Snowmobiles: From Rybinsk to Tiksi - through the stormy taiga

In 2009, the Russian Mechanics OJSC company opened sales of the Tiksy 250 light-class snowmobile. The model was a transitional option between a children's and an adult snowmobile. The single-seat variation quickly gained popularity among domestic consumers due to its modern characteristics, reliability and interesting design. The new product was appreciated by lovers of fishing, winter nature and family holidays, since Tiksi 250 had many advantages, the main of which was low cost. The weight of the model was only 180 kg (100 kg lighter than the Taiga), which had a positive effect on maneuverability and efficiency. At the same time, the snowmobile could tow large loads and was equipped with a powerful and reliable engine built on the basis of the Taiga engine. The headlight provided good illumination, allowing movement in the dark.

The first modification of Tiksy 250 was not without its shortcomings. The windshield provided excellent protection from headwinds, but the model did not have heated steering grips. Another disadvantage was the presence of an exclusively manual starter. In severe frosts, it was impossible to start the engine with one jerk; it took a lot of time.

The single-speed gearbox and lack of reverse reduced maneuverability. The programmable electronic ignition also caused certain inconveniences; after running-in, it was necessary to return the snowmobile to the dealer to change the program, which automatically limited the number of revolutions of the unit while the components were being ground in.

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"Taiga" attacks. The Taiga family of utilitarian cars of the utilitarian class has already passed its second decade, and for the new season it has been radically updated and expanded. Two-stroke engines with power from 38 to 65 hp. - now not only with air, but also with liquid cooling. In addition to the “telescope” in ski suspension, Rybinsk residents also use a lever front suspension and install tracks 500 or 600 mm wide, designed for deep snow. The reduction gear in the transmission allows you to tow hundreds of kilograms of cargo and climb snowy slopes.

Equipment

  • The model has a PM3 250 engine with one cylinder and a power of 22 hp. p., electronic reverse, air cooling.
  • The 380 mm wide track is complemented by a progressive suspension.
  • The model is complemented by front and rear suspension. Thanks to it, the shock absorbers and springs became slightly different in design, and the stroke increased. The Tiksi 250 with a new suspension (the photo allows you to evaluate the power of the snowmobile) has better handling.
  • The standard equipment includes an electric starter; in addition, a manual starter is also installed.
  • It is impossible not to note the ease of repair thanks to the hinged sides.
  • The model is additionally equipped with a mechanical disc brake.
  • The new steering shaft provides reduced effort when turning the steering wheel, and special bearings reduce vibration levels and make handling more comfortable.
  • "Tiksi 250" is equipped with a seat that is comfortable and well-thought-out ergonomics.

The company says that even a child can handle driving such a simple snowmobile.

shift lever


The shift lever sticks out forlornly from the left facing.
Where to turn on what (low, normal forward, reverse and neutral) can only be determined by experience. The shift lever sticks out forlornly from the left facing. Where to turn on what (low, normal forward, reverse and neutral) can only be determined by experience.

Of course, experienced snowbikers will take for granted the electric starter, separate oil supply, heated handlebar grips and gas trigger. Optimal operation of the power unit is ensured by a programmable ignition system from Ducati Energia (this is not a motorcycle company, but simply a namesake, although also from Italy). The recent use of lightweight Canadian-made plastic skis has made it possible to reduce unsprung masses, which has a better effect on the handling of the snowmobile. The gas tank volume has been increased to 50 liters, new dual headlights have been installed (instead of one) and an LED rear light is bright, vibration-resistant and durable. At the customer's request, snowmobiles of the “taiga” family can be equipped with: hydraulic brakes, LCD instrument panel, KOSO temperature sensor, rear-view mirrors.

Video

Of course, all of the listed shortcomings were corrected after a few years. The model received fundamental improvements and began to be called the additional prefix “Lux” in the name. It is not surprising why the cost of the updated car has increased compared to the original Tiksi 250. The difference in cost is 30 thousand rubles, which is quite significant. However, the snowmobile received not only improvements, but also additional options. As for the aforementioned manual start, they nevertheless decided to leave it. The changes affected the exhaust gas system, which ensured a low level of noise and vibration. The developers also took care of installing a new, lower seat, the height of which was reduced by 40 mm to improve dynamic performance. In addition, the steering gear's bearings and shaft have been redesigned to improve sensitivity and responsiveness when performing maneuvers. As a result, the car began to corner faster. As for the design, the developers focused on it the least - the car remained just as strict and laconic

Particular attention was paid to technical improvements, and this is much more important. For example, among other things, heated steering wheel grips have also appeared.

To facilitate the process of transporting goods, the equipment received a tow bar and a spacious trunk. And impact-resistant plastic reduced the likelihood of damage.

Many structural elements remained untouched so that the cost of the model did not exceed the psychological mark. For example, the car borrowed from the original Tiksi 250 a front suspension with levers, two plastic skis, and tracks with a large sliding area.

The latter feature showed itself well in factory tests, especially when driving on loose snow

In addition, let us also pay attention to the caterpillar drive shaft, supplemented by a mechanical braking system, which is almost as effective as hydraulic brakes in terms of braking efficiency. The steering wheel is located at the optimal height, the same goes for the driver's seat - thanks to the optimal driving position, it was possible to reduce fatigue during a long-hour drive

Moreover, it became possible to move in a standing position.

The above modifications increased the total weight of the snowmobile by 10 kg. Fortunately, this did not negatively affect driving performance. Rather, on the contrary, with significant improvements, the Tiksi 250 Lux snowmobile received an adequate price, and this significantly increased the demand for the model. As a result, it has become one of the most popular among its closest analogues.

The model in question has an interesting appearance, and looks quite good today. Russian developers have improved workmanship, introduced modern technologies, improved maintainability and, in general, increased the status, prestige and reputation of the Tiksi 250 snowmobile. It is noteworthy that the machine is perfectly adapted to temperatures from minus 40 degrees. In addition, the manufacturer provides a warranty of 2,500 km, or for one year.

This is interesting: Characteristics of the Taiga Varyag snowmobile and description of the units of the model range: let’s find out in detail

Tungus: devices


For the first time for Rybinsk cars, a tachometer appeared on the electronic instrument panel.
Large numbers indicate speed; It is possible to display various indicators on the LCD display. For the first time for Rybinsk cars, a tachometer appeared on the electronic instrument panel. Large numbers indicate speed; It is possible to display various indicators on the LCD display.

Already in November, new items will appear for sale in the stores of official dealers of Russian Mechanics OJSC: snowmobiles “Taiga-Lux II” ST550 DR and “Taiga-Attack II” ST 551 DR. On the Lux II model, the rear suspension was modernized, while the rear of the snowmobile was raised slightly, which improved the ease of landing and geometric cross-country ability, as well as a smooth ride. The front suspension uses a linkage design, the RMZ-550 engine is installed with a larger cubic capacity and, for the first time on Rybinsk cars, with reed valves at the inlet. Modernization of the engine made it possible to remove 55 hp from it. and improved the torque characteristics (in simple terms, “low-end traction”). The instrument panel, like that of another new product - “Attack II” - is equipped with an electronic odometer.

Element characteristics:

Chassis:

  • front suspension type - single wishbone;
  • front suspension shock absorber - monotube hydropneumatic;
  • front suspension travel – 160 mm;
  • rear suspension type – slip;
  • rear suspension shock absorber - monotube hydropneumatic;
  • rear suspension travel – 300 mm.

Transmission:

  • gearbox – V-belt variator with 1 forward gear and electronic reverse;
  • brake mechanism – mechanical disc.

Tungus: motor


The 4T two-cylinder engine is mounted transversely, in front of it is a radiator, cooled by counter flow and an electric fan.
The 4T two-cylinder engine is mounted transversely, in front of it is a radiator, cooled by counter flow and an electric fan.

However, the differences between “Ataka II” and other “Taiga” snowmobiles do not end with the modernization of the tidy. The front linkage suspension has been improved - the curved shape of its arms increases the travel of the skis, and therefore comfort. The levers are secured through silent blocks, which smoothes out the shocks transmitted to the snowmobile body. The increased ski track significantly improved the stability of the snowmobile at high speeds and made it easier to maneuver. For ease of landing, footrests are installed on the floor. The expression of the plastic “face” has become more aggressive. And finally, “Attack II” received a liquid-cooled RMZ-551 engine with a thermostat and snow radiators. The pistons and crankshaft are protected by an anti-friction coating, the tuned intake system is with check plate valves and a receiver, and five-channel cylinder purging is used. The engine is equipped with a microprocessor ignition system with programming capabilities, and the drive units are driven by a transverse shaft.

Advantages of the Lux series

All these additions resulted in an increase in weight of 10 kg. The new owners were quick to publicly leave their impressions about the Tiksy 250 Lux snowmobile. Reviews and descriptions of the advantages that have appeared only confirm the correctness of the choice. Also, some would like the model to be equipped with a hydraulic brake. However, with the same power of a two-stroke engine, this seems impractical. Changing the power plant will certainly increase the capabilities of snowmobile vehicles, but this will no longer be a completely budget option. And so the luxury model remained available to the consumer at its budget price, which, compared to its competitors, looks very affordable and attractive.

Snowmobile "Tungus"


The promising Tungus snowmobile is waiting for better times.
The promising Tungus snowmobile is waiting for better times.

Tiksi is the answer to the crisis. Lightweight single-seat Tiksy ST 250 is a different beast. The snowmobile is equipped with a single-cylinder two-stroke engine RMZ-250 with a power of 22 hp. (fuel - A-92 gasoline, fuel tank volume 28 liters). To simplify and lighten the machine, the designers abandoned the separate lubrication system. Removable side panels provide easy access to the units. Compact single-link front suspension - with two lightweight plastic skis. The rod-reinforced track suspension (3170x380 mm) has a pneumohydraulic shock absorber. The efforts of the engineers were not in vain: the weight of the machine was significantly reduced, and therefore the pressure per unit area, so the snowmobile is able to walk on snow of any depth and density. The Tiksi's load capacity is 120 kg, the towed trailer's weight is 150 kg, and the device is equipped as standard with a towing device for towing a sled. The new product compares favorably with other company machines (not to mention foreign “classmates”) due to its moderate price (about 125,000 rubles) and economical operation.

Repair features

The Tiksi 250 Lux snowmobile has good maintainability. The concern produces a sufficient number of spare parts and consumables that allow repair work to be carried out without the use of special equipment. The solution to the issue is simplified due to free access to the components and assemblies of the structure.

If there is a need to eliminate serious malfunctions, you should contact specialized companies involved in the repair of snowmobiles and other small equipment.

Lengthening the snowmobile track by adjusting the dimensions of the tail part of the frame is also carried out in special services.

Snowmobile "Tiksi"


The lightweight and cheap Tiksi snowmobile is our answer to the crisis.
The lightweight and cheap Tiksi snowmobile is our answer to the crisis.

In general, the company has experience in developing machines of this class. Back in 2002, the presentation of the Taiga-250 model (“Moto” No. 2–2002) took place. But it did not go into mass production - it seemed that such “budget” cars were no longer suitable. Now times are different, and a light and cheap all-terrain vehicle had to be created virtually from scratch. A pilot batch (five pieces) of Tiksi snowmobiles was produced back in 2008. The testers, out of duty, tried to “kill” them, but they couldn’t; and the mileage of each car exceeded 4000 km. Over the summer, the designers eliminated the identified shortcomings, and now the first batch of this year is approaching: 250 pieces. It is significant that part of it has already been ordered due to the affordable price of the snowmobile. So meet Tiksi in November in dealer stores.

Owner reviews

  • Mikhail: We needed an inexpensive snowmobile for fun. Of the existing options, Tiksi 250 Lux from the Rybinsk manufacturer was the most suitable. The snowmobile with all expenses cost approximately 210,000 rubles. During the run-in I really liked the model: smooth ride, good control. The first malfunction appeared at about 60 km. The high beams started to work unstable, which didn’t really bother me. At a mileage of 300 km, I had a technical inspection at the dealer, during which the fault was eliminated, the gooseneck was tightened and the oil was changed. There were no more problems (now the mileage is already over 600 km). On a snowstorm it accelerates to 62 km/h, on virgin soil – a maximum of 35 km/h. With the sled it was possible to reach 50 km/h. Consumption is low (about 16 l/100 km). For the money, the device is very worthy.
  • Rustam winter: I bought a Tiksi 250 Lux 2013, fell for the discounts and low cost. Externally, the snowmobile is very nice. After running it in, I immediately went fishing to try out the device in action. Compared to the Buran, the suspension of the Tiksi 250 Lux is very soft, and the control is more comfortable. However, I don’t recommend traveling long distances alone. After 80 km of driving, my rings fell off. It’s good that I was with a friend who towed me home. Still, the quality of Russian technology still leaves questions. Overall, the impressions from Tiksi 250 Lux are good.
  • Nikolay, Penza: I bought a luxury Tiksi 250 at the end of 2012. In February I went fishing after running in the unit. This is where the first problem occurred: the cylinder rings melted, although I was driving calmly and did not overheat the car. I had to call a friend to come and tow it. I immediately took the snowmobile to a service center, where they changed the rings (it cost a little less than 7,000 rubles). After that I didn’t ride long distances for a long time, but then I started again. So far no more problems have arisen. The luxury Tiksi 250 suits everything, if only it could improve its cross-country ability and traction, and it wouldn’t be worth the price.
  • Vitaly Pitersky: Tiksi 250 Lux is a very specific model. Low weight and weak engine impose restrictions on its use. The car will go on powder only with a driver weight of up to 90 kg and active steering. Without these conditions, the device will land. In terms of speed, the maximum limit is approximately 40-50 km/h, the consumption during such movement is 12-17 liters per hundred. Consumption on AI-95 gasoline is significantly lower. The Tiksi 250 Lux is unlikely to be suitable for long trips. I rode it for a maximum distance of 50 km (one way), which the snowman confidently withstood. Now the mileage is already under 4600 km, there have been no serious breakdowns.

Taiga

Was Tungus ahead of its time? However, the most ambitious development of Russian Mechanics is Tungus, a fifth-generation machine (as it is called by analogy with the aircraft technology dominant at NPO Saturn, which includes RM). Several prototypes have now been built. They paraded at the cross-country skiing World Cup in Demino, Yaroslavl region, in the winter of 2009. Well, the European debut took place at the prestigious specialized exhibition of alpine technologies INTERALPIN-2009 at the end of April in Innsbruck. By the way, all the world's snowmobile manufacturers took part in the Austrian show, and the appearance of the Russian company led foreign manufacturers, if not into shock, then into confusion. And there was a reason: a car with an unusual design is equipped with one of the most modern four-stroke engines, not inferior in its parameters to such a leader as Polaris. The supplier of the unit is Weber. The Tungus's two-cylinder 850 cc fuel-injected engine produces an impressive 80 hp. The cooling system is dual-circuit: in addition to the commonly used snow heat exchangers, an air radiator with an electric fan is installed under the hood. This eliminates all cooling problems when driving on ice or dense snow and when towing heavy sleds at low speeds. Or, conversely, when realizing the power of the entire “herd” - moving at speeds of up to 160 km/h.

Where can I order and buy

You can find a number of stores online where you can purchase spare parts for both the Tyksy 250 and the snowmobile itself.

Russian Mechanics Store

The company's official website (rm-77.ru) presents a wide selection of special motorcycle equipment and accessories. Official RM dealerships:

  • Moscow (83 Dubinskaya St.);
  • Podolsk (13th kilometer of the Simferopol highway, Pokrov village, no. 151).

Mototeka network

You can also buy new Tiksi snowmobiles in the Mototeka network. The store's branches are located in major cities of Russia, located in various regions. Buyers have two options for receiving goods - self-pickup or delivery by a transport company.

Variator "Tiksi"


The Tiksi variator unit has been developed “again”; the mechanically driven brake has been moved to the caterpillar shaft.
The Tiksi variator unit has been developed “again”; the mechanically driven brake has been moved to the caterpillar shaft.

However, given the economic crisis, the management of the Republic of Moldova made a difficult decision: not to produce the expectedly expensive Tungus in the 2009–2010 season. Perhaps, if the economic situation improves, he will “get back into action” next season.

Conclusions about all models

View gallery

If you are a supporter of active recreation and like to travel through snowy fields, then you should buy this snowmobile. You will enjoy an exciting journey on it, and you can even drive it. The company offers only two models, but both of them are distinguished by high quality, reliability, and functionality. In addition, the company’s pricing policy is pleasantly pleasing: if you want to purchase a budget snowmobile, then Tiksi brand models are created especially for you. They are best for everyday use!

Tiksi snowmobiles prove that Russian-made products are truly worthy of attention, because they are developed specifically for the characteristics of Russian roads and climate.

Snowmobile track


A lightweight bogie and the narrowest track possible are used: reasonable solutions for a lightweight snowmobile.
A lightweight bogie and the narrowest track possible are used: reasonable solutions for a lightweight snowmobile.

Nevertheless, we will try, as soon as the snow falls, to try out all the new products - the promising Tungus, the down-to-earth Tiksi, and the new modifications of the Taiga. Follow the publications!

PS We anticipate a reasonable question: “Well, what about Buran?” Is the smoking room alive? This model is a special theme, so to speak “Buran” - forever! Its production (and these are as many as five models) accounts for ¾ of all RM cars. A year ago, the device was once again modernized, and in the foreseeable future they are not going to curtail production of the “hard worker”...

Russian Mechanics

The whole country knows snowmobiles of the BURAN and TAIGA brands. The cross-country ability and unpretentiousness of the first domestic snowmobile went down in history. BURAN has already passed his fourth decade, but he is still in service and is not going to give up his positions. No other model in the world has lived as many years as this legendary snowmobile! The legend of Russian snowmobile construction comes from the banks of the Volga: this snowmobile is still produced to this day - and, like many years ago, it is in great demand. “Russian Mechanics” is the leader of the domestic snowmobile industry, having inherited the experience and traditions accumulated over 40 years of equipment production.

The company has been producing snowmobile equipment since 1971: then the first BURAN was developed and produced here. In the fall of 2011, the four hundred thousandth snowmobile will roll off the assembly line of Russian Mechanics OJSC. Exceptional experience in the production of snowmobiles for the Russian market makes it possible to create equipment that meets customer requirements, offering new, more advanced models. “Russian Mechanics” today is the production of a wide range of not only snowmobiles, but also all-terrain vehicles for all-season use. Russian Mechanics is the only manufacturer of snowmobiles in the Russian Federation.

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