Rating of the best motorized towing vehicles for 2022

A motorized towing vehicle, which is also called a motorized dog, is a useful assistant for fishermen, hunters, as well as owners of country houses for the most convenient household chores. The editors of the site "top.htgetrid.com/en/" ranked the best tugs of 2022 based on customer reviews and expert opinion.

Origin story

Motorized dogs, like snowmobiles as users know them today, have their origins in Canada.

Local aggressive weather conditions and spacious territories have led to the mechanization of the movement of people in winter. Snowmobiles have drastically changed and improved over the course of their existence, while motorized dogs are still relatively affordable units with a simple design.

The first motorcycle dogs to go beyond the bush (such as the Bolens Hus Ski) had a compilation that is still used today: a gasoline-powered engine via a generator, a wide track and a centrifugal type clutch.

On the territory of the Russian Federation, exclusively garage craftsmen, who used ready-made schemes from magazines, pored over the production of such units for many years. However, as of 2022, the Russian market offers an extensive selection of factory motorized dogs.

The main advantage of modern models is not that they are affordable or that they do not need to be registered, since at the level of the law they are, in some way, classified as walk-behind tractors. The advantage of such units, first of all, lies in their small dimensions: some can easily fit into a car trunk, for which fishermen, hunters, etc. fell in love with motorized dogs so much.

Top Producers

If the user decides to purchase a motorcycle dog himself, then, as practice shows, difficulties arise with the choice of a company. The fact is that the manufacturers of these vehicles, like any other firm that produces something, just as eloquently promote their own products. The editors of the site "top.htgetrid.com/en/" have compiled for you, in addition to the rating of the most popular models, also the TOP of the best manufacturers that are trusted among consumers:

• IKUDZO is a completely new level of Russian motorized towing vehicles. Designed to the smallest detail, motorized dogs of this company are many times ahead of similar towing vehicles in all respects: the use of innovative technologies not only at the production stage, but also design, strict quality control, laser cutting, as well as multi-layer painting and equipment with high-quality motors from manufacturers HONDA, ZONGSHEN, LONCIN and LIFAN.
• Optimax. Premium class scooters. The company's strategy is to produce reliable and high-quality towing vehicles.
• Baltmotors is a domestic company that has won the hearts of users both in Russia and abroad. Its outdoor products are exported to the United States, Canada and European countries.
• Koira is a manufacturer from Arkhangelsk with an extensive catalog of similar vehicles. Any user will be able to find the most favorable model for a specific time of the year, buy a motorized towing vehicle according to the type of engine, power indicator or hodovka. If necessary, the manufacturer will make the vehicle to order.
• Burlak is a domestic company that specializes only in the manufacture of motorized towing vehicles. The production facilities of the company are located in Rybinsk.The testing of each motorcycle dog allows designers to design models taking into account the specifics of operation and climate.
• "Man" has been in this niche for more than 5 years. During this time, the company managed to sell about 16,000 devices. The towing vehicles of this manufacturer are comfortable, maneuverable, stand out from the competition with their lightness, and also enable their owners to cope with off-road conditions not only in winter, but also in summer.
• "Razgulay" stands side by side with the agricultural sector, and therefore each model of the company is a compact sample of agricultural equipment with excellent carrying capacity and cross-country ability.
• Tofalar manufactures small all-terrain vehicles in the low-cost segment.
• "Pomor" offers users a range of units of the large company "Omela Group". Motorized dogs of this brand stand out from the competition with a reliable walker with caterpillars, which can be exchanged for a ski module.

What to look for when choosing

Suspension

The greatest load in the process of off-road driving falls on this element. The suspension distributes the weight of equipment and cargo on the track, while the force can change dramatically. The pendant happens:

• roller (this type is considered to be all-weather) - caterpillars move on rotating rollers: not suitable for driving on melted or loose snow;
• skid - ideal for moving on snow, since the design features involve sliding the caterpillar track on slides (skis), in addition, heating occurs due to friction, and the main components cool down under the influence of snow;

Important! Vehicles with this type of suspension stand out from the rest with excellent cross-country performance and economical fuel consumption, however, it is not recommended to operate such motorized towing vehicles without snow. Certain models of equipment are equipped with springs for better comfort during movement.

• pneumatic - made directly to overcome swampy terrain (units with such a suspension are characterized by a smooth ride, which makes the ride as comfortable as possible).

Motor

In the latest generation of motorized towing vehicles, as a rule, there are 4-stroke gasoline engines with a capacity of 5-15 horsepower. Honda (Japan) and Briggs & Stratton (USA) have proven themselves excellently. Lifan and MTR from China can be called their worthy rivals. Experts advise giving preference to high-powered models, because only such a motorized dog will cope with the most difficult tasks.

Transmission

For ease of handling, manufacturers equip their own units with an automatic clutch or a variator. The most favorable solution, according to experts and buyers, is a transmission with a Safari variator, which proved to be excellent in the harsh Russian climate.

Application area

The equipment is selected taking into account the specifics of the territory, the cargo that is planned to be transported, as well as the type of road surface. For fans of winter fishing and hunters, a small-sized device that perfectly overcomes ice and snow will be an excellent option. For the operation of motorized dogs in autumn and spring, experts advise taking a closer look at the units that are able to overcome swampy terrain.

Useful information! On grass and mud, motorized towing vehicles with roller suspension are excellent.

load capacity

For a pleasant pastime in the fresh air with friends, you should focus your attention on the traction capabilities of a particular model. If the user loves speed, then you should give preference to lightweight and high-speed equipment.

For one fisherman, a sleigh carrying capacity of about 200 kg is enough, and if a group of several people gathered to hunt, then it is worth purchasing a model that can handle 500-700 kg of cargo in a hitch.

Manufacturer

The final criterion is the manufacturer, since the Internet presents a large number of primitive equipment collected by amateurs.

Pros and cons of front and rear wheel drive on motorized dogs

Consider the advantages of front and rear wheel drive devices.

Front-wheel drive

The main advantage of front-wheel drive units lies in their traction parameters, and due to the center of gravity, which is located in front, the space of interaction with the surface increases. This has a positive effect on the patency of such motorized dogs. The disadvantage of front-wheel drive units is poor mobility and handling.

Rear drive

In contrast, such motorized towing vehicles have excellent agility and easy handling, since the center of gravity is located next to the hitch. If we talk about the indicators of carrying capacity and cross-country ability, then everything is just as good here, but it should be remembered that if you move on such a motorized dog with an unloaded trailer, then there is a high probability of rearing up.

The best motorized towing vehicles of 2022

If the acquisition is planned for the long term, and there is enough free space in the garage, then it would be advisable to buy a highly reliable all-weather unit. In an environment of extreme climatic conditions with long winters, a motor dog for deep snow is needed in the literal sense of the word. This technique allows you to easily overcome deep snowdrifts and transport cargo.

To simplify the choice, the editors of the site "top.htgetrid.com/en/" analyzed more than two hundred offers from various manufacturers. We focused on the following 10 units.

IKUDZO 500 EKR15

This is one of the best motorized dogs in our ranking, which is equipped with a Japanese "stuffing". This model is adapted to the conditions of the Russian winter, so it will easily help the owner to overcome deep snow. The unit has a Japanese-made four-stroke engine with a power rating of 15 hp.

The drive is located in front, a reinforced variator is provided. For 1 hour of operation, a motorized dog consumes about 2.5 liters of gasoline, and the maximum speed of the model reaches 45 km / h.

Important! This is a motorized towing vehicle with the most powerful technical characteristics in the Russian Federation.

The load capacity of the device itself is 80 kg. The model will pull another 450 kg if you attach 3 sleds.

The average price is 120,000 rubles.

• attractive appearance;
• thought out to the smallest detail;
• the presence of a compartment for tools;
• there is a reverse function;
• reliable motor made in Japan;
• plasma cutting;
• high assembly reliability;
• good permeability.

• some users considered the cost too high, but the device fully justifies the price tag.

OPTIMAX 15

Popular among domestic buyers, the towing vehicle, whose length is 1440 mm, is equipped with a 15 hp engine. This model is adapted to the conditions of the Russian winter, so it is ideal for driving in deep snow. For better comfort of use, both manual and electric start are provided.

This motorcycle dog has a highly reliable engine that boasts a long service life. Among other things, the model we are considering stands out from the competition with an incredible load capacity, the performance of which reaches 500 kg (if you attach a sled). The maximum developed speed is 40 km / h.

The average price is 109,600 rubles.

• high assembly reliability;
• proper placement of the motor;
• soft suspension;
• pillows ICE;
• the presence of a reverse function;
• electric start;
• the presence of heated handles;
• a cigarette lighter is provided;
• variator type "Safari".

• not detected.

X-MOTORS SNOW DOG 15 HP

This model is designed for deep snow and operation in Russian winter conditions. The device has a 15 hp engine, which is distinguished by stable operation and high assembly reliability. The length of the unit is 1440 mm, weight - 73 kg.

Like other equipment of this type, SNOW DOG is equipped with a Safari-type CVT gearbox. By the way, as of 2022, this type of transmission is considered one of the best. If you attach a sled, then the motorized dog will easily transport the owner and another 300 kg of cargo.

The average price is 69,900 rubles.

• high assembly reliability;
• availability when compared with similar options;
• reliable motor;
• simplicity of design.

• low quality bearings.

Barboss Standard 15ME

Despite the strict design, the weight of this device is only 130 kg. This suggests that the model can easily fit in a pickup or jeep. The manufacturer took into account the safety of users, so he equipped the model with large tracks, a 6 mm high-quality plastic case and a reinforced frame frame that covers the motor.

Made in Italy, the motorcycle throttle grip feels comfortable in the hand and doesn't require much effort to start riding. A safety check helps prevent sudden rollover or skidding, which immediately turns off the engine, at the same time, disc-type brakes are instantly activated. The owners of Barbos write about good noise suppression, which is not standard for this type of motorized dog, which does not disturb the population of the surrounding area even at night. For the most convenient movement, it is possible to put an additional headlight.

The average price is 89,900 rubles.

• protected bottom;
• capacity no more than 3 people;
• caterpillars can be easily pulled with your own hands;
• the presence of mudguards;
• Warranty duration: 2 years.

• front-wheel drive, the shortcomings of which we wrote above.

KOIRA 15 hp

This 15 horsepower model is suitable for year-round operation. This motorized towing vehicle proved to be one of the best when it comes to the safety of movement in extreme conditions. The device is equipped with an electric starter and a headlight, the power of which is 18 watts.

The speed limit of this towing vehicle reaches 40 km / h.On the hitch, the model is able to carry no more than 650 kg of cargo, while consuming fuel no more than 3 l / h. Among other things, KOIRA 15 boasts a highly reliable CVT transmission.

The average price is 120,600 rubles.

• high assembly reliability;
• powerful motor;
• excellent permeability.

• some users found the cost too high.

BURLAK-M2 LFK 15 hp

This model is most often preferred by hunters. This motorized towing vehicle is also called "Promyslovik". The device is equipped with a 15 hp engine, besides, it stands out from the competition with its excellent cross-country ability. On itself, the unit can carry about 40 kg of cargo, on a sleigh - another 250 kg.

Our rating contains the most popular modification with an electric starter, but the manufacturer also offers a version with a manual one. For 1 hour of driving "Burlak" consumes 3.7 liters of fuel, which can be attributed to minor shortcomings.

The average price is 100,400 rubles.

• high assembly reliability;
• simplicity of design;
• economical.

• low quality bearings;
• expensive.

Man 500M

This is a quality Russian model with one track, which is ideal for driving on snow and off-road. Of the main characteristics of a motorized towing vehicle, it is worth highlighting:

• track width - 50 cm;
• motor power - 15 hp;
• CVT transmission type "Safari";
• headlight with a power of 27 watts.

The undoubted advantage of this unit is its high speed, the limit of which can reach 55 km / h, while the “Man 500M” consumes only 2.5 liters of fuel per hour.On the hitch, the unit pulls no more than 750 kg of cargo.

The average price is 68,000 rubles.

• high build quality;
• reliable motor;
• simplicity of design.

• low quality bearings;
• not original variator;
• cheap rollers;
• high price.

BTS 15 hp

This is a reliable model for transporting goods in deep snow on a sled. The weight of the load should not exceed 300 kg. This motorized dog has a motor with a power of 15 horsepower. The manufacturer equipped the device with a CVT gearbox, which, coupled with the engine, gives the motorized towing vehicle the ability to accelerate to 60 km / h.

An efficient air cooling system protects the engine from overheating and temperature fluctuations. The design also provides for an electric start, thanks to which the BTS easily starts even at aggressive negative temperatures.

The average price is 76,000 rubles.

• economical engine;
• CVT transmission type "Safari".

• poor basic equipment.

Razgulyay-18.5 comfort

This is a powerful sectional model with a drive located at the rear, which overcomes almost any difficult obstacles, including icy reservoirs and swampy terrain. It is worth noting that good shock absorbers are installed in the motorized dog we are considering, thanks to which the unevenness of the coating is smoothed out as much as possible.

The owner also does not have to worry about bearings and a caterpillar, since the manufacturer has provided special protection for these units. Capacity - no more than 2 people. "Razgulyay" can be understaffed with a windshield and a plastic case made of plastic for all sorts of little things.

The average price is 125,500 rubles.

• economical fuel consumption;
• the drive is located behind;
• excellent cross-country performance;
• understands without difficulty;
• compactness;
• availability of additional accessories.

• no motor cover.

MBG-2 "Vyuga"

This compact piece of motorcycles looks like a reinforced children's snowmobile with a motor. The model will be an excellent solution for fishermen and hunters, as it easily travels on ice and off-road. Due to its compactness, the equipment can easily fit into the trunk of a car, of course, in a disassembled state.

By the way, the Blizzard is easy to disassemble, so you can handle this process yourself, without much effort and a special tool. Despite the fact that the unit we are considering is not positioned by the manufacturer as a motorized towing vehicle designed to travel in deep snow, buyers living in the northern regions of Russia tested it, and the tests were successful. The device is suitable for operation in the conditions of the Russian winter, since the range of temperatures declared by the manufacturer varies from +5 to -30 degrees Celsius. The motor can be tested in more extreme conditions, but for this the user must have impressive frost resistance.

The average price is 65,000 rubles.

• compactness;
• availability;
• Ease of controls;
• reliable motor.

• low engine power.

How the ranking was made

The TOP was compiled on the basis of a consideration of the most famous models of motorized dogs. The editors of the site "top.htgetrid.com/en/" took into account user reviews, reviews of critics and expert points of view.To get into the rating, motorized towing vehicles had to meet positive indicators for the following parameters:

• safety;
• type of motor start;
• chassis;
• comfort of operation;
• resistance to negative temperatures;
• track width;
• patency;
• type of fuel used;
• the need for a driver's license;
• the need for maintenance;
• the duration of the guarantee;
• accessory accessories included.

When choosing, you should also take into account the cost of the model, its dimensions, weight and durability.

Additional accessories

Among the accessories for such devices are the following:

• The pusher module, through which it is easier to control the patency of the motorized dog. As a rule, these devices are equipped with two seats.
• Sleigh made of dense sheet plastic, the thickness of which is 8 mm, a metal frame and protective pads on the bottom (height - 13 mm, width - 5 cm). The sledge has the ability to transport the pusher.
• A slip-type suspension with which you can improve the performance of a motorized dog on thawed or deep snow.
• A cover that will protect transport from the negative effects of wind and precipitation. The presence of the cover allows you to reduce the wear of the motorized towing vehicle and increase the time of using the vehicle.
• Muffs that protect the user from frost, wind, snow and rain. They are made from several fabric layers. The upper, as a rule, is characterized by high density and moisture resistance. The inner layer assumes the presence of polyurethane inserts and a soft lining. The clutch quickly warms the driver's hands and eliminates the possibility of moisture or wind.

Criteria for choosing a motorized towing vehicle from experienced anglers

Users who have been able to test the purchased motorcycle dog can provide useful recommendations. The tips below will help you make the right choice when buying a car:

• The most favorable power is considered to be an indicator of 6.5 hp. Such a unit is suitable for transporting small loads, as well as several people. For driving on terrain with difficult terrain and transporting bulky goods, experts recommend buying a motorized towing vehicle with a capacity of 10 horsepower or more.
• Even before purchasing a machine, you need to determine what kind of drive is needed. Models with front-wheel drive differ from cars with rear-wheel drive in better off-road performance and, on the contrary, motorized towing vehicles with rear-wheel drive overtake their “brothers” in speed.
• Experts advise a thorough inspection of the motorcycle dog to protect the main components from the effects of corrosion. It will not be superfluous to also ask the seller a question about the level of strength of the hull.
• To drive at night, you need to buy a car with a powerful headlight.
• The option of heated handles allows you to ride long distances.

What is the difference between a snowmobile and a motorized towing vehicle

Any technique has both advantages and disadvantages. Motorcycle dogs are no exception. Snowmobiles and motorized towing vehicles are very similar, and therefore there are difficulties in the process of choosing such a vehicle. Motorized dogs are comfortable while riding, and also differ from similar vehicles in ease of handling.

If you need a car for systematic hunting and fishing trips, then a motorized dog would be an excellent solution. If speed and driving comfort are of paramount importance, then you should give preference to buying a snowmobile.This is a large and rather expensive transport with excellent mobility parameters.

The motorized dog consumes less fuel, fits in a car trunk and stands out against the background of snowmobiles with its accessibility. The motorized towing vehicle can be equipped with a sled, a ski module, etc. The main advantage of a motorized towing vehicle in comparison with a snowmobile is that it can be used in any climatic conditions. To make a final decision, you need to study the advantages and disadvantages of these machines.

• high speed;
• it is possible to transport bulky goods;
• good maneuverability.

• high price;
• difficulties in transportation;
• such vehicles are hazardous, so there is a risk of overturning.

Motorized dogs are in demand by hunters and fishermen. On a motorized towing vehicle, you can move not only in winter, but also in the spring season.

• small dimensions;
• accessibility (compared to snowmobiles);
• excellent cross-country performance;
• safety;
• simple design;
• low chance of rollover.

• are not a viable option for high-speed movement, since this indicator among motorized towing vehicles rarely exceeds the mark of 30-50 km / h.

During the acquisition of such vehicles, you need to take into account the monetary aspect and the purpose of the equipment. For anglers, hunters and foresters, a motorized dog will be an excellent option, and for fans of overcoming long distances and outdoor activities, a snowmobile.

Important! The legislation of the Russian Federation states that a motorized towing vehicle is a small-scale mechanized transport.This suggests that a technical passport for such machines is not provided at the time of purchase and there is no need to register a towing vehicle, but it is forbidden to drive motorized dogs on public roads.