Honda TRX500FA 2006 Owner's Manual page 112

Shifting Gears
Low (L)
Use this position to get more power when climbing, and for maximum
engine braking when going down steep hills. When the gearshift lever is
in the low (L) position, you can select the automatic shift mode (D1/D2)
or the manual shift mode (ESP).
You can select the desired mode with the drive mode select switch.
Automatic Shift (D1 and D2) Mode:
In this mode, the transmission selects low range ratios.
There is no difference in performance in the D1 mode and D2 mode.
The gear position indicator shows ''L.''
Manual Shift (ESP) Mode:
In this mode, you can shift gears much like a manual transmission in the
low ratio.
You can select five forward shift positions by operating the shift
switches; 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.
The gear position indicator shows the selected position and the drive
mode indicator shows ''LOW'' and ''ESP.''
Reverse (R)
Use this position to ride in reverse.
Basic Operation & Riding
103