Overview
What stands out here is the 2013 Can-Am Commander 1000 DPS, a sport-oriented utility task vehicle designed for riders who want a mix of off-road fun and practical performance. This machine is built around a 976cc V Twin engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection, giving it enough punch for trail riding, light work, or even some outdoor recreation. Despite its sporty character, it features a durable construction meant to handle a variety of terrains and conditions.
This UTV offers a balanced blend of comfort and capability, equipped with a CVT transmission and a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline, allowing you to adapt to changing trail conditions or work needs. The independent double A-arm front suspension and rear independent suspension with 10 inches of travel help keep the ride smooth over rough terrain, while dual hydraulic disc brakes in the front and a hydraulic disc at the rear provide solid stopping power.
Designed for outdoor enthusiasts who want a machine that can handle both trail adventures and utility tasks without sacrificing agility, the Commander 1000 DPS is a machine that emphasizes fun and reliability. Its dimensions and ground clearance make it suitable for various terrains, and its 10-gallon fuel tank ensures you won’t have to stop often during longer rides. Within Can-Am’s lineup, this model stands out as a sporty yet practical option that appeals to riders seeking a purpose-built, all-around machine for adventure and light work.
Performance & Powertrain
Working a full day on demanding tasks puts the engine and drivetrain to the test. The 2013 Can-Am Commander 1000 DPS packs a 976cc V twin liquid-cooled engine, which provides a good mix of torque and smooth power delivery. That displacement is on the higher end for sport utility vehicles in this class, giving it enough grunt to handle tough work and trail adventures alike.
In practice, the V twin’s torque output ensures responsive acceleration and steady pulling power at low revs. It’s suited for hauling gear through muddy trails or climbing steep inclines without feeling strained. The fuel-injected setup promotes consistent performance and easier cold starts, especially in varying weather conditions. This engine’s character favors mid-range power, making it ideal for work tasks that demand continuous, reliable output rather than high-revving speed.
The transmission uses a continuously variable (CVT) setup, which keeps the power delivery smooth and hassle-free. The CVT adjusts smoothly to rider input, whether you’re crawling through tough terrain or cruising at higher speeds. Coupled with a selectable 4×2 or 4×4 drive system, this drivetrain offers flexibility depending on terrain and load. Engaging four-wheel drive allows you to maximize traction in slick or loose conditions, while switching to 2WD conserves fuel and reduces drivetrain wear during lighter duties.
Suspension & Handling
If you’re planning to tackle rough trail sections, you’ll want to know how this machine manages uneven terrain. The Commander 1000 DPS features independent suspension on both ends, with 10 inches of travel front and rear. This setup helps absorb bumps and ruts, providing a smoother ride whether you’re weaving through rocky trails, navigating loose gravel, or climbing over roots. The double A-arm design on the front offers good wheel articulation, helping keep tires in contact with the ground for stability and control. Meanwhile, the rear independent suspension with the same travel height manages shock absorption across a variety of terrains, making it a worthwhile choice for trail riding or work sites that require handling different surfaces efficiently.
- Front suspension: Independent Double A-Arm for up to 10 inches of travel
- Rear suspension: Independent with 10 inches of travel, suitable for varied terrain
- Braking system: Dual hydraulic disc brakes up front for strong stopping power, rear hydraulic disc for consistent control
- Tires: 27 x 9-14 Maxxis Bighorn tires on all four corners, offering good grip on dirt, mud, or rocky surfaces
This combination of suspension travel, brake setup, and tires delivers confident handling across different trail conditions and work environments, giving you the control needed to stay in command whether you’re out for recreation or utility tasks.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to load this machine into a standard truck bed, you’ll want to know that the Can-Am Commander 1000 measures 118.3 inches long and 58.6 inches wide, making it manageable for most pickup trucks. Its height of 72 inches provides enough clearance for taller riders or those who need extra headroom, while the 75.8-inch wheelbase helps with stability on rough terrain. Ground clearance sits at 11 inches, allowing for decent obstacle clearance without sacrificing too much stability at speed.
- Seat height is approximately 31 inches, suited for riders of average to taller stature but may be a stretch for shorter riders.
- Dry weight weighs in at 1,295 pounds, which influences towing and how easily it can be maneuvered on trails or in the bed of a truck.
- Fuel capacity is 10 gallons, offering a solid range for longer rides without frequent stops.
For comfort and convenience, this machine’s dimensions promote easy entry and exit, with enough space to carry gear or supplies in the cargo bed. Its size strikes a balance between maneuverability in tight spots and stability on open terrain, making it suitable for riders who want a dependable workhorse with room to grow into comfort. When shopping, check how the seat height fits your stature and consider the overall width if you plan to navigate narrow trails or garage storage.
Notable Features
Anyone running challenging trail work or demanding outdoor chores will appreciate the enhancements brought by the 2013 Can-Am Commander 1000 DPS’s design and equipment. Unlike base models or less equipped competitors, this model offers notable improvements in comfort and control, making extended rides or long workdays easier on the driver.
One of the key upgrades is the inclusion of electronic power steering, which reduces driver fatigue and improves maneuverability, especially in tight spots or rugged terrain. This steering system is a significant step up from manual options found on many entry-level UTVs at this price point. Alongside that, the Commander 1000 DPS sports a set of 27-inch tires that provide better grip and stability on uneven surfaces, and a more refined ride quality thanks to its upgraded suspension tuning.
Additional features that stand out include a digital dashboard that displays critical information such as speed, trip distance, and engine diagnostics, which helps keep drivers informed at a glance. The vehicle also benefits from a well-thought-out cargo rack system, giving users the ability to carry tools or gear without needing additional accessories. Compared to simpler models, these upgrades add tangible value by enhancing safety, convenience, and the overall riding experience, especially for those who plan to use the Commander for serious work or extended play sessions.
Pricing & Value
Most sport side-by-sides in the mid-range segment offer a balance between performance and price, and the Can-Am Commander 1000 DPS, with its $13,999 price tag, fits squarely into that category. For riders looking for a machine that can handle recreational trails, light work tasks, and some weekend adventures without breaking the bank, this price is quite reasonable. It provides the core features expected at this level, including enough power and modern controls, without the premium costs associated with top-tier models.
At its current price point, the Commander 1000 DPS sits above entry-level models that often feature smaller engines and fewer amenities, but below the high-end, fully loaded packages that can reach into the $16,000-$20,000 range. It is positioned as a mid-level package in Can-Am’s lineup, offering a good compromise of features such as electric power steering, adjustable suspension, and a purpose-built engine. The next step up usually includes additional luxury features, more sophisticated electronic aids, or larger tires, which raise the cost significantly. Conversely, trimming down to a base model would mean sacrificing some comfort and convenience components that make the Commander more user-friendly off-road.
From a value perspective, the Commander 1000 DPS offers a fair price considering its power, usability, and the brand’s reputation for strong build quality. It is not the cheapest machine in the segment, but it justifies the premium with its refined controls and balanced package. For dedicated hobbyists or casual riders who want a reliable machine built to tackle a variety of tasks and terrains, this model delivers a good bang for the buck. However, if your focus is purely on performance or you plan to use it intensively, you might find it worthwhile to explore models that push into the $15,000 range, which often add more features or a higher trim level.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the 2013 Can-Am Commander 1000 DPS’s ability to blend strong performance with user-friendly features, making it a good fit for riders who want reliable power without sacrificing ease of use. It’s built for those who need a machine that can handle trail riding, farm work, or recreational runs with confidence, especially if they appreciate smooth handling and an intuitive control layout. This model offers a balance of comfort and capability, which appeals to owners who want something that performs well out of the box but isn’t overly complex to operate.
The most defining quality of the Commander 1000 DPS is its engine and drivetrain combination. Powered by a 976cc V-twin, it provides ample torque for hauling, climbing, or towing tasks, while the power delivery remains manageable for a wide range of riders. The DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) adds a significant advantage by reducing steering effort at low speeds and enhancing maneuverability, particularly in tight spots or challenging terrain. That feature alone can make a difference when spending long hours in the seat or tackling tricky trails, but it’s also the element that could sway riders seeking a machine that feels effortless to control.
However, this model isn’t the right pick for everyone. If your focus is strictly on high-speed racing or you need a machine primarily for extreme off-road competitions, you might find other options that prioritize agility or lightweight performance. Conversely, if you’re after a machine that excels in rough terrain, has more ground clearance, or offers additional customization, consider looking at other models within the Can-Am lineup or brands that emphasize aggressive trail riding. Still, for those who want a dependable, well-balanced UTV with strong power and easy handling, this Commander 1000 DPS makes a compelling case.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2013 Can-Am Commander 1000 DPS
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassSport UTV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire27x9-14
- Dry weight1295 lb
- Tires27x9-14Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- Roof and windshieldWeather protectionShop on Amazon
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit976ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps2000 lbRated above the 1295 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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