefore, I had to look for mountain landscapes in the very nearest Moscow region...
Eh, mountains, mountains... Why am I so attached to these mountains, you ask. After all, you can test snowmobiles in our lane. Moreover, there was a lot of snow this winter. So much so that public services could barely cope, and a couple of times even, in hours of complete powerlessness of man in the face of the elements, the city froze, engulfed in a snow-white coma. Beauty!.. Such conditions were favorable for snowmobile walks outside the metropolis - on ponds and in fields. In open areas, the depth of the snow cover was everywhere just below the knee, and in some places it reached almost a meter. Airy, sparkling white powder - a paradise for utilitarian equipment!
But for a 135-horsepower mountain snowmobile equipped with a long 162-inch track, such expanse is clearly not enough. Yamaha SR Viper MTX LE, like a malnourished recruit in the first months of service, literally suffered from an acute lack of snow. At times, where the cover was too compacted, in order to avoid excessive wear of the expensive caterpillar, it was even necessary to resort to the help of special “anchors”: metal hook-shaped whiskers in the open position throw scarce snow inside the caterpillar mover, providing proper lubrication to the rubbing elements.
The pilot also suffered from the lack of alpine landscapes outside the window! Indeed, in such dull conditions it is very difficult to reveal a good half of the excellent qualities of the “mountain worker”. What can I tell you - in shallow snow it will be difficult to even “get close” to them without cooling off halfway.
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.
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Yamaha Motor CIS makes no warranty that the information on the website will be timely, accurate or complete, or that access to it will be uninterrupted at any time.
Technical characteristics and equipment of equipment, conditions for purchasing equipment, prices, special offers and equipment configurations indicated on the site are given as an example and can be changed at any time without prior notice.
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.
The RS Viking Professional chassis is designed specifically for the Genesis 120, a rigid Deltabox chassis with a low mid-engine position for improved handling. Yamaha's YVXC drive system works with a three-speed transmission, and you can rely entirely on the dual-piston disc brake system when you need to stop. The brake discs are ventilated, which both reduces the overall weight of the structure and improves cooling of the brake system. Thus, this is a significantly more modernized version than the Viking 540 (VK 540), equipped with mechanical disc brakes.
