Even before the appearance of Stels snowmobiles, the first announcements about these products were presented in the press. They attracted the attention of many hunters, fishermen, farmers and ordinary winter travel enthusiasts. In 2015, when a little time had already passed and the new owners had covered several thousand kilometers, it became possible to draw certain conclusions about this device.
Snowmobile Stels 800, owner reviews, types of snowmobiles, description of the Stealth 600 Viking model - all this is described in detail in the article.
Spare parts
Indeed, the technical parameters of the Stealth Wolverine 800 snowmobile, as well as the number of its standard options, look very attractive. This is a two-seater vehicle equipped with a winch, heated trigger and handles, and large cargo capacities. In addition, it has an attractive design, often unusual for domestic snowmobiles.
However, the first reviews of the product indicate that the prices of the equipment are in a fairly high price segment.
At first, the owners were faced with the considerable high cost of spare parts offered by official dealers. For a small rubber band for a muffler, an eyelet or a mount, they can charge up to three thousand rubles. But in China, spare parts for the Stealth 800 Wolverine cost only 200-300 rubles. Snowmobiles are known to be prone to frequent breakdowns. The only option that will save money is in this case to order parts from China yourself.
First snowmobile
Reviews from owners of Stealth 800 Wolverine snowmobiles state that, first of all, the front sliding struts of these machines with a stroke of 15 cm break down. These devices stop working, sometimes even after two hundred kilometers. Owners also experienced difficulties with the cooling system - because of this, one series of snowmobiles was recalled to the manufacturer. This product has many minor flaws: the hood rubs against the engine, chains break, hoses crack and become disconnected, and there are difficulties with the fuel pump. Many owners complain about problems with ignition and poor fastenings. Very often, owners complain that the ignition coil and headlight holders on this model quickly fail.
Of course, the Stealth 800 Wolverine has many advantages. The owners of this car say that it starts easily in any frost (thanks to electronic injection). They say that the layout of the snowmobile is quite convenient, it is comfortable for two riders to move around on it, and the trunk is large. Many argue that the car is practical and has excellent cross-country ability. Thus, the Stealth 800 Wolverine consumes 12 liters of fuel per hundred kilometers, which is a pretty good indicator.
Video
As for the seating position, the driver has the same position as on the Stealth 800 snowmobile. The instrument panel has been subjected to some changes, as a result of which it is quite sharply inclined. This was done on purpose, since this particular arrangement does not allow the dashboard to be covered with snow. Above the dashboard is the so-called glove box, which only holds documents, small books, and, of course, gloves. Nothing else will fit in this box.
In terms of control, this snowmobile is completely identical to the Wolverine. Standard equipment also includes a 600mm wide track and ski flares. Extenders cannot be said to have a positive effect on handling, but on the contrary, they make something like an iron out of a utilitarian snowmobile. But if you remove the extensions, the car becomes very maneuverable without losing its smooth ride. A little later, the manufacturer released a version of the snowmobile with a caterpillar track 500 millimeters wide, which also had a positive effect on the maneuverability of the equipment.
Viking
Most outdoor enthusiasts dream of buying a snowmobile. But such technology is too expensive today. True, if you do not encroach on the famous Yamaha VK 540, you can purchase a domestic snowmobile, the Stealth 600 Viking. The price, reviews about this car - everything speaks about its practicality. The new product on the market costs buyers 329,000 rubles. What is special about this model? Let's figure it out.
A few years ago, a cheap and practical Stels “Wolverine 800” appeared on the market with a 4-stroke Chinese engine, manufactured by Russian specialists. There were serious complaints from consumers about this sample. In a short time, the Russian-Chinese product fell apart into its component parts. Many cars had problems with the engine, suspension, and chassis. Many thought that the owners of the Stels brand would not revive production and the idea of developing an affordable snowmobile would be scrapped.
But the manufacturers took their failure as an experience with which they could create a snowmobile with a completely different philosophy and principles. They didn't consider themselves losers! As a result, the second generation Wolverine 800 appeared. This product had a high-quality suspension, a new private engine, and the chassis was made of more expensive materials. It was this product that left the most positive feedback.
Is the Stels 600 Viking snowmobile new? “Viking” was created on the basis of “Wolverine 800”, so it cannot be called a new product. Stels specialists did not begin to manufacture the device anew, because they polished the chassis and frame of the Wolverine to perfect condition over several years of production. The machine is equipped with a magnificent new two-stroke engine. And the product is fully provided with spare parts.
Technical characteristics of Stealth Viking 800
Like the Wolverine, the Stels Viking 800 was equipped with a 4-stroke engine with a volume of 800 cc. Unlike its predecessor, the engine performs much better. The powerful machine easily climbs snow-covered slopes and maintains a cruising speed of 60 km/h on any terrain. Thanks to its high load capacity, this reliable snowmobile is suitable for fishing and hunting, as well as for expeditions. The machine can tow a trailer weighing 300-350 kg.
Key features of Viking:
- Four-stroke Chinese engine, 67 hp. The motor is equipped with an air cooling system.
- Maximum torque 6000 rpm.
- The maximum speed of the snowmobile is 95 km/h. Comfortable speed – 50-60 km/h.
- Gas tank capacity 45 l. The device consumes 12 liters of fuel per 100 km. Depending on the terrain and load, consumption may increase to 15-25 liters.
- The track width is 60 cm. Thanks to this, the snowmobile rests confidently on ice and snow.
- Hydraulic disc brake.
- Pendulum and spring suspension equipped with a hydraulic shock absorber.
- Dry weight of the machine is 370 kg. The weight improves control and prevents the snowmobile from skidding.
- Electric and manual starting system.
Despite the external resemblance to Wolverine, the Stealth 800 snowmobile received more than 20 technical changes. This had a beneficial effect not only on its reliability, but also on ride comfort. First of all, the manufacturer worked on the suspension, which had problems. The changes also affected the chassis of the device.
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.
Power
What else can reviews tell us about the Stealth 600 Viking snowmobile? Owners claim the Viking's pilot position is similar to that offered by the Wolverine. Users believe that the environment around the dashboard is designed differently, and the panel is installed at an angle, so it is not covered with snow. By the way, it's a great read. But many buyers do not understand why the tachometer display was made large. Some people initially mistook it for a speedometer.
There is a glove box above the dashboard. It is tiny and, indeed, apart from documents and mittens, nothing else can be placed in it.
Under the hood there is a privately developed two-cylinder compact two-stroke engine with a carburetor power mode and a separate lubrication device, with a volume of 565 cubic meters. The carburetors are Japanese VM34 from the famous manufacturer Mikuni. At 7300 rpm, the power unit produces 54 horsepower. By the way, the same VK540 from Yamaha has 46 horsepower, but the “Japanese” weighs less than 291 kg, while the Russian Viking weighs 365 kg. As a result, more impressive power is absorbed by the excessive mass, compared to the “Japanese” one. Of course, a heavy snowmobile holds worse on the surface of snow drifts. Nevertheless, it is thanks to its large weight that it can turn into a real towing tractor.
The model really made an excellent impression, as the reviews say. Consumers liked the Stealth 600 Viking. They claim that the engine capacity is quite sufficient to solve a variety of issues: the car confidently walks through deep snow, shows excellent speed in open areas, and drags a loaded sled in low gear without strain.
Operating experience of Stealth Viking 800
The best test for a snowmobile is a long expedition into the mountains. There you can evaluate the carrying capacity, reliability and power of the device, and just look at the Viking in its natural habitat. What opinion do the owners have about the model?
Based on the results of the test drive, users noted:
- Tank capacity and economical gasoline consumption. In mountainous areas, the car spends 15-25 liters of fuel per 100 km.
- Significant load capacity. The device confidently pulls a trailer weighing more than 300 kg.
- High cruising speed. Even on rough terrain, the Viking 800 can easily reach 60 km/h.
- Excellent lighting. For a long trip there is no need to stock up on additional flashlights.
- Good traction. The domestic model confidently climbs mountains.
Users who left reviews about the Stealth Viking 800 also note its price. The cost of the new device, released in 2016, is 464 thousand rubles. The price of foreign analogues with similar characteristics starts from 600 thousand rubles. There is also the opportunity to save even more by purchasing a first generation device. The 2014 model costs only 300 thousand rubles.
Controllability
Basically, this snowmobile evokes positive reviews: the owners openly praise the Stealth 600 Viking. So, they claim that this snowmobile is no different in handling from the Wolverine 800. They say that the car is equipped with a 60-centimeter track and ski extensions, which together turn it into a kind of iron. Some, for the sake of experiment, remove the expanders. As a result, the device is controlled somewhat more rigidly, but at the same time, of course, it loses a little in “buoyancy”.
It is known that the manufacturer plans to soon present to consumers the Viking 600, equipped with a 50-centimeter caterpillar. Many customers think that this innovation will improve the maneuverability of the snowmobile.
Test drive of the Stels S800 snowmobile. "Wolverine" releases his claws
Three hundred kilometers by car from the airport of Abakan, the capital of Khakassia, and we are in the village of Priiskovoe - a snowy paradise for freeriders. It was here that we tested the updated Russian snowmobile of the Stels brand, subjecting it to serious tests
Evgeniy Folin
The snowmobile has not changed in appearance, but its interior is almost entirely new. And the main thing about it, of course, is the company’s own new injection 800 cc engine. V-shaped liquid cooling with a capacity of 67 hp. With. and a maximum torque of 73 Nm is mounted on four silent blocks so that it can be installed on the 2013–2014 Wolverines. The crankcase is heated from a 12 V network in the “base”. Slides, rollers and ski extensions are made of modified material and have an increased service life.
In the “strong” heating position, the steering wheel grips are warm, but this is at –5°, but what will it be like at –25°?
We drive towards the serpentine along the icy streets of Priiskovoye. Despite the bizarre shape of the three-slide front skis, the 370-kilogram colossus responds quite sharply to steering input. Thanks to the large mass and improved suspension springs with hydraulic shock absorbers, the icy “washboard” does not make the steering wheel vibrate, and even on bumps it does not get knocked out of your hands.
Slippery footrests that get clogged with snow are the only serious drawback of ergonomics
Long climbs in the mountains allow you to feel the power of the engine and the correct settings of the variator - in any speed range, the reaction to pressing the gas trigger is instantaneous, without thinking. I skid through a 180-degree turn, blocking the brake disc. Gas! And again, without thinking for a moment, the well-tuned variator picks up the frozen 600-mm caterpillar, bringing the stern of my “cruiser” further into the turn before another long climb...
“Wolverine” can show his closest and not so close competitors not only his claws, but also his teeth
The snowstorm and strong wind, which had been noisy all night, did not subside in the morning. However, all seven Wolverines started up as one from the first press of the Start button. We went to the pass, to the beginning of which there was a fairly calm road, which allowed us to feel that this “utilitarian” was not inferior in comfort to any other “tourist”. A third person can easily fit on the soft saddle. The driver's position is comfortable even for long trips. The steering column can be adjusted by moving back and forth, and its height allows the driver, who is about 185 cm tall, to move while standing without bending over. The windshield does not shake and protects your hands from the wind. The view through it is without distortion (they were present on the first models). Thanks to improved engine balancing, vibrations are practically not felt. The only downsides, perhaps, are the gearbox handle resting on the left leg on bumps (not critical) and slippery footpegs.
There is enough space on the snowmobile for both passengers and cargo. I would also like heated passenger grips
On smooth, deep powder, the snowball moves without a hint of sinking at any speed, even with a sharp start and without ski extensions. But as soon as you move back, you immediately drown. The same thing happens on a steep climb with sharp gas. So, not having reached the top a couple of meters, one of the cars gets stuck and falls on its side.
The headlights are quite dim and not far away
“Wolverine” worked for some time, lying upside down, before it was turned off and lowered head over heels. Four chaotic flips with jumps, and the “beast” is back on its feet! Is he ready to run again? Starting from the rollover site and along the entire trail, there are no stains from gasoline or oil leaks, under the hood is also dry. The windshield is intact and in place, the rest of the exterior is also unchanged, with the exception of the hood parts, which were kept “on their word of honor” anyway: the headlights were hanging on the wires, the decorative grilles were popping up, the stickers were partially peeled off. But the instant start of the engine caused admiration! For the purity of the experiment, we jump several times on the same car from a two-meter springboard. Suspension in fully working order!
When moving backwards in deep snow, the track buries itself
On the way back through a large birch grove with frequently growing and abnormally crooked trees, I check my maneuverability. If the wide hood of the Wolverine fits through, then the trunk arches will slip through even with a full turn of the steering wheel. The gearbox, which we had to use constantly in these thickets, switches manually and has four modes: high, low, neutral and reverse. All of them turned on easily, clearly and immediately on all seven machines participating in the test.
The wide hood limits the maneuverability of the snowmobile. It will be very useful to install a winch
One snowball finally ran into a birch tree, broke it with his ski, jumped up and landed on a stump. We examined the bottom - not a crack! Although additional protection for the pallet is offered by the manufacturer. As for the ski, its handle still burst.
It must be stated that the updated Stels S800 snowmobile has passed really serious, not at all “utilitarian” tests with honor. This means that he will cope with his direct responsibilities with a bang.
SPECIFICATIONS
| Dimensions (length/width/height/windscreen height) | 3150x1160x1470x800 mm |
| Track width/lug height | 600/22 mm |
| Ski base | 920 mm |
| Fuel tank volume | 45 l |
| Engine | 800 cm3, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, V-shaped, liquid cooling, injection, 67/5000 hp/min-1, 73/5000 Nm/min-1 |
| Transmission | CVT; KP mech. with reduction gear and reverse gear |
| Front suspension | independent, telescopic, spring with hydraulic shock absorber, stroke 150 mm |
| Rear suspension | pendulum, spring with hydraulic shock absorber, stroke 170 mm |
| Brake | disc, hydraulically driven |
| Curb weight | 370 kg |
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Test Drive
So, we continue to study the Stealth 600 Viking snowmobile. Price, reviews - these moments leave only positive impressions. This sample was thoroughly tested in the Republic of Khakassia, in a village called Priiskovy. Of course, many admired the domestic product. But journalists did not like the heavy weight of the product (365 kg), the dubious design of the windshield and hood, and the lack of a manual starter.
Getting acquainted with a walking and utilitarian novelty can be described as a “meeting on clothes.” Reviews of the Stealth 600 Viking snowmobile indicate that buyers receive mostly positive impressions of the appearance. The car is certainly interesting both in terms of cost and equipment. Undoubtedly, it will appeal not only to fans of fast driving across snowy fields, but also to those for whom a snowmobile is a real winter transport.
Repair and tuning
According to most owners of the Viking 800 snowmobile, there is no point in investing in tuning. Of course, you can repaint the car, change the protective glass and skis. Otherwise everything is fine.
The issue of repairing the 800th Viking is not as pressing as with the Wolverine. The weakest points of the model are glass, shock absorbers and some plastic parts. One of the advantages of domestic transport is the availability and low cost of spare parts. Details can be found in specialty stores or on the Internet.
Run-in
What else are the Stealth 600 Viking snowmobiles famous for? Reviews, testing - this is what interests inexperienced buyers. They are burning with impatience, wanting to try the new product in action. The engine of this snowmobile rumbles with bass, creating the impression of a serious machine.
The car is equipped with a new plug, the hose from the tank is securely hidden, the heat pipe is located away from the muffler, the instrument panel is very informative, and the engine does not overheat. Some owners do not like the design of the glass and the height of the racks (they complain that they are low).
Those who have ridden this snowmobile as passengers claim that the seating position is comfortable, bumps are almost not felt, and the center of gravity is minimally elevated. They say that you can climb the hill without using the gas, very confidently. Those who have ridden a snowmobile as a driver claim that it climbs well, even crawling over large pieces of ice. The car drives wonderfully through the wilds: successfully crushing birch trees under itself, thanks to its weight. The reduction gear confidently guides the snowmobile through grooves and bumps.
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.
Where can I order and at what price?
You can buy Stels Viking 600 on the official website of the dealer. To order a snowmobile, just call or leave a request on the website. Our specialists are ready to offer convenient payment methods, fast delivery, a wide range of products, and repair services. The cost of the new Stealth 600 model ranges from 300,000 to 340,000 rubles. The cheapest option includes basic equipment, and the most expensive includes additional equipment.
Used models are also offered on the markets at prices ranging from 270,000 to 310,000 rubles. In this case, the cost depends on various criteria: year of manufacture, equipment, condition of the snowmobile, number of kilometers traveled.
Purchase
Before purchasing a product, be sure to read the reviews. The Stels S600 Viking snowmobile can be bought in the store today: responsive dealers will show you the device and tell you in detail about it. Pilots say that with this product, all areas of the engine that need repair are easily accessible. The weight distribution of the engine, which is electronically controlled, is excellent here. The factory-installed headlights point underneath the car, but can be adjusted. The gears of the device engage perfectly smoothly. If you turn around on ice at high speed, the snowmobile's skis will not come off the surface and the driver will not fall into a snowdrift.
Buy Stels snowmobiles - they are a great machine!
