Honda TRX500FA Owner's M Operation And Instruction Manualanual page 124

After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow these
procedures:
1. With the throttle closed, select the drive mode and shift the shift lever
by pressing the release button.
If the vehicle won't shift easily into D or L, rock the vehicle slightly
while moving the lever. This will help align the gears in the sub-
transmission.
If the shif t lever is moved while the vehicle is moving, the sub-
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.
Driving in Manual Shift (ESP) Mode:
1. Follow steps 1-3 for above.
2. When speed increases, release the throttle and upshift to 2nd position
by pressing the upshift switch once.
3. Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd, 4th and 5th (top)
position.
4. To downshift, press the downshift switch once. Remember to close
the throttle each time you shift to the next lower position.
Shifting Gears
Basic Operation & Riding 115