Honda TRX680FA2011 Owner's Manual page 83

Shifting Gears
After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow these
procedures:
1. Bring your ATV to a complete stop, select the ESP mode and shift the
shift lever into the ''D'' position.
If the shif t lever is moved while the vehicle is moving, the transmission
may be damaged.
2. Release the parking brake, but continue squeezing the rear brake lever.
3. Release the rear brake lever and increase engine speed by gradually
opening the throttle.
4. When speed increases, release the throttle and upshift to 2nd position
by pressing the upshift switch once.
5. Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd (top) position.
6. To downshift, press the downshift switch once. Remember to close
the throttle each time you shift to the next lower position.
Learning when to shift gears in manual shift (ESP) mode 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.
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Basic Operation & Riding