There are severall ways to "tame" the hit, and make the 500 more friendly. Do some searching under "gearing" "Moose torque spacer" and "flywheel weights" . This will archive a weeks worth of reading and awesome knowledge.
+1 to what Polar says. A flywheel weight is the first place I'd go, as well as change sprockets.
The 500 has such a tall first gear compared to other bikes, that it makes riding tight technical trails a challenge.
Or trying to ride with a partner on a different style bike (like a big bear), or with young kids, or beginners.
It can be done without the mods, you just have to be smooth. It will load ya up, though.
My other bikes, and my main riding partner (son)'s ride is a KDX. It's the other end of the spectrum, with a really short first gear. Much more fun on tight stuff.
Maybe you need more clubs in your bag (bikes in your garage)......