Honda FourTrax Rancher TRX420FM1 2019, Owner'S Manual

Page: 88 / 270

Basic Operation & Riding
78
Shifting Gears
2. With the throttle closed, raise the shift lever one full stroke to
shift into 1st (first) gear.
3. Release the rear brake lever and increase engine speed by
gradually opening the throttle.
4. When speed increases, release the throttle and shift to 2nd gear
by raising the shift lever one full stroke.
5. Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd, 4th and 5th
(top) gear.
6. To downshift, reverse this sequence. Remember to close the
throttle each time you shift to the next lower gear.
Learning when to shift gears comes with experience. Keep the
following tips in mind:
• As a general rule, shift while moving in a straight line.
• Close the throttle completely before shifting. Improper shifting
may damage the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
• Upshift to a higher gear or reduce throttle before engine rpm
(speed) gets too high. Learn the relationship between engine
sound and the normal shifting points.
• Downshift to a lower gear before you feel the engine laboring
(lugging) at low rpm.
• Avoid downshifting to help slow your ATV when engine rpm is
high. Downshifting when engine speed is near its allowable
maximum may over-rev the engine and possibly cause damage.
• To prevent transmission damage, do not coast or tow the ATV for
long distances with the engine off.
Recommended Shift Points
Ride in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate
smoothly.
This will give you good fuel economy and effective emissions control.
19 TRX420TM1 FM1_31HR3650.book Page 78 Tuesday, April 3, 2018 11:37 AM