The best motorized towing vehicles (motorized dogs) according to customer reviews

For a long time in the north, special sled dogs were used for transportation. With the development of progress, they were replaced by a motorized towing vehicle, which is often called a motorized dog or an all-terrain vehicle. It’s perfect for hunting, fishing, traveling through deep loose snow, because structurally it is a coupling of a crawler towing vehicle with a sleigh or drag sleigh. The models may be different, but they all perform the same task.

Experts note that all motorized dogs are made of the same material and at approximately the same level of quality; the differences relate to modifications, maintainability, and type of tracks (it’s easier to walk on snow with a cut one). Then how to choose a good motorized towing vehicle, what is worth paying for, and what can you do without? The 2021 rating of motorized towing vehicles will help you figure it out.

Types of motorized towing vehicles

All tracked towing vehicles are divided into 2 versions - front- and rear-wheel drive. Both types of drive have their supporters. Objectively, the difference is as follows.

The main advantage of rear-wheel drive motorcycles is maneuverability and controllability due to the fact that the center of gravity is shifted closer to the hitch point. They go great loaded. However, an empty motorized towing vehicle constantly rears up, capsizes on the rise, and simply buries itself in the snow.

In front-wheel drive motorized towing vehicles, the center of gravity is shifted to the front, which increases the contact patch of the track with the surface. The cross-country ability of such motorized towing vehicles is practically independent of the load, which generally provides better towing capacity and driving characteristics.

High loads on the stern of the towing vehicle lead to more frequent failure of drive parts. Most often, the springs of the balancer bogies burst, which immediately cuts the caterpillar in a circle. Even replacing the chassis bearings causes problems, which requires serious dismantling and adjustment work. It is necessary to remove the engine and adjust the lateral and longitudinal displacement of the variator, while repairing a front-wheel drive layout does not face such difficulties.

Thus, front-wheel drive dogs are more capable, require less maintenance, are easier to control and move faster.

The best motorized towing vehicle for fishing

This type of transport can easily and quickly travel through wet and loose snow and can withstand the weight of equipment and loot. This equipment is perfectly adapted to the difficult Russian conditions and is simply irreplaceable in winter, when it is impossible to reach the chosen place either on foot or by car.

BTS Standard 500/11

Motorized towing vehicle with 500 mm caterpillar, Safari CVT and 11 hp engine, electric starter + Master Pro 150 drag sled. Design features include: modular design (power plant with transmission + tracked propulsion), optimal weight distribution, front-wheel drive and front angle of attack from the Buran snowmobile.

BTS Standard 500/11

On new models, an integrated transmission with a power plant has been introduced, which eliminates accelerated wear of belts and increases their service life (Rubena variator belts). The engine is four-stroke, reaches a maximum speed of up to 60 km/h.

Original steel frame design with a high margin of safety and maintainability. The package includes a powerful LED headlight (12V30W).

Pros:

• modular power plant;
• frame with a high margin of safety;
• emergency check;
• fuel consumption 2-3 l/h;
• all-season suspension.

Minuses:

• greater engine power is more harmful than beneficial, cross-country ability practically does not improve, and as the weight increases, the axlebox buries itself and falls on its side, making it difficult to control

BURLAK-M FORWARDER

On all-season suspension. Two tracks, each 38 cm wide, provide high maneuverability on any type of surface. The suspension is unified; in winter you can install roller carts. It is controlled using a folding steering wheel, standing or sitting in a skid or trailer. Thus, there is no need to register this equipment and obtain control rights.

BURLAK-M FORWARDER

The Burlak Forwarder is equipped with a transmission with a Safari variator, a reliable reverse gearbox with a full neutral gear and a brake mechanism. The basic model is equipped with a Lifan engine with a power of 15 or 17 hp. with 7A coil and voltage regulator, reverse box, brake.

The maximum configuration of the Burlak Forwarder comes with a Lifan engine with a power of 17 or 18.5 hp. with 7A coil and voltage regulator, and also includes heated steering grips, an additional lighting source in the form of an LED beam and an additional socket.

Pros:

• mass production, which means availability of spare parts and warranty service;
• high-quality powder painting;
• high-quality components;
• original durable frame.

Minuses:

• sometimes rears up.

Operating instructions BURLAK-M FORWARDER

BTS Man

Full-size model range with an overall length of 1450 mm and a track width of 500 mm. It has an increased angle of attack, which, in combination with the size of the caterpillar and engine power, reduces the pressure on the snow cover and increases cross-country ability in snow drifts over 1.5 meters high.

Equipped with a two-support transmission unit, an updated safari variator and a metal protective hood on a four-stroke engine from damage by third-party objects, branches, stones, etc. The frame is made of 3mm thick steel plate with subframe. Self-aligning serviceable bearings are installed in a closed housing. Thanks to the self-aligning bearing, the drive shaft always remains horizontal.

BTS Man

An ergonomic steering wheel of medium width is installed. It is mounted above deck level, which has a positive effect on control.

Pros:

• bright powerful headlight included;
• traction force from 350 kg to 750 kg;
• chain and driven star protection;
• increased angle of attack.

Minuses:

• light – 90 kg, sometimes falls over.

Operating instructions for BTS Man

Among the inexpensive domestic motorized dogs:

• Pomor 380 S6.5, 1250 mm long, 6.5 hp engine, headlight, with slides for RUB 54,900;
• Hurricane Compact non-separable with a 13 hp Lifan engine, load capacity 280 kg, price RUB 74,400;
• Forza 6.5 hp for 36,600 rubles.

The best motorized dog for winter

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For unhindered movement on ice and snow, a motorized towing vehicle with caterpillar tracks is required. The suspension used here is sliding, it is distinguished by the absence of a rigid support in the center. This design has a relatively low cost and perfectly performs its task, transporting the owner and dragging the sleigh. Models made exclusively for winter cannot be used in the warm season.

Burlak-M LFS

A powerful vehicle that is suitable for moving a group of people or moving heavy cargo. The front track is 50 cm wide, which ensures confident movement on any snow. The drive is front-wheel drive, although the engine itself is located almost in the center. Weight 87 kg, separately take into account drags (12 kg).

Pomor 500 1450 S17

We can say that it is the best motorized dog for winter fishing. This model is able to overcome any obstacles due to its powerful engine (17 hp), wide track and front-wheel drive (there is the ability to switch to rear wheel drive). The motorized towing vehicle is optionally equipped with seats, a ski module and heated control handles.

Among the disadvantages are the heavy weight, which makes loading into the car difficult even for two people, as well as a narrow strip designed to protect the chain.

Paxus 500 Avant

This model has several configuration options, where the main difference is the engine power: 6.5 and 9 hp. The volume of the tank also depends on this: 3.6 or 5.5 liters. The standard track width is 50 cm. Fuel is supplied through a carburetor, air-cooled and with forced supply.

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Rex LVR 500

The model features the best motorized dog engine, which with a power of 9.5 hp. consumes no more than 2 liters per hour. The fuel tank capacity is 5 liters, the maximum speed is 40 km/h. The engine can be started using either an electric or manual starter. The length of the unit in working condition is 2.7 m, in transport condition – 1.4 m. The total weight is 120 kg, which makes the loading process very labor-intensive.

The best motorized towing vehicle for deep snow

Cross-country ability in snow directly depends on the area of ​​the track, so the longer and wider the motorized dog, the deeper the snow it can overcome. But it must be taken into account that increasing the length and width limits maneuverability. The optimal option is a 50 cm wide track on a motorized dog up to 1.5 meters long. In this case, the motorized dog will confidently overcome even waist-deep loose snow.

Leader Sigma 2

The main feature is the lightweight platform on the wide track of the “Ryda 500 mini”, which allows the Sigma to easily pass where other heavy motorized towing vehicles fail. Sigma can also be used without a ski module.

Leader Sigma 2

The car has a traditional motorcycle layout with an adjustable steering column and a customizable seat. All controls are within easy reach, and there is additional space behind the driver's seat for a passenger or cargo container. If necessary, you can use drag sleds, and thereby significantly increase the carrying capacity of the Leader-Sigma-2 motorized towing vehicle to 150 kg. Maximum speed 20 km/h.

Pros:

• small-sized;
• low fuel consumption - 2 liters AI92;
• ski module;
• backlight;
• designed for winter use;
• overcomes high snowdrifts at low speed.

Minuses:

• sloppy build quality;
• unevenly fitted parts and gaps;
• small margin of safety of parts.

Operating instructions Leader Sigma 2

Bars Mast 500 RV 14 S E

The line of these models has a rear engine, a cut track 55 centimeters wide and a weight from 90 to 106 kg.

The motors on the axlebox are Chinese, life-tested, MTR (marked R), consume inexpensive 92A gasoline. The transmission is a “Safari” variator, reliable and durable. Power 14 hp – all information can be obtained from the name of the motops.

Bars Mast 500 RV 14 S E

This is a short version of the towing vehicle Bars Mast 500. A powerful engine, sleek suspension, simple assembly, high reliability of the four-stroke engine - all this makes the towing vehicle competitive. Front-wheel drive, as mentioned earlier, allows for increased traction and cross-country ability.

Pros:

• low vibration on the steering wheel;
• low fuel consumption;
• folding steering wheel and locking, which simplifies transportation;
• metal bumper;
• split roller balancer.

Minuses:

• requires frequent replacement of variator belts;
• lack of automatic chain lubrication;
• the entire load goes to your hands.

Operating instructions for Bars Mast 500 RV 14 S E

KOiRA 500/15 E

The motorized dog is equipped with a transmission with a Safari variator, a reliable reverse gearbox with a full neutral gear and a brake mechanism. The basic model is equipped with a four-stroke Lifan engine with a power of 15 hp. with 7A coil and voltage regulator, reverse box, brake.

KOiRA 500/15 E

Today, the most powerful axlebox in the winter line, it is capable of driving uphill with an incline of up to 35°, without falling over or becoming drilled, and overcomes snow drifts well. The caterpillar has 56 steps with a hook through the windows, the height of the lug is 21 mm, the width of the track is 500 mm, the length is 2.83 m in increments of 50.5 mm. For starting there is an electric starter and a manual starter. Consumption 3.2 liters per hour.

The suspension is ordinary, inflatable pneumatic wheels, which gives Koyra a smooth ride. The traction force is very impressive - 350 kg, and the cargo area of ​​the motorized dog can accommodate a load of up to 100 kg.

Pros:

• maximum speed 40 km/h;
• there is a reverse gear;
• carries 450 kg in a hitch;
• high ground clearance, allowing small obstacles to pass between the tracks

Minuses:

• short-lived rear mudguards.

How to choose a motorized dog

When choosing a suitable vehicle for hunting or fishing, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

1. Engine. The power of the internal combustion engine directly affects the speed of movement, as well as the maximum weight that a motorized dog can drag. On the market you can most often find engines with one cylinder, the work of which is performed in four piston strokes (stroke). Power often does not exceed 15 hp, and more is not required, because this automatically increases fuel consumption.
2. Maximum load capacity. Almost all motorized towing vehicles are equipped with a trunk in which tools and other things are located, in addition, a drag sled with a load of 150 to 500 kg is attached.
3. Transmission type: automatic or CVT. The first provides greater traction force, but is not as reliable, since it consists of a large number of elements. The second has a higher cost, but at the same time it has a longer resource.
4. Design features of tracks and chassis. For example, for fishing in winter, a motorized towing vehicle should have large hooks, and in the warm season these elements should be avoided. Also, some types of design provide for the possibility of replacing tracks with wheels and vice versa.
5. Frame. This is the basis on which all other elements of the vehicle are attached, which means it must have good strength. On the cladding, the thickness of the steel sheet must be at least 3 mm - this will ensure structural rigidity and protection from deformation.
6. Fuel tank capacity. The calculation is based on the planned distances and fuel consumption per hour of movement. The most balanced volume is considered to be one that provides about 2 hours of continuous movement. If possible, the tank should be as spacious as possible, because carrying a canister of fuel is inconvenient and can negatively affect the number of bites when it comes to fishing.

In addition to the above parameters, the choice of drive type for the motorized towing vehicle deserves special attention. In a front-wheel drive vehicle, the engine and main components are located on the nose, in a rear-wheel drive vehicle, respectively, at the rear. There are both types of motorized dogs on the market, so debate regarding the optimal choice continues. Let's consider the main differences between both options for the location of the main units.

Rear-wheel drive provides increased maneuverability and easier control. This is their main advantage, while there are many more disadvantages:

1. Shifting the weight back puts a lot of tension on the track cage, which results in slipping in the snow, digging into the surface and polishing it when pressing on the gas.
2. When climbing a mountain, the motorized dog may roll over.
3. On loose snow, this drive option is characterized by reduced cross-country ability.

1. Suspension. The suspension experiences the heaviest load when driving off-road. It transfers the weight of the vehicle and luggage to the track, and the force can vary significantly. There are several types of pendants.
2. The roller suspension is considered an all-season suspension, in which the tracks slide on rotating rollers. This design only works poorly in deep, loose or melted snow.
3. On the contrary, the slick type of suspension is recommended for driving on snowy expanses. In this design, the caterpillar track slides over skis (slides). In this case, heating occurs from friction, and the parts are cooled by the snow mass. Motorized towing vehicles with skid suspension are characterized by high maneuverability and low fuel consumption. But you can’t use equipment without snow. Some models are equipped with springs for a more comfortable ride.
4. The air suspension is designed to overcome marshy areas. It is soft, which makes moving especially comfortable.
5. Power unit. Modern motorized dogs are most often equipped with four-stroke gasoline engines with a power of 5 to 15 hp. With. Japanese (Honda) and American (Briggs{amp}amp;Stratton) engines have a good reputation; Chinese products (Lifan, MTR) provide serious competition to them. Experts recommend choosing the most powerful units only when the motorized towing vehicle will perform complex tasks.
6. Transmission. To make it easy to control a motorized dog, manufacturers equip the equipment with an automatic clutch or variator. The best option, according to experts and users, is a transmission with a Safari CVT. It has proven itself well in the Russian winter.
7. Scope of application. The motorized towing vehicle is selected taking into account the nature of the terrain, the weight of the luggage being transported and the type of road surface. Fans of winter fishing and hunting will benefit from a compact model that travels well on snow and ice. In the spring-autumn season, preference should be given to equipment adapted to overcome swamps. Roller models move better on mud and grass.
8. Load capacity. To relax in nature in the company of loved ones, it is important to pay attention to the traction capabilities of a motorized towing vehicle. If the owner enjoys high-speed driving, then it is better to opt for light and fast models. For single fishermen, a sled carrying capacity of up to 200 kg will be sufficient. But when a team of 3-4 people gathers to hunt, then you will need a motorized dog capable of pulling 500-700 kg of cargo in a hitch.

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TOP 12 best models in 2019-2020 We selected 17 of the best motorized towing vehicles for review. They can be purchased in the trading network of our country. When compiling the rating, expert opinions and consumer reviews were taken into account.

The best motorized towing vehicle for the swamp

This category includes all-season motorized dogs, designed for difficult swamps and total off-road conditions, on six and four wheels with removable tracks. The frame must be made of thick-walled metal, since the entire load falls on it and the frame should not be deformed under any conditions.

PAXUS P 550 HV 13 S+SE

Can carry a load weighing 40 kg. and transport a load of 200-300 kg using a sled. Equipped with a 13 hp four-stroke MTR engine. with air cooling and Safari CVT. It has a wide double split track with a width of 550 mm, which creates less pressure on the surface of the motorized towing vehicle. Suspension is slick, rear-wheel drive.

PAXUS P 550 HV 13 S+SE

Pros:

• small dimensions - 2680x600x720 mm;
• light weight – 105 kg;
• safari variator transmission;
• electric starter;
• maneuverability.

Minus:

• rear drive.

Tofalar 500

It moves through snowdrifts up to 100 mm deep, and this can be hard snow or swampy terrain. The minimum payload is 300 kg. It can be equipped with useful options - more powerful headlights, electric starter and disc brake.

Tofalar 500

The basic package includes a tow bar. When connecting a coupling device (trailer) to it, the load capacity increases significantly, up to 500 kg. The control panel is a minimal set of switches. The track is 500 mm, you can choose between roller and slip suspension.

Pros:

• load capacity up to 500 kg;
• the chassis is stable;
• The engine is located at the front to improve center-to-axle weight distribution and uniform specific ground pressure.

Rostin BK 13 HP

An amphibious mini-swamp vehicle controlled by a conventional motorized towing vehicle. Accommodates driver and passenger. The two-wheel trailer itself performs the function of a boat - in case of movement on water. However, when installing the “Ski Module” option, the device can be transformed into a full-fledged towing vehicle, capable of moving through deep snowdrifts, as well as in muddy mud.

Rostin BK 13 HP

The maximum speed is 30 km/h on land, on water – 5 km/h. There is a towbar for a trailer, the load capacity increases to 480 kg (without a trailer only 30 kg). In “swimming mode” the load capacity is 200 kg.

Pros:

• maneuverability;
• amphibian;
• transports a load weighing up to 400 kg in a hitch;
• good cross-country ability.

The best all-season motorized dog

The slip-type suspension eliminates the possibility of the vehicle moving on anything other than snow, however, if the package includes a roller suspension, this makes the motorized towing vehicle a universal means of transportation at any time of the year. Let's look at the most notable models, which are reviewed well by numerous users.

Irbis Mukhtar 7

This version of the motorized dog is not designed for high speeds, but it will allow its owner to drive through areas inaccessible to others. A 7.5 hp engine is installed here. The performance is not high, but this does not affect cross-country ability. Thanks to the towbar located at the front with an upturned design, the vehicle will not get stuck. Peak speed is within 24 km/h.

Leopard Pathfinder M13

The model features a large fuel tank with a volume of 6.5 liters. The average consumption is 2.5 liters per hour, which ensures a distance of up to 100 km on one fill-up. When deciding which motorized dog to choose, you should pay attention to this option, because under the hinged hood there is a 13 hp engine.

Barboss Standard

The model has a fabric casing; no special efforts were made on the design, which cannot be said about the functionality and ease of maintenance. Engine power is 9 or 15 hp. to choose from. Maximum towing weight is 200 or 250 kg respectively. The motorized dog itself will be able to transport a load of 50 kg.

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After familiarizing yourself with the presented motorized towing vehicles and the main characteristics that you should pay attention to, the buyer can easily make a choice. It is recommended to select all parameters based on future operating conditions and with a small margin. This will avoid rapid wear of the main parts of the unit.

The best motorized towing vehicle for hunting

For fishing and hunting, when you go at least one way lightly and back loaded, it is better to choose front-wheel drive models. A motorized dog with front-wheel drive is loaded to a greater extent from the nose; accordingly, the contact patch of the caterpillar increases, and as a result, the movement is more confident.

SnowDog Compact R7Z

Super-compact (in working condition 250×55×65 cm) and lightweight (100 kg without equipment) all-season motorized towing vehicle Baltmotors Snowdog Compact C-R7Z-L with a Rato 7 hp engine. and Comet CVT. Built on a comfortable and lightweight platform, which is not inferior in terms of power and maneuverability to full-size towing vehicles.

SnowDog Compact R7Z

Compacts are available with Honda (Japan) and RATO (China) engines with 7/9/13/15 hp. with and without electric starter, and Briggs&Stratton engines (USA) with 7/10/13 hp. with electric starter. Briggs & Stratton engines come with a two-year warranty. Equipped with headlight and all-weather cover. Fits in the trunk of an SUV. The engine was moved to the center to improve weight distribution and controllability of both an empty motorized dog and a loaded one.

Can be equipped with a sleigh with a Baltmotors seat. The sled is optimally sized for the motorized towing vehicle, which makes transportation easier.

Pros:

• low vibration on the steering wheel;
• quality bearings;
• presence of a metal bumper.

Minuses:

• requires frequent replacement of variator belts;
• Difficulties with warranty service.

Operating instructions for SnowDog Compact R7Z

Mukhtar 15

At the beginning of 2021, IRBIS announced the release of a new series of axle boxes for year-round use in off-road conditions. Mukhtar 15 was equipped with a 420 cc Zongshen engine. see power 15 hp A 500 mm wide track with 23 mm high snow hooks allows you to ride even on loose virgin snow. Equipment includes: Rubena belt 33x14x1120 mm, rubber-coated rollers with seals, a spacious trunk, tow bar, roller-slide suspension, self-cleaning driven star from snow and ice, LED headlight, disc brakes and wide skis 101x15 cm.

Mukhtar 15

The delivery kit allows you to create various modifications of a special roller-slide suspension. With the help of an additional ski module, the axlebox turns into a snowmobile. If you install wheels instead of skis, it will be an all-terrain vehicle.

Pros:

• modular design;
• huge traction force;
• headlight;
• reinforced bearings.

Minuses:

• high price.

Operating instructions Mukhtar 15

The best motorized towing vehicles with roller suspension

For driving on rough terrain where there is little snow, motorized towing vehicles with roller suspension are suitable. They are not subject to overheating of the tracks, allowing you to ride in any weather. Experts have identified several units.

CRONUS CR13V closed

Rating: 4.9

The closed motorized towing vehicle CRONUS CR13V was created taking into account the peculiarities of operation in Russia. The manufacturer lengthened the nose of the unit; this design made it possible to protect the driver from snow and dirt flying out from under the tracks. Shifting the center of gravity forward helped eliminate slipping of the track when starting off. Installing a track tensioner had a beneficial effect on the durability of the track. The platform is adjustable in three planes, which allows you to achieve optimal driving performance. Experts appreciated the heated grips, the high quality of plastic parts and the closed luggage compartment.

The model was liked by domestic consumers. They are satisfied with the operating comfort and reliability of the unit. The unit becomes the winner of the rating.

Advantages

• comfort in operation;
• excellent running abilities;
• Safari variator;
• closed trunk.

Flaws

• not detected.

Wolfhound

Rating: 4.8

The Volkodav motorized towing vehicle is considered one of the most high-torque models. Up to 150 kg of cargo can be placed on the equipment platform. And the unit is capable of towing a trailer weighing up to 600 kg. The developers managed to achieve such high-torque performance due to the close proximity of the track tracks. Each track has a width of 380 mm. The motorized towing vehicle is driven by a four-stroke engine from an ATV with a capacity of 9.5 hp. With. On the plain, the equipment reaches speeds of up to 30 km/h. Experts note the presence of a manual and electric starter, a powerful generator, and the absence of vibration. The model is in second position in our rating.

Users speak flatteringly about the high-torque nature of the device, the presence of reverse speed, and the convenient tow bar. The disadvantages include the high price.

Advantages

• original design;
• excellent traction;
• heated handles;
• reverse.

Flaws

• high price.

Barboss Standard 15ME

Rating: 4.7

Kaliningrad motorcycles Barboss Standart 15ME were included in our rating for reliability and functionality. The developers didn’t bother too much with the design, opting for a rectangular platform, an open engine and a gas tank. It is allowed to transport up to 50 kg of cargo on the motorized towing platform. In case of coupling, the load capacity can be increased to 250 kg. The equipment is equipped with a 15-horsepower engine, which consumes approximately 2.5 l/h. The model is inferior to the leaders in the rating in terms of movement speed (25 km/h); the disadvantages include the entry of exhaust gases into the body.

Owners of the equipment are satisfied with the high-torque, stability, and efficiency of the Barbos. Only the absence of a hood negatively affects the cleanliness of the engine. Difficulties also arise with servicing the device.

Advantages

• high-torque;
• cornering stability;
• efficiency;
• reliability.

Flaws

• no hood;
• exhaust entering the body.