
Contents
Contents
.......................................................................................ATV Safety .
...................................................................Instruments & Controls .
....................................................................................Before Riding .
...............................................................Basic Operation & Riding .
1
9
53
37
These pages give an overview of the contents of your owner’s manual.
The first page of each section lists the topics covered in that section.
Important safety information you should know, plus a look at the
safety related labels on your ATV.
The location and function of indicators and controls on your ATV
and operating instructions for various controls and features.
The importance of wearing a helmet and other protective gear, how to
make sure you and your ATV are ready to ride, and important
information about loading.
How to start and stop the engine, shift gears, and brake. Also, riding
precautions.
09/05/11 14:41:16 31HP4830 0007

Contents
Contents
....................................................................................................Tips .
......................................................Taking Care of the Unexpected .
.....................................................................Technical Information .
....................................................................Consumer Information .
.....................................................................Servicing Your Honda .
..................................................................................................Index .
Quick Reference
85
232
173
183
207
223
Why your ATV needs regular maintenance, what you need to know
before servicing your Honda, an owner maintenance schedule, and
instructions for specific maintenance and adjustment items.
How to store and transport your ATV and how to be an
environmentally responsible rider.
What to do if you have a flat tire, your engine won’t start, etc.
ID numbers, technical specifications, and other technical facts.
Information on warranties, emission controls, how to get Honda
service manuals.
Handy facts about fuel, engine oil, tire sizes, and air pressures.
09/05/11 14:41:29 31HP4830 0008

×
×
2010
Honda
TRX420TE
TRX420FE ES 4 4
TRX420FPE ES 4 4 with Power Steering
FOURTRAX RANCHER
OWNER’S MANUAL
FOR OFF-ROAD USE ONLY
This vehicle is designed and manufactured for off-road use only.
It conforms to US EPA Noise Emission regulations, but does not
conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or US EPA On
Highway Exhaust Emission regulations, and operation on public streets,
roads, or highways is illegal. The vehicle is equipped with a USDA
qualified spark arrester. Obey local laws and regulations.
It conforms to US EPA and California emission regulations for ATVs.
09/05/11 14:40:38 31HP4830 0002

−
Introduction
Introduction
Congratulations on choosing your Honda ATV.
When you own a Honda, you’re part of a worldwide family of satisfied
customers people who appreciate Honda’s reputation for building
quality into every product.
Your Honda was designed as a recreational ATV for off-road use by
one rider only.
Before riding, take time to get acquainted with your ATV and how it
works. To protect your investment, we urge you to take responsibility
for keeping your ATV well maintained. Scheduled service is a must, of
course. But it’s just as important to observe the break-in guidelines, and
perform all pre-ride and other periodic checks detailed in this manual.
We also recommend that you read this owner’s manual before you ride.
It’s full of facts, instructions, safety information, and helpful tips. To
make it easy to use, the manual contains a detailed list of topics at the
beginning of each section, and both an in-depth table of contents and an
index at the back of the book.
As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded by a
symbol. This information is intended to help you avoid damage
to your Honda, other property, or the environment.
Read the Warranties Booklet (page ) thoroughly so you understand
the coverages that protect your new Honda and are aware of your rights
and responsibilities.
Whenever you ride, tread lightly. By staying on established trails and
riding only in approved areas, you help protect the environment and
keep off-road riding areas open for the future.
227
09/05/11 14:40:46 31HP4830 0003

Introduction
Introduction
WARNING:
California Proposition 65 Warning
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
If you have any questions, or if you ever need special service or repairs,
remember that your Honda dealer knows your ATV best and is
dedicated to your complete satisfaction.
You may also want to visit our website at www.honda.com.
Please report any change of address or ownership to your Honda dealer
so we will be able to contact you concerning important product
information.
Happy riding!
09/05/11 14:40:53 31HP4830 0004

A Few Words About Safety
Safety Labels
Safety Messages
DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION
A Few Words About Safety
–– on the ATV.
–– preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of
three signal words: or .
Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating
this ATV safely is an important responsibility.
To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided
operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual.
This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or
others.
Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all hazards
associated with operating or maintaining an ATV. You must use your
own good judgment.
You will find important safety information in a variety of forms,
including:
09/05/11 14:40:59 31HP4830 0005

YouWILLbeKILLEDor
SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t
follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY
HURT if you don’t follow
instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don’t
follow instructions.
A Few Words About Safety
A Few Words About Safety
Safety Headings
Safety Section
Instructions
These signal words mean:
–– such as Important Safety Reminders or Important
Safety Precautions.
–– such as ATV Safety.
–– how to use this ATV correctly and safely.
This entire manual is filled with important safety information –– please
read it carefully.
09/05/11 14:41:06 31HP4830 0006

1
ATV Safety
ATV Safety
This section presents some of the most important information and
recommendations to help you ride your ATV safely. Please take a few
moments to read these pages. This section also includes information
about the location of safety labels on your ATV.
...............................................................Important Safety Information .
.........................................................................................Safety Labels .
2
5
09/05/11 14:41:37 31HP4830 0010

2
Important Safety Information
Follow the Age Recommendation
Never Carry a Passenger
Always Wear a Helmet
ATV Safety
Your ATV can provide many years of service and pleasure if you take
responsibility for your own safety and understand the challenges you
can meet while riding.
There is much that you can do to protect yourself when you ride. You’ll
find many helpful recommendations throughout this manual. The
following are a few that we consider to be most important.
The minimum recommended age for this ATV model is 16. Children
under age 16 should never operate this vehicle. Refer to the age
warnings provided in this manual and on the ATV.
Your ATV is designed for one person only. There are no handholds,
footrests, or seat for a second person, so never carry a passenger. A
passenger could interfere with your ability to move around to maintain
your balance and control of the ATV.
It’s a proven fact: helmets significantly reduce the number and severity
of head injuries. So always wear an approved motorcycle helmet. We
also recommend that you wear eye protection, sturdy boots, gloves, and
other protective gear (page ).38
09/05/11 14:41:46 31HP4830 0011

3
Important Safety Information
ATV Safety
Ride Off-road Only
Take Time to Learn & Practice
Be Alert for Off-road Hazards
Your ATV is designed and manufactured for off-road use only. The
tires are not made for pavement, and the ATV does not have turn signals
and other features required for use on public roads. If you need to cross
a paved or public road, get off and walk your ATV across.
The terrain can present a variety of challenges when you ride off-road.
Continually ‘‘read’’ the terrain for unexpected turns, drop-offs, rocks,
ruts, and other hazards. Always keep your speed low enough to allow
time to see and react to hazards.
Even if you have ridden other ATVs, take time to become familiar with
how this ATV works and handles. Practice in a safe area until you build
your skills and get accustomed to the ATV’s size and weight.
Because many crashes involve inexperienced or untrained riders, we
urge all riders to take a ATV operator course approved by the ATV
Safety Institute (ASI). See page .
Contact an authorized ATV dealer or call 1-800-887-2887 to find out
about the training courses nearest you.
40
09/05/11 14:41:53 31HP4830 0012

4
Important Safety Information
ATV Safety
Ride within Your Limits
Keep Your Honda in Safe Condition
Don’t Drink and Ride
Pushing limits is another major cause of ATV crashes. Never ride
beyond your personal abilities or faster than conditions warrant.
Remember that alcohol, drugs, fatigue, and inattention can significantly
reduce your ability to make good judgments and ride safely.
Alcohol and riding don’t mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to
respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with
every additional drink. So don’t drink and ride, and don’t let your
friends drink and ride either.
It’s important to keep your ATV properly maintained and in safe riding
condition. Having a breakdown can be difficult, especially if you are
stranded off-road far from your base. To help avoid problems, inspect
your ATV before every ride and perform all recommended maintenance.
09/05/11 14:42:01 31HP4830 0013

5
ATV Safety
Safety Labels
The labels should be considered permanent parts of the vehicle. If a
label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for
replacements.
Your ATV comes with a hang tag and several labels containing
important safety information. Anyone who rides the vehicle should read
and understand this information before riding.
09/05/11 14:42:05 31HP4830 0014

6
Safety Labels
ATV Safety
09/05/11 14:42:16 31HP4830 0015

7
Safety Labels
ATV Safety
(TRX420FPE)
(TRX420TE, TRX420FE)
09/05/11 14:42:32 31HP4830 0016

8
Safety Labels
ATV Safety
(Except TRX420TE)
09/05/11 14:42:44 31HP4830 0017

9
Instruments & Controls
Instruments & Controls
This section shows the location of all indicators and controls you would
normally use before or while riding your ATV.
The items listed on this page are described in this section. Instructions
for other components are presented in other sections of this manual
where they will be most useful.
(cont’d)
..........................................................Operation Component Locations .
......................................................................Multi-function Display .
......................................................................Gear Position Indicator .
........................................................................................Fuel Gauge .
.........................................................................................Hourmeter .
...........................................................................................Tripmeter .
...........................................................................................Odometer .
.........................................................................Oil Change Indicator .
............................................................................Indicators & Displays .
11
14
18
19
20
21
21
22
23
09/05/11 14:42:55 31HP4830 0018

10
Instruments & Controls
Instruments & Controls
..............................................................................Controls & Features .
.........................................................................................Fuel Valve .
..................................................................................Ignition Switch .
.......................................................................................Start Button .
...........................................................................Engine Stop Switch .
...............................................................................Headlight Switch .
.................................................................Headlight Dimmer Switch .
...................................................................................Throttle Lever .
................................................................................Gearshift Switch .
......................................................................Reverse Selector Knob .
.............................................................................Front Brake Lever .
...............................................................................Rear Brake Pedal .
....................................................................................Parking Brake .
..............................................................................Flag Pole Bracket .
......................................................................................Trailer Hitch .
...........................PS (Electric Power Steering) ( only) .
............................................Rear Brake Lever/Parking Brake Lever .
.............................2WD/4WD Select Lever (Except ) .
24
24
25
26
27
27
28
28
29
30
31
32
32
32
33
34
35
36TRX420FPE
TRX420TE
09/05/11 14:43:11 31HP4830 0019

reverse selector knob
front brake lever
start button
ignition switch
throttle lever
rear brake
lever/
parking
brake lever
gearshift
switches
headlight switch
headlight dimmer switch
parking brake
lock lever
engine stop switch
2WD/4WD select lever
(Except TRX420TE)
11
Instruments & Controls
Operation Component Locations
09/05/11 14:43:18 31HP4830 0020

rear cargo rack
rear brake pedal
seat latch front cargo rack
fuel valve
12
Instruments & Controls
Operation Component Locations
09/05/11 14:43:23 31HP4830 0021

trailer hitch
flag pole bracket
13
Instruments & Controls
Operation Component Locations
09/05/11 14:43:28 31HP4830 0022

(1) (2)
(3)
(4) (5) (6)
(7)
(8)
(5) high coolant temperature
indicator
(6) PGM-FI indicator
(7) multi-function display
(8) hourmeter/odometer/
tripmeter select button
(1) reverse indicator
(2) neutral indicator
(3) PS (Electric Power Steering)
indicator (TRX420FPE only)
(4) 4WD indicator
(Except TRX420TE)
14
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
The indicators and displays on your ATV keep you informed, alert you
to possible problems, and make your riding safer and more enjoyable.
Refer to the indicators frequently. Their functions are described on the
following pages.
Lamp Check
The high coolant temperature indicator and PGM-FI indicator come on
for a few seconds and then go off when you turn the ignition switch ON
().
The PS (Electric Power Steering) indicator comes on when you turn the
ignition switch ON ( ) so you can check that it is working.
The indicator remains on until the engine is started.
TRX420FPE only:
09/05/11 14:43:36 31HP4830 0023

(1)
(1) multi-function display
15
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
Lamp Check.
Display Check.
When applicable, the reverse or neutral indicators come on when you
turn the ignition switch ON ( ) and remain on until you shift out of
reverse or neutral.
The indicators are identified in the table on page with the words:
If any part of these displays does not come on when it should, have your
Honda dealer check for problems.
The displays are identified in the table on page with the words:
When the ignition switch is turned ON ( ), the multi-function display
( ) will temporarily show all the modes and digital segments so you can
make sure the liquid crystal display is functioning properly.
Display Check
If one of these indicators does not come on when it should, have your
Honda dealer check for problems.
When applicable, the 4WD indicator comes on when you turn the
ignition switch ON ( ) and remains on until you shift out of 4WD
mode.
16
1
17
Except TRX420TE:
09/05/11 14:43:46 31HP4830 0024

16
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
Lamp Check.
Lamp Check.
Lamp Check
Lamp Check.
Lamp Check
Lamp Check
Lights when the transmission is in
neutral.
Lights when the transmission is in
reverse.
Neutral indicator
Reverse indicator
High coolant
temperature
indicator
4WD indicator
PS (Electric Power
Steering) indicator
Lights when there is any abnormality
in the PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel
Injection) system. Should also light
for a few seconds and then go off
when the ignition switch is turned
ON ( ). If the indicator comes on
at any other time, reduce speed and
take your vehicle to a Honda dealer
as soon as possible.
PGM-FI indicator
Lights when coolant temperature is
high enough to adversely affect the
service life of the engine.
If the high coolant temperature
indicator comes on while you are
riding, immediately bring the vehicle
to a stop, turn the engine off and let
it cool. See page .
Lights when the 4WD drive mode
engages. .
Lights when there is an abnormality
in the PS (Electric Power Steering)
system. See page .
1
2
3
4
5
6
(TRX420FPE only) 36
(Except TRX420TE)
196
09/05/11 14:43:58 31HP4830 0025

17
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
Display Check.
Multi-function
display
Gear position
indicator
The display includes the following
functions.
Shows the gear position (page ).
Oil change
indicator
Lights when specified maintenance
interval for engine oil change is
reached (page ).
Speedometer Shows riding speed.
Odometer Shows accumulated mileage
(page ).
Tripmeter Shows mileage per trip (page ).
Hourmeter Shows hours and tenths of hours of
engine operation (page ).
Selects display of the odometer or
tripmeter or hourmeter. Resets the
tripmeter to zero (0) (page ). This
button also used to reset the oil
change indicator (page ).
Hourmeter/
odometer/tripmeter
select button
7
8
19
21
21
20
22
21
20
09/05/11 14:44:13 31HP4830 0026

(3)
(4)
(2)
(1) multi-function display
(2) gear position indicator
(3) oil change indicator
(1) (5)
(4) speedometer
(5) odometer/tripmeter/
hourmeter
18
Multi-function Display
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
The multi-function display ( ) includes the following functions:
1
Gear position indicator
Oil change indicator
Speedometer
Odometer
Tripmeter
Hourmeter
09/05/11 14:44:20 31HP4830 0027

−
−
−
−
−
(1)
(1) gear position indicator
19
Gear Position Indicator
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
The indicator displays: N for neutral, R for reverse, and for the
five forward gears.
The gear position indicator ( ) shows the gear position when the
ignition switch is in the ON ( ) position.
‘‘ ’’ will be displayed on the gear position indicator when the
transmission is not shifted into gear properly. Before riding, check that
the gear position is properly displayed on the gear position indicator.
If the gear position indicator shows ‘‘ ’’ or blinks, turn the ignition
switch to the OFF ( ) position, and then turn it back to the ON ( )
position again.
If the gear position indicator shows ‘‘ ’’, rock the vehicle back and
forth and make sure the gear position indicator is displayed properly and
then if the gear position indicator still shows ‘‘ ’’ or blinks, see your
Honda dealer.
1
51
09/05/11 14:44:29 31HP4830 0028

(1)
(2)
(3)
ON
ON
(1) oil change indicator
(2) hourmeter/odometer/
tripmeter select button
(3) ignition switch
20
Oil Change Indicator
Instruments & Controls
Indicators & Displays
The oil change indicator ( ) appears in the display when the mileage or
operating hours on your ATV approaches the oil change interval
specified on the maintenance schedule.
Reset the indicator after each oil change.
To reset the indicator, press and hold the hourmeter/odometer/tripmeter
select button ( ) and turn the ignition switch ( ) to ON ( ) for more
than 5 seconds. The indicator message will disappear.
If the oil is changed before the oil change indicator appears, be sure to
reset the oil change indicator after changing the oil, except after the
initial oil change.
Press and hold the hourmeter/odometer/tripmeter select button and turn
the ignition switch to ON ( ) for more than 5 seconds. When the
indicator lights for 2 seconds and then turns off, the oil change indicator
is reset.
23
1
09/05/11 14:44:38 31HP4830 0029

(1) odometer
(2)(1)
(1) tripmeter (2) hourmeter/odometer/tripmeter select button
(1) (2)
(2) hourmeter/odometer/tripmeter select button
21
Odometer
Tripmeter
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
When selected, the odometer ( ) registers total distance traveled in
miles while the ignition is ON ( ). To change the display from tripmeter
or hourmeter to odometer, press and release the hourmeter/odometer/
tripmeter select button ( ).
When selected, the tripmeter ( ) shows mileage per trip while the
ignition is ON ( ). To change the display from odometer or hourmeter
to tripmeter, press and release the hourmeter/odometer/tripmeter select
button ( ). To reset the tripmeter to zero, press the hourmeter/odometer/
tripmeter select button and hold it in for at least 2 seconds.
1
1
2
2
09/05/11 14:44:47 31HP4830 0030

(1)
(3)
(2)
(3) hourmeter mark(1) hourmeter
(2) hourmeter/odometer/
tripmeter select button
22
Hourmeter
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
When selected, the hourmeter ( ) shows accumulated hours while the
ignition is ON ( ). The hourmeter provides accurate service period
information for initial and regular maintenance. To change the display
from odometer or tripmeter to hourmeter, press and release the
hourmeter/odometer/tripmeter select button ( ). The hourmeter mark
( ) will appear.
1
3
2
09/05/11 14:44:54 31HP4830 0031

3.51 US gal (13.3 )
0.77 US gal (2.9
)
(3) (2)
(1)
(3) red band(1) fuel gauge
(2) gauge needle
23
Fuel Gauge
Indicators & Displays
Instruments & Controls
The fuel gauge ( ) shows the approximate fuel supply available. At F
(Full), the fuel tank capacity including reserve is:
When the gauge needle ( ) enters the red band ( ), fuel will be low and
you should refill the tank as soon as possible. The amount of fuel left in
the tank when the needle enters the red band is approximately:
23
1
09/05/11 14:45:02 31HP4830 0032

−
−
−
RESOFFON
(1)
(1) fuel valve
RIGHT SIDE
24
Fuel Valve
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
ON normal position for riding.
OFF for parking, storing, or transportation.
RES for extra fuel to get to a gas supply for refueling.
Reserve Fuel
Remember to check that the fuel valve is in the ON position each time
you refuel. If the fuel valve is left in the RES position, you may run out
of fuel with no reserve.
For complete information about fueling your ATV, see page .
The manual fuel valve ( ) is located on the right side under the fuel
tank.
The three-way fuel valve is used to control the flow of fuel from the
fuel tank to the fuel pump unit.
1
102
09/05/11 14:45:13 31HP4830 0033

OFF ( )
ON ( )
No electrical circuits function.
Electrical circuits on.
CENTER OF HANDLEBAR
(1) ignition switch
(1)
ON
OFF
ON
OFF
Key Position Function
25
Ignition Switch
Instruments & Controls
Controls & Features
The ignition switch ( ) is used for starting and stopping the engine
(page ). Insert the key and turn it to the right for the ON ( )
position.
The ignition switch is also used to reset the oil change indicator
(page ).
1
60
20
09/05/11 14:45:25 31HP4830 0034

(1)
(2)
(2) 4WD indicator(1) 2WD/4WD select lever
2WD MODE
4WD MODE
4WD MODE
2WD MODE
26
2WD/4WD Select Lever (Except )TRX420TE
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
Your ATV is equipped with a 2WD/4WD select lever ( ), which
permits a choice between the ‘‘2WD’’ and ‘‘4WD’’ drive modes. Select
a drive mode that’s suitable for your riding.
The 2WD/4WD select lever is located on the left side of the fuel tank.
To select the drive mode, shift the 2WD/4WD select lever to the desired
position.
Keep both hands on the handlebar while machine is in motion and come
to a complete stop before using the 2WD/4WD select lever.
After using the 2WD/4WD select lever, the mode may not mechanically
engage until forward motion begins.
To check your present drive mode, look at the 4WD indicator ( ).
2WD mode : the 4WD indicator goes off when the 2WD mode engages.
4WD mode : the 4WD indicator goes on when the 4WD mode engages.
2
1
09/05/11 14:45:35 31HP4830 0035

LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1) start button
(2) engine stop switch
(1)
(2)
START
OFF
RUN
27
Start Button
Engine Stop Switch
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
Starting Procedure,
The start button ( ) is used for starting the engine. Pushing the button in
starts the engine. See page .
The engine stop switch ( ) is used to stop the engine in an emergency.
To operate, slide the switch to the OFF ( ) position. The switch must
be in the RUN ( ) position to start the engine, and it should normally
remain in the RUN ( ) position even when the engine is OFF.
When the start button is pushed, the starter motor will crank the engine.
The starter motor will not operate if the engine stop switch is in the OFF
( ) position when the start button is pushed.
If your ATV is stopped with the ignition switch ON ( ) and the
engine stop switch OFF ( ), the battery will discharge. Turn the
ignition switch OFF ( ) to prevent battery discharge.
1
61
2
09/05/11 14:45:45 31HP4830 0036

ON
OFF
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(2)
(1)
(1) headlight switch
(2) headlight dimmer switch
HI
LO
28
Headlight Switch
Headlight Dimmer Switch
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
The headlight switch ( ) is used to turn the headlight ON ( ) or OFF
( ).Tooperate,turntheswitchtoON( )orOFF( ).
The headlight dimmer switch ( ) is used to change between the high
and low beams of the headlight. To operate, turn the switch to HI ( )
for high beam, LO ( ) for low beam.
2
1
09/05/11 14:45:53 31HP4830 0037

(1)
RIGHT HANDLEBAR
(1) throttle lever (A) to open the throttle
(A)
29
Throttle Lever
Instruments & Controls
Controls & Features
The throttle controls engine rpm (speed). To increase engine rpm, press
the throttle lever ( ) with your thumb. To reduce engine rpm, release
pressure on the throttle lever. The throttle will automatically return to the
closed position (engine idle) when you remove your thumb.
1
09/05/11 14:45:59 31HP4830 0038

(1)
(2)
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1) upshift switch
(2) downshift switch
30
Gearshift Switch
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
Shifting Gears,
These switches are used to select the next higher or lower gear in the
transmission. To operate, press the upshift switch ( ) to engage the next
higher gear or press the downshift switch ( ) to engage the next lower
gear.
See page .
1
2
65
09/05/11 14:46:06 31HP4830 0039

(1)
(2)
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1) reverse selector knob
(3)
(3) downshift switch
(2) rear brake lever/
parking brake lever
31
Reverse Selector Knob
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
Riding in Reverse,
The reverse selector knob ( ), located on the rear brake lever/parking
brake lever ( ), is used to shift into reverse. To operate, with your ATV
stopped and the transmission in neutral (make sure the gear position
indicator shows ‘‘N’’), push in the knob, squeeze the rear brake lever/
parking brake lever, then press the downshift switch ( ) once. See
page .
1
3
2
68
09/05/11 14:46:13 31HP4830 0040

32
Front Brake Lever
Rear Brake Pedal
Rear Brake Lever/Parking Brake Lever
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
The front brake lever is used to slow or stop your ATV. To operate, pull
the lever. For information on braking techniques, see page .
The rear brake pedal is used to slow or stop your ATV. To operate,
depress the pedal. For information on braking techniques, see page .
The rear brake lever/parking brake lever is used to slow or stop your
ATV. To operate, pull the lever. For information on braking techniques,
see page .
70
70
70
09/05/11 14:46:21 31HP4830 0041

(A)
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(2)
(1)
(1) lock lever
(2) rear brake lever/parking brake lever
(A) to lock
33
Parking Brake
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
Parking
The brakelights are activated by applying the parking brake. When using
the parking brake, be sure to turn the ignition switch OFF ( ) to avoid
discharging the battery.
The lock lever ( ) on the rear brake lever/parking brake lever ( )
allows it to be used as a parking brake. To operate, first squeeze the rear
brake lever/parking brake lever using your left hand and then lock it
with the lock lever using your right hand. See page .84
12
09/05/11 14:46:28 31HP4830 0042

(1)
(1) flag pole bracket
RIGHT REAR
34
Flag Pole Bracket
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
Flag poles are optional equipment available from your Honda dealer. To
mount a pole in the bracket ( ), follow the instructions that come with
the flag pole kit.
Flag poles are required in some riding areas. Check local regulations
before riding.
1
09/05/11 14:46:34 31HP4830 0043

(1)
(1) trailer hitch (2) ball
(2)
REAR
35
Trailer Hitch
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
The trailer hitch ( ) is located on the rear axle housing. To use the hitch,
you’ll need a proper size ball ( ) as specified by the trailer
manufacturer.
To attach the ball and properly hook up a trailer, follow the trailer
manufacturer’s instructions. For load limits and operational guidelines,
see page .
2
1
48
09/05/11 14:46:41 31HP4830 0044

36
PS (Electric Power Steering) ( only)TRX420FPE
Controls & Features
Instruments & Controls
This ATV is equipped with an electronically controlled, electric-power-
assisted steering system.
While the engine is running, the PS (Electric Power Steering) system
provides power from the electric motor, which helps you to turn the
ATV’s handlebar more easily.
The PS system on this ATV utilizes an overheat protection feature to
prevent damage to system components. In certain extended, repetitive
high-load situations, the system will reduce or even disable power
steering assist. The steering will perform as a normal non-PS system
during this brief period. After cooling down, it will then return to
normal PS operation.
The PS indicator should light when the ignition switch is turned ON
( ) and remain on until the engine is started.
The PS indicator also lights when there is any abnormality in the PS
system. If this occurs, the electric power assist for turning will not be
available, but the manual steering system will perform as usual.
If the PS indicator lights at any time while riding, reduce speed and take
your ATV to a Honda dealer as soon as possible. Continuing to ride with
a PS system problem can cause system damage.
Do not modify your Electric Power Steering system. In case of a
malfunction, take your ATV to a Honda dealer.
09/05/11 14:46:51 31HP4830 0045

38
Protective Apparel
Are You Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
Before you ride your ATV for the first time, we urge you to:
Read this owner’s manual and the labels on your ATV carefully.
Make sure you understand all the safety messages.
Know how to operate all the controls.
Before each ride, be sure:
You feel well and are in good physical and mental condition.
You don’t have any alcohol or drugs in your system.
For your safety, we strongly recommend that you always wear an
approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants,
and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket whenever you ride.
Although complete protection is not possible, wearing proper gear can
reduce the chance of injury when you ride.
Following are suggestions to help you choose the proper gear.
Helmet and Eye Protection
Your helmet is your most important piece of riding gear because it
offers the best protection against head injuries. A helmet should fit your
head comfortably and securely.
You are wearing an approved motorcycle helmet (with chin strap
tightened securely), eye protection, and other protective clothing.
09/05/11 14:47:16 31HP4830 0047

Operating this ATV without wearing an
approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection,
and protective clothing could increase your
chances of severe injury or death in the event of
an accident.
Always wear an approved motorcycle helmet
that fits properly and wear eye protection
(goggles or face shield), gloves, boots,
long-sleeved shirt or jacket and long pants.
39
Are You Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
Riding pants with knee and hip pads, a riding jersey with padded
elbows, and a chest/shoulder protector.
Off-road motorcycle gloves to help protect your hands.
Sturdy off-road motorcycle boots to help protect your feet, ankles,
and lower legs.
In addition to a helmet and eye protection, we also recommend:
Additional Riding Gear
An open-face helmet offers some protection, but a full-face helmet
offers more. Regardless of the style, look for a DOT (Department of
Transportation) sticker on any helmet you buy. Always wear a face
shield or goggles to protect your eyes and help your vision.
09/05/11 14:47:25 31HP4830 0048

Operating this ATV without proper instruction
could increase your risk of an accident which
could lead to serious injury or death.
Beginning and inexperienced operators should
complete the certified training course offered by
Honda. They should then regularly practice the
skills learned in the course and the operating
techniques described in the owner’s manual.
40
Rider Training
Are You Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
Tips & Practice Guide for the ATV
Rider
Developing your riding skills is an on-going process. Even if you have
ridden other ATVs, take time to become familiar with how this ATV
works and handles. Practice riding the ATV in a safe area to build your
skills. Do not ride in rough terrain until you get accustomed to the
ATV’s controls, and feel comfortable with its size and weight.
We urge all riders to take a ATV operator course approved by the ATV
Safety Institute (ASI). For information about the ASI training course
nearest you, call the national toll-free number; (800) 887-2887.
Other riding tips can be found in the
booklet that came with your ATV.
09/05/11 14:47:31 31HP4830 0049

A child using an ATV that is not recommended
for their age could lose vehicle control while
riding, resulting in severe injury or death.
A child under 16 should never operate an ATV
with engine size greater than 90cc.
Carrying a passenger on this ATV greatly
reduces your ability to balance and control this
ATV and could cause a crash and you or your
passenger could be injured or killed.
Never carry a passenger on this ATV.
41
Age Recommendation
No Passengers
Are You Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
The minimum recommended age for this ATV model is 16. For safety,
never let children under 16 years old operate this vehicle.
This ATV is designed as an operator-only vehicle. The long seat is
designed to allow the rider to change body position, not for carrying a
passenger. Never let a passenger ride on the seat or on the front or rear
cargo racks.
09/05/11 14:47:39 31HP4830 0050

−
−
Operating this ATV after consuming alcohol or
drugs can seriously affect your judgement,
cause you to react more slowly, affect your
balance and perception, and result in serious
injury or death.
Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while
operating this ATV.
42
No Alcohol or Drugs
Are You Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
Alcohol, drugs and ATVs don’t mix. Even a small amount of alcohol
can impair your ability to operate an ATV safely. Likewise, drugs
even if prescribed by a physician can be dangerous while operating an
ATV. Consult your doctor to be sure it is safe to operate a vehicle after
taking medication.
09/05/11 14:47:44 31HP4830 0051

Improperly maintaining this ATV or failing to
correct a problem before riding can cause a
crash in which you can be seriously hurt or
killed.
Always perform a pre-ride inspection before
every ride and correct any problems.
43
Pre-ride Inspection
Is Your ATV Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
Engine Oil
Radiator
Coolant
Before each ride, it’s important to inspect your ATV and make sure any
problem you find is corrected. A pre-ride inspection is a must, not only
for safety, but because having a breakdown, or even a flat tire, can be a
major inconvenience.
If your ATV has overturned or been involved in a collision, do not ride
the vehicle until it has been inspected by your Honda dealer. There may
be damage or other problems you cannot see.
Check the following items before you get on the ATV:
Check the level and add oil if needed
(page ).
Check for leaks.
Check the coolant level and add coolant if
needed (page ).
Check for leaks.
119
108
09/05/11 14:47:53 31HP4830 0052

44
Is Your ATV Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
Fuel
Tires
Drivetrain Boots
Guards
Nuts & Bolts
Underbody &
Exhaust System
Air Cleaner Housing
Drain Tube
Leaks, Loose Parts
Check the level and add fuel (page ) if
needed. Also make sure the fuel fill cap is
securely fastened.
Check for leaks.
Use a gauge to check the air pressure. Adjust if
needed. Also look for signs of damage or
excessive wear (page ).
Check for damage (pages , ).
Check for damage or looseness
(pages , ).
Check the wheels to see that the axle nuts are
tightened. Use a wrench to make sure all
accessible nuts, bolts, and fasteners are tight.
Check for, and remove, any dirt, vegetation or
other debris that could be a fire hazard or
interfere with the proper operation of the
vehicle.
Check for deposits in the drain tube. If
necessary, clean the tube (page ) and check
the air cleaner housing.
Walk around your ATV and look for anything
that appears unusual, such as a leak or loose
cable.
103
129
156
162 163
160 161
09/05/11 14:48:08 31HP4830 0053

45
Is Your ATV Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
Reverse Assist Lever
Brakes
Throttle
Cargo
Loading Limits
Lights
Cable
Check the freeplay and adjust if needed
(page ). Make sure the lever operates
smoothly without sticking.
Squeeze the front and rear brake levers and
step on the rear brake pedal to check that the
controls operate normally. Check for proper
freeplay (pages , ). Make sure there is
no brake fluid leakage.
Check the freeplay and adjust if needed. Press
the throttle to make sure it moves smoothly
without sticking, and snaps shut automatically
when it is released, in all steering positions
(page ).
Check these items after you get on the ATV:
Check that all cargo is secure.
Make sure you do not exceed the load limits
(page ).
If you are carrying cargo, also check the following:
Make sure the headlight, brakelight and
taillight are working properly.
Check the cable housings for wear. Check the
fittings for looseness. Replace or tighten as
needed.
48
130
133
148146
09/05/11 14:48:22 31HP4830 0054

46
Is Your ATV Ready to Ride?
Before Riding
Headlight and
Headlight Dimmer
Switch
Engine Stop Switch
Steering
Check for proper function (page ).
Check for proper function (page ).
Check that the wheels turn properly as you
steer the handlebar. Move the handlebar right
and left and check that there is no excessive
backlash.
Remember, be sure to take care of any problem you find, or have your
Honda dealer correct it before you ride.
28
27
09/05/11 14:48:30 31HP4830 0055

Overloading, improper loading, or carrying a
passenger can cause a crash and you can be
seriously hurt or killed.
Follow all load limits and other loading
guidelines in this manual.
47
Loading
Load Limits & Guidelines
Before Riding
Your Honda was designed as a rider-only ATV. It was not designed to
carry a passenger. It can carry cargo on the cargo racks, however,
carrying cargo anywhere else or carrying a passenger could interfere
with your balance and control of the ATV.
In addition, exceeding the weight limits or carrying an unbalanced load
can seriously affect your ATV’s handling, braking and stability. Adding
accessories or making modifications that change this ATV’s design and
performance can also make it unsafe. Also, the weight of any
accessories will reduce the maximum load the ATV can carry.
More specific information on load limits, accessories, and modifications
follows.
How much weight you put on your ATV, and how you load it, are
important to your safety. If you decide to carry cargo, you should be
aware of the following information.
09/05/11 14:48:38 31HP4830 0056

tongue and rear cargo weight
tongue weight
tow weight limit
rear cargo rack weight limit
front cargo rack weight limit
maximum weight capacity 485 lb (220 kg)
66 lb (30 kg)
133 lb (60 kg)
850 lb (385 kg)
30 lb (14 kg)
133 lb (60 kg)
=
=
=
=
=
recommended
maximum
48
Load Limits
Load Limits & Guidelines
Before Riding
Following are the load limits for your ATV:
There are limits to how much weight can be carried on your ATV and be
pulled in a trailer.
The following load limits apply to standard equipment only. Modifying
your ATV, using non-standard equipment, or riding on terrain that is not
flat and smooth could further reduce these limits.
The weight of added accessories will reduce the maximum cargo weight
you can carry.
Tongue weight can be measured with an ordinary bathroom scale. Place
the scale under the tongue, using either a tongue jack or other support to
keep the trailer level.
(Combined weight on the trailer
tongue and on the rear cargo
rack)
(Weight on the trailer tongue)
(Combined weight of the trailer
and all cargo in the trailer)
(includes the weight of the rider,
all cargo, and accessories.)
09/05/11 14:48:52 31HP4830 0057

49
Loading Guidelines
Load Limits & Guidelines
Before Riding
Carrying cargo or pulling a trailer will affect how your ATV handles
and greatly reduce its ability in accelerating, braking and making turns
and other maneuvers.
Be sure to observe the weight limits and follow these guidelines:
Check that the tires are properly inflated.
Do not place cargo anywhere on the ATV other than on the front and
rear racks. Otherwise, operating stability may be adversely affected.
Never ride with a passenger on the front or rear cargo racks. The
ATV is not designed to carry a passenger.
Use the trailer hitch to tow another vehicle or trailer. Do not tow by
tying a rope or cable to the rear rack.
Load cargo on the rear rack as far forward as possible. Make sure
cargo on the front rack does not interfere with handlebar movement.
Do not allow cargo to extend beyond the edges of either the front or
rear racks.
Make sure all cargo is secured before riding.
Balance cargo weight evenly on both sides.
Never exceed the maximum weight limit.
When towing a trailer, take care to maintain balance and stability.
Distribute cargo between the front and rear of the trailer to obtain the
recommended tongue weight.
Allow extra room for starting, stopping and turning whenever you
carry cargo or pull a trailer.
Avoid riding on steep slopes when carrying cargo or pulling a trailer.
Never cross a slope when towing a trailer.
09/05/11 14:49:06 31HP4830 0058

Improper accessories or modifications can
cause a crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual
regarding accessories and modifications.
50
Accessories
Accessories & Modifications
Before Riding
Modifying your ATV or using non-Honda accessories can make your
ATV unsafe.
Before you consider making any modifications or adding an accessory,
be sure to read the following information.
We strongly recommend that you use only Honda Genuine Accessories
that have been specifically designed and tested for your ATV. Because
Honda cannot test all other accessories, you must be personally
responsible for proper selection, installation, and use of non-Honda
accessories.
Check with your Honda dealer for assistance and always follow these
guidelines:
Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, reduce ground
clearance, limit suspension travel or steering travel, or interfere with
operating any controls.
Do not add any electrical equipment that will exceed the vehicle’s
electrical system capacity (page ). A blown fuse can cause a loss
of lights or engine power (page ).
Make sure the accessory does not interfere with your ability to shift
body position on the seat or operate hand and foot controls.
213
198
09/05/11 14:49:15 31HP4830 0059

51
Modifications
Accessories & Modifications
Before Riding
We strongly advise you not to remove any original equipment or modify
your ATV in any way that would change its design or operation. Such
changes could seriously impair your ATV’s handling, stability, and
braking, making it unsafe to ride.
We also advise you not to make any modifications or remove any
equipment (such as the USDA qualified spark arrester or emission
control system components) that would make your ATV illegal in your
area.
Removing or modifying your lights, exhaust system, emission control
system, or other equipment can also make your ATV illegal.
09/05/11 14:49:21 31HP4830 0060

52
Before Riding
09/05/11 14:49:24 31HP4830 0061

53
Basic Operation & Riding
Basic Operation & Riding
This section gives basic riding instructions, including how to start and
stop your engine, and how to use the throttle and brakes. It also provides
important information on riding with cargo.
To protect your new engine and enjoy optimum performance and
service life, refer to Break-in Guidelines (page ).
(cont’d)
........................................................................Safe Riding Precautions .
............................................................................Off-road Use Only .
.....................................................Keep Hands and Feet on Controls .
....................................................................................Control Speed .
........................................Use Care on Unfamiliar or Rough Terrain .
......................................................................Do Not Perform Stunts .
............................................................Starting & Stopping the Engine .
........................................................................................Preparation .
.............................................................................Starting Procedure .
.................................................................................Flooded Engine .
...................................................................................Stalled Engine .
....................................Bank Angle Sensor Ignition Cut-off System .
....................................................................How to Stop the Engine .
.......................................................................................Shifting Gears .
..................................................................................Riding in Reverse .
55
55
56
57
58
59
60
60
61
62
62
63
64
65
68
215
09/05/11 14:49:39 31HP4830 0062

54
Basic Operation & Riding
Basic Operation & Riding
..................................................................................................Braking .
.................................................................................Riding Your ATV .
....................................................................................Making Turns .
...........................................................................Skidding or Sliding .
.................................................................................Riding Up Hills .
............................................................................Riding Down Hills .
.............................................Crossing or Turning on Hills or Slopes .
......................................................................Riding Over Obstacles .
......................................................................Riding Through Water .
..................................................................................................Parking .
70
72
72
74
75
79
80
82
83
84
09/05/11 14:49:49 31HP4830 0063

Operating this ATV on paved surfaces may
seriously affect handling and control of the ATV,
and may cause the vehicle to go out of control.
Never operate the ATV on any paved surfaces,
including sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and
streets.
55
Off-road Use Only
Safe Riding Precautions
Basic Operation & Riding
ATV Safety
Before Riding
Before riding your ATV for the first time, please review the
section beginning on page 1, and the section beginning
on page .
Even if you have ridden other ATVs, take time to become familiar with
how this ATV works and handles. Practice in a safe area until you build
your skills and get accustomed to the ATV’s size and weight.
Your ATV and its tires are designed and manufactured for off-road use
only, not for pavement. Riding on pavement can affect handling and
control. You should not ride your ATV on pavement.
When riding off-road, also remember to always obey local off-road
riding laws and regulations. Obtain permission to ride on private
property. Avoid posted areas and obey ‘‘no trespassing’’ signs.
37
09/05/11 14:49:56 31HP4830 0064

Operating this ATV on public streets, roads or
highways could cause you to collide with
another vehicle.
Never operate this ATV on any public street,
road or highway, even a dirt or gravel one.
Removing hands from handlebars or feet from
footpegs during operation can reduce your
ability to control the ATV or could cause you to
lose your balance and fall off of the ATV.
Always keep both hands on the handlebars and
both feet on the footpegs of your ATV during
operation.
56
Keep Hands and Feet on Controls
Safe Riding Precautions
Basic Operation & Riding
You should never ride your ATV on public streets, roads or highways,
even if they are not paved. Drivers of street vehicles may have difficulty
seeing and avoiding you, which could lead to a collision. In many states
it is illegal to operate ATVs on public streets, roads and highways.
Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footpegs
when riding your ATV. This is important to maintain your balance and
to control the vehicle. Removing even one hand from the handlebars or
one foot from the footpegs can reduce your ability to control the ATV
or could cause you to lose your balance and fall off the ATV.
09/05/11 14:50:03 31HP4830 0065

Operating this ATV at excessive speeds
increases your chances of losing control of the
ATV, which can result in an accident.
Always go at a speed that is proper for your
vehicle, the terrain, visibility and other operating
conditions, and your experience.
(1) footpeg
(1)
57
Control Speed
Basic Operation & Riding
Safe Riding Precautions
Riding at excessive speed increases the chance of an accident. In
choosing a proper speed, you need to consider the capability of your
vehicle, the terrain, visibility and other operating conditions, plus your
own skills and experience.
09/05/11 14:50:10 31HP4830 0066

Failure to use extra care when operating this
ATV on unfamiliar terrain could result in the ATV
overturning or going out of control.
Go slowly and be extra careful when operating
on unfamiliar terrain. Always be alert to
changing terrain conditions when operating the
ATV.
58
Use Care on Unfamiliar or Rough Terrain
Safe Riding Precautions
Basic Operation & Riding
Before riding in a new area, always check the terrain thoroughly. Don’t
ride fast on unfamiliar terrain or when visibility is limited. (It’s
sometimes difficult to see obstructions like hidden rocks, bumps, or
holes in time to react.)
09/05/11 14:50:15 31HP4830 0067

Failure to use extra care when operating on
excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain
could cause loss of traction or vehicle control,
which could result in an accident, including an
overturn.
Do not operate on excessively rough, slippery
or loose terrain until you have learned and
practiced the skills necessary to control the ATV
on such terrain. Always be especially cautious
on these kinds of terrain.
Attempting wheelies, jumps, and other stunts
increases the chance of an accident, including
an overturn.
Never attempt stunts, such as wheelies or
jumps. Don’t try to show off.
59
Do Not Perform Stunts
Safe Riding Precautions
Basic Operation & Riding
You should always operate your ATV in a safe and reasonable manner.
When riding, always keep all four wheels on the ground.
Never ride past the limit of visibility. Maintain a safe distance between
your ATV and other off-road vehicles. Always exercise caution, and use
extra care on rough, slippery and loose terrain.
09/05/11 14:50:23 31HP4830 0068

(1)
(1) fuel valve
(2) ignition switch
(2)
(3)
(4)
(3) neutral indicator
(4) engine stop switch
60
Preparation
Starting & Stopping the Engine
Basic Operation & Riding
Always follow the proper starting procedure described below.
For your safety, avoid starting or operating the engine in an enclosed
area such as a garage. Your ATV’s exhaust contains poisonous carbon
monoxide gas which can collect rapidly in an enclosed area and cause
illness or death.
The engine stop switch ( ) is set to RUN ( ).
The transmission is in neutral, and the neutral indicator ( ) is ON.
Confirm the following:
Turn the fuel valve ( ) and ignition switch ( ) to ON ( ).
Before starting, select a level surface and lock the parking brake
(page ).
1.
2. 1
4
2
3
33
09/05/11 14:50:34 31HP4830 0069

61
Starting Procedure
Starting & Stopping the Engine
Basic Operation & Riding
This vehicle has a fuel-injected engine with an automatic choke.
Follow the procedure indicated below.
Any Air Temperature
Press the start button with the throttle completely closed.
The engine will not start if the throttle is fully open (because the
electronic control module cuts off the fuel supply).
09/05/11 14:50:41 31HP4830 0070

−
62
Flooded Engine
Bank Angle Sensor Ignition Cut-off System
Starting & Stopping the Engine
Basic Operation & Riding
If Your Engine Quits or Won’t
Start,
If the engine fails to start after repeated attempts, it may be flooded with
excess fuel. To clear a flooded engine:
Leave the engine stop switch set to RUN ( ).
Open the throttle fully.
Press the start button for 5 seconds.
Follow the normal starting procedure.
If the engine starts, then open the throttle slightly if idling is unstable.
If the engine still won’t start, refer to
page .
If the engine does not start, wait 10 seconds, then follow steps
again.
Your vehicle’s banking (lean angle) sensor system is designed to
automatically stop the engine if the vehicle is overturned.
Before restarting the engine, you must turn the ignition switch to the
OFF ( ) position and then back to ON ( ). The engine will not
restart until you perform this procedure.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
14
186
09/05/11 14:50:52 31HP4830 0071

63
Stalled Engine
Starting & Stopping the Engine
Basic Operation & Riding
You can restart the engine while the vehicle is stopped by squeezing the
front brake lever and pressing the start button.
Do not press the throttle lever while starting in gear. Your ATV is
equipped with a start inhibitor system that will cut off the ignition if the
throttle is open while attempting to start in gear.
Once you have started the engine, release the front brake lever, then
apply throttle gradually.
09/05/11 14:50:57 31HP4830 0072

64
How to Stop the Engine
Starting & Stopping the Engine
Basic Operation & Riding
Normal Engine Stop
To stop the engine, make sure the transmission is in neutral by checking
that the neutral indicator light is on, then turn the ignition switch OFF
().
To stop the engine in an emergency, use the engine stop switch. To
operate, slide the switch to either OFF ( ) position.
Emergency Engine Stop
If your ATV is stopped with the engine stop switch OFF ( ) and the
ignition switch ON ( ), the battery will discharge.
The engine stop switch should normally remain in the RUN ( )
position even when the engine is OFF.
09/05/11 14:51:05 31HP4830 0073

UPSHIFTING SEQUENCE
DOWNSHIFTING SEQUENCE
(1)
(A)
(A)
(2)
(1) upshift switch
(2) downshift switch
(A) press
65
Shifting Gears
Basic Operation & Riding
To select reverse, use the reverse selector knob (page ).
After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow these
procedures:
With the transmission in neutral, release the parking brake, but
continue squeezing the rear brake lever.
With the throttle closed, press the upshift switch once to shift into 1st
(first) gear.
(cont’d)
To upshift the transmission, press the upshift switch ( ) once.
To downshift the transmission, press the downshift switch ( ) once.
Two gearshift switches are located next to the left handlebar grip:
upshift ( ) and downshift ( ).
Your ATV has five forward gears: 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.
1.
2.
1
2
68
09/05/11 14:51:18 31HP4830 0074

66
Shifting Gears
Basic Operation & Riding
Emergency Gear Selection & Operation,
Release the rear brake lever and increase engine speed by gradually
opening the throttle.
When speed increases, release the throttle and shift to 2nd gear by
pressing the upshift switch once.
Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd, 4th and 5th (top)
gear.
To downshift, press the downshift switch once. Remember to close
the throttle each time you shift to the next lower gear.
The transmission cannot be downshifted from 1st gear to neutral when
the ground speed is above 2 mph (3 km/h).
If the electric shift system malfunctions, the transmission cannot be
shifted by pressing the gearshift switches. See your Honda dealer. (In an
emergency, a gear may be selected manually so you may move the
vehicle. See page ).
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.
The transmission cannot be upshifted from neutral to 1st gear when the
engine speed is above 3,000 rpm or the ground speed is above 2 mph
(3 km/h).
3.
4.
5.
6.
188
09/05/11 14:51:28 31HP4830 0075

67
Shifting Gears
Basic Operation & Riding
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.
09/05/11 14:51:35 31HP4830 0076

Improperly operating in reverse could cause you
to hit an obstacle or person behind you,
resulting in serious injury.
Make sure there are no obstacles or people
behind you before selecting reverse gear. When
it is safe to proceed, go slowly.
(4)
(3)
(1)
(2)
(3) downshift switch
(4) upshift switch
(1) reverse selector knob
(2) rear brake lever/
parking brake lever
LEFT HANDLEBAR
68
Riding in Reverse
Basic Operation & Riding
If you need to ride in reverse, make sure the area behind you is clear and
only operate the ATV at low speed.
Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, then make sure the transmission
is in neutral.
Be sure there are no obstacles or people in the way.
While pushing the reverse selector knob ( ) in, squeeze the rear brake
lever/parking brake lever ( ), then press the downshift switch ( )
once to shift into ‘‘R’’ (reverse) gear.
1.
2.
3. 1
32
09/05/11 14:51:44 31HP4830 0077

Applying only the rear brake abruptly when
operating in reverse gear could cause the front
wheels to lift off the ground and the ATV could
overturn backwards.
Carefully apply both the front and rear brakes
when stopping in reverse gear.
69
Riding in Reverse
Basic Operation & Riding
Your ATV may be equipped with a reverse speed limiter, which helps
the vehicle to maintain a safe speed while riding in reverse gear.
The transmission cannot be shifted from neutral back into reverse when
the engine speed is above 3,000 rpm or speed of your ATV is above 2
mph(3km/h).
To shift out of reverse and into neutral, press the upshift switch ( )
once to shift into ‘‘N’’ (neutral) gear.
To stop, close the throttle and gradually apply both the front and rear
brakes. Do not abruptly apply the rear brake by itself.
Release the rear brake lever/parking brake lever.
Open the throttle gradually and ride slowly. Do not open the throttle
suddenly or make abrupt turns.
6.
7.
4.
5.
4
09/05/11 14:51:51 31HP4830 0078

70
Braking
Basic Operation & Riding
Your ATV is equipped with disc brakes on both front wheels which are
hydraulically activated by operating the right brake lever. A single drum
brake on the rear axle housing is mechanically activated by depressing
the brake pedal or operating the left brake lever.
When possible, reduce your speed or complete braking before entering a
turn. Avoid braking or closing the throttle quickly while turning. Either
action may cause one or more wheels to slip and reduce your control of
your ATV.
Applying the brakes too hard may cause the wheels to lock and slide,
reducing control of your ATV. If this happens, release the brake
controls, steer straight ahead until you regain control, then reapply the
brakes more gently.
Gradually increase braking as you feel the brakes slowing your speed.
The increase in engine compression from downshifting will help slow
your ATV.
To slow or stop, apply the brake lever and brake pedal smoothly, while
downshifting to match your speed.
For full braking effectiveness, use both the pedal and lever
simultaneously. Using both braking systems will stop your ATV faster
with greater stability.
As a general rule, the front braking system provides about 70 percent of
total stopping power.
Although the front and rear brakes have separate controls, all four
wheels are interconnected when your ATV is in the 4WD mode. So
operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will cause braking at both
the front and rear wheels.
Except TRX420TE:
09/05/11 14:52:00 31HP4830 0079

71
Braking
Basic Operation & Riding
Riding Your ATV
Your ability to brake in a turn and to brake hard in an emergency
situation are important riding skills.
When descending a long, steep grade, use engine compression braking
by downshifting, with intermittent use of both brakes. Continuous brake
application can overheat the brakes and reduce their effectiveness.
Riding with your foot resting on the brake pedal or your hands on the
brake levers may overheat the brakes, reducing effectiveness.
For information on how to apply the brakes in various riding situations,
see the following section, .
09/05/11 14:52:07 31HP4830 0080

Turning improperly can make the ATV go out of
control, causing a collision or overturn.
Always follow proper procedures for turning
as described in this owner’s manual.
Practice turning at low speeds before
attempting to turn at faster speeds.
Do not turn at excessive speeds.
72
Making Turns
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
Learn how to turn your ATV properly. Practice the techniques outlined
in this section on level ground and at low speeds until you are confident
in making turns.
09/05/11 14:52:12 31HP4830 0081

Lean your body to the inside of a turn and forward.
73
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
To make a turn from a full stop: Apply the throttle gradually when you
turn and start up at the same time. Remember to shift your body forward
to make sharp low-speed turns and whenever you turn while
accelerating from a full stop.
To make a sharp turn at low speed: It helps to shift your body slightly
forward on the seat, and lean inside, as you steer the handlebar. Shifting
weight forward allows the rear wheels to turn easier, and it also
improves front-wheel steering.
To make a turn on level ground: Steer the handlebar and lean your body
toward the inside of the turn. Leaning helps balance the vehicle, and it
feels more comfortable. Leaning into a turn is an important technique to
master in riding an ATV.
09/05/11 14:52:19 31HP4830 0082

Skidding or sliding improperly may cause you to
lose control of this ATV. You may also regain
traction unexpectedly, which may cause the
ATV to overturn.
Learn to safely control skidding by practicing at
low speeds and on level, smooth terrain.
74
Skidding or Sliding
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
The terrain surface can be a major factor affecting turns. Skidding
during a turn is more likely to occur on slippery surfaces, such as snow,
ice, mud and loose gravel. If you skid on ice, you may lose all
directional control. To avoid skidding on slippery terrain, keep your
speed low and ride with caution.
If your ATV skids sideways during a turn, steer in the direction of the
skid. Avoid hard braking or accelerating until you have regained
directional control.
09/05/11 14:52:25 31HP4830 0083

Operating on excessively steep hills can cause
the vehicle to overturn more easily than
operating on level surfaces or small hills.
Never operate the ATV on hills too steep for the
ATV or for your abilities.
Climbing hills improperly could cause loss of
control or cause the ATV to overturn.
Always follow proper procedures for climbing
hills as described in this owner’s manual.
75
Riding Up Hills
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
The ATV’s ability to safely climb hills largely depends on the rider’s
skill and judgment. Begin by practicing on smooth, gentle slopes. As
you gain experience, you’ll learn the hazards and your own limitations.
You may then proceed to ride on more difficult terrain. However, you
must be able to decide which hills or hazards might cause the ATV to
overturn. Avoid excessively steep hills.
When climbing hills, you must shift weight toward the front wheels to
help keep them on the ground. To do this, shift your body slightly
forward on the seat and lean forward. For greater weight shift, move
your body farther forward and lean forward.
09/05/11 14:52:32 31HP4830 0084

Shift weight forward when climbing hills.
76
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces.
Always check the terrain carefully before you start up any hill.
To climb a hill, take a running start in an appropriate gear and speed
for the conditions. Maintain a steady speed as you ascend the hill.
Never open the throttle suddenly or make sudden gear changes. The
ATV could flip over backward.
Never go over the top of any hill at high speed. An obstacle, a sharp
drop, or another vehicle or person could be on the other side of the
hill.
09/05/11 14:52:40 31HP4830 0085

Stalling, rolling backwards or improperly
dismounting while climbing a hill could result in
the ATV overturning.
Always follow proper procedures for climbing a
hill as described in this owner’s manual.
77
Stalling the ATV and/or Rolling Backwards:
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
What to do if the ATV stalls or rolls backwards when climbing a hill:
If you are about to lose all forward speed:
Using the front and rear brakes together, bring the ATV to a stop
with the vehicle pointed straight uphill.
Get off the ATV while you continue holding the brakes.
Shift into neutral, set the parking brake and turn the engine off.
Then assess the situation.
If the ATV starts rolling backwards before you begin braking:
Keep your weight uphill.
Carefully apply the front brakes first, then carefully apply the
rear brake. Do not apply either brake abruptly if you are rolling
backwards, or the vehicle may overturn.
If the ATV continues sliding backwards:
After you’ve applied the brakes, get off and away from the vehicle.
If you incorrectly estimate climbing capability or terrain conditions, the
ATV may not have enough power or traction to continue uphill. If this
happens, the ATV can stall and/or roll backwards.
Remember that operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will cause
braking at both the front and rear wheels.
1.
2.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Except TRX420TE:
09/05/11 14:52:52 31HP4830 0086

Be sure your legs are
clear of the wheels.
Body position for
backing down a hill.
78
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
If the hill is too steep or too slippery, or if you have any doubt whether
you can safely walk the ATV back down the hill, leave the vehicle
where it is and get help. If possible, block the wheels so the vehicle
doesn’t roll backwards.
If the hill is not too steep and you have good footing, you may be able
to walk the ATV back down the hill. Make sure your intended path is
clear in case you lose control of the ATV.
Stand with your body facing downhill, beside the vehicle so you can
reach the rear brake lever with your right hand.
Be sure your legs are clear of the wheels.
Check your footing.
Slowly and carefully back the ATV down the hill using the rear brake
lever to control speed.
If you lose control of the ATV, for your safety, get away from the
vehicle.
What to do after the ATV has stalled or rolled backwards:
1.
2.
3.
4.
09/05/11 14:53:02 31HP4830 0087

On downhills, shift your weight back.
Going down a hill improperly could cause loss
of control or cause the ATV to overturn.
Always follow proper procedures for going down
hills as described in this owner’s manual.
79
Riding Down Hills
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
It’s usually advisable to descend hills with the ATV pointed straight
downhill. Avoid angles that would cause the vehicle to lean sharply to
one side.
As you approach a downhill, stop and survey the terrain below. Never
ride past the limit of your visibility. Never go down a hill at high speed.
09/05/11 14:53:09 31HP4830 0088

Improperly crossing hills or turning on hills could
cause loss of control or cause the ATV to
overturn.
Always follow proper procedures for crossing or
turning on slopes as described in this owner’s
manual. Avoid crossing steep hills if possible.
80
Crossing or Turning on Hills or Slopes
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
When you’ve selected a safe downhill path, shift into a lower gear, shift
your weight back with your arms extended and braced against the
handlebar, then go down slowly with the throttle closed.
Use mainly the rear brake to control speed. Avoid using either the front
brake or rear brake hard or abruptly when riding down hills.
Riding on hills or slopes is different from riding on level terrain. Be
careful when riding on any hill. Make sure that you practice on gentle,
smooth slopes before attempting to ride on steeper or more difficult
terrain.
Remember, braking effectiveness is reduced on any hill with a loose
surface.
Remember that operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will cause
braking at both the front and rear wheels.
Except TRX420TE:
09/05/11 14:53:18 31HP4830 0089

Shift weight uphill when crossing slopes.
81
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
Crossing Hills or Slopes
To maintain balance and stability when riding across a slope, you
need to shift weight toward the uphill side of the vehicle. To do this,
move your body off the center of the seat and lean toward the uphill
side.
On a slippery or loose surface, you may also need to steer slightly
uphill to maintain a straight course across the slope.
Avoid crossing hills that are excessively steep, slippery or rough.
Do not make turns on any slopes until you have first mastered the
techniques for making turns on level terrain.
Compared to riding on level ground, you may need to shift more
weight and lean more when making turns on slopes.
Making Turns on Slopes
09/05/11 14:53:26 31HP4830 0090

Improperly operating over obstacles could
cause loss of control or a collision and could
cause the ATV to overturn.
When you go over obstacles, always follow
proper procedures as described in this owner’s
manual.
82
Riding Over Obstacles
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
Before operating in a new area, check for obstacles. Watch out for
bumps, rain ruts, potholes and other obstacles in the terrain. When you
approach any obstacle, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop.
Never try to ride over large obstacles, such as large rocks or fallen logs.
09/05/11 14:53:32 31HP4830 0091

The ATV tires have some ability to float.
Operating this ATV through deep or fast-flowing
water may cause a loss of traction and loss of
control, which could lead to an accident.
Never operate this ATV in fast-flowing water or
in water deeper than that specified in this owner’s
manual.
83
Riding Through Water
Riding Your ATV
Basic Operation & Riding
If the brakes don’t regain effectiveness, stop your ATV and follow
the procedures on page .
If necessary, apply the brakes repeatedly until they dry out and
operate normally.
Riding through water can make the brakes less effective than
normal, and may reduce stopping ability.
After leaving the water, always test both the front and rear brakes.
Avoid getting the spark plug or air cleaner wet, as this would cause
the engine to stop.
Watch out for submerged obstacles and slippery rocks.
Proceed through the water at a slow, steady speed.
Choose a path where both banks have gradual slopes.
Your ATV is designed to travel through water up to approximately
10 inches (254 mm) deep. Before crossing a stream, make sure the water
is not too deep or flowing too fast.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
152
09/05/11 14:53:42 31HP4830 0092

84
Parking on a Steep Incline or a Loose or Slippery Surface
Parking
Basic Operation & Riding
Look for level parking area. Make sure the ground surface is firm.
After bringing your ATV to a stop, hold the brakes while you shift
into neutral.
Set the parking brake.
Turn the ignition switch OFF ( ).
If you’re finished riding for the day, turn the fuel valve OFF.
If it is necessary to start the engine when your ATV in gear and is
stopped on a grade, rock the vehicle back and forth to allow shifting the
transmission into neutral.
If rocks or other objects are available, you can block the wheels as
shown for additional security.
If the ATV begins to move, either while sitting on it or after you
dismount, find a better parking location.
Turn the ignition switch OFF ( ) and release the brakes.
While holding the brakes, set the parking brake.
If you must park your ATV on a steep incline or loose or slippery
surface, use the following procedure:
The brakelights are activated by applying the parking brake. When using
the parking brake, be sure to turn the ignition switch OFF ( ) to avoid
discharging the battery.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
1.
2.
3.
4.
09/05/11 14:53:57 31HP4830 0093

85
Servicing Your Honda
Servicing Your Honda
Maintenance, replacement or repair of the emission control devices
and systems may be performed by any ATV repair establishment or
individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.
Before You Service Your Honda
Service Preparations
For information about replacing fuses, see page .
(cont’d)
To help keep your ATV in good shape, this section includes a
Maintenance Schedule for required service and step-by-step instructions
for specific maintenance tasks. You’ll also find important safety
precautions, information on fuels and oils, and tips for keeping your
Honda looking good.
For information about the exhaust emission and noise requirements of
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air
Resources Board (CARB), see page .
...........................................................The Importance of Maintenance .
...............................................................................Maintenance Safety .
............................................................Important Safety Precautions .
..........................................................................Maintenance Schedule .
..............................................................................Maintenance Record .
......................................................Maintenance Component Locations .
.................................................................................................Tool Kit .
.......................................................................Owner’s Manual Storage .
....................................................................................Seat Removal .
....................................................................................Clip Removal .
87
88
89
90
94
95
98
99
100
101
198
216
09/05/11 14:54:12 31HP4830 0094

86
Servicing Your Honda
Servicing Your Honda
Service Procedures
Engine
Fluids & Filters
...................................................................................................Fuel .
............................................................................Engine Oil & Filter .
....................................................................................Gear Case Oil .
..............................................................................................Coolant .
........................................................................................Air Cleaner .
..............................................................................................Throttle .
...................................................................................Clutch System .
Chassis
...................................................................................Spark Arrester .
................................................................................................Valves .
.........................................................................................Spark Plug .
........................................................................Reverse Lock System .
...............................................................................Appearance Care .
...............................................................................................Battery .
Electrical
................................................................................Drivetrain Boots .
...............................................................................................Guards .
..................................................................................................Tires .
................................................................................................Brakes .
........................................................................................Suspension .
............................................Differential Oil (Except ) .
102
105
114
116
118
124
130
132
133
134
137
138
139
142
153
160
162
164
169
TRX420TE
09/05/11 14:54:31 31HP4830 0095

Improperly maintaining this ATV or failing to
correct a problem before you ride can cause a
crash in which you can be seriously hurt or
killed.
Always follow the inspection and maintenance
recommendations and schedules in this owner’s
manual.
87
The Importance of Maintenance
Servicing Your Honda
A well-maintained ATV is essential for safe, economical, and trouble-
free riding. It will also help reduce air pollution. Careful pre-ride
inspections and good maintenance are especially important because your
ATV is designed to be ridden over rough off-road terrain.
To help you properly care for your ATV, this section of the manual
provides a Maintenance Schedule. The service intervals in this schedule
are based on average riding conditions.
If your ATV overturns or is involved in a crash, be sure your Honda
dealer inspects all major parts, even if you are able to make some repairs.
Frequent servicing of the air cleaner is especially important to help you
avoid a possible costly engine repair.
09/05/11 14:54:39 31HP4830 0096

Failure to properly follow maintenance
instructions and precautions can cause you to
be seriously hurt or killed.
Always follow the procedures and precautions
in this owner’s manual.
88
Maintenance Safety
Servicing Your Honda
This section includes instructions on how to perform some important
maintenance tasks. If you have basic mechanical skills, you can perform
many of these tasks with the tools provided with your ATV.
Other tasks that are more difficult and require special tools are best
performed by professionals. Removing the wheels should normally be
handled only by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.
Instructions are included in this manual only to assist in emergency
service.
Some of the most important safety precautions follow. However, we
cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in
performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you
should perform a given task.
09/05/11 14:54:45 31HP4830 0097

89
Important Safety Precautions
Maintenance Safety
Servicing Your Honda
Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust.
Burns from hot ATV parts.
Injury from moving parts.
Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or
repairs. This will help eliminate several potential hazards:
Be sure there is
adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.
Let the engine and exhaust system cool
before touching.
Do not run the engine unless instructed
to do so.
Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the
tools and skills required.
To reduce the possibility of a fire or explosion, be careful when
working around gasoline. Use only non-flammable solvent, not
gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away
from all fuel-related parts.
Remember that your Honda dealer knows your ATV best and is fully
equipped to maintain and repair it. To ensure the best quality and
reliability, use only new Honda Genuine Parts or other equivalents for
repair and replacement. If you have the tools and skills required for
additional maintenance jobs, you can purchase an official Honda
Service Manual (page ).224
09/05/11 14:54:51 31HP4830 0098

90
Maintenance Schedule
Servicing Your Honda
The required Maintenance Schedule that follows specifies how often
you should have your ATV serviced, and what things need attention. It
is essential to have your ATV serviced as scheduled to maintain safe,
dependable performance and proper emission control.
The service intervals in this Maintenance Schedule are based on average
riding conditions. Some items will need more frequent service if you
ride in unusually wet or dusty areas or at full throttle. Consult your
Honda dealer for recommendations applicable to your individual needs
and use.
Some items in the Maintenance Schedule can be performed with basic
mechanical skills and hand tools. Procedures for these items are
provided in this manual. Other items involve more extensive procedures
and may require special training, tools, and equipment. We recommend
that you have your Honda dealer perform these tasks unless you have
advanced mechanical skills and the required tools and equipment.
Procedures for such items in this schedule are provided in an official
Honda Service Manual available for purchase (page ).
If you do not feel capable of performing a given task or need assistance,
remember that your Honda dealer knows your ATV best and is fully
equipped to maintain and repair it. If you decide to do your own
maintenance, use only Honda Genuine Parts or their equivalents for
repair or replacement to ensure the best quality and reliability.
224
09/05/11 14:54:58 31HP4830 0099

***
*
**
91
Maintenance Schedule
Servicing Your Honda
Summary of Maintenance Schedule Notes & Procedures:
Perform the pre-ride inspection (page ) and owner maintenance on
this section at each scheduled maintenance period.
Each item on the maintenance schedule requires some mechanical
knowledge. Certain items (particularly those marked and ) may
require more technical information and tools. Consult your Honda dealer.
Should be serviced by your Honda dealer, unless you have the
proper tools and service data, and are mechanically qualified. Refer
to the official Honda Service Manual (page ).
In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced
only by your Honda dealer.
Service more frequently when riding in dusty areas, sand or snow.
Service more frequently after riding in very wet or muddy conditions.
Replace every 2 years. Replacement requires mechanical skill.
NOTES:
1.
2.
3.
43
224
09/05/11 14:55:08 31HP4830 0100

−
−
mi
km
600
1000
6
100
C
I
I
I
I
I
100
150
1
20
I
Refer to
page
130
124
129
134
137
105
110
118
FUEL LINE
THROTTLE OPERATION
AIR CLEANER
AIR CLEANER HOUSING
DRAIN TUBE
SPARK PLUG
VALVE CLEARANCE
ENGINE OIL
ENGINE OILFILTER
RADIATOR COOLANT
COOLING SYSTEM
100 mi (150 km),
20 operating hours
or 1 month: R
Every 600 mi
(1,000km),
100 operating hours
or 12 months: R
1200
2000
12
200
I
I
C
I
I
I
I
I
NOTE
NOTE 1
NOTE 2
NOTE 3
NOTE 2
REGULAR
ITEMS
FREQUENCY
WHICHEVER
COMES
FIRST
INITIAL
INITIAL=
REGULAR=
MONTH
HOURS
MAINT. INTERVALMAINT.
92
Maintenance Schedule
Servicing Your Honda
Maintenance Procedures:
I: inspect and clean, adjust, lubricate, or replace, if necessary
C: clean
A: adjust
L: lubricate
R: replace
Should be serviced by your Honda dealer, unless you have the proper tools and service data, and
are mechanically qualified. Refer to the official Honda Service Manual (page ).224
09/05/11 14:55:19 31HP4830 0101

−
−
−
−
−
−
−
mi
km
NOTE
NOTE 3
100
150
1
20
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
600
1000
6
100
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
C
I
I
Refer to
page
162
114,
116
114
142
150
145
151
142
133
160
132
138
1200
2000
12
200
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
C
I
I
I
I
I
DRIVETRAIN BOOTS
REAR FINAL GEAR CASE
OIL AND DIFFERENTIAL
OIL (Except TRX420TE)
REAR FINAL GEAR CASE
OIL (TRX420TE only)
2WD/4WD SELECT
SYSTEM
(Except TRX420TE)
BRAKE FLUID
BRAKE SHOES WEAR
BRAKE PADS WEAR
BRAKELIGHT SWITCH
BRAKE SYSTEM
REVERSE LOCK SYSTEM
GUARDS
CLUTCH SYSTEM
SUSPENSION
SPARK ARRESTER
NUTS, BOLTS,
FASTENERS
WHEELS/TIRES
TIE-ROD AND JOINT
BOOTS
STEERING SHAFT
HOLDER BEARINGS
STEERING SYSTEM
FREQUENCY
ITEMS
WHICHEVER
COMES
FIRST
REGULARINITIAL
MONTH
HOURS
NOTE 1,2
NOTE 1,2
(R:EVERY
2 YEARS)
(R:EVERY
2 YEARS)
MAINT. INTERVALMAINT.
93
Servicing Your Honda
Maintenance Schedule
In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced only by your Honda dealer.
Should be serviced by your Honda dealer, unless you have the proper tools and service data, and
are mechanically qualified. Refer to the official Honda Service Manual (page ).224
09/05/11 14:55:30 31HP4830 0102

94
Maintenance Record
Servicing Your Honda
Performed
By:
Date Notes
ODO or
HOUR
Miles (km) or
months or hours
Keeping an accurate maintenance record will help ensure that your ATV
is properly maintained. Retain detailed receipts to verify the
maintenance was performed. If the ATV is sold, these receipts should be
transferred with the ATV to the new owner. Make sure whoever
performs the maintenance completes this record. All scheduled
maintenance, including the 100 mile (150 km) or 1 month or 20 hours
initial maintenance, is considered a normal owner operating cost and
will be charged for by your dealer. Use the space under Notes to record
anything you want to remind yourself about or mention to your dealer.
100 (150) or
1or20
600 (1,000) or
6 or 100
1,200 (2,000) or
12 or 200
1,800 (3,000) or
18 or 300
2,400 (4,000) or
24 or 400
3,000 (5,000) or
30 or 500
3,600 (6,000) or
36 or 600
4,200 (7,000) or
42 or 700
4,800 (8,000) or
48 or 800
09/05/11 14:55:37 31HP4830 0103

rear brake lever/
parking brake lever
front brake lever
front brake fluid reservoir
throttle leverfuel fill cap
95
Servicing Your Honda
Maintenance Component Locations
09/05/11 14:55:42 31HP4830 0104

air cleaner
rear brake pedal
coolant reserve tank
engine oil filter
front brake caliper
air cleaner housing
drain tube
rear brakelight switch
front suspension spring
pre-load adjuster
(Except TRX420TE)
differential oil filler cap (Except TRX420TE)
differential oil drain bolt (Except TRX420TE)
96
Servicing Your Honda
Maintenance Component Locations
09/05/11 14:55:48 31HP4830 0105

spark plug
clutch
engine oil filler cap/dipstick
engine oil drain bolt
gear case oil filler cap
gear case oil drain bolt
tool kit
spark arrester
rear suspension spring
pre-load adjuster
(Except TRX420TE)
owner’s manual
air pressure gauge
gear change tool
battery
fuse box
main fuse
PS fuse (TRX420FPE only)
97
Servicing Your Honda
Maintenance Component Locations
09/05/11 14:55:55 31HP4830 0106

(2)
(1)
REAR
(3)
(4)
(3) rubber strap
(4) gear change tool
(1) tool kit
(2) storage compartment
SEAT UNDERSIDE
98
Tool Kit
Servicing Your Honda
The tool kit ( ) is stored in the storage compartment ( ) below the rear
cargo rack.
To open the compartment, unhook the rubber strap ( ).
The gear change tool ( ) is stored underside of the seat.
An optional, larger tool kit may be available. Check with your Honda
dealer’s parts department.
1
4
2
3
09/05/11 14:56:03 31HP4830 0107

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
SEAT UNDERSIDE
(1) owner’s manual
(2) seat
(3) air pressure gauge
(4) plastic document bag
99
Owner’s Manual Storage
Servicing Your Honda
Your ATV provides storage for the owner’s manual so you’ll have it
with you for easy reference. Store your owner’s manual ( ) in the
plastic document bag underside of the seat ( ).
Be careful not to flood this area when washing your ATV.
The owner’s manual and air pressure gauge ( ) should be stored in the
plastic document bag ( ).
To remove the seat, see page .
1
2
4
3
100
09/05/11 14:56:12 31HP4830 0108

101
Clip Removal
Servicing Your Honda
Removal
Press down on the center pin to release the lock.
Pull the clip out of the hole.
Installation
Push the bottom of the pin.
Insert the clip into the hole.
Lightly press down on the center pin to lock the clip.
1.
2.
1.
2.
3.
1. 2.
1.
2. 3.
09/05/11 14:56:32 31HP4830 0110

unleaded
86 (or higher)
type
pump octane number
102
Fuel Recommendation
Fuel
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Use only unleaded fuel in your Honda. If you ride your Honda in a
country where leaded fuel might be available, take precautions to use
only unleaded fuel.
Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline mixture.
Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank.
If pinging or spark knock occurs at a steady engine speed under normal
load, change brands of gasoline. If pinging or spark knock persists,
consult your Honda dealer.
Use of lower octane gasoline can cause persistent ‘‘pinging’’ or ‘‘spark
knock’’ (a loud rapping noise) which, if severe, can lead to engine
damage. Light pinging experienced while operating under a heavy load,
such as climbing a hill, is no cause for concern.
Your engine is designed to use any unleaded gasoline that has a pump
octane number of 86 or higher. Gasoline pumps at service stations
normally display the pump octane number. For information on the use
of oxygenated fuels, see page .
89
220
09/05/11 14:56:42 31HP4830 0111

3.51 US gal (13.3 )
0.69 US gal (2.6
)
(1) fuel fill cap
(2) breather tube
(2)
(1)
(4)
(3) handlebar cover hole
(4) filler neck
(3)
103
Fuel Capacity
Refueling Procedure
Fuel
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Fuel tank capacity, including reserve:
Reserve capacity:
Refer to on page .
The tank should be refilled as soon as possible after switching to reserve,
and the fuel valve should be returned to the ON position after refueling
to avoid running out of fuel with no reserve.
89
09/05/11 14:56:54 31HP4830 0112

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.
You can be burned or seriously injured when
handling fuel.
Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks and
flame away.
Handle fuel only outdoors.
Wipe up spills immediately.
104
Fuel
Servicing Your Honda
Add fuel until the level reaches the bottom of the filler neck ( ).
Avoid over filling the tank. There should be no fuel in the filler neck.
If the fuel valve was set to RES, turn the fuel valve ON.
If you replace the fuel fill cap, use only a Honda Genuine replacement
part.
To open the fuel fill cap ( ), turn it counterclockwise.
Pull the breather tube ( ) out of the handlebar cover hole ( ).
After refueling, turn the fuel fill cap clockwise until it clicks.
Insert the breather tube into the handlebar cover hole.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
4
1
6.
32
09/05/11 14:57:03 31HP4830 0113

105
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Engine oil quality is a major factor that affects both the performance
and the service life of the engine.
Using the proper oil (page ) and filter, and regularly checking,
adding, and changing oil will help extend your engine’s life. Even the
best oil wears out. Changing oil helps get rid of dirt and deposits in the
engine. Operating the engine with old or dirty oil can damage your
engine. Running the engine with insufficient oil can cause serious
damage to the engine and transmission.
Change the engine oil as specified in the maintenance schedule on
page . When running in very dusty conditions, oil changes should be
performed more frequently than specified in the maintenance schedule.
106
92
09/05/11 14:57:08 31HP4830 0114

*
*
OKNOT RECOMMENDED
API classification
SAE 10W-30viscosity (weight)
JASO T 903
standard
suggested oil
SG or higher except oils labeled as
energy conserving on the circular API
service label
MA
Pro Honda GN4 4-stroke oil or an
equivalent motorcycle oil.
106
Oil Recommendation
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Suggested oils are equal in performance to SJ oils that are not labeled
as energy conserving on the circular API service label.
Your ATV does not need oil additives. Use the recommended oil.
Do not use oils with graphite or molybdenum additives. They may
adversely affect clutch operation.
Do not use API SH or higher oils displaying a circular API ‘‘energy
conserving’’ service label on the container. They may affect
lubrication and clutch performance.
Do not use non-detergent, vegetable, or castor based racing oils.
09/05/11 14:57:23 31HP4830 0115

(1) code number of the sales company of the oil
(2) oil classification
(1)
(2)
107
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Other viscosities shown in the following chart may be used when the
average temperature in your riding area is within the indicated range.
JASO T 903 standard
The JASO T 903 standard is an index for engine oils for 4-stroke
motorcycle engines.
There are two classes: MA and MB.
Oil conforming to the standard is labeled on the oil container. For
example, the following label shows the MA classification.
09/05/11 14:57:31 31HP4830 0116

−
−
LEFT SIDE
(1)
(1) left side cover
108
Checking & Adding Oil
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Before riding your ATV, check the engine oil level.
Refer to on page .
Check the engine oil level each day before operating your ATV and add
if needed.
Unsnap and remove the left side cover ( ).
Remove the seat (page ).
Start the engine in a well-ventilated area and let it idle for 3 5
minutes. Stop the engine and wait 2 3 minutes.
Park your ATV on a firm, level surface.1.
2.
3.
89
4.
100
1
09/05/11 14:57:42 31HP4830 0117

LEFT SIDE
(2)
(3)
(4)
(2) oil filler cap/dipstick (3) upper level mark
(4) lower level mark
109
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Running the engine with an improper oil level can cause serious engine
damage.
Insert the oil filler cap/dipstick without screwing it in, then remove
the oil filler cap/dipstick and check the oil level. The oil level should
be between the upper level mark ( ) and the lower level mark ( ) on
the oil filler cap/dipstick.
Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick.
If required, add the specified oil into the filler cap hole, up to the
upper level mark on the oil filler cap/dipstick. Do not overfill.
Install the left side cover.
Install the seat.
Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick ( ) from the front crankcase and
wipe it clean.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
2
34
09/05/11 14:57:53 31HP4830 0118

(1)
UNDER ENGINE
(2)
(2) sealing washer
(1) engine oil drain plug
110
Changing Engine Oil & Filter
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Using the wrong oil filter may result in leaks or engine damage.
Drain the Engine Oil:
Refer to on page .
Your ATV’s oil filter has very specific performance requirements. Use a
new Honda Genuine oil filter specified for your model or a filter of
equal quality.
With the ATV on the level ground, remove the seat (page ), left
side cover (page ) and the oil filler cap/dipstick from the front
crankcase.
Place an oil drain pan under the crankcase and remove the engine oil
drainplug( )andsealingwasher( ).
This procedure requires mechanical skill and professional tools such as a
torque wrench as well as a means for disposing of the drained fluid
(page ). If you do not have the skills or the tools, see your Honda
dealer.
1.
2.
89
108
12
100
182
09/05/11 14:58:05 31HP4830 0119

(1)
RIGHT SIDE
(1) right side cover
111
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Install a New Engine Oil Filter:
(cont’d)
Unsnap and remove the right side cover ( ).
Remove the seat (page ).1.
2.
100
1
09/05/11 14:58:13 31HP4830 0120

RIGHT SIDE
(2) oil filter cover
(3) bolts
(4) oil filter
(5) O-rings
(6) spring
(7) rubber seal
(8) ‘‘OUTSIDE’’ mark
(4)
(8)
(5)
(3)
(2)
(6)
(7)
(2)
(3)
112
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Improper installation of the oil filter can cause serious engine damage.
Remove the oil filter cover ( ) by removing the bolts ( ). Let the
remaining oil drain out. Discard the oil filter ( ) in an approved
manner (page ).
Check that the oil filter cover O-rings ( ) are in good condition and
then install a new oil filter. Use only the Honda Genuine oil filter or a
filter of equivalent quality specified for your model. Using the wrong
Honda filter or a non-Honda filter which is not of equivalent quality
may cause engine damage.
Reposition the spring ( ) to the engine crankcase and install a new oil
filter with the rubber seal ( ) facing out, away from the engine. You
will see the ‘‘OUTSIDE (TOWARDS FILTER COVER)’’ mark ( )
on the filter body, near the seal.
3.
4.
5.
2
6
7
8
3
4
5
182
09/05/11 14:58:24 31HP4830 0121

−
−
7 lbf·ft (10 N·m , 1.0 kgf·m)
18 lbf·ft (25 N·m , 2.5 kgf·m)
3.0 US qt (2.8
)
113
Engine Oil & Filter
Servicing Your Honda
Improper disposal of drained fluids is harmful to the environment.
Add Engine Oil:
Reinstall the oil filter cover, making sure the bolts are tightened to the
specified torque:
Pour the drained oil into a suitable container and dispose of it in an
approved manner (page ).
Install the right side cover.
Reinstall the oil drain plug with a new sealing washer, and tighten it
to the specified torque:
Fill the crankcase with the recommended grade oil approximately:
Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick.
Start the engine and let it idle for 3 5 minutes.
Stop the engine, wait 2 3 minutes and check the oil level. Make sure
the oil is between the upper and lower level marks on the oil filler
cap/dipstick. If necessary, add more oil but do not overfill.
Check that there are no oil leaks.
Install the left side cover.
Install the seat.
If a torque wrench is not used for installation, see your Honda dealer as
soon as possible to verify proper assembly.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
6.
7.
8.
8.
182
09/05/11 14:58:39 31HP4830 0122

type
viscosity (weight)
hypoid gear oil
SAE 80
suggested oil Honda shaft drive oil or equivalent
114
Changing Oil
Oil Recommendation
Gear Case Oil
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Change the oil with the gear case at normal operating temperature to
assure complete and rapid draining.
89
09/05/11 14:58:49 31HP4830 0123

2.5 US oz (75 cm )
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)
(1) oil drain plug
(2) oil filler cap
(3) oil level check bolt
(4) oil level check hole
(1)
(4)
(3)
(2)
REAR
115
Gear Case Oil
Servicing Your Honda
Improper disposal of drained fluids is harmful to the environment.
Park the ATV on level ground.
Place an oil drain pan under the oil drain plug ( ).
Remove the oil filler cap ( ) and the drain plug.
Install the oil filler cap and oil level check bolt.
Remove the oil level check bolt ( ). Make sure the oil level reaches
the oil level check hole ( ).
Fill the gear case with the recommended oil.
Pour the drained oil into a suitable container and dispose of it in an
approved manner (page ).
After the oil has completely drained, reinstall the drain plug and
tighten it to the specified torque:
Check that the drain plug sealing washer is in good condition. If
necessary, replace the sealing washer.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
1
2
8.
3
4
182
09/05/11 14:59:02 31HP4830 0124

type
viscosity (weight)
hypoid gear oil
SAE 80
suggested oil Honda shaft drive oil or equivalent
116
Oil Recommendation
Changing Oil
Servicing Your Honda
Differential Oil
(Except )TRX420TE
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Change the oil with the differential at normal operating temperature to
assure complete and rapid draining.
89
09/05/11 14:59:13 31HP4830 0125

7.8 US oz (230 cm )
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)
(1) oil drain plug
(2) oil filler cap
(1)
(3)
(2)
(3) oil filler inspection hole
FRONT
117
Servicing Your Honda
Differential Oil
(Except )TRX420TE
Improper disposal of drained fluids is harmful to the environment.
Park the ATV on level ground.
Place an oil drain pan under the oil drain plug ( ).
Remove the oil filler cap ( ) and the drain plug.
Install the oil filler cap.
Make sure the oil level is at the lower edge of the oil filler inspection
hole ( ).
Fill the differential with the recommended oil.
Pour the drained oil into a suitable container and dispose of it in an
approved manner (page ).
After the oil has completely drained, reinstall the drain plug and
tighten it to the specified torque:
Check that the drain plug sealing washer is in good condition. If
necessary, replace the sealing washer.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
1
2
7.
3
182
09/05/11 14:59:26 31HP4830 0126

118
Coolant Recommendation
Coolant
Servicing Your Honda
Using coolant with silicate inhibitors may cause premature wear of
water pump seals or blockage of radiator passages. Using tap water
may cause engine damage.
Your ATV’s liquid cooling system dissipates engine heat through the
coolant jacket that surrounds the cylinder and cylinder head.
Maintaining the coolant will allow the cooling system to work properly
and prevent freezing, overheating, and corrosion.
Use Pro Honda HP coolant or an equivalent high quality ethylene glycol
antifreeze containing corrosion protection inhibitors specifically
recommended for use in aluminum engines. Check the antifreeze
container label.
Use only distilled water as a part of the coolant solution. Water that is
high in mineral content or salt may be harmful to the aluminum engine.
The factory provides a 50/50 solution of antifreeze and water in this
ATV. This coolant solution is recommended for most operating
temperatures and provides good corrosion protection.
Decreasing the concentration of antifreeze to less than 40% will not
provide proper corrosion protection.
09/05/11 14:59:34 31HP4830 0127

(1)
(1) reserve tank
(2) UPPER level mark
(2)
(3)
(3) LOWER level mark
RIGHT REAR
119
Checking & Adding Coolant
Coolant
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Increasing the concentration of antifreeze is not recommended because
it decreases cooling system performance. Higher concentrations of
antifreeze (up to 60%) should only be used to provide additional
protection against freezing. Check the cooling system frequently during
freezing weather.
Refer to on page .
Check the engine coolant level each day before operating your ATV and
add if needed.
(cont’d)
With the engine at normal operating temperature, check the coolant
level in the reserve tank ( ). It should be between the UPPER ( )
and LOWER ( ) level marks.
If the reserve tank is empty, or if coolant loss is excessive, check for
leaks and see your Honda dealer for repair.
Make sure the vehicle is on level ground.1.
2.
1
89
2
3
09/05/11 14:59:45 31HP4830 0128

(5)
(6) reserve tank cap(4) rubber strap
(5) rear fender cover
(6)
(4)
REAR
120
Servicing Your Honda
Coolant
Add coolant to the reserve tank as required to bring the coolant level
to the UPPER level mark.
Remove the seat (page ).
Unhook the rubber strap ( ).
Remove the rear fender cover ( ) and reserve tank cap ( ).
Always add coolant to the reserve tank. Do not attempt to add coolant
by removing the radiator cap.
After adding coolant, install the reserve tank cap and rear fender
cover.
Fasten the rubber strap.
Install the seat.
7.
5.
6.
3.
4.
100
8.
9.
56
4
09/05/11 14:59:56 31HP4830 0129

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is
hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously
scalding you.
Always let the engine and radiator cool down
before removing the radiator cap.
121
Coolant Replacement
Servicing Your Honda
Coolant
Safety Precautions
You & the Environment,
Improper disposal of drained fluids is harmful to the environment.
Refer to on page .
Coolant should be replaced by your Honda dealer, unless you have the
proper tools and service data, and are mechanically qualified. Refer to
the official Honda Service Manual (page ).
To properly dispose of drained coolant, refer to
page .
89
224
182
09/05/11 15:00:04 31HP4830 0130

(2)
(4)
(3)
(5)
FRONT
(1) tabs A
(2) radiator grill under cover
(3) clips
(6)
(4) radiator grill covers
(5) tabs B
(6) couplers
(3)(1)
122
Radiator Core
Servicing Your Honda
Coolant
Safety Precautions
To clean the radiator core and radiator grill plate:
Do not apply pressured water directly to the radiator core. The
pressured water can damage the radiator core.
Refer to on page .
Check the air passages for clogging or damage. Remove insects, mud, or
any obstruction with low water pressure. Have the radiator checked by
your Honda dealer if the air flow is restricted over more than 20% of the
radiator surface.
Clean the radiator core after riding the ATV in mud.
Unhook the tabs A ( ) and remove the radiator grill under cover ( ).
Remove the clips ( ) (page ) and radiator grill covers ( ).
Unhook the tabs B ( ) and remove the couplers ( ).
1.
2.
3.
1
3
5
101
6
4
2
89
09/05/11 15:00:17 31HP4830 0131

FRONT
(7)
(8)
(7) radiator grill plate (8) radiator core
123
Coolant
Servicing Your Honda
Remove the radiator grill plate ( ).
Wash the radiator core ( ) and radiator grill plate.
Install the removed parts in reverse order of removal.
4.
5.
6.
7
8
09/05/11 15:00:25 31HP4830 0132

124
Air Cleaner
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Using the wrong air cleaner may result in premature engine wear.
Improper or lack of proper air cleaner maintenance can cause poor
performance and premature engine wear.
Refer to on page .
Proper air cleaner maintenance is very important for off-road vehicles.
A dirty, water-soaked, worn-out, or defective air cleaner will allow dirt,
dust, mud, and other impurities to pass into the engine.
Service the air cleaner more frequently if you ride in unusually wet or
dusty areas. Your Honda dealer can help you determine the correct
service interval for your riding conditions.
Your ATV’s air cleaner has very specific performance requirements.
Use a new Honda Genuine air cleaner specified for your model or an air
cleaner of equal quality.
Proper air cleaner maintenance can prevent premature engine wear or
damage, expensive repairs, low engine power, poor gas mileage, and
spark plug fouling.
89
09/05/11 15:00:33 31HP4830 0133

(1)
(2)
UNDER SEAT
(1) retainer clips (2) air cleaner housing cover
125
Cleaning
Air Cleaner
Servicing Your Honda
(cont’d)
Remove the seat (page ).
Unlatch the retainer clips ( ).
Remove the air cleaner housing cover ( ).
1.
2.
3. 2
1
100
09/05/11 15:00:42 31HP4830 0134

−
UNDER SEAT
(7) (4)
(3)
(6)
(5)
(3) screw
(4) air cleaner assembly
(5) clamp
(6) air cleaner
(7) air cleaner body
(3)
126
Air Cleaner
Servicing Your Honda
Loosen the screw ( ) and remove the air cleaner assembly ( ) from
the air cleaner housing.
Gently wash the air cleaner in clean, non-flammable (high flash
point) solvent such as kerosene not gasoline. After cleaning, gently
squeeze out the remaining solvent. Avoid twisting or wringing the air
cleaner. This can tear the foam.
Inspect for tears or cracks in the foam or seams of the air cleaner.
Replace the air cleaner if it is damaged.
Allow the air cleaner to dry thoroughly before applying oil. A wet air
cleaner will not fully absorb the oil.
Unscrew the clamp ( ).
Remove the air cleaner ( ) from the air cleaner body ( ).
Pour clean Pro Honda Foam Filter Oil or an equivalent over the entire
surface of the air cleaner. Use both hands to evenly spread the oil into
the air cleaner. Gently squeeze out any excess oil. (To keep your
hands dry, place the air cleaner in a clean plastic bag before spreading
the oil into the air cleaner.)
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
34
5
6
7
09/05/11 15:00:54 31HP4830 0135

UNDER SEAT
(9)
(8)
(8) FRONT mark (9) tab
(9)
127
Air Cleaner
Servicing Your Honda
Install the air cleaner on the air cleaner body.
Apply a thin coat of grease to the sealing surface of the air cleaner
assembly.
Install the clamp.
Insert the air cleaner assembly into the air cleaner housing.
Fasten the screw.
Reassemble by reversing the disassembly sequence.
Install the air cleaner housing cover with the FRONT mark ( )
facing forward and fit the cut out of the tab ( ) at the end of the
air cleaner.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
8
9
09/05/11 15:01:03 31HP4830 0136

(1) dust cover
(1) (2)
UNDER SEAT
(2) breather joint
128
Dust Cover
Air Cleaner
Servicing Your Honda
Do not push the dust cover ( ) too far into the breather joint ( ).
If the dust cover is dirty, clean it.
12
09/05/11 15:01:10 31HP4830 0137

(1)
(2)
(1) drain tube
(2) clip
REAR
(3) air cleaner housing
(3)
129
Air Cleaner Housing Drain Tube
Air Cleaner
Servicing Your Honda
The air cleaner housing drain tube should be serviced in accordance with
the Maintenance Schedule. (Riding through water may require more
frequent inspection.) If deposits can be seen in the drain tube, the tube
must be cleaned before starting the vehicle.
Remove the drain tube ( ) by removing the clip ( ) under the air
cleaner housing ( ).
Drain the deposits.
Reinstall the drain tube, securing it with the clip.
1.
2.
3.
12
3
09/05/11 15:01:18 31HP4830 0138

−−
−
−
1/8 5/16 in
(3 8 mm)
1/85/16in(38mm)
(1)(2)
(B)
((AA))
(4)(3)
(1) t
hrottle lever
(2) rubber sleeve
(3) throttle cable adjuster
(4) lock nut
(A) decrease freeplay
(B) increase freeplay
RIGHT HANDLEBAR
130
Throttle Freeplay
Throttle
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
After adjustment, check for smooth operation of the throttle lever
from fully closed to fully open in all steering positions.
Tighten the lock nut and reinstall the sleeve.
Loosen the lock nut ( ).
Turn the adjuster to obtain the correct freeplay.
Slide the rubber sleeve ( ) back to expose the throttle cable adjuster
().
Adjustment
Check freeplay at the throttle lever ( ).
Freeplay:
Inspection
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
89
2
4
3
1
09/05/11 15:01:31 31HP4830 0139

131
Throttle Inspection
Throttle
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Check that the throttle assembly is positioned properly and the
securing bolts are tight.
Check for smooth operation of the throttle lever from fully open to
fully closed in all steering positions. If there is a problem, see your
Honda dealer.
Inspect the condition of the throttle cable from the throttle lever down
to the throttle body. If the cable is kinked or chafed, have it replaced.
Check the throttle cable for tension or stress in all steering positions.
Lubricate the throttle cable with a commercially available cable
lubricant to prevent premature wear and corrosion.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
89
09/05/11 15:01:40 31HP4830 0140

(1)
(2)
(1) lock nut (2) clutch adjuster
LEFT FRONT
132
Clutch Adjustment
Clutch System
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Your ATV’s shift-activated, wet, multiplate clutch is part of the primary
drive system. Proper adjustment allows a smooth, gradual engagement
when shifting gears.
Refer to on page .
If you cannot get proper adjustment, or the clutch does not work
properly, the clutch friction discs may be worn. See your Honda dealer
or refer to official Honda Service Manual (page ).
Turn the clutch adjuster ( ) counterclockwise until you feel slight
resistance.
Turn the adjuster 1/4 turn clockwise, then tighten the lock nut to hold
the adjuster in this position.
After adjustment, start the engine and test ride your ATV to be sure
the clutch is operating properly.
Install the removed parts in reverse order of removal.
Loosen the lock nut ( ).
Remove the seat (page ) and left side cover (page ).
Make sure the ignition switch is OFF ( ).
Make sure the engine is cool.1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
89
6.
7.
2
8.
1
100 108
224
09/05/11 15:01:55 31HP4830 0141

−−
−
−
1/16 3/16 in
(2 4 mm)
1/16 3/16 in (2 4 mm)
(2)
(6)
(4)
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(5)
(3)
(4) rubber sleeve
(5) lock nut
(6) adjusting nut
(1) dust cover
(2) reverse assist lever
(3) rear brake lever
133
Reverse Lock System Adjustment
Servicing Your Honda
Reverse Lock System
Safety Precautions
Other Checks
Check the reverse assist lever and cable for loose connections or other
damage. If the cable is worn or kinked, have it replaced by your Honda
dealer.
Refer to on page .
Return the dust cover and rubber sleeve.
Turn over the dust cover ( ).
Check the reverse assist lever ( ) freeplay, measured at the rear brake
lever ( ) end near the cable:
To adjust, slide the rubber sleeve ( ), loosen the lock nut ( ) and turn
the adjusting nut ( ).
After adjustment, tighten the lock nut securely.
1.
2.
3.
4.
6
1
3
5
89
4
2
09/05/11 15:02:08 31HP4830 0142

BKR5E-11 (NGK)
K16PR-U11 (DENSO)
orstandard spark plug
LEFT SIDE
(1) left tank side cover
(1)
(2)
(2) bolts
134
Spark Plug Recommendation
Spark Plug Inspection & Replacement
Spark Plug
Servicing Your Honda
Using spark plugs with an improper heat range can cause engine
damage.
Safety Precautions
Use only the recommended type of spark plug in the recommended heat
range.
Refer to on page .
Remove the seat (page ) and left side cover (page ).
Remove the left tank side cover ( ) by removing the bolts ( ).
1.
2.
89
100
1
108
2
09/05/11 15:02:20 31HP4830 0143

−−
−
−
0.039 0.043 in
(1.00 1.10 mm)
0.039 0.043 in (1.00 1.10 mm)
(3)
LEFT SIDE
(3) spark plug cap
(4) center electrode
(5) side electrode
(6) spark plug gap
(5)
(4)
(6)
135
Spark Plug
Servicing Your Honda
(cont’d)
Using a wire-type feeler gauge, check the spark plug gap ( ). If
adjustment is necessary, bend the side electrode carefully.
The gap should be:
Discard the spark plug if there is apparent wear or if the insulator is
cracked or chipped.
Inspect the electrodes and center porcelain for deposits, corrosion, or
carbon fouling. If the corrosion or deposits are heavy, replace the
plug. Clean a carbon or wet-fouled plug with a plug cleaner, if
available, or a wire brush. Inspect the spark plug electrodes for wear.
The center electrode ( ) should have a flat tip and sharp edges, and
the side electrode ( ) should not be eroded. If the electrodes and
insulator tip appear unusually fouled or burned, we suggest that you
contact your Honda dealer.
Clean any dirt from around the spark plug base.
Disconnect the spark plug cap ( ). Take care to avoid damaging the
spark plug wire when disconnecting the cap.
Using a spark plug wrench provided in the tool kit, remove the spark
plug.
4.
6.
5.
3.
7.
8.
3
4
5
6
09/05/11 15:02:33 31HP4830 0144

136
Spark Plug
Servicing Your Honda
An improperly tightened spark plug can damage the engine. If a plug is
too loose, a piston may be damaged. If a plug is too tight, the threads
may be damaged.
With the plug washer attached, thread the spark plug in by hand to
prevent cross-threading.
Tighten the spark plug:
If the old plug is good:
1/8 turn after it seats.
If installing a new plug, tighten it twice to prevent loosening:
First, tighten the plug:
NGK: turn after it seats.
DENSO: turn after it seats.
Then loosen the plug.
Next, tighten the plug again:
1/8 turn after it seats.
Connect the spark plug cap. Take care to avoid pinching any cables or
wires.
Install the remaining parts in the reverse order of removal.
a)
b)
c)
3/4
1/2
9.
10.
11.
12.
09/05/11 15:02:43 31HP4830 0145

0.006 in (0.15 mm)
0.009 in (0.23 mm)
137
Valve Inspection
Valves
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Valve clearance should be:
For those who are mechanically proficient and have the proper tools,
instructions on adjusting valve clearances are given in the official
Honda Service Manual. Otherwise, the valves should be adjusted by
your Honda dealer.
Excessive clearance will cause noise. Insufficient clearance will cause
loss of power and possibly damage the valves.
89
intake:
exhaust:
09/05/11 15:02:50 31HP4830 0146

(1)
(1) bolt
REAR
138
Spark Arrester
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
The spark arrester must be serviced every 100 operating hours to
maintain its efficiency.
Regular servicing prevents carbon build up (which can diminish engine
performance) and also complies with USDA regulations for regular
maintenance to assure proper function. The spark arrester prevents
random sparks from the combustion process in your engine from
reaching the environment.
The use of safety glasses is recommended for this procedure.
Because of the possible fire hazard, check that there are no combustible
materials in the area before purging the spark arrester.
Reinstall the bolt securely.
Start the engine and rev it up approximately twenty times while
momentarily creating exhaust system back pressure by blocking the
end of the muffler with a shop towel.
Stop the engine and allow the exhaust pipe to cool.
Remove the bolt ( ).
Select a well-ventilated area free of combustible materials and make
sure the exhaust pipe is cool.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
89
1
09/05/11 15:03:00 31HP4830 0147

139
Suspension Adjustment (Except )TRX420TE
Servicing Your Honda
Suspension
Your front and rear suspension systems use springs and hydraulic
damping devices that suspend your weight and most of the weight of
your ATV.
Lower spring pre-load provides a softer ride and is usually preferred for
light loads and smooth terrain. Higher spring pre-load provides a firmer
ride and is recommended for heavy loads, rough terrain, and faster,
more challenging riding.
The way you ride your ATV and the type of ride you want to experience
can also influence your suspension needs.
Consider adjusting your suspensions pre-load whenever you change
your normal load, by adding or subtracting cargo accessories, or when
riding conditions change.
The spring pre-loads for your front and rear suspension systems adjust
the amount of force required to begin compression of the spring.
The oil damper systems hydraulically control the natural compression
and rebound of the suspension springs so that traction and comfort are
maintained as the wheels ride over rough terrain.
Using a pin spanner, which is available from your Honda dealer, the
suspension can be adjusted for rider weight and riding conditions by
changing the spring pre-load.
Do not attempt to disassemble, service, or dispose of the damper; see
your Honda dealer. The instructions found in this owner’s manual are
limited to adjustments of the shock assembly only.
(Except TRX420TE)
09/05/11 15:03:10 31HP4830 0148

15432
FRONT REAR
(2)
(1) (1)
54321(2)
(1) spring pre-load adjuster
(2) pin spanner
140
Suspension Spring Pre-Load (Except )TRX420TE
Servicing Your Honda
Suspension
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
The spring pre-load adjuster ( ) has 5 positions for different load or
riding conditions.
Use the pin spanner ( ) to adjust the shock spring pre-load.
1
89
2
09/05/11 15:03:21 31HP4830 0149

141
Servicing Your Honda
Suspension
Position 1: for a light load and smooth terrain.
Position 2: standard position.
Positions 3 to 5: for when the ATV is more heavily loaded. (Also
increase spring pre-load for stiffer suspension.)
Make sure that both shock absorbers are adjusted to the same position.
Always adjust the shock absorber position in sequence (1-2-3-4-5 or 5-
4-3-2-1). Attempting to adjust directly from 1 to 5 or 5 to 1 may damage
the shock absorber.
09/05/11 15:03:27 31HP4830 0150

Honda DOT 4 Brake Fluidbrake fluid
142
Brake Fluid Recommendation
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
The hydraulic disc brakes (front) and single mechanical drum brake
(rear) on your ATV dissipate heat generated by the friction of the brake
pads on the disc (front) and the brake shoes on the drums (rear) as the
wheels are slowed.
As the front brake pads wear, brake fluid level will drop. A leak in the
system will also cause the level to drop.
There are no adjustments to perform, but fluid level and pad wear must
be inspected periodically. The system must be inspected frequently to
ensure there are no fluid leaks.
If the right brake lever freeplay does not feel within the normal range
while riding, check the brake pads for wear (page ).
Worn pads should be replaced. If the pads are not worn beyond the
recommended limit, there is probably air in the brake system. See your
Honda dealer to have the air bled from the system.
Hydraulic Disc Front Brake
Mechanical Drum Rear Brake
If the rear brake lever/parking brake lever or brake pedal freeplay does
not feel within the normal range while riding, check the brake shoes for
wear (page ).
The recommended brake fluid is Honda DOT 4 Brake Fluid, or any
brake fluid of equal quality and performance. Use fresh brake fluid
from a sealed container. Be sure to read the label before opening the
sealed container. An opened container may be contaminated or may
have absorbed moisture from the air.
145
150
09/05/11 15:03:37 31HP4830 0151

(1)
RIGHT HANDLEBAR
(1) LOWER level mark
143
Fluid Level Inspection
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Brake fluid can damage plastic and painted surfaces. Handle with care.
Refer to on page .
If your inspection indicates a low fluid level, have your Honda dealer
add the recommended fluid.
Do not add or replace brake fluid, except in an emergency. If you do
add fluid, have your Honda dealer check the system as soon as possible.
Wipe up spills immediately. Avoid brake fluid contact with skin or eyes.
If it comes in contact with your eyes, wash them out with clean water
and immediately call a doctor. If it comes in contact with your skin,
wash with clean water and, if necessary, call a doctor.
89
09/05/11 15:03:46 31HP4830 0152

144
Other Inspection
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
With the ATV in an upright position, check the fluid level.
It should be above the LOWER level mark ( ). If the level is at or
below the LOWER level mark, check the brake pads for wear
(page ).
Worn brake pads should be replaced. If the pads are not worn, have your
brake system inspected for leaks.
Check for deterioration or cracks in the hoses and fittings. If the hoses
are worn or cracked, have them replaced by your Honda dealer.
Make sure there are no fluid leaks.
1
145
09/05/11 15:03:53 31HP4830 0153

(1)
(2)
(2) edge of reference mark
RIGHT FRONT (Left side similar)
(1) wear indicator
145
Brake Pad Wear
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Brake pad wear will depend upon the severity of usage and riding
conditions. The pads will wear faster in wet or muddy conditions.
Inspect the pads visually during all regular service intervals to determine
the pad wear.
Check the wear indicator ( ). If the wear indicator aligns with the edge
of the reference mark ( ), both pads must be replaced, see your Honda
dealer for this replacement.
Always inspect both pads in both the right and left front brake calipers.
89
1
2
09/05/11 15:04:02 31HP4830 0154

−−
−
−
9/16 13/16 in
(15 20 mm)
9/16 13/16 in (15 20 mm)
(1) rear brake pedal
(1)
RIGHT SIDE
146
Rear Brake Pedal Freeplay
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
Measure the distance the rear brake pedal ( ) moves before the brake
starts to take hold. Freeplay, measurement at the tip of the end of the
pedal, should be:
If necessary, adjust to the specified range.
Inspection
1
09/05/11 15:04:10 31HP4830 0155

(2)(3)
(2) brake pedal adjusting nut
(3) brake arm pin
RIGHT REAR
(4) brake arm
(4)
147
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
Adjustment
Adjust the freeplay of the rear brake pedal. Push the brake arm ( ),
then check the clearance between the brake arm and the brake arm pin.
Turn the brake pedal adjusting nut ( ), located on the brake operating
rod at the rear of the frame. Make sure the cutout on the adjusting nut
is properly seated on the brake arm pin ( ).
1.
2.
3
2
4
09/05/11 15:04:19 31HP4830 0156

(2) brake lever adjusting nut
(3) brake arm pin
RIGHT REAR
(3)
(4) brake arm
(4)
(2)
149
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
Adjustment
Adjust the freeplay of the rear brake lever/parking brake lever with the
front wheels pointed straight ahead.
Turn the brake lever adjusting nut ( ), located on the brake operating
rod at the rear of the frame. Make sure the cutout on the adjusting nut
is properly seated on the brake arm pin ( ).
Adjust the freeplay of the rear brake lever/parking brake lever. Push
the brake arm ( ) then check the clearance between the brake arm
and the brake arm pin.
1.
2.
3
2
4
09/05/11 15:04:37 31HP4830 0158

(2)
((AA))
((BB))
(1)
RIGH
T REAR
(1) rear brakelight switch
(2) adjusting nut
151
Brakelight Switch Adjustment
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Rear Brake Pedal Freeplay
Refer to on page .
Rear Brake Only:
Check the operation of the rear brakelight switch ( ) at the right side
behind the engine from time to time. The brakelight should turn on at
0.6 in (15 mm) of pedal stroke. See ,
page . Adjustment is done by turning the adjusting nut ( ). Turn the
nut in direction ( ) if the switch operates too late and in direction ( ) if
the switch operates too soon.
1
89
A
2
B
146
09/05/11 15:04:58 31HP4830 0160

(1)
RIGHT REAR
(1) rear brake drain bolt
152
Draining Water from Brakes
Brakes
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Make sure the engine is OFF and the parking brake is set.
Remove the rear brake drain bolt ( ) from the bottom of the rear
brake panel.
If any water drains, the brake seals must be replaced by your Honda
dealer as soon as possible.
1.
2.
89
1
09/05/11 15:05:05 31HP4830 0161

Using tires that are excessively worn or
improperly inflated can cause a crash in which
you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual
regarding tire inflation and maintenance.
153
Tires
Servicing Your Honda
To safely operate your ATV, your tires must be the proper type and size,
in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.
This ATV is equipped with low pressure tubeless tires. Although the
tires are designed specifically for off-road use, they are not immune to
punctures. Always select your riding area with care.
The following pages give detailed information on how and when to
check your air pressure, how to inspect your tires for wear and damage,
and our recommendations for tire repair and replacement.
09/05/11 15:05:11 31HP4830 0162

154
Air Pressure
Tires
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Properly inflated tires provide the best combination of handling, tread
life, and riding comfort. Generally, underinflated tires wear unevenly,
adversely affect handling, and are more likely to fail from being
overheated. Overinflated tires make your ATV ride harshly, are more
prone to damage from surface hazards, and wear unevenly.
Make sure the air valve caps are secure. If necessary, install new caps.
89
09/05/11 15:05:17 31HP4830 0163

−
−
3.6 psi (25.0 kPa)
4.4 psi (30.0 kPa)
3.6 psi (25.0 kPa)
3.6 psi (25.0 kPa)
FRONT REAR
RECOMMENDED
PRESSURE
RECOMMENDED
PRESSURE
FRONT REAR
155
Tires
Servicing Your Honda
(TRX420FPE)
(TRX420TE/FE)
Always check air pressure when your tires are ‘‘cold.’’ If you check air
pressure when your tires are ‘‘warm’’ even if your ATV has only been
ridden for a few miles the readings will be higher. If you let air out of
warm tires to match the recommended cold tire pressures, the tires will
be underinflated. Be sure to check tire pressure at the riding site, since
changes in altitude can affect air pressure.
The recommended ‘‘cold’’ tire pressures are:
09/05/11 15:05:27 31HP4830 0164

Operating this ATV with improper tires, or with
uneven tire pressure may cause loss of control,
and you could be seriously injured or killed.
Always use the size and type tires specified in
this owner’s manual for this vehicle.
Always maintain proper tire pressure as
described in this owner’s manual.
156
Inspection
Tires
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
A manually operated tire pump should be used rather than the high
pressure system found in service stations. This will minimize the
possibility of tire damage from overinflation. If you use a high pressure
system at a service station, add air in small amounts and check the
pressure increase frequently to prevent possible tire damage from
overinflation.
Refer to on page .
Whenever you check the tire pressures, you should also look for:
Bumps or bulges in the side of the tire or the tread. Replace any tire
that has a bump or bulge.
Cuts, slits, or cracks in the tires. Replace the tire if you can see fabric
or cord.
Excessive tread wear.
Nails or other foreign objects embedded in the side of the tire or tread.
89
09/05/11 15:05:36 31HP4830 0165

Replace
NEW
NEW
Replace
3/16 in
(4 mm)
3/16 in
(4 mm)
3/16 in (4 mm)
3/16 in (4 mm)
front
rear
(1) groove depth
(2) wear indicator
(3)
FRONT
REAR
(3) wear indicator
location mark
(2)
(1)
157
Tires
Servicing Your Honda
Also, if you hit a pothole or other hard object while riding, stop as soon
as you safely can and carefully inspect the tires for damage.
Tread Wear
For best performance, you should replace a tire before the tread depth at
the center reaches the following limits:
To check the condition of a tire tread, measure the groove depth ( ) in
the center of the tire, or check the wear indicator ( ).
1
2
09/05/11 15:05:48 31HP4830 0166

158
Tire Repair
Tires
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
If You Have a Flat Tire,
Refer to on page .
A temporary repair can sometimes be made in an emergency situation.
However, since a temporary repair may not hold, you must ride very
slowly, preferably without any cargo, and have the tire replaced or
permanently repaired as soon as possible. (For more information on
temporary repairs, see page .)
A tire that is repaired, either temporarily or permanently, will have lower
speed and performance limits than a new or undamaged tire.
If you have a tire professionally repaired at a non-Honda facility, we
recommend that you have the work checked by your Honda dealer.
A permanent repair, such as an internal plug patch, can be made if a tire
has only a small puncture in the tread area. However you may not be
able to safely carry as much weight. If you choose to have a tire repaired,
be sure the repair work is performed by a professional.
89
192
09/05/11 15:05:56 31HP4830 0167

×★★
×★★
AT24 8-12
AT24 10-11
MAXXIS M977
MAXXIS M978
Installing improper tires on your ATV can affect
handling and stability. This can cause a crash in
which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Always use the size and type of tires
recommended in this owner’s manual.
front
rear
159
Tire Replacement
Tires
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
The tires that came on your ATV were designed to match the
performance capabilities of your ATV and provide the best combination
of handling, braking, and comfort.
It is best to replace all four tires, however if that is not possible, you
must replace the tires in pairs (front or rear) with tires of the same size
and type as the originals. Never replace just one tire.
The recommended tires for your ATV are:
When you replace a tire, remember:
Have the tire replaced by your Honda dealer if possible.
If you have a tire professionally replaced at a non-Honda facility, we
recommended that you have the work checked by your Honda dealer.
89
09/05/11 15:06:09 31HP4830 0168

(1)
(2)
(1) engine guard (2) skid plate
160
Skid Plate & Engine Guard
Guards
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
The engine guard ( ) protects the frame and engine crankcase.
The skid plate ( ) protects the rear final gear case. Check the guard and
plate for cracks, damage or looseness at intervals shown in the
Maintenance Schedule.
Have the engine guard and skid plate replaced if they are cracked or
damaged. If the guard and plate bolts are loose, tighten them securely.
2
1
89
09/05/11 15:06:18 31HP4830 0169

(1)
(2) front driveshaft guards
(2)(2)
(1) front boot guards
161
Front Boot Guards & Front Driveshaft Guards
(Except )TRX420TE
Guards
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Check the front boot guards ( ) and front driveshaft guards ( ) for
cracks, damage or looseness.
Tighten any loose fasteners. Replace the front boot guards and front
driveshaft guards as required.
Refer to on page .
12
89
09/05/11 15:06:25 31HP4830 0170

(1) (2)
(1) rubber propeller shaft boots (Except TRX420TE)
(2) rubber yoke joint boot
162
Propeller Shaft Boots & Yoke Joint Boot
Drivetrain Boots
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Check the rubber propeller shaft boots ( ) and rubber yoke joint boot
( ) for damage or leaking grease. If necessary, have your Honda dealer
replace them.
89
1
2
09/05/11 15:06:32 31HP4830 0171

(1)
(1) rubber driveshaft boots
163
Front Driveshaft Boots (Except )TRX420TE
Drivetrain Boots
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Check the rubber driveshaft boots ( ) for cuts, damage or leaking
grease. If necessary, have your Honda dealer replace them.
89
1
09/05/11 15:06:40 31HP4830 0172

164
WARNING:
Wash your hands after handling.
Battery
Servicing Your Honda
Your battery is a maintenance-free type and can be permanently
damaged if the cap strip is removed.
Battery
Charging,
Battery Storage,
Your ATV has a maintenance-free type battery. You do not have to
check the battery electrolyte level or add distilled water as you would
with a conventional-type battery.
Electrical accessories use current from the battery, even when the
ignition is OFF. Limited operation also allows the battery to discharge.
If you have electrical accessories on your ATV or do not ride frequently,
we recommend that you charge the battery frequently (see
page ).
If you do not expect to ride your ATV for at least two weeks, we
recommend you remove the battery, or at least disconnect the battery
cables (negative cable first).
If you plan to store your ATV, see page .
If your battery seems weak and/or is leaking electrolyte (causing slow
starting or other electrical problems), see your Honda dealer.
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain
lead and lead compounds.
168
165
09/05/11 15:06:48 31HP4830 0173

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas
during normal operation.
A spark or flame can cause the battery to
explode with enough force to kill or seriously
hurt you.
Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or
have a skilled mechanic do the battery
maintenance.
165
Battery Storage
Battery
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
Battery Charging,
Refer to on page .
If you plan to store your ATV, we recommend you remove the battery
and store it where it can be charged at least every 30 days to maintain its
service life.
If you do not remove the battery, we recommend disconnecting the
battery cables (negative cable first).
You will get the best storage results from removing the battery and slow
charging it every 30 days (see page ).
Before you remove the battery, be sure to read all the information that
follows, as well as the information on the battery label.
89
168
09/05/11 15:06:56 31HP4830 0174

−
+
−
+
(4)
(3)
(2)
(1)
(1) rubber band
(2) negative ( ) terminal lead
(3) battery
(4) positive ( ) terminal lead
UNDER REAR FENDER COVER
166
Battery
Servicing Your Honda
Removal
Make sure the ignition switch is OFF ( ).
Remove the seat (page ).
Remove the rear fender cover (page ).
Release the rings and remove the rubber band ( ).
Disconnect the negative ( ) terminal lead ( ) from the battery ( )
first, then disconnect the positive ( ) terminal lead ( ).
The battery is located in a compartment under the rear fender cover.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5. 2
1
4
3
120
100
09/05/11 15:07:08 31HP4830 0175

+
−
1.6 in
(40 mm)
(5) battery band
(5)
167
Battery
Servicing Your Honda
Charge the battery (see following section), unless you have been
riding regularly.
Store your battery in an easy-to-reach location off the floor, in an area
protected from freezing temperature and direct sunlight.
Slow charge the battery (see following section) once every 30 days.
Installation
Remove the battery.
Clean the compartment after removing the battery for storage. Dry the
compartment and, if paint is missing, re-paint the area.
Make sure all bolts and other fasteners are secure.
Reinstall in the reverse order of removal.
Be sure to connect the positive ( ) terminal first, then the negative
( ) terminal.
Check that the battery band ( ) for damage. If necessary, replace the
battery band.
Make sure the battery band is properly position.
6.
7.
8.
1.
9.
10.
2.
3.
4.
5
09/05/11 15:07:21 31HP4830 0176

(1)
(1) charger
168
Battery Charging
Battery
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Be sure to read the information that came with your battery charger and
follow the instructions on the battery. Improper charging may damage
the battery.
We recommend using a charger ( ) designed specifically for your
Honda, which can be purchased from your Honda dealer. These units
can be left connected for long periods without risking damage to the
battery. However, do not intentionally leave the charger connected
longer than the time period recommended in the charger’s instructions.
Avoid using an automotive-type battery charger. An automotive charger
can overheat an ATV battery and cause premature damage.
89
1
09/05/11 15:07:29 31HP4830 0177

−
−
−
−
169
General Recommendations
Appearance Care
Servicing Your Honda
Safety Precautions
High pressure water (or air) can damage certain parts of your ATV.
Frequent cleaning and polishing will keep your Honda looking newer
longer.
Frequent cleaning also identifies you as an owner who values his ATV.
A clean ATV is also easier to inspect and service.
Refer to on page .
To clean your ATV, you may use:
water
a mild, neutral detergent and water
a mild spray and wipe cleaner/polisher
a mild spray and rinse cleaner/degreaser and water
Avoid products that contain harsh detergents or chemical solvents that
could damage the metal, paint, and plastic on your ATV.
If your ATV is still warm from recent operation, give the engine and
exhaust system time to cool off.
Park in a shady area. Washing your ATV in bright sunlight may cause
the finish to fade because water droplets intensify the sun’s brightness.
Spotting is also more likely because surface water can dry before you
have time to wipe it off.
Clean your ATV regularly to protect surface finishes.
We recommend the use of a garden hose to wash your ATV. High
pressure washers (like those at coin-operated car washers) can
damage certain parts of your ATV.
After cleaning, inspect for damage, wear, and leaks (fuel, oil, coolant
and brake fluid).
89
09/05/11 15:07:40 31HP4830 0178

170
Washing Your ATV with a Mild Detergent
Appearance Care
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Rinse your ATV thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.
Wash your ATV with a sponge or soft towel. As you wash, check for
heavy grime. If necessary, use a mild cleaner/degreaser to remove the
grime.
Dry your ATV with a chamois or a soft towel. Leaving water on the
surface to air dry can cause dulling and water spots. As you dry,
inspect for chips and scratches.
Start the engine and let it idle for several minutes. The engine heat
will help dry moist areas.
As a precaution, ride your ATV at a slow speed and apply the brakes
several times. This will help dry the brakes and restore normal
braking performance.
If the inside of the headlight lens appears clouded immediately after
washing, it should clear after a few minutes of riding.
Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a mild, neutral detergent, such as
dish washing liquid or a product made especially for washing
motorcycles or automobiles.
After washing, rinse your ATV thoroughly with plenty of clean water
to remove any residue. Detergent residue can corrode alloy parts.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
89
09/05/11 15:07:52 31HP4830 0179

Apply a spray cleaner/polish and
wipe paint, chrome, glass, and
clear plastic.
Spray any difficult-to-reach or very
dirty areas with a spray cleaner/
degreaser.
Rinse and dry.
Apply a spray cleaner/polish and
wipe with a non-abrasive cloth.
Use a spray cleaner/degreaser. If
necessary, rub with a sponge.
Rinse and dry.
Apply a spray cleaner/polish and
wipe with a non-abrasive cloth.
Apply a high quality chrome/
aluminum polish and wipe with a
non-abrasive cloth.
Dull, corroded chrome
or aluminum.
Heavy grime. Oil leaks.
Brake dust.
Light road grimes.
Dust and fingerprint
smudges.
ATV condition Recommended Cleaning
171
Spray Cleaning Your ATV
Appearance Care
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Avoid using spray cleaner products on the tires or suspension
components.
Suggestions for using spray cleaner(s) follow:
89
09/05/11 15:08:05 31HP4830 0180

172
Finishing Touches
Appearance Care
Servicing Your Honda
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
If a surface on your ATV is chipped or scratched, your Honda dealer
has touch-up paint to match your ATV’s color. Be sure to use your
ATV’s color code (page ) when you buy touch-up paint.
After washing your ATV, consider using a commercially available spray
cleaner/polish or quality liquid or paste wax to finish the job. Use only a
non-abrasive polish or wax made specifically for motorcycles or
automobiles. Apply the polish or wax according to the instructions on
the container.
If the frame has a chip that exposes the metal, first apply primer (to
prevent corrosion) and then apply the touch-up paint. Several thin
layers of touch-up paint are better than one thick coat.
89
209
09/05/11 15:08:11 31HP4830 0181

173
Tips
Tips
Here’s helpful advice on how to prepare for an off-road adventure, how
to transport and store your Honda, and how to be an environmentally
responsible ATV owner.
..........................................................................Preparing for a Ride .
..................................................What to Take to the Riding Area .
.............................................................What to Take on the Trail .
.................................................................Transporting Your Honda .
..........................................................................Storing Your Honda .
.................................................................Preparation for Storage .
..................................................................Removal from Storage .
....................................................................You & the Environment .
174
174
175
176
178
179
181
182
09/05/11 15:08:21 31HP4830 0182

174
What to Take to the Riding Area
Preparing for a Ride
Tips
Taking Care of the Unexpected,
A safe and enjoyable ride begins with good planning and preparation.
Always ride with at least one other person in case you have trouble, and
let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
Before riding in an unfamiliar area, find out in advance if you need
special permits, get maps so you can study the terrain, and talk to other
riders who know the area. The Forest Service and the Bureau of Land
Management riding clubs, and off-road magazines are good sources of
information.
Along with your ATV and riding gear, you should take along some tools
and supplies in case you have a problem. For some of the difficulties
you might encounter, see which begins
on page .
We recommend that you always take water, food, a first aid kit, and
your owner’s manual. Other items you should consider loading on your
truck or trailer include:
a tool kit
tire repair supplies and tools, and tires
extra parts, control levers, cables, and spark plugs
wire, duct tape, and rope
extra gasoline
For safety, all refueling should be done at a gas station on the way to the
riding area or at your base camp.
183
09/05/11 15:08:31 31HP4830 0183

175
What to Take on the Trail
Preparing for a Ride
Tips
What you take with you during a ride depends on the kind of terrain,
how long you expect to ride, how far you might go from your base
camp or help, and how experienced you or your companions are in
making repairs.
If you decide to take some tools, spare parts, or other supplies on the
trail, be sure you can carry them safely and know how to use them. Also,
be sure to follow the loading guidelines and weight limit (page ).48
09/05/11 15:08:37 31HP4830 0184

176
Transporting Your Honda
Tips
Do not tow your ATV behind a car or other vehicle.
When you transport your ATV, we recommend that you carry the
vehicle in its normal operating position (on all four wheels). Do not
incline the vehicle upright on its rear end. This can damage the vehicle,
and leaking gasoline could be a hazard.
Follow these procedures:
Turn the fuel valve OFF.
Set the parking brake.1.
2.
09/05/11 15:08:44 31HP4830 0185

(1) front cargo rack
(2) rear cargo rack
(3) trailer hitch
(1)
(2)
(3)
177
Transporting Your Honda
Tips
Secure the vehicle with tie-down straps in the areas shown.
Suitable tie-down straps are available from your Honda dealer.
Ordinary rope is not recommended because it can stretch under
load.
Using tie-down straps in any other areas can damage your ATV.
Rock the vehicle back and forth to make sure the tie-down straps are
tight and the vehicle is secure.
3.
4.
09/05/11 15:08:53 31HP4830 0186

178
Storing Your Honda
Tips
Honda Winter Storage
Guide,
If you won’t be riding for an extended period, such as during the winter,
thoroughly inspect your ATV and correct any problem before storing it.
That way, needed repairs won’t be forgotten and it will be easier to get
your ATV running again.
We suggest you perform the following procedures to keep your ATV in
top condition. These storage procedures will reduce the deterioration
that can occur during storage.
For more information about storage, refer to the
available from your Honda dealer.
09/05/11 15:08:59 31HP4830 0187

−
179
Preparation for Storage
Storing Your Honda
Tips
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
(cont’d)
Change the engine oil and filter (page ).
Make sure the cooling system is filled with a 50/50% antifreeze
solution (page ).
Fill the fuel tank. Make sure the fuel fill cap is properly installed.
To prevent rusting in the cylinder, perform the following:
Check that the fuel valve is OFF.
Remove the spark plug cap from the spark plug.
Remove the spark plug.
Do not connect the spark plug to the spark plug cap.
Pour a tablespoon (15 20 cc) of clean engine oil into the
cylinder and cover the spark plug hole with a piece of cloth.
With the engine stop switch in the RUN ( ) position, press the
start button several times to crank the engine and distribute the oil.
Reinstall the spark plug and spark plug cap.
89
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
110
118
09/05/11 15:09:11 31HP4830 0188

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas
during normal operation.
A spark or flame can cause the battery to
explode with enough force to kill or seriously
hurt you.
Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or
have a skilled mechanic do the battery
maintenance.
180
Storing Your Honda
Tips
Remove the battery and charge it fully. Store it in an area protected
from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight. Slow charge the
battery (page ) once a month.
Cover your ATV with a porous material. Avoid using plastic or
similar non-breathing, coated materials that restrict air flow and allow
heat and moisture to accumulate.
Place your ATV on blocks to lift all tires off the floor.
Store your ATV in an unheated area, free of dampness, away from
sunlight, with a minimum of daily temperature variation.
Inflate the tires to their recommended pressures (page ).
Wash and dry your ATV. Wax all painted surfaces.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
168
155
09/05/11 15:09:20 31HP4830 0189

−
−
181
Removal from Storage
Storing Your Honda
Tips
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Uncover and clean your ATV.
If your ATV has been stored for more than two months ask your
Honda dealer to drain and replace the fuel.
Perform a pre-ride inspection (page ), then test-ride your ATV at
low speeds.
Charge the battery (page ) as required. Install the battery.
If your ATV has been stored for more than four months change
the engine oil (page ).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
89
110
43
168
09/05/11 15:09:29 31HP4830 0190

182
Tread Lightly.
Keep the Noise Down.
Choose Sensible Cleaners.
Recycle Wastes.
You & the Environment
Tips
Owning and riding an ATV can be enjoyable, but you must do your part
to protect nature. When you show respect for the land, wildlife, and
other people, you also help preserve the sport of off-road riding.
Following are tips on how you can be an environmentally responsible
ATV owner.
Stay on existing roads and trails, avoid surfaces that
are easily damaged, and ride only in areas approved for off-road
vehicles.
Loud vehicles can be offensive. Ride as
quietly as possible, don’t remove your spark arrester, and don’t
modify the muffler or any other part of your air intake and exhaust
systems. Such modifications not only increase noise, they also reduce
engine performance and may be illegal.
Use a biodegradable detergent when you
wash your ATV. Avoid aerosol spray cleaners that contain
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which damage the atmosphere’s
protective ozone layer. Don’t throw cleaning solvents away; see the
following guidelines for proper disposal.
It’s illegal and thoughtless to put used engine oil in
the trash, down a drain, or on the ground. Used oil, gasoline, and
cleaning solvents contain poisons that can hurt refuse workers and
contaminate our drinking water, lakes, rivers, and oceans. Before
changing your oil, make sure you have the proper containers. Put oil
and other toxic wastes in separate sealed containers and take them to a
recycling center. Call your local or state office of public works or
environmental services to find a recycling center in your area, and to
get instructions on how to dispose of non-recyclable wastes.
09/05/11 15:09:37 31HP4830 0191

183
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Preparing for a Ride
With all the challenges you can encounter off-road, there’s a chance that
sometime something may go wrong. This section gives practical advice
to help you deal with a wide range of problems. Take time to read this
section before you ride. Also review the tips in
(page ).
............................................................................General Guidelines .
.................................................If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start .
..............................................If the Shift Switches Do Not Function .
...........................................Emergency Gear Selection & Operation .
.....................................................................If You Have a Flat Tire .
.................................................................................IfaFuseBlows .
......................................................................................If You Crash .
......................................................................If You Lose Your Key .
.........................................................If the Battery Is Low (or Dead) .
.........................................................................If a Component Fails .
............................If the High Coolant Temperature Indicator Lights .
174
184
186
189
190
192
196
198
203
204
205
206
09/05/11 15:09:48 31HP4830 0192

−
−
184
General Guidelines
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Keeping your ATV well-maintained is the best way to reduce the
possibility of having a problem while riding. However, problems can
arise even with well-maintained machines.
Remember to take along your owner’s manual, the tool kit that came
with your ATV, and any other items (such as tire repair supplies and
additional tools) that might help you solve a problem on your own.
If something goes wrong during a ride, the first thing to do is stop as
soon as you safely can. Do not continue riding if you have a flat tire, or
you hear an unusual noise, or your ATV just doesn’t feel right. If you
continue riding, you could cause more damage and endanger your own
safety.
After stopping, take time to assess the situation. Carefully inspect your
ATV to identify the problem, then consider your options before you
decide what to do.
If a problem is relatively minor and you have the tools, supplies, and
skills to make a permanent repair, you may be able to fix it on the trail
and continue riding. Or, you may be able to make a temporary repair
that allows you to slowly ride back to your base where you can make a
permanent repair or get help.
When a problem is more serious or you don’t have the tools, supplies,
experience, or time to deal with it you need to choose the safest way to
get yourself and your ATV back to base. For example, if you are close
enough, you (or you and another person) might be able to push it back.
09/05/11 15:09:56 31HP4830 0193

185
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Should you ever have a problem while riding, please follow these
guidelines:
Always put personal safety first.
Take time to assess the situation and your options before deciding
what to do.
If the problem is relatively minor and you have the tools, supplies,
and skills to make a temporary repair, be sure to have permanent
repairs made as soon as possible.
Do not continue riding if you are hurt or your ATV is not in safe
riding condition.
Additional recommendations for specific problems follow.
09/05/11 15:10:04 31HP4830 0194

−
−
186
Taking Care of the Unexpected
If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start
Starter motor doesn’t operate
Starter motor works, but the engine won’t start
Proper operation and maintenance can prevent starting and engine
performance problems. In many cases, the cause of the problem may be
a simple operational oversight.
If you have a problem starting the engine or experience poor engine
performance the following information may help you. If you can’t
correct the problem, see your Honda dealer.
If your ATV won’t start, listen as you press the start button. If you don’t
hear the starter motor turning, refer to the
symptom. If you can hear the starter motor working normally, refer to
the symptom.
09/05/11 15:10:10 31HP4830 0195

SYMPTOM:
POSSIBLE CAUSE
ignition switch OFF
WHAT TO DO
Turn the ignition switch ON.
If all possible causes are negative,
the starter motor may be faulty. See
your Honda dealer.
faulty starter motor
Charge the battery (page ).
If charging doesn’t help, see your
Honda dealer.
low (or dead) battery
Tighten the battery lead.battery lead loose
Replace with a new fuse of the
same rating (page ).
blown fuse
transmission not in
neutral
Shift into neutral.
engine stop switch
OFF
SYMPTOM:
POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO
out of fuel Fill the fuel tank.
flooded engine See (page ).
loose or
unconnected spark
plug cap
Install the spark plug cap securely. If
the engine still won’t start, see your
Honda dealer.
loose battery cables Tighten the battery terminal bolts.
weak battery Charge the battery (page ). If
charging doesn’t help, see your
Honda dealer.
Slide the engine stop switch to RUN.
62
198
168
168
Starter motor doesn’t operate.
Starter motor works, but the engine won’t
start.
Flooded Engine
187
If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start
Taking Care of the Unexpected
09/05/11 15:10:32 31HP4830 0196

SYMPTOM:
POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO
high coolant
temperature
Check the high coolant temperature
indicator. Refer to
page .
runs erratically,
misfires
See your Honda dealer.
blubbers (rich fuel
mixture)
See your Honda dealer.
sooty exhaust (rich
fuel mixture)
See your Honda dealer.
detonates or pings
under load
If applicable, switch to the
recommended octane gasoline
(page ) or change your brand of
gasoline. If the problem persists, see
your Honda dealer.
afterfires (backfires) See your Honda dealer.
pre-ignition (runs on
after ignition
switched OFF)
See your Honda dealer.
SYMPTOM:
poor or inadequate
fuel flow due to
clogged fuel filter
WHAT TO DOPOSSIBLE CAUSE
See your Honda dealer.
(ensure clean fuel supply)
102
196
Engine starts, but runs poorly.
Engine starts, but runs poorly or dies when hot.
If the High
Coolant Temperature Indicator
Lights,
188
If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start
Taking Care of the Unexpected
09/05/11 15:10:51 31HP4830 0197

189
Taking Care of the Unexpected
If the Shift Switches Do Not Function
Emergency Gear
Selection & Operation,
If the Battery Is Low (or Dead),
Emergency Gear
Selection & Operation,
If one or both shift switches do not function, see the following
instructions. If proper function cannot be restored, see your Honda
dealer.
When the engine is running:
When the engine is stopped and the ignition switch is ‘‘ON’’:
Turn the ignition switch to the ‘‘OFF’’ ( ) position.
Turn the ignition switch to the ‘‘ON’’ ( ) position.
Press both shift switches and check that they are functioning.
If both switches are functioning, shift into neutral and restart the
engine.
If one or both switches are not functioning, see
page .
When the battery is low (or dead):
See page .
Stop the ATV.
Turn the ignition switch to the ‘‘OFF’’ ( ) position.
After the engine stops, turn the ignition switch to the ‘‘ON’’ ( )
position.
Press both shift switches and check that they are functioning.
If both switches are functioning, shift into neutral and restart the
engine.
If one or both switches are not functioning, see
page .
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
1.
2.
3.
4.
190
190
205
09/05/11 15:11:01 31HP4830 0198

190
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Emergency Gear Selection & Operation
How to Shift Gears Manually
How to
Shift Gears Manually
If the shift switches do not operate, use the following procedure to
manually select a gear so you may drive the vehicle to a location where
it can be loaded and transported to a Honda dealer.
Turn the ignition switch to the ‘‘ON’’ ( ) position.
Remove the seat (page ).
Remove the gear change tool from underside of the seat (page ).
Check the neutral indicator.
If the transmission is in neutral, go to step 5.
If the transmission is not in neutral, remove the left side cover
(page ), use the gear change tool to shift to neutral so you will be
able to start the engine, Refer to
(page ).
Apply the parking brake.
Press the start button to start the engine.
Select the gear you want. For running on level ground: use 3rd or 4th
gear. For mountainous roads: use 2nd or 3rd gear. Refer to
(page ).
Return the gear change tool to underside of the seat.
Install the left side cover.
Install the seat.
Get on the ATV. Drive it at a safe speed to a place where it can be
repaired or serviced.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
8.
7.
100
98
9.
108
10.
11.
191
191
09/05/11 15:11:08 31HP4830 0199

((AA))
((BB))
(A) downs
hift (counterclockwise) (B) upshift (clockwise)
191
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Emergency Gear Selection & Operation
How to Shift Gears Manually:
With the ATV unoccupied, align the hexagonal hole of the gear
change tool with the hexagonal end of the secondary spindle which is
located on the front crankcase.
To downshift, turn the gear change tool counterclockwise ( ).
To upshift, turn the tool clockwise ( ).
If the transmission does not shift, rock the vehicle back and forth and
try again.
Return the gear change tool to underside of the seat.
Do not attempt to shift gears manually using the gear change tool while
riding.
If the transmission is shifted manually when the electric shift system is
functioning, the system will shutdown automatically and the shift
switches will not operate. To reactivate the system, turn the ignition
switch to the ‘‘OFF’’ ( ) position, then turn it back to the ‘‘ON’’
( ) position.
A
B
09/05/11 15:11:17 31HP4830 0200

192
If You Have a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
How you handle a flat tire on the trail depends on how serious the tire
damage is, and what tools and supplies you have with you.
If you have a slow leak or a minor puncture, use the plug method to
make a temporary repair. (The plug method is applied from the outside
of the tire and is the same as that for conventional tubeless tires.)
A plug-type repair kit, available at most auto parts stores or service
stations, provides a plug, an installation tool, tire cement, and an
instruction sheet. Follow the instructions provided with the repair kit to
make a temporary repair.
As soon as possible, have the tire permanently repaired by your Honda
dealer. Any tire that cannot be repaired should be replaced.
Whenever the ATV is to be operated far from service facilities or
available transportation, we recommend that you carry a tire pump and a
repair kit with the vehicle.
If the leak is more serious, or a temporary repair doesn’t hold, the tire
must be replaced. The tire will also need to be replaced if it is damaged
(page ). Replacing a tire involves removing and re-installing the
wheel (page ).
If you are unable to repair a flat tire on the trail, you will need to send
for help. We strongly recommend that you do not try to ride with a flat
tire. The ATV will be hard to handle, and if the tire comes off the rim, it
may lock up the wheel and cause you to crash.
159
194
09/05/11 15:11:26 31HP4830 0201

Riding your ATV with a temporary tire repair can
be risky.
If the temporary repair fails, you can crash and
be seriously injured or killed. If you must ride
with a temporary tire repair, ride slowly and
carefully until the tire is permanently repaired or
replaced.
193
If You Have a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
09/05/11 15:11:30 31HP4830 0202

−−
(1)
(1) wheel nuts (2) wheel rim
(2)(1)
194
Emergency Wheel Removal/Installation
If You Have a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Safety PrecautionsRefer to on page .
Park your ATV on a firm, level surface.
Removal
Avoid getting grease, oil, or dirt on the front brake disc or pad
surfaces when removing and installing each wheel. Any
contamination can cause poor brake performance or rapid pad wear
after reassembly.
Remove the wheel.
Remove the wheel nuts.
Raise the front (or rear) wheels off the ground and place a support
block under the vehicle.
Loosen but do not remove the wheel nuts ( ).
89
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
1
09/05/11 15:11:42 31HP4830 0203

47 lbf·ft (64 N·m , 6.5 kgf·m)
195
If You Have a Flat Tire
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Installation
Position the wheel.
Position the wheel nuts so that the tapered sides face the wheel
rim ( ).
Hand-tighten the wheel nuts on the wheel, then lower the ATV to the
ground before tightening the nuts in a crisscross (rather than circular)
pattern to the specified torque:
If a torque wrench was not used for installation, see your Honda dealer
as soon as possible to verify proper assembly. Improper assembly may
lead to loss of braking capability.
1.
2.
3.
2
09/05/11 15:11:49 31HP4830 0204

196
Taking Care of the Unexpected
If the High Coolant Temperature
Indicator Lights
Continuing to ride with high coolant temperature or an overheated
engine can cause serious engine damage.
If the indicator comes on while you’re riding, don’t ignore it. Pull safely
to a stop. Stop the engine as soon as it’s safe to do so, and let it cool.
If there’s no obvious problem, leave the engine on so the fan and
coolant circulating system can continue working. Monitor the high
coolant temperature indicator. The indicator may turn off after a brief
stop with no load on the engine.
Check for any restriction of air flow to the radiator.
A steaming engine indicates a coolant leak. Shut the engine off and
wait until the steaming stops. Look for a leak, but don’t touch the
engine or radiator system. Let everything cool off first.
Check the radiator fan.
If the fan is not working, turn the engine off. Open the fuse box
(page ) and check the radiator fan fuse. If the fuse is blown,
replace it with the proper (same rating) spare fuse. Start the engine. If
the high coolant temperature indicator comes on and stays on, turn the
engine off.
If the radiator fan is working, visually check the coolant level in the
reserve tank, located under the rear fender. It isn’t necessary to touch
the radiator system.
Normally, the high coolant temperature indicator will only light
momentarily when you turn the ignition ON ( ). Occasionally, it may
flicker at or near idling speed.
High coolant temperature may be caused by restriction of air flow to the
radiator (such as mud caked on the radiator), extended idling, an oil leak,
a coolant leak, a low oil level, a low coolant level, or extended operation
under adverse conditions.
199
09/05/11 15:11:58 31HP4830 0205

−
197
If the High Coolant Temperature
Indicator Lights
Taking Care of the Unexpected
If the reserve tank is low or empty, don’t ride without adding coolant
(page ). After adding coolant, turn the engine on and check the
high coolant temperature indicator.
If the indicator doesn’t turn off, do not ride. The engine needs repair.
Transport your ATV to a Honda dealer (page ).
If the temperature drops to normal, check the coolant level. If it has
gone down, add more coolant.
Check for an oil leak.
Check the oil level. If necessary, add the recommended oil (page )
to the upper level mark. If you must leave your ATV to get oil, secure
it as much as possible.
If you are able to resume riding, continue to monitor the high coolant
temperature indicator frequently.
If there is an oil leak do not ride the ATV until the leak is repaired by
Honda dealer (page ).
If there’s a mild coolant leak, you can ride for awhile, carefully
watching the indicator. Be prepared to stop and add more coolant or
water. If the leak is bad, transport your ATV to a Honda dealer
(page ).
Start the engine, and check that the high coolant temperature indicator
goes off.
119
108
176
176
176
09/05/11 15:12:06 31HP4830 0206

×
40 A
15 A, 10 A 3
30 A
30 A
PS (Electric Power
Steering) fuse
other fuse
shift motor fuse
main fuse
(1)
(1) blown fuse
(TRX420FPE only)
198
If a Fuse Blows
Taking Care of the Unexpected
All of the electrical circuits on your ATV have fuses to protect them
from damage caused by excess current flow (short circuit or overload).
If something electrical on your ATV stops working, the first thing you
should check for is a blown fuse ( ).
Check all the fuses before looking elsewhere for another possible cause
of the problem. Replace any blown fuses and check component
operation.
The main fuse and the circuit fuses are located under the rear fender
cover.
The PS (Electric Power Steering) fuse is located under the rear fender
cover.
Recommended Fuses
1
TRX420FPE only:
09/05/11 15:12:19 31HP4830 0207

(4)
(2)
(3)
(5)
(4) fuse box cover
(5) spare main fuse
(2) main fuse
(3) shift motor fuse
UNDER REAR FENDER COVER
199
If a Fuse Blows
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Main Fuse Access
To prevent an accidental short circuit, turn the ignition switch OFF
( ) before checking or replacing the fuses.
Remove the seat (page ).
To access the main fuse ( ) and shift motor fuse ( ), remove the
fuse box cover ( ).
Remove the rear fender cover (page ).
(cont’d)
Pull the main fuse out.
If it is blown, install the spare main fuse ( ).
1.
2.
3.
4. 2
5.
3
100
120
4
5
09/05/11 15:12:30 31HP4830 0208

(7)
(7) spare fuses(6) circuit fuses
(6)
200
If a Fuse Blows
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the
chance of damage to the electrical system.
Circuit Fuse Access
To check or replace a circuit fuse ( ), pull the old fuse out of its
retaining clips.
If the fuse is blown, replace it with a spare fuse ( ) of the same rating.
If you do not have a replacement fuse with the proper rating for the
circuit, install one with a lower rating.
Install the seat.
Install the fuse box cover.
Install the rear fender cover.
7
6.
7.
8.
9.
6
09/05/11 15:12:40 31HP4830 0209

(1) PS fuse (2) PS fuse box cover
(1)
(2)
UNDER REAR FENDER COVER
201
If a Fuse Blows
Taking Care of the Unexpected
PS (Electric Power Steering) Fuse Access
Turn the ignition switch OFF ( ) before checking the fuse.
Remove the seat (page ).
Install the seat.
Install the PS fuse box cover.
To access the PS fuse ( ), remove the PS fuse box cover ( ).
If the PS fuse is blown, see your Honda dealer for this service.
Remove the rear fender cover (page ).
1.
5.
4.
3.
2.
6.
12
(TRX420FPE only)
100
120
09/05/11 15:12:50 31HP4830 0210

202
Taking Care of the Unexpected
If a Fuse Blows
If you do not have a spare fuse and you cannot ride the ATV without
fixing the problem, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from
one of the other circuits that you can do without temporarily.
If you replace a blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating,
replace the fuse with the correct rating as soon as you can. Also
remember to replace any spare fuses that were installed.
If the replacement fuse of the same rating burns out in a short time,
there is probably a serious electrical problem on your ATV. Leave the
blown fuse in that circuit and have your ATV checked by your Honda
dealer.
09/05/11 15:12:56 31HP4830 0211

203
If You Crash
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Personal safety is your first priority after a crash. If you or anyone else
has been injured, take time to assess the severity of the injuries and
whether it is safe to continue riding. If you cannot ride safely, send
someone for help. Do not ride if you will risk further injury.
If you decide you are capable of riding safely, carefully inspect your
ATV for damage and determine if it is safe to ride. Check the tightness
of critical nuts and bolts securing such parts as the handlebar, control
levers, brakes, and wheels.
If there is minor damage, or you are unsure about possible damage but
decide to try riding the ATV back to your base, ride slowly and
cautiously.
Sometimes, crash damage is hidden or not immediately apparent. When
you get home, thoroughly check your ATV and correct any problems
you find. Also, be sure to have your Honda dealer check the frame and
suspension after any serious crash.
09/05/11 15:13:02 31HP4830 0212

(1) key number
(1)
204
If You Lose Your Key
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Be sure to record your key number ( ) in the Quick Reference section
at the rear of the manual. You’ll need this number to have a duplicate
key made.
If you lose your key and aren’t carrying a duplicate, either get your
spare or have one made. If you don’t know your key number, call the
dealer where you purchased your Honda ATV. They may have it listed
in their records. If they don’t, transport your ATV to them or the nearest
Honda dealer. The dealer will probably have to remove the ignition
switch assembly to find the key number so they can make a key for you.
1
09/05/11 15:13:09 31HP4830 0213

205
If the Battery Is Low (or Dead)
Taking Care of the Unexpected
Jump starting is not recommended, especially if you use an automobile
battery. The greater amperage of an automobile battery when the car
engine is running can damage your ATV’s electrical system.
Bump starting is also not recommended.
If you can’t charge the battery or it appears unable to hold a charge,
contact your Honda dealer.
09/05/11 15:13:14 31HP4830 0214

206
If a Component Fails
Taking Care of the Unexpected
The brake levers or pedal, control cables, and other components can be
damaged as you ride in dense brush or over rocky terrain. Making a
trailside repair depends on how serious the damage is and what tools and
supplies you have with you.
If any component of the brake system is damaged, you may be able to
ride carefully back to your base using the other brake components for
slowing or stopping.
If you damage a throttle cable or other critical component, your ATV
may be unsafe to ride. Carefully assess the damage and make any
repairs that you can. But if there is any doubt, it’s best to be
conservative and safe.
09/05/11 15:13:20 31HP4830 0215

207
Technical Information
Technical Information
This section contains dimensions, capacities, and other technical data,
plus information on government requirements and how to break-in your
ATV.
........................................................................Vehicle Identification .
....................................................................................Specifications .
..........................................................................Break-in Guidelines .
.................................................................Emission Control Systems .
..............................................................................Oxygenated Fuels .
208
210
215
216
220
09/05/11 15:13:27 31HP4830 0216

(1)
(2)
(2) engine number
FRONT
LEFT SIDE
(1) VIN
208
Serial Numbers
Vehicle Identification
Technical Information
The VIN, engine serial number, and key number may be required when
ordering replacement parts. You may record these numbers in the Quick
Reference section at the rear of this manual.
The VIN ( ) is stamped on the front of the frame.
The engine number ( ) is stamped on the upper side of the rear
crankcase.
1
2
09/05/11 15:13:35 31HP4830 0217

UNDER SEAT
(1)
(1) color label
209
Color Label & Code
Vehicle Identification
Technical Information
The color code is helpful when ordering replacement parts. You may
record the color and code in the Quick Reference section at the rear of
this manual.
The color label ( ) is attached to the frame under the seat. Remove the
seat (page ) to check the label.
1
100
09/05/11 15:13:43 31HP4830 0218

××
±
−−
25.6 cu-in (420 cm
)
3.41 2.81 in (86.5 71.5 mm)
9.9 : 1
BKR5E-11 (NGK)
operator only
rider, all cargo and accessories
Pro Honda HP Coolant or an
equivalent high quality ethylene
glycol antifreeze containing
corrosion protection inhibitors
specifically recommended for use
in aluminum engines
1,400 100 rpm
0.039 0.043 in (1.00 1.10 mm)
0.009 in (0.23 mm)
1.6 US qt (1.5
)
0.006 in (0.15 mm)
485 lb (220 kg)
K16PR-U11 (DENSO)
or
intake:
exhaust:
(NO ADJUSTMENT)
displacement
bore & stroke
compression ratio
spark plug
(standard)
passenger capacity
maximum weight
capacity
cooling system
recommendation
cooling system
capacity
idle speed
spark plug gap
valve clearance
(cold)
Engine Specifications
Capacities
Fuel & Lubricants (cont’d)
211
Specifications
Technical Information
09/05/11 15:14:21 31HP4830 0220

°
×★★
×★★
°
2.103
1.818
3.231
3.154
3.857
2.235
0.848
1.178
1.571
4.831
shaft
3.0
0.35 in (9.0 mm)
AT24 8-12 MAXXIS M977
AT24 10-11 MAXXIS M978
3.6 psi (25.0 kPa)
4.4 psi (30.0 kPa)
6.34
0.99 in (25.1 mm)
3.6 psi (25.0 kPa)
front:
rear:
…TRX420TE
…TRX420FE
TRX420FPE
…TRX420TE
TRX420FE
front
rear
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
reverse
(Except TRX420TE)
…TRX420FPE
…TRX420TE
…TRX420FE
TRX420FPE
primary reduction
secondary reduction
final reduction
caster
final drive
transmission ratio
trail
tire size, front
tire size, rear
tire pressure, front &
rear (cold)
Power Transmission
Chassis & Suspension
212
Specifications
Technical Information
09/05/11 15:14:45 31HP4830 0221

−
×
×
12 V 12 Ah
0.359 kW/5,000 rpm
12 V 30/30 W 2
LED
LED
LED
LED
LED
LED
40 A
15 A, 10 A 3
30 A
30 A
LED
(TRX420FPE only)
(TRX420FPE only)
(Except TRX420TE)
generator
battery
headlight
reverse indicator
neutral indicator
brake/tail light
high coolant
temperature indicator
PGM-FI indicator
4WD indicator
PS (Electric Power
Steering)
other
shift motor
main
PS (Electric Power
Steering) indicator
Electrical
Lights
Fuses
213
Specifications
Technical Information
09/05/11 15:15:06 31HP4830 0222

9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)
7 lbf·ft (10 N·m , 1.0 kgf·m)
18 lbf·ft (25 N·m , 2.5 kgf·m)
47 lbf·ft (64 N·m , 6.5 kgf·m)
engine oil drain bolt
engine oil filter cover
bolts
rear final gear case
oil drain bolt
differential oil drain
bolt
wheel nuts
(Except TRX420TE)
Torque Specification
214
Specifications
Technical Information
09/05/11 15:15:16 31HP4830 0223

215
Break-in Guidelines
Technical Information
Help assure your ATV’s future reliability and performance by paying
extra attention to how you ride during the first operating day or 15 miles
(25 km).
During this period, avoid full-throttle starts, rapid acceleration, and
constant rpm operation.
09/05/11 15:15:20 31HP4830 0224

(1)
LEFT FRONT
(1) vehicle emission control information label
216
Exhaust Emission Requirements
Emission Control Systems
Technical Information
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California
Air Resources Board (CARB) require that your ATV comply with
applicable exhaust emissions standards during its useful life, when
operated and maintained according to the instructions provided.
The Vehicle Emission Control Information Label ( ) is attached on the
left side of the frame.
1
09/05/11 15:15:27 31HP4830 0225

217
Source of Exhaust Emissions
Crankcase Emission Control System
Exhaust Emission Control System
Emission Control Systems
Technical Information
The combustion process produces carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of
nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Control of hydrocarbons and
oxides of nitrogen is very important because, under certain conditions,
they react to form photochemical smog when subjected to sunlight.
Carbon monoxide does not react in the same way, but it is toxic.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. utilizes various systems to reduce carbon
monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons.
The exhaust emission control system includes a PGM-FI system.
No adjustment to this system should be made although periodic
inspection of the components is recommended.
The exhaust emission control system is separate from the crankcase
emission control system.
The engine is equipped with a closed crankcase system to prevent
discharging crankcase emissions into the atmosphere. Blow-by gas is
returned to the combustion chamber through the air cleaner.
09/05/11 15:15:35 31HP4830 0226

218
Problems That May Affect ATV Exhaust Emissions
Emission Control Systems
Technical Information
If you are aware of any of the following symptoms, have the vehicle
inspected and repaired by your Honda ATV dealer.
Symptoms:
Hard starting or stalling after starting
Rough idle
Misfiring or backfiring during acceleration
After-burning (backfiring)
Poor performance (driveability) and poor fuel economy
Federal regulations prohibit removing or disabling a device or element
of design that may affect your engine’s emission performance unless
your ATV will be used exclusively in competition. If you modify your
engine for use in sanctioned competition events, you must deface or
destroy the emission control information label.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
09/05/11 15:15:42 31HP4830 0227

219
Noise Emission Control System
Fuel Permeation Emission Control System
Emission Control Systems
Technical Information
TAMPERING WITH THE NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM IS
PROHIBITED:
State laws prohibit, the following acts or the causing thereof: ( ) The
removal or rendering inoperative by any person, other than for purposes
of maintenance, repair or replacement, of any device or element of
design incorporated into any new vehicle for the purpose of noise
control prior to its sale or delivery to the ultimate purchaser or while it is
in use; or ( ) the use of the vehicle after such device or element of
design has been removed or rendered inoperative by any person.
AMONG THOSE ACTS PRESUMED TO CONSTITUTE
TAMPERING ARE THE FOLLOWING ACTS:
Removal of, or puncturing the muffler, baffles, header pipes or any
other component which conducts exhaust gases.
Removal of, or puncturing of any part of the intake system.
Lack of proper maintenance.
Replacing any moving parts of the vehicle, or parts of the exhaust or
intake system, with parts other than those specified by the
manufacturer.
This vehicle complies with the Fuel Permeation Emission Control
regulations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the
California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The fuel tank, fuel hoses, and fuel vapor charge hoses used on this
vehicle incorporate fuel permeation control technologies.
Tampering with the fuel tank, fuel hoses, or fuel vapor charge hoses to
reduce or defeat the effectiveness of the fuel permeation technologies is
prohibited by federal regulations.
1.
2.
3.
4.
1
2
09/05/11 15:15:50 31HP4830 0228

220
Technical Information
Oxygenated Fuels
The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:
ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) 10% by volume
You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume.
Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name
‘‘Gasohol’’.
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) 15% by Volume
You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.
METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) 5% by Volume
You may use gasoline containing methanol containing up to 5%
methanol by volume as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion
inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more than 5%
methanol by volume may cause starting and/or performance problems. It
may also damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of your fuel system.
Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether
compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated
fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the United States use
oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.
If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the
minimum octane rating requirement.
Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel’s contents.
Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.
09/05/11 15:15:57 31HP4830 0229

221
Oxygenated Fuels
Technical Information
Oxygenated fuels can damage paint and plastic. Damage caused by
spilled fuel is not covered by warranty.
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service
station or switch to another brand of gasoline.
Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of
an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of oxygenates
mentioned above are not covered under warranty.
Oxygenated fuels can damage paint and plastic. Be careful not to spill
fuel when filling the fuel tank. Wipe up any spills immediately.
09/05/11 15:16:03 31HP4830 0230

222
Technical Information
09/05/11 15:16:06 31HP4830 0231

223
Consumer Information
Consumer Information
This section contains information on your warranty and how to get an
official Honda service manual.
..........................................................................Authorized Manuals .
...........................................................................Warranty Coverage .
...............................................................................Warranty Service .
.............................................................................Contacting Honda .
...........................................................................Your Honda Dealer .
...................................................................The Honda Rider’s Club .
224
227
228
229
230
231
09/05/11 15:16:14 31HP4830 0232

*
*
$48.00
$48.00
$16.00
61HP403
61CM002
31HP4830
2010 TRX420 TE/TM/FE/FM/FPE/FPM
Service Manual
Common Service Manual
2010 TRX420 TE/FE/FPE
Owner’s Manual
Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring obligation.
Publication Item No. Description Price Each
224
Authorized Manuals
Consumer Information
The Service Manual used by your authorized Honda dealer is
available from Helm, Inc.
Also available but not necessary to service your model is the Honda
Common Service Manual which explains theory of operation and
basic service information for various systems common to all Honda
motorcycles, motor scooters and ATVs.
These Honda manuals are written for the professional technician, but
most mechanically capable owners should find them easy to use if
they have the proper tools and observe proper safety standards.
Special Honda tools are necessary for some procedures.
09/05/11 15:16:22 31HP4830 0233

−−
*
*
Prices are subject to change without notice and
without incurring obligation.
Orders are mailed within 10 days. Please allow
adequate time for delivery.
Publication
Item No.
Item Description Qty. Price
Each
Total
Price
Sub Total
Purchaser’s Sales Tax
Mich. add 6 %
Calif. add 8.25 %
Handling Charge
Grand Total
$3.75
225
Consumer Information
Order On-Line: www.helminc.com
Order Toll Free: 1-888-CYCLE93
OR
(NOTE: For Credit Card Orders Only)
(1-888-292-5393)
Monday Friday 8:00 AM 6:00 PM EST
By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can
pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to
Helm, Inc. at the address shown on the back of this order form.
09/05/11 15:16:34 31HP4830 0234

−
P. O. BOX 07280, DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207
S
H
I
P
T
O
P
A
Y
M
E
N
T
NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the nameof the personto
whose attention the shipment should be sent.
Customer Name
Attention
Street address/P. O. BOX Apartment Number
City State Zip Code
Daytime Telephone Number
Check ormoney order enclosed payableto Helm Inc. U.S. funds only. Do not sendcash.
Check hereif your billing address isdifferent from the shipping address shown above.
VISA DiscoverMasterCard
Expiration: Mo. Yr.
Customer Signature Date
These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receivingadvance authorization within 14 days ofdelivery. For
returns, arestocking fee maybe applied against the original order.
Account Number
Security Code
()
HELM
226
Consumer Information
09/05/11 15:16:51 31HP4830 0235

227
Warranty Coverage
Consumer Information
Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:
TRX Limited Warranty
Emission Control System Warranty
Your warranty coverage will not be voided if you choose to perform
your own maintenance. However, you should have the proper tools and
service information, and be mechanically qualified. Failures that occur
due directly to improper maintenance are not covered.
It is important to realize that your warranty applies to defects in material
or workmanship of your Honda. Your warranty coverage does not apply
to normal wear or deterioration associated with using the ATV.
There are responsibilities, restrictions, and exclusions which apply to
these warranties. Please read the Warranties Booklet given to you by
your Honda dealer at the time of purchase. Be sure to keep your Honda
owner’s card with your Warranties Booklet.
Almost all of your warranty coverage can be extended through the
Honda Protection Plan. For more information, see your Honda dealer.
09/05/11 15:16:59 31HP4830 0236

228
Warranty Service
Consumer Information
Please remember that recommended maintenance interval servicing is
not included in your warranty coverage. Additionally, your warranty
does not apply to the normal wear of items (such as brakes, tires, etc.).
If you believe you have a problem with your ATV, call the service
department of your Honda dealer. Make an appointment for an
inspection and diagnosis. Remember, as the owner of the ATV, you will
be asked to authorize that inspection. Your dealer will give you the
results of the inspection. If the problem is covered under warranty, your
dealer will perform the warranty repairs for you.
If you have questions about warranty coverage or the nature of the
repair, it is best to talk to the Service Manager of your Honda dealer.
Sometimes, in spite of the best intentions of all concerned, a
misunderstanding may occur. If you aren’t satisfied with your dealer’s
handling of the situation, we suggest you discuss your problem with the
appropriate member of the dealership’s management team. If the
problem has already been reviewed with the Service Manager, Parts
Manager, Sales Manager, etc., contact the Owner of the dealership or
their designated representative.
09/05/11 15:17:05 31HP4830 0237

229
Contacting Honda
Consumer Information
Your owner’s manual was written to cover most of the questions you
might ask about your Honda. Any questions not answered in the owner’s
manual can be answered by your Honda dealer. If your dealer doesn’t
have the answer right away, they will get it for you.
If you have a difference of opinion with your dealer, please remember
that each dealership is independently owned and operated. That’s why
it’s important to work to resolve any differences at the dealership level.
If you wish to comment on your experiences with your Honda or with
your dealer, please send your comments to the following address:
Motorcycle Division, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., P.O. Box 2200,
Torrance, CA 90509-2200, mailstop: 100-4C-7B, telephone: (866) 784-
1870.
Please include the following information in your letter:
name, address, and telephone number
product model, year, and VIN
date of purchase
dealer name and address
We will likely ask your Honda dealer to respond, or possibly
acknowledge your comments directly.
09/05/11 15:17:14 31HP4830 0238

230
Your Honda Dealer
Consumer Information
Once you purchase your new Honda, get familiar with the organization
of your Honda dealer so you can utilize the full range of services
available.
The service department is there to perform regular maintenance and
unexpected repairs. It has the latest available service information from
Honda. The service department will also handle warranty inspections
and repairs.
The parts department offers Honda Genuine Parts, Pro Honda products,
and Honda Genuine Accessories. The same quality that went into your
Honda can be found in Honda Genuine replacement parts. You’ll also
find comparable quality in the accessories and products available from
the parts department.
The sales department offers the Honda Protection Plan to extend almost
all of your warranty coverage.
Your Honda dealer can inform you about competition and other riding
events in your area. You’ll also find that your dealer is a source of
information about the Honda Rider’s Club of America.
We’re sure you’ll be as pleased with the service your Honda dealer
continues to provide after the sale as you are with the quality and
dependability of your Honda.
09/05/11 15:17:21 31HP4830 0239

231
Consumer Information
The Honda Rider’s Club
www.hrca.honda.com.
You may be eligible for a Honda Rider’s Club of America (HRCA)
membership with the purchase of your new Honda. You can log on to
the HRCA Clubhouse website for details at
09/05/11 15:17:25 31HP4830 0240

232
Index
Index
A
B
............................................................................................accessories . 50
............................................................................age recommendation . 41
air cleaner,
.......................................................................................dust cover . 128
................................................................................................filter . 124
..........................................................................housing drain tube . 129
air pressure,
................................................................................................gauge . 99
..................................................................................................tire . 154
..............................................................American Honda, contacting . 229
................................................................................apparel, protective . 38
..................................................................................appearance care . 169
.............................................................................authorized manuals . 224
............................................bank angle sensor ignition cut-off system . 62
.................................................................................................battery . 164
..............................................................brakelight switch adjustment . 151
brakes,
..............................................................................................cables . 150
........................................................................draining water from . 152
................................................................................................fluid . 142
...............................................................................front brake lever . 32
.........................................................................................pad wear . 145
.............................................................................................parking . 33
09/05/11 15:17:31 31HP4830 0241

233
Index
Index
C
.................................................................................rear brake lever . 32
................................................................rear brake lever freeplay . 148
................................................................................rear brake pedal . 32
................................................................rear brake pedal freeplay . 146
........................................................................................shoe wear . 150
.................................................................................................braking . 70
.............................................................................break-in guidelines . 215
...............button, hourmeter/odometer/tripmeter select . 14, 17, 20, 21, 22
......................................................................................capacity, fuel . 103
.................................................................................care, appearance . 169
cargo,
...................................................loading and operational guidelines . 49
......................................................................................weight limit . 48
...................................................................cleaning, appearance care . 169
........................................................................................climbing hills . 75
......................................................................................................clip . 101
......................................................................................clutch system . 132
...........................................................................................color label . 209
compartment,
................................................................................owner’s manual . 99
..............................................................................................tool kit . 98
..................................................................................component fails . 206
........................................................................consumer information . 223
...............................................................................controls & features . 24
........................................................................................crash, if you . 203
....................................................crossing or turning on hills or slopes . 80
.................................................................................customer service . 229
09/05/11 15:17:36 31HP4830 0242

234
Index
Index
D
E
..................................................differential oil (Except TRX420TE) . 116
.....................................................................dimmer switch, headlight . 28
...............................................................................................dipstick . 109
........................................................................................displaycheck .15
.........................................................................display, multi-function . 18
...................................................................................drivetrain boots . 162
.................................................................electric power steering (PS) . 36
....................................................................emission control systems . 216
engine,
.............................................................................................flooded . 62
..............................................................................................guard . 160
...........................................................................................number . 208
...................................................................................................oil . 105
...........................................................................................pinging . 102
..............................................................................................starting . 60
........................................................................................stop switch . 27
............................................................................................stopping . 64
......................................................................................won’t start . 186
.......................................................................................environment . 182
exhaust system,
............................................................................................cleaning . 44
...........................................................................................purging . 138
09/05/11 15:17:42 31HP4830 0243

235
Index
Index
G
F
...............................................................................final gear case oil . 114
...................................................................................flag pole bracket . 34
................................................................................................flat tire . 192
......................................................................................flooded engine . 62
.............................................front boot guards (Except TRX420TE) . 161
......................................front driveshaft boots (Except TRX420TE) . 163
....................................front driveshaft guards (Except TRX420TE) . 161
fuel,
............................................................................................fill cap . 103
................................................................................................gauge . 23
.....................................................................................oxygenated . 220
.............................................................................recommendation . 102
.........................................................................................refueling . 103
.........................................................................reserve fuel supply . 103
..................................................................................tank capacity . 103
.................................................................................................valve . 24
...................................................................................................fuses . 198
...................................................................................gap, spark plug . 135
...............................................................................................gasohol . 220
..............................................................................................gasoline . 102
........................................................................................gear case oil . 114
.........................................................................................gear shifting . 65
....................................................................................gearshift switch . 65
.................................................................................................guards . 160
09/05/11 15:17:47 31HP4830 0244

236
Index
Index
H
......................................................................headlight dimmer switch . 28
...................................................................................headlight switch . 28
hills,
............................................................crossing or turning on slopes . 80
..............................................................................riding down hills . 79
...................................................................................riding up hills . 75
...............................................................................stopping on hills . 77
Honda,
.......................................................................................contacting . 229
..............................................................................................dealer . 230
...................................................................................Rider’s Club . 231
.................................................................................hourmeter . 17, 18, 22
................hourmeter/odometer/tripmeter select button . 14, 17, 20, 21, 22
........................................................................Honda service manual . 224
09/05/11 15:17:52 31HP4830 0245

237
Index
Index
I
.........................................................................identification, vehicle . 208
......................................................................................ignition switch . 25
indicators,
..........................................................gear position indicator . 17, 18, 19
.....................................high coolant temperature indicator . 14, 16, 196
.........................................................................neutral indicator . 14, 16
..............................................................oil change indicator . 17, 18, 20
.......................................................................PGM-FI indicator . 14, 16
...PS (Electric Power Steering) indicator . 14, 16, 36
.........................................................................reverse indicator . 14, 16
...................................4WD indicator (Except TRX420TE) . 14, 16, 26
...............................................................................inspection, pre-ride . 43
(TRX420FPE only)
09/05/11 15:17:57 31HP4830 0246

238
Index
Index
L
K
...........................................................................................labels, safety . 5
...........................................................................................lamp check . 14
.....................................lever, 2WD/4WD select (Except TRX420TE) . 26
.........................................................................................limit, weight . 48
.............................................................................................load limits . 48
................................................................................loading guidelines . 49
lubrication,
..............................................differential oil (Except TRX420TE) . 116
........................................................................................engine oil . 105
....................................................................................gear case oil . 114
key,
..................................................................................................lost . 204
...........................................................................................number . 204
.................................................................................................kit, tool . 98
09/05/11 15:18:02 31HP4830 0247

239
Index
Index
M
maintenance,
.........................................................................component locations . 95
........................................................................................importance . 87
.......................................................................................precautions . 89
...............................................................................................record . 94
................................................................................................safety . 88
............................................................................................schedule . 90
...................................................................................manual, service . 224
.........................................................................maximum weight limit . 48
........................................................................................modifications . 51
..........................................................................multi-function display . 18
09/05/11 15:18:07 31HP4830 0248

240
Index
Index
N
O
.............................................................................neutral indicator . 14, 16
............................................................noise emission control system . 219
...................................................................................numbers, serial . 208
...........................................................................obstacles, riding over . 82
...................................................................................odometer . 17, 18, 21
oil,
...................................................differential (Except TRX420TE) . 116
.............................................................................................engine . 105
.........................................................................................gear case . 114
.............................................................operation component locations . 11
........................................................................owner’s manual storage . 99
................................................................................oxygenated fuels . 220
09/05/11 15:18:12 31HP4830 0249

241
Index
Index
P
R
(cont’d)
.................................................................................................parking . 84
..........................................................................passenger, no carrying . 41
.........................................................................pavement, no riding on . 55
...................................................................................pinging, engine . 102
..........................................................................................plug, spark . 134
................................................................................pre-ride inspection . 43
.........................................................................problems, unexpected . 183
..............................................propeller shaft boots & yoke joint boot . 162
.................................................................................protective apparel . 38
...............................PS (Electric Power Steering) (TRX420FPE only) . 36
........................................................................rear final gear case oil . 114
......................................................................................removal, seat . 100
reverse,
......................................................................................assist cable . 133
......................................................................................assist lever . 133
.............................................................................gear, shifting into . 68
.....................................................................................indicator . 14, 16
............................................................................................riding in . 68
....................................................................................selector knob . 31
.........................................................................................rider training . 40
...........................................................................Rider’s Club, Honda . 231
09/05/11 15:18:19 31HP4830 0250

242
Index
Index
S
riding,
................................................................................basic operations . 53
.............................................................................................clothing . 38
.......................................................................................precautions . 55
..................................................................................preparing for . 174
...................................................................................over obstacles . 82
..................................................................................................safety . 2
.............................................................................safety precautions . 55
...................................................................................through water . 83
safety,
.......................................................................important precautions . 89
..................................................................................................labels . 5
.............................................................................riding precautions . 55
..........................................................................schedule, maintenance . 90
.......................................................................................seat removal . 100
.....................................select lever, 2WD/4WD (Except TRX420TE) . 26
....................................................................................serial numbers . 208
service,
.........................................................................................customer . 229
..........................................................................................manuals . 224
.........................................................................................warranty . 228
09/05/11 15:18:25 31HP4830 0251

243
Index
Index
........................................................................................shifting gears . 65
............................................................................................skid plate . 160
................................................................................skidding or sliding . 74
......................................................................................spark arrester . 138
........................................................................................spark knock . 102
...........................................................................................spark plug . 134
......................................................................................specifications . 210
...................................................................................speedometer . 17, 18
....................................................................................stalling on a hill . 77
............................................................................................start button . 27
starting,
...............................................................................................engine . 60
...............................................................................troubleshooting . 186
...............................................................................stop switch, engine . 27
....................................................................................stopping engine . 64
storage,
...............................................................................................ATV . 178
................................................................................owner’s manual . 99
suspension,
....................................................adjustment (Except TRX420TE) . 139
.............................................spring pre-load (Except TRX420TE) . 140
switch,
...................................................................................downshift . 30, 65
.......................................................................................engine stop . 27
...........................................................................................headlight . 28
.............................................................................headlight dimmer . 28
.............................................................................................ignition . 25
........................................................................................upshift . 30, 65
09/05/11 15:18:29 31HP4830 0252

244
Index
Index
T
throttle,
...............................................................................................cable . 131
..................................................................................lever . 29, 130, 131
tires,
.....................................................................................air pressure . 154
..................................................................................................flat . 192
.........................................................................................replacing . 159
.........................................................................................repairing . 158
....................................................................thread conditions . 156, 157
..................................................................................................tool kit . 98
...........................................................................................trailer hitch . 35
trailer towing,
......................................................................operational guidelines . 49
.....................................................................................weight limits . 48
........................................................................................training, rider . 40
.......................................................................transporting your ATV . 176
...................................................................................tripmeter . 17, 18, 21
............................................................................trouble, unexpected . 183
.....................................................................troubleshooting, starting . 186
turning,
...............................................................................on hills or slopes . 80
.................................................................................on level ground . 72
09/05/11 15:18:34 31HP4830 0253

245
Index
Index
W
V
.............................................................................................valve, fuel . 24
...................................................................................valve clearance . 137
.........................................................vehicle identification no. (VIN) . 208
........................................................................................warning labels . 5
warranty,
.........................................................................................coverage . 227
.........................................................................................extended . 227
............................................................................................service . 228
.............................................................................washing your ATV . 170
water,
......................................................................draining from brakes . 152
...................................................................................riding through . 83
..........................................................................................weight limit . 48
....................................................................................wheel removal . 194
09/05/11 15:18:40 31HP4830 0254

How To Avoid Costly Repairs
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
The following is a brief, but important collection of information you
need to know about your Honda. You’ll also find space to record
important notes.
The engine of your Honda can be the most expensive component to
repair. Proper maintenance, especially the use of the recommended
fluids and filters, prevents premature wear and damage.
Frequent causes of costly repairs are:
Engine oil –– insufficient quantity, improper oil.
Air cleaner –– dirty, leaking because of improper installation (poor
seal).
Record important information on the following page:
09/05/11 15:19:02 31HP4830 0260

Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Engine No.
VIN
Ignition Key No.
Color Label
Owner’s Name
Address
City/State
Phone
Dealer’s Name
Address
City/State
Phone
Service Mgr.
09/05/11 15:19:07 31HP4830 0261

3.51 US gal (13.3 )
0.69 US gal (2.6
)
485 lb (220 kg)
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Scheduled
Maintenance
Pre-ride Inspection
Initial: 100 miles (150 km)
Regular: every 600 miles (1,000 km)
Check the following items each time
before you ride (page ): engine oil,
radiator coolant, fuel, tires, drivetrain
boots, guards, nuts & bolts, underbody &
exhaust system, air cleaner housing drain
tube, leaks, loose parts, cables, lights,
throttle, brakes, reverse assist lever,
switches, steering.
Maximum Weight
Capacity
Engine Oil
Fuel/Capacity unleaded gasoline, pump octane number
86 or higher
API Service Classification SG or higher
except oils labeled as energy conserving
on the circular API service label,
SAE 10W-30, JASO T 903 standard MA,
Pro Honda GN4 4-stroke oil or equivalent
rider, all cargo and accessories
reserve:
43
09/05/11 15:19:18 31HP4830 0262

×★★
×★★
×
AT24 8-12
AT24 10-11
3.6 psi (25.0 kPa)
40 A
15 A, 10 A 3
30 A
30 A
K16PR-U11 (DENSO)
BKR5E-11 (NGK)
3.6 psi (25.0 kPa)
4.4 psi (30.0 kPa)
or
Front:
Rear:
standard:
main:
shift motor :
other:
PS (Electric Power Steering)
(TRX420FPE only):
Front:
Rear:
…TRX420TE
…TRX420FPE
TRX420FE
MAXXIS M977
MAXXIS M978
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Tires
Tire Pressure (cold)
Fuses
Coolant
Spark Plugs
ethylene glycol antifreeze (silicate-free)
for aluminum engines in 50/50 solution
with Pro Honda HP Coolant or an
equivalent distilled water
09/05/11 15:19:33 31HP4830 0263

−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
These symbols are used in Controls & Features section:
SYMBOL COMPONENT SEE PAGE
25
25
26
26
27
27
27
28
28
28
28
30
30
31
33
ON ignition switch
OFF ignition switch
2WD/4WD select lever
4WD indicator lights when the
4WD drive mode engages
START button
RUN engine stop switch
OFF engine stop switch
ON headlight switch
OFF headlight switch
HI headlight dimmer switch
LO headlight dimmer switch
upshift switch gearshift switch
downshift switch gearshift switch
reverse selector knob
lock lever parking brake
09/05/11 15:19:52 31HP4830 0264

