Overview
Anyone running recreational trails or engaging in off-road adventures will appreciate the 2013 Can-Am Renegade 500’s balanced blend of performance and maneuverability. Designed as a sport utility quad, it targets riders seeking an engaging ride with enough power to handle a variety of terrains without the complexity of larger, high-displacement models. Its lightweight frame and responsive handling make it suitable for both casual riders and those looking to hone their skills on tighter, technical courses.
The Renegade 500 employs a 499.6 cc V Twin liquid-cooled engine with fuel injection, providing a smooth and predictable power delivery that strikes a balance between throttle response and fuel efficiency. This engine configuration marks a step up from entry-level models, offering adequate torque and acceleration for trail riding and light work tasks. The CVT transmission, combined with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 driveline, enhances control and traction, making it adaptable to changing terrains and rider preferences.
In terms of chassis and suspension, the machine features double A-arm front suspension with 8.5 inches of travel, paired with independent rear suspension offering 9.3 inches of travel. These specifications ensure a comfortable ride over bumps and uneven surfaces while maintaining stability. Dual hydraulic disc brakes at the front and a hydraulic disc at the rear deliver reliable stopping power, and the 25-inch ITP Holeshot tires provide solid grip on dirt and loose terrain.
What sets the Renegade 500 apart within its segment is not only its focus on rider engagement through a responsive engine and purpose-built suspension but also its build quality and targeted design. It’s built for riders who want a sport quad that can handle trail riding, light utility tasks, and the occasional off-road challenge without the bulk or cost of larger models. This machine offers a concise package that emphasizes fun and control, making it a notable option for enthusiasts looking for a dependable and agile off-road vehicle.
Performance & Powertrain
With a 499.6cc V twin engine, this machine offers a balance of power and throttle response suited for both trail riding and recreational off-road use. The liquid cooling system maintains optimal engine temperatures during extended runs, reducing the risk of overheating and enabling consistent performance in varying conditions. Fuel injection ensures precise throttle control and improves fuel efficiency compared to carbureted models, which benefits riders who spend long hours in the saddle or venture into remote locations.
The engine’s displacement falls within the segment’s mid-range, providing enough torque for climbing steep hills and maneuvering through challenging terrain without sacrificing responsiveness. Its V twin configuration typically delivers a broad power curve, resulting in smooth acceleration rather than abrupt throttle spikes. This setup is ideal for riders who prefer predictable and manageable power delivery, especially during technical sections or when carrying a load.
The transmission utilizes a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which offers seamless acceleration and ease of operation. Coupled with a selectable drive system that allows switching between 4X2 and 4X4 modes, this drivetrain setup enhances traction and control in diverse riding environments. The CVT ensures the rider can focus on steering and line choice without shifting gears manually, making it suited for riders seeking simple operation and dependable power transfer in various trail conditions.
Suspension & Handling
With 8.5 inches of front suspension travel and 9.3 inches at the rear, this machine offers a balanced setup aimed at absorbing impacts on mixed terrain. The double A-arm configuration at the front is a common choice for sport ATVs, providing predictable handling and increased wheel articulation. When riding on hardpack trails or smoother surfaces, this amount of travel prevents the chassis from pounding against the ground, maintaining composure and rider comfort. On rough, uneven trails or rocky sections, the suspension’s capacity to isolate the rider from shocks becomes even more apparent, reducing fatigue and improving control.
The independent rear suspension with 9.3 inches of travel complements the front setup by maintaining consistent wheel contact with the ground across varied terrain. This arrangement enhances stability and traction during aggressive cornering or when navigating obstacles. The slightly greater rear travel compared to the front indicates a bias towards comfort and impact absorption, which benefits riders tackling more challenging trail sections or work terrain where shock absorption is crucial.
Braking duties are handled by dual hydraulic disc brakes at the front and a single hydraulic disc at the rear, providing strong stopping power and modulation. These systems are suited for trail riding, where precise braking can prevent crashes over unpredictable surfaces. The tire choice-ITP Holeshot 25 X 8-12 in front and 25 X 10-12 in the rear-further enhances grip across different terrains. The wider rear tires improve traction when accelerating or climbing, especially on loose soil or mud, while the narrower front tires promote steering precision and agility on hard-packed trails. Together, the suspension, brakes, and tires form a system tuned for responsive handling and confident control across a variety of outdoor conditions.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
If you’re planning to transport the Can-Am Renegade 500 in a standard pickup bed, you’ll want to know its overall size and how it fits rider ergonomics. With a length of 86 inches and a width of 46 inches, this ATV is compact enough for most mid-size trucks, yet wide enough to offer stability on uneven terrain. Its 45-inch height keeps it manageable for riders of varying statures, and the 51-inch wheelbase contributes to balanced handling. The 10.5-inch ground clearance allows for moderate obstacles without risking bottoming out, which is useful for trail riding or rougher terrain.
- Length: 86 inches
- Width: 46 inches
- Height: 45 inches
- Wheelbase: 51 inches
- Ground clearance: 10.5 inches
- Dry weight: 614 pounds
- Seat height: typically around 30 inches (specific measurement not provided)
- Fuel capacity: 5.4 gallons
This combination of dimensions and weight makes the Renegade 500 suitable for riders with different heights, providing enough ground clearance for off-road use without compromising maneuverability. The 5.4-gallon tank extends riding range, reducing stops for refueling during longer sessions. Its ergonomic seat height should accommodate shorter riders comfortably while offering sufficient reach for taller users, making it a practical choice for a broad spectrum of users engaging in trail riding or recreational pursuits.
Notable Features
Anyone running through challenging terrain or engaging in off-road recreation will appreciate the 2013 Can-Am Renegade 500’s advanced engine and drivetrain options. Its liquid-cooled V Twin engine provides smooth power delivery across a broad rpm range, while the fuel-injected system ensures consistent throttle response and fuel efficiency. The CVT transmission with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive mode gives riders control over traction and handling, adapting to varying trail conditions with ease.
- Liquid cooling system maintains optimal engine temperature during high-demand use
- Fuel injection enhances throttle response and improves fuel economy compared to carbureted rivals
- Selectable 4X2/4X4 drivetrain allows tailored traction for mud, sand, or rocky terrain
- CVT transmission offers smooth acceleration without manual clutch operation
While the Renegade 500 includes key features aimed at off-road performance, it also emphasizes rider convenience and control, making it suitable for both trail riding and recreational challenges. Its combination of powertrain technology and adaptable drive modes sets it apart from base models that often lack such sophisticated systems. Although it doesn’t feature advanced electronic aids or high-tech accessories, the focus remains on delivering dependable performance through proven mechanical components and thoughtful design choices.
Pricing & Value
What stands out here is the MSRP of $8,149, positioning the 2013 Can-Am Renegade 500 firmly in the mid-range sport quad market. This price targets riders who seek a purpose-built machine with a balance of performance and features without stepping into the premium or high-performance tier. Given the segment, the price reflects a machine aimed at enthusiasts who want a blend of power, reliability, and usability at a reasonable cost.
- It sits below top-tier models like the Renegade 800R, which can command prices exceeding $10,000, offering a more accessible entry point into Can-Am’s sport lineup.
- It is priced above entry-level quads, which typically start around $6,000, indicating a step-up in build quality and specifications.
- The Renegade 500’s cost includes features and engineering that are designed to appeal to riders looking for improved durability and performance compared to cheaper alternatives.
The value proposition hinges on a machine that offers a balance of power, weight, and brand reputation without the premium cost associated with high-performance or specialist models. For riders seeking a sport quad that can handle recreational trail riding or light sport use, the $8,149 price tag appears fair, especially considering the brand’s reliability and the proprietary design aspects. It represents a sensible investment for those who want a machine that bridges affordability and capability, rather than a stripped-down, budget option or an out-and-out performance machine.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to tackle off-road trails and require a machine with durable handling, you’ll want to know that the 2013 Can-Am Renegade 500 offers a balanced mix of agility and power tailored for intermediate riders. Its sport-oriented design emphasizes quick maneuverability and responsive control, making it suitable for riders who prioritize fun and agility over heavy-duty hauling or long-distance comfort.
The key strength of this ATV lies in its lightweight chassis and precise steering response, which collectively enhance its ability to handle tight turns and technical terrain. This makes it ideal for trail riding, weekend adventures, or occasional competitive events where quick reflexes and nimble handling matter most. However, the machine’s relatively modest engine output and suspension travel suggest it isn’t designed for extreme off-road conditions or heavy payloads, positioning it outside the needs of more aggressive, heavy-duty users.
If your primary focus involves demanding terrain, significant load carrying, or extended rides over rough terrain, you should consider models with larger engines, longer suspension travel, and higher ground clearance. The 2013 Renegade 500 excels where lightweight agility and sporty responsiveness are priorities, making it a dependable choice for riders who want quick, responsive performance without the bulk of larger, more specialized machines. For riders seeking a nimble, trail-ready ATV that emphasizes quick handling and fun, this machine remains a worthwhile option.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2013 Can-Am Renegade 500
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassSport ATV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire25x8-12
- Dry weight614 lb
- Tires25x8-12Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- Nerf barsHeel guards and foot protectionShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit499ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- CoverStorage and traileringShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps1500 lbRated above the 614 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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