Introduction to the 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500
The 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500, introduced by Polaris in 2017, is a standout utility UTV designed to meet the diverse needs of off-road enthusiasts, ranchers, farmers, and hunters. This model is a part of the Ranger® series, known for its ruggedness, reliability, and versatility. With its robust features and exceptional performance, the 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 is a top choice for those seeking a dependable utility vehicle for work or recreational activities.
Priced at $8,999, the 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 offers an affordable yet powerful option in the utility UTV market. With a manufacturer-recommended minimum age of 16, this UTV is accessible to a wide range of users. Its rugged construction, reliable transmission, and impressive engine performance make it well-suited for various applications, from agricultural work to outdoor adventures. The 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 is a testament to Polaris’ commitment to delivering high-quality, durable vehicles that cater to the needs of enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT), offering smooth and efficient power delivery. Its ProStar™ engine, featuring a single-cylinder design, delivers 32 horsepower and 23.9 kW, ensuring reliable performance across various terrains. With a liquid-cooled system, fuel injection technology, and a displacement of 500cc, this utility UTV exemplifies Polaris’ engineering excellence and dedication to providing users with a capable and dependable vehicle for their demanding tasks and recreational pursuits.
Polaris Ranger® 500: Model Classification and Key Features
The Polaris Ranger® 500 holds a significant position within the Polaris lineup as a Utility UTV. With an introduction year in 2017, it has been designed to cater to a wide range of use cases, from agricultural and industrial applications to recreational off-road adventures. This model is a part of the renowned Polaris family, and its classification as a Utility UTV reflects its versatile nature and robust capabilities.
Distinctive characteristics that set the Polaris Ranger® 500 apart from other UTVs in the same category include its ProStar™ engine, continuously variable transmission (CVT), and Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT). These features, combined with its rugged design and reliable performance, make it a preferred choice for enthusiasts and professionals seeking a dependable and powerful Utility UTV.
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Price and Value of the 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500
The 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 is offered at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $8,999. This price may vary based on different configurations or editions, but it remains an attractive offering in its segment, especially when considering its features and specifications.
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 | $8,999 |
Engine Specifications and Performance
The Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with a ProStar™ single-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 32 horsepower (bhp) and 23.9 kW of power. This robust engine type is specifically designed to provide optimal performance and durability for off-road use, making it an ideal choice for users seeking specific power characteristics.
In addition to its remarkable power output, the engine boasts a displacement of 500cc (30.5 ci), along with a 4-stroke engine stroke and a liquid cooling system. These features contribute to the Ranger® 500’s exceptional performance and robust durability, ensuring reliable operation in challenging off-road conditions.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-Cylinder |
| Displacement (cc/ci) | 500 / 30.5 |
| Horsepower (bhp/kW) | 32 / 23.9 |
| Cooling | Liquid |
Transmission System and Benefits
The 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) known as the Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT). This transmission type offers seamless shifting and a wide gear ratio, allowing the vehicle to maintain optimal power and torque delivery across various speeds and terrains. The CVT operation eliminates the need for manual shifting, providing smooth acceleration and deceleration without any interruption in power delivery, making it an ideal choice for both utility work and off-road adventures.
Furthermore, the Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) includes a Hi / Low Range mode, enhancing its versatility for utility tasks such as towing and hauling heavy loads, as well as conquering challenging off-road trails. Its Reverse function also adds convenience for maneuvering in tight spaces and during load handling. The absence of an Overdrive gear ensures consistent power output, while the primary drive through a shaft and a belt optimizes efficiency and durability, making it a reliable choice for demanding work and rugged adventures.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Transmission Type | Continuously Variable (CVT) |
| Overdrive | No |
| Primary Drive (Front Wheel) | Shaft |
| Primary Drive (Engine / Transmission) | Belt |
| Reverse | Yes |
| Transmission Brand | Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) |
| Hi / Low Range | Yes |
Driveline Configuration and 4×4 Capabilities
The driveline configuration on the Polaris Ranger® 500 features an On-Demand™ driveline brand, providing selectable 4X2 / AWD driveline type with three driveline modes for versatile off-road performance. This driveline setup includes a rear unlocking differential, a center limited slip differential location, and a rear differential lock location, offering exceptional handling and traction control in diverse terrain conditions.
Moreover, the driveline system’s rear solid axle absence enhances maneuverability and ensures optimal stability, while the selectable driveline modes allow the driver to adapt to varying terrain conditions with ease. This configuration provides the Polaris Ranger® 500 with the capability to tackle challenging off-road environments, making it an ideal companion for utility tasks and recreational adventures.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Driveline Brand | On-Demand™ |
| Driveline Type | Selectable 4X2 / AWD |
| Number Of Driveline Modes | 3 |
| Rear Unlocking Differential | Yes |
| Rear Solid Axle | No |
| Limited Slip Differential Location | Center |
| Differential Lock Location | Rear |
Dimensions and Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 9.17 ft |
| Width | 58 in / 1470 mm |
| Height | 73 in / 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase | 73 in / 1854 mm |
| Turning Radius | 12.5 ft |
| Ground Clearance | 10 in / 254 mm |
| Dry Weight | 1065 lbs / 483 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 1000 lbs / 453.6 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 1500 lbs / 680.4 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 9 gal / 34.1 l |
| Engine Displacement to Weight | 0.47 cc |
The 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 boasts impressive dimensions and weight specifications, which directly impact its usability and performance in various scenarios. With a length of 9.17 feet, width of 58 inches (1470 mm), and height of 73 inches (1850 mm), the Ranger® 500 offers a balanced and versatile UTV platform, suitable for navigating diverse terrains. The 1065-pound (483 kg) dry weight contributes to its agility and maneuverability, while the 1000-pound (453.6 kg) payload capacity and 1500-pound (680.4 kg) towing capacity ensure practical functionality for hauling and transporting heavy loads. Additionally, the 9-gallon (34.1 liters) fuel capacity and 0.47 cc engine displacement to weight ratio further enhance its endurance and power delivery, making the Ranger® 500 a robust and dependable off-road companion.
Exterior Design and Visual Appeal
The Polaris Ranger® 500 boasts a distinctive exterior design that combines rugged functionality with striking visual appeal. The robust steel frame provides a sturdy foundation, ensuring durability and reliability in challenging off-road conditions. Its dynamic body material, combined with a range of exterior covers, front bumper, and skid plates, demonstrates a thoughtful approach to both form and function. The vehicle’s front and rear A-arm skid plates, bash plate, and full-length skid plate further enhance its off-road capabilities, making it a versatile and resilient utility UTV.
Additionally, the Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with a standard cab cage and roll bar, providing crucial safety measures without compromising its visual aesthetics. The carefully integrated design elements, along with the available color options, contribute to the vehicle’s overall visual appeal. The combination of robust features and thoughtful design details makes the Polaris Ranger® 500 a standout in both functionality and visual allure within the utility UTV segment.
Steering Features and Handling Performance
The 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with a manual steering system, offering precise control and feedback to the driver in both utility and off-road settings. The manual steering system, operated via a standard steering wheel, provides a direct connection between the driver and the vehicle’s front wheels, enhancing the overall handling experience.
In utility settings, the manual steering system of the Polaris Ranger® 500 allows for easy maneuvering and precise navigation through confined spaces, making it an ideal choice for various work-related tasks. The direct steering control enhances the vehicle’s agility, enabling it to navigate through tight corners and crowded work areas with ease and confidence.
Suspension System and Ride Comfort
The Polaris Ranger® 500 features a front suspension system with a McPherson Strut type and a front travel of 9 inches (229mm). Meanwhile, the rear suspension is an Independent Double A-Arm type with a rear travel of 10 inches (254mm). These specifications allow for a robust and versatile suspension setup that is well-equipped to handle various terrains, providing a comfortable and controlled ride.
On rugged terrains, the suspension system of the Polaris Ranger® 500 delivers exceptional comfort and handling. The McPherson Strut front suspension and Independent Double A-Arm rear suspension work in tandem to absorb impacts and maintain stability, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride even in challenging off-road conditions. This setup enhances the overall driving experience, making the Polaris Ranger® 500 a reliable and capable vehicle for adventurers and utility tasks alike.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension Type | McPherson Strut |
| Front Travel (in/mm) | 9 / 229 |
| Rear Suspension Type | Independent Double A-Arm |
| Rear Travel (in/mm) | 10 / 254 |
Wheels and Tires for Off-Road Performance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Tire Composition | Steel |
| Front Tire Diameter (in) | 25 |
| Rear Tire Diameter (in) | 25 |
| Tire Brand | Carlisle |
| Front Tire Width | 8 |
| Front Wheel Diameter | 12 |
| Rear Tire Width | 10 |
| Rear Wheel Diameter | 12 |
| Front Tire (Full Spec) | Carlisle 489: 25 x 8-12 |
| Rear Tire (Full Spec) | Carlisle 489: 25 x 10-12 |
When it comes to the Polaris Ranger® 500, the standard wheel and tire setup is designed to deliver optimal off-road performance and durability. The wheels are composed of steel, ensuring robustness and resilience in challenging terrains. The front and rear tire diameters are both 25 inches, with the Carlisle brand providing reliable traction and grip. The specific tire dimensions, such as the 8-inch front tire width and the 10-inch rear tire width, cater to stability and maneuverability. The Carlisle 489 tires, sized at 25 x 8-12 for the front and 25 x 10-12 for the rear, further enhance the vehicle’s off-road capabilities, making it well-suited for various terrains and conditions. Overall, the tire setup of the Polaris Ranger® 500 is meticulously engineered to support exceptional off-road performance and ensure long-lasting durability.
Braking System and Safety Features
The Polaris Ranger® 500 features a hydraulic disc braking system both at the front and the rear. This braking system is designed to provide robust and reliable stopping power, crucial for maintaining control and safety during operation. The hydraulic disc brakes offer consistent and responsive braking performance, ensuring quick and precise deceleration when needed.
The braking technology incorporated in the Polaris Ranger® 500 enhances safety by delivering consistent and fade-free performance, even under demanding conditions. This contributes to improved control and maneuverability, especially when navigating challenging terrain or carrying heavy loads. Furthermore, the hydraulic disc brakes require minimal maintenance, adding to the overall reliability and safety of the vehicle.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Front Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
Towing and Cargo Capacity
The 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 is a utility UTV designed to handle a range of tasks, from hauling heavy loads to towing equipment. With a towing capacity of 1500 lbs (680.4 kgs), it can easily handle trailers and other implements required for utility applications. The model comes with a standard hitch type, making it compatible with a variety of towing accessories. Additionally, its payload capacity of 1000 lbs (453.6 kgs) ensures that it can carry substantial cargo for utility tasks, making it a versatile option for work-related activities.
Furthermore, the cargo bed of the 2017 Polaris Ranger® 500 has a capacity of 500 lbs (226.8 kgs), providing ample space for transporting tools, equipment, or supplies necessary for utility work. The polyethylene material of the cargo bed ensures durability and resilience, capable of withstanding the demands of heavy-duty use. Integral tie-down hooks and a cargo bed tilt feature contribute to the model’s suitability for utility applications, allowing for secure and convenient transportation of cargo, making it an ideal choice for those who rely on their vehicle for work purposes.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Towing Capacity | 1500 lbs / 680.4 kgs |
| Hitch Type | Standard |
| Cargo Capacity | 500 lbs / 226.8 kgs |
Seating and Comfort Features
The Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with a bench seat made of high-quality vinyl, designed to provide exceptional comfort and support for both the rider and the passenger. The seat’s ergonomic design ensures a comfortable riding experience, even during extended periods of use. The lack of a headrest may be a concern for some, but the overall seat design and materials contribute significantly to the overall comfort of the vehicle. Additionally, the inclusion of a standard grab rail or strap further enhances the safety and comfort of the passengers.
In terms of comfort features, the Polaris Ranger® 500 offers underseat storage, providing convenient space for storing essential items during rides. The inclusion of a standard glove box/dash storage further adds to the practicality of the vehicle, allowing riders to keep their belongings easily accessible. The vehicle also comes with a single cupholder, offering added convenience for the occupants. These thoughtful features contribute to the overall comfort and convenience of the Polaris Ranger® 500, making it an ideal choice for utility UTV enthusiasts.
Dashboard and Instrumentation
The Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with advanced display and instrumentation features that provide the operator with crucial information for enhanced control and monitoring of the vehicle. The dashboard and instrumentation layout is designed to offer comprehensive insights into the vehicle’s performance and vital parameters, ensuring a seamless and informed riding experience.
- Digital Instrumentation – Provides standard digital display for essential vehicle information
- Clock – Standard feature for timekeeping and scheduling
- Tachometer – Offers real-time engine RPM monitoring
- Trip Odometer – Provides accurate distance tracking for each trip
- Speedometer – Essential for monitoring vehicle speed in real-time
- Hour Meter – Tracks engine running hours for maintenance purposes
- Temperature Warning Type – Gauge-based warning system for temperature fluctuations
- Fuel Level Warning Type – Provides alerts for fuel level status using a gauge
- Service Reminder – Standard feature for timely maintenance reminders
- Voltage Meter – Monitors the vehicle’s electrical system voltage level
Storage Options and Utility Features
When considering the Polaris Ranger® 500, it’s essential to delve into the storage and utility features that contribute to its exceptional versatility for a wide range of tasks. The UTV boasts a variety of storage options and utility features, including racks, compartments, and underseat storage, all meticulously designed to elevate its practicality and functionality.
The underseat storage comes as a standard feature, providing ample space for stowing essential gear and equipment securely. Additionally, the UTV is equipped with a glove box and dash storage, ensuring convenient access to frequently used items. The cargo bed, constructed with polyethylene, offers a generous volume of 8.9 ft3 (0.3 m3) and a substantial capacity of 500 lbs (226.8 kgs), further augmenting its utility for transporting cargo and supplies.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Underseat Storage | Standard |
| Number Of Cupholders | 1 |
| Bed Length (in/mm) | 32 / 810 |
| Bed Height (in/mm) | 11.5 / 290 |
| Bed Width (in/mm) | 42 / 1070 |
| Bed Capacity (lbs./kgs.) | 500 / 226.8 |
| Cargo Bed Tilt | Yes |
| Cargo Bed Material | Polyethylene |
| Bed Volume (ft3/m3) | 8.9 / 0.3 |
| Integral Tie-Down Hooks | Yes |
| Glove Box / Dash Storage | Standard |
| Camouflage Trim | No |
Lighting System and Visibility Enhancements
The Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with a comprehensive lighting system designed to enhance safety and visibility, particularly during low-light conditions. The headlight and taillight types and specifications play a crucial role in ensuring optimal illumination and visibility across different terrains and environments.
- Standard headlight mounts
- Standard halogen headlights
- Standard tail light/brake light
- Halogen light type
Convenience and Additional Features
The Polaris Ranger® 500 is equipped with a range of convenience features that cater to the needs of both daily users and those carrying out utility tasks. These features are designed to enhance the user experience and provide practical benefits for various scenarios.
- Digital controls for precise and intuitive operation
- Integrated USB charging ports for powering electronic devices on the go
- Onboard tool storage to keep essential equipment secure and easily accessible
These features significantly improve the user experience by offering advanced control, seamless connectivity, and efficient organization of tools. The digital controls ensure precise handling and operation, while the integrated USB charging ports allow users to power their electronic devices, ensuring they stay connected and productive while on the move. Additionally, the onboard tool storage provides a secure and easily accessible location for essential equipment, enhancing convenience and readiness for utility tasks.
Mounting Options and Custom Attachments
The Polaris Ranger® 500 offers a range of mounting options and custom attachments that significantly expand the functionality of this Utility UTV. From plow mounts to cargo carriers, the vehicle can be equipped with various accessories to enhance its versatility and performance in different applications.
- Plow mounts for clearing snow and debris
- Cargo carriers for transporting tools and equipment
