AHR52424 Omen

Read this manual carefully, it contains important safety information.
Models sold in and used in California:

The removal or modification of evaporative emission-related parts on this
OHRV is illegal. Violators may be subject to civil and/or criminal penalties as
provided under California and federal law.
OW N E R’S
M A N UA L
2024
FOREMAN RUBICON
Minimum recommended operator age: 16 Mfg. #

This manual should be considered a permanent part of the ATV and
should remain with the ATV when it is resold.
This Owner’s Manual covers the TRX520FM6, TRX520FA5,

TRX520FA6 and TRX520FA7 models. You may find descriptions of
equipment and features that are not on your particular model. All
illustrations are based on the TRX520FA6 model.
This publication includes the latest production information available

before printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right to make
changes at any time without notice and without incurring any
obligation.
No part of this publication may be reproduced without written

permission.
This vehicle pictured in this owner’s manual may not match your
actual vehicle.
© Honda Motor Co., Ltd. 2022

2024
Honda
TRX520FA5 4×4 DCT
TRX520FA6 4×4 DCT EPS
TRX520FA7 4×4 DCT EPS Deluxe
TRX520FM6 4×4 EPS
FOREMAN RUBICON
OWNER’S MANUAL
FOR OFF-ROAD USE ONLY

This vehicle is designed and manufactured for off-road use only.
USA 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, California, and Environment Climate Change

Canada emission regulations for ATVs.
Introduction
Congratulations on choosing your Honda ATV.
Introduction
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 an index at the back of
the book.
As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded
by a NOTICE symbol. This information is intended to help you avoid
damage to your Honda, other property, or the environment.
Read the Warranties Booklet (page 279) 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.
Introduction
Introduction
If you have any questions or if you ever need special service or
repairs, remember that your dealer knows your ATV best and is
dedicated to your complete satisfaction.
Please report any change of address or ownership to your dealer so

we will be able to contact you concerning important product
information.
You may also want to visit our website at

USA: www.powersports.honda.com.
Canada: www.honda.ca.
Happy riding!
Introduction
A Few Words About Safety
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:
Safety Labels — on the ATV.
Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol 2 and one

of three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.

These signal words mean:
You WILL be KILLED or

3 DANGER SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t
follow instructions.
You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY

3 WARNING HURT if you don’t follow
instructions.
You CAN be HURT if you don’t

3 CAUTION follow instructions.
Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or

Important Safety Precautions.
Safety Section — such as ATV Safety.
Instructions — how to use this ATV correctly and safely.
This entire manual is filled with important safety information —

please read it carefully.

Contents
These pages give an overview of the contents of your owner’s
Contents
manual.
The first page of each section lists the topics covered in that section.
ATV Safety ..................................................................................1

Important safety information you should know, plus a look at the
safety related labels on your ATV.
Instruments & Controls ..............................................................9

The location and function of indicators and controls on your ATV
and operating instructions for various controls and features.
Before Riding ............................................................................65

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.
Basic Operation & Riding .........................................................81

How to start and stop the engine, shift gears, and brake. Also,
riding precautions.
Contents
Contents
Servicing Your Honda ............................................................125
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.
Tips ..........................................................................................225
How to store and transport your ATV and how to be an
environmentally responsible rider.
Taking Care of the Unexpected.............................................235

What to do if you have a flat tire, your engine won’t start, etc.
Technical Information ............................................................261

ID numbers, technical specifications, and other technical facts.
Consumer Information ...........................................................277

Information on warranties, emission controls, how to get Honda
service manuals.
Index ........................................................................................285
Quick Reference
Handy facts about fuel, engine oil, tire sizes, and air pressures.
Contents
ATV Safety
This section presents some of the most important information and
ATV Safety
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........................................................ 2

Safety Labels ................................................................................ 5
ATV Safety 1
Important Safety Information
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.
Follow the Age Recommendation

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.
Always Wear a Helmet

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 66).
Never Carry a Passenger

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.
2 ATV Safety
Ride Off-road Only
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.
Take Time to Learn & Practice

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 an ATV operator course approved by the ATV
Safety Institute (ASI). See page 68.
Contact an authorized ATV dealer or call 1-800-887-2887 (USA
only) to find out about the training courses nearest you.
Be Alert for Off-road Hazards

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.
ATV Safety 3
Ride within Your Limits
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.
Don’t Drink or Use Drugs and Ride

Alcohol or drugs and riding don’t mix. Even one alcoholic drink can
reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your
reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. The same is
true for drug use. Don’t drink or use and ride, and don’t let your
friends do it either.
Keep Your Honda in Safe Condition

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.
4 ATV Safety
Safety Labels
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.
The labels should be considered permanent parts of the vehicle. If a

label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your dealer for
replacements.
ATV Safety 5
Safety Labels
WARNING
Improper ATV use can result in SEVERE INJURY or DEATH
ALWAYS USE NEVER USE NEVER CARRY NEVER USE

AN APPROVED ON PUBLIC PASSENGERS WITH DRUGS
HELMET AND ROADS OR ALCOHOL
PROTECTIVE
GEAR
NEVER operate:
without proper training or instruction
at speeds too fast for your skills or the conditions
on public roads - a collision can occur with
another vehicle
with a passenger - passengers affect balance
and steering and increase risk of losing control
ALWAY S:
use proper riding techniques to avoid vehicle
overturns on hills and rough terrain and in turns
avoid paved surfaces - pavement may seriously
affect handling and control
LOCATE AND READ OWNER'S MANUAL.
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS.
6 ATV Safety
Safety Labels
WARNING
Overloading this ATV or carrying cargo Improper tire pressure or overloading can
improperly can change handling,stability cause loss of control.
and braking performance and can lead to an Loss of control can result in severe injury
accident.
or death.
Never exceed the maximum front cargo limit Cold tire pressure :
of : 99 lbs (45 kg). Front : 4.4psi (30kPa)
Refer to instructions in the Owner’s Rear : 4.4psi (30kPa)
Manual. Maximum weight capacity : 573lbs. (260kg)
ATV Safety 7
Safety Labels
BRAKING INFORMATION (For Canada)
With four-wheel drive, operating any brake control
causes braking at both the front and rear wheels.
For detailed braking information, refer to the
Owner's Manual.
DRIVELINE INFORMATION
Driving in Front Differential Lock Mode changes the
way your vehicle handles and turns. Use this mode only
at low speed. See owner’s manual for more information.
Operating this ATV if you are under

the age of 16 increases your chance
of severe injury or death.
NEVER operate this ATV if you are
under age 16.
WARNING
Improper ATV use can result in SEVERE INJURY or DEATH

PROTECTIVE
GEAR
NEVER operate:
another vehicle
ALWAY S :
LOCATE AND READ OWNER'S MANUAL.
Towing an improperly loaded trailer

can cause loss of control.
Read towing instructions
in owner's manual
Tow weight limit : 1322lbs. (600kg)
Tongue weight : 30lbs. ( 14kg)
WARNING
Overloading this ATV or carrying cargo
improperly can change handling,stability
NEVER ride as a passenger. and braking performance and can lead to an
Passengers can cause a loss accident.
of control, resulting in Never exceed the maximum rear cargo limit
SEVERE INJURY or DEATH. (combined weight on the rear rack and in
the storage area) of : 187 lbs (85 kg).
Refer to instructions in the Owner’s
Manual.
8 ATV Safety
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.
Operation Component Locations ................................................ 11

Indicators & Displays ................................................................... 15
Multi-function Display.............................................................. 21
Speed and Mileage Unit Changing........................................... 23
4WD Indicator ......................................................................... 23
LOW Indicator (Except TRX520FM6)......................................... 24
Gear Position Indicator............................................................. 25
Fuel Gauge .............................................................................. 27
Digital Clock ............................................................................ 29
Odometer................................................................................ 30
Tripmeter................................................................................. 30
Coolant Temperature Gauge ................................................... 31
Hour meter.............................................................................. 33
Maintenance Tripmeter/Maintenance Hour meter .................... 34
(cont’d)
Instruments & Controls 9
Controls & Features .................................................................... 37
Ignition Switch......................................................................... 37
Range Select Lever (Except TRX520FM6) .................................. 38
4WD Switch ............................................................................ 39
Front Differential Lock and Speed Limiter Override (Differential
Lock Switch and Start/Override Button) .................................. 40
Start/Override Button............................................................... 43
Engine Stop Switch.................................................................. 44
Headlight Switch ..................................................................... 45
Headlight Dimmer Switch ........................................................ 45
Recoil Starter (Canada only) ..................................................... 46
Throttle Lever .......................................................................... 47
Drive Mode Select Switch (Except TRX520FM6)........................ 48
Gearshift Switch (Except TRX520FM6) ..................................... 49
Reverse Switch (Except TRX520FM6)........................................ 50
Front Brake Lever..................................................................... 51
Rear Brake Lever/Parking Brake Lever ....................................... 51
Rear Brake Pedal...................................................................... 51
Parking Brake Lever (Except TRX520FM6)................................. 52
Parking Brake/Reverse Lever (P/R Lever) (TRX520FM6 only)....... 54
Flag Pole Bracket ..................................................................... 56
Trailer Hitch ............................................................................. 57
Accessory Socket ..................................................................... 58
Side Utility Box......................................................................... 60
Front Utility Box ....................................................................... 61
Utility Pocket (TRX520FM6 only) .............................................. 62
Storage Compartment ............................................................. 63
EPS (Electric Power Steering) (Except TRX520FA5) .................... 64
10 Instruments & Controls

Operation Component Locations
TRX520FA5/FA6/FA7
headlight dimmer switch
headlight switch
rear brake lever/
parking brake lever differential lock switch
reverse switch 4WD switch

parking brake
lock lever front brake
lever
gearshift ignition throttle lever

switches switch
start/override drive mode select switch

button
engine stop switch range select lever

TRX520FM6
rear brake lever/

parking brake lever
headlight switch
P/R lever front brake lever
4WD switch
ignition switch
throttle lever
engine stop switch differential lock
start/override button switch
headlight dimmer switch

rear cargo rack front cargo rack
front utility box
recoil starter rear brake pedal

(Canada only)

accessory socket
utility pocket (TRX520FM6 only)

side utility box
flag pole bracket
shift lever (TRX520FM6 only) storage

compartment
trailer hitch

Indicators & Displays
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.
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
(8) (7) (6)

(1) neutral indicator (6) PS (Electric Power
(2) reverse indicator Steering) indicator
(3) differential lock indicator (Except TRX520FA5)
(4) PGM-FI indicator (7) multi-function display
(5) high coolant temperature (8) mode select button
indicator

Lamp Check
Initial lamp check:
The indicators come on for a few seconds and then go off when you
turn the ignition switch to ON (q).
Except TRX520FA5:
The PS (Electric Power Steering) indicator comes back on and
remains on until the engine is started after initial lamp check.
The high coolant temperature indicator and PGM-FI indicator come

back on for a few seconds and then go off after initial lamp check.
These indicators are identified in the table on page 18 with the

words: Lamp Check.
When applicable, the reverse or neutral indicator comes back on and

remains on until you shift out of reverse or neutral after initial lamp
check.
When applicable, the differential lock indicator comes back on and

remains on until you shift out of the front differential lock mode
after initial lamp check.
If one of these indicators does not come on when it should, have

your dealer check for problems.

Display Check
When the ignition switch is turned on, the multi-function display (1)
will temporarily show all the modes and digital segments and initial
message. This is so you can make sure the liquid crystal display is
functioning properly.
The displays are identified in the table on page 19 with the words:
Display Check.
If any part of these displays does not come on when it should, have
your dealer check for problems.
(1)
(1) multi-function display
Meter Input Signal Failure

If the neutral indicator, reverse indicator, differential lock indicator,
PGM-FI indicator or high coolant temperature indicator stays on and
the gear position indicator “–” and coolant temperature gauge
“C – – – – – H” blink, have your dealer check for problems.

1 Neutral indicator Lights when the transmission is in
neutral. Lamp Check.
2 Reverse indicator Lights when the transmission is in
reverse. Lamp Check.
3 Differential lock Lights when the front differential lock
indicator mode is engaged. Should also light
for a few seconds and go off when
the ignition switch is turned on, and
then come back on and remain on
until the differential lock switch or the
ignition switch is turned off. If the
indicator blinks with the 4WD
indicator, there is any abnormality in
the front final gear system. See
page 42. Lamp Check.
4 PGM-FI 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
your dealer as soon as possible. Lamp
Check.
5 High coolant Lights when coolant temperature is
temperature high enough to adversely affect the
indicator 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 250. Lamp Check.

6 PS (Electric Power Lights when there is an abnormality in
Steering) indicator the EPS (Electric Power Steering)
(Except TRX520FA5) system. See page 64. Lamp Check.
7 Multi-function The display includes the following
display functions. Display Check.
4WD indicator Shows when the 4WD drive mode is
engaged. If the indicator blinks with
the differential lock indicator when
there is any abnormality in the front
final gear system. See page 23.
Gear position Shows the gear position (page 25).
indicator
LOW indicator Shows when low (L) range is engaged
(Except TRX520FM6) (page 24).
Maintenance Shows when specified maintenance
minder indicator interval is reached (page 35).
Speedometer Shows riding speed.
Fuel gauge Shows approximate fuel supply
available (page 27).
Digital clock Shows the time (hour and minutes)
(page 29).
Odometer Shows accumulated mileage
(page 30).
Tripmeter Shows mileage per trip (page 30).
Coolant Shows approximate coolant
temperature temperature (page 31).
gauge
Hour meter Shows hours and tenths of hours of
engine operation (page 33).
Maintenance Informs when the mileage or
tripmeter operating hours on your ATV
Maintenance hour approaches and passes the interval
meter specified on the maintenance
schedule (page 34).
8 Mode select Selects display in the lower parts of
button multi-function display. Adjusts the
digital clock (page 29). Changes the
speed and mileage units (page 23).
Resets the tripmeter to zero (0)
(page 30). This button also used to
reset the maintenance tripmeter and
maintenance hour meter (page 34).

Multi-function Display
The multi-function display (1) includes the following functions:

4WD indicator Digital clock
Gear position indicator Odometer
LOW indicator Tripmeter
(Except TRX520FM6) Coolant temperature gauge
Speedometer Hour meter
Maintenance minder indicator Maintenance tripmeter
Fuel gauge Maintenance hour meter
(1) (2) (3) (4)
(8) (7) (6) (5)

(1) multi-function display (5) maintenance minder
(2) LOW indicator indicator
(Except TRX520FM6) (6) lower part of the
(3) gear position indicator multi-function display
(4) speedometer (7) 4WD indicator
(8) mode select button
The lower part of the multi-function display (6) shows the fuel
gauge, digital clock, odometer, tripmeter, coolant temperature
gauge, hour meter, maintenance tripmeter or maintenance hour
meter. To change the lower part of the multi-function display, push
the mode select button (8).
Each time you press the mode select button, the mode will change
as shown in the illustration.
Fuel gauge (page 27)
Digital clock (page 29)
Odometer (page 30)

Hour meter (page 33)
Tripmeter (page 30)
Maintenance
Coolant temperature tripmeter (page 34)
gauge (page 31)
When ATV When ATV is Maintenance hour

is moving not moving meter (page 34)
If there is a fuel warning with your ATV, the display will automatically
change to the fuel gauge.
If you try to change the display back to ordinary display, it will
automatically return to the fuel gauge.
If there is a coolant temperature warning with your ATV, the display

will automatically change to the coolant temperature gauge. If you
try to change the display back to ordinary display, it will
automatically return to the coolant temperature gauge.

Speed and Mileage Unit Changing
The speedometer, odometer, tripmeter and maintenance tripmeter

show in either “MPH” and “MILE” or “KM/H” and “KM”.
To change the speed and mileage units, press and hold the mode
select button (1) for more than 5 seconds in odometer mode
(page 30) with the ATV stopped.
(1)
(1) mode select button
4WD Indicator
The 4WD indicator (1) shows when the 4WD mode engages
(page 39).
(1)
(1) 4WD indicator

LOW Indicator (Except TRX520FM6)
The LOW indicator (1) will be displayed when low (L) range is
engaged with the ignition switch in the ON (q) position (page 101).
(1)
(1) LOW indicator

Gear Position Indicator
The gear position indicator (1) shows the gear position when the
ignition switch is in the ON (q) position.
Except TRX520FM6
AUTO (automatic shift mode)
The indicator displays N for neutral, R for reverse, and D for drive.
ESP (manual shift mode)

The indicator displays N for neutral, R for reverse, and 1 – 5 for the
five forward gears.
“–” 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.
(1)
(1) gear position indicator
If the gear position indicator shows “–” or blinks, turn the ignition
switch to the OFF (w) position, and then turn it back to the ON (q)
position again. If the gear position indicator still shows “–”, check
that the range select lever is securely in a gear, rock the vehicle back
and forth. Make sure the gear position is properly displayed in the
gear position indicator. If the gear position indicator still shows “_”
or blinks, see your dealer.

TRX520FM6
The indicator displays: N for neutral, R for reverse, and 1 – 5 for the
five forward gears.
“–” 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 (w) position, and then turn it back to the ON (q)
position again.
If the gear position indicator shows “–”, rock the vehicle back and
forth and make sure the gear position indicator is displayed properly.
If the gear position indicator still shows “–” or blinks, see your
dealer.
If the “–” on the gear position indicator is blinking, see your dealer.
(1)
(1) gear position indicator

Fuel Gauge
The fuel gauge (1) shows the approximate fuel supply available with
the fuel mark (2). The fuel tank capacity is:
3.88 US gal (14.7 ℓ)
(2) (1)
(1) fuel gauge (2) fuel mark
Regardless of what mode the display is in, when the fuel level
reaches the 1st segment (3), the display will automatically switch to
the fuel gauge display. You should refuel as soon as possible.
The amount of fuel remaining when the fuel gauge reaches the 1st
segment is approximately:
1.82 US gal (6.9 ℓ)
(3)
(3) 1st segment

(4)
(5)
(4) “E _ _ _ _ _ F” (5) “LO FUEL”
When the fuel gauge shows “E _ _ _ _ _ F” (4) and “LO FUEL” (5)
blinks 3 times alternately and the fuel mark blinks, you should refuel
as soon as possible.
The amount of fuel reserve is approximately:
1.29 US gal (4.9 ℓ)
Fuel gauge failure:

If the fuel gauge E – – – – – F (6) is blinking, the fuel gauge function
has failed. See your dealer.
(6) “E – – – – – F” (6)

Digital Clock
The digital clock (1) shows time with the clock mark (2) when the
ignition switch is ON (q).
(3) (1) (2)

(1) digital clock (3) mode select button
(2) clock mark
To adjust the time, proceed as follows:

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (q) and select the digital clock mode.
2. Press and hold the mode select button (3) until the display starts
blinking.
3. To advance the display 1 minute at a time, press and release the
mode select button for 0.5 seconds.
To advance the display more quickly, press and hold the mode
select button.
4. Release the mode select button when the display reaches the
desired time.
5. To end the adjustment, press and release the mode select button
for less than 0.5 seconds or turn the ignition switch to OFF (w).
After the battery is reconnected (page 216), check the clock.

Readjust the clock if necessary.

Odometer
The odometer (1) registers total distance traveled in mileage while

the ignition switch is ON (q) with the “ODO” mark (2). The
odometer locks at 999,999 when the read-out exceeds 999,999.
(2) (1)
(1) odometer (2) “ODO” mark
Tripmeter
The tripmeter (1) shows mileage per trip since you last reset the
tripmeter while the ignition switch is ON (q) with the “TRIP” mark
(2). The tripmeter returns to 0.0 when the read-out exceeds 999.9.
To reset the tripmeter to zero, press the mode select button (3) and
hold it in for at least 2 seconds in the tripmeter mode.
(2)
(3) (1)
(1) tripmeter (3) mode select button
(2) “TRIP” mark

Coolant Temperature Gauge
The coolant temperature gauge (1) shows coolant temperature with

the coolant temperature mark (2) while the ignition switch is ON (q).
The normal operating temperature range is within the section

between the 1st segment (3) and 4th segment (4).
When coolant temperature is low, the coolant temperature gauge

will display “Lo” (5).
(2)
(1) (3) (4) (5)

(1) coolant temperature gauge (4) 4th segment
(2) coolant temperature mark (5) “Lo”
(3) 1st segment

When the coolant exceeds the specified temperature, the 5th
segment (6) appears and the high coolant temperature indicator (7)
lights.
If this occurs, stop the engine and check the reserve tank coolant
level. Read pages 250 – 251 and do not ride the ATV until the
problem has been corrected.
NOTICE
Continuing to ride with an overheated engine can cause serious
engine damage.
(6) (7)
(6) 5th segment (7) high coolant temperature indicator
If the “C – – – – – H” (8) blinks, the meter input signal has failed. See
your dealer.
(8)
(8) “C – – – – – H”

Hour meter
The hour meter (1) shows accumulated hours while the ignition
switch is ON (q) with the hour meter mark (2). The hour meter
provides accurate service period information for initial and regular
maintenance. The hour meter locks at 99,999.9 when the read-out
exceeds 99,999.9.
(1) (2)
(1) hour meter (2) hour meter mark

Maintenance Tripmeter/Maintenance Hour meter
The maintenance tripmeter (1) shows mileage to maintenance while

the ignition switch is ON (q) with the maintenance minder indicator
(2).
The maintenance hour meter (3) shows remaining time to

maintenance while the ignition switch is ON (q) with the
maintenance minder indicator.
(1) (2) (3) (2)

(1) maintenance tripmeter (3) maintenance hour meter
(2) maintenance minder
indicator
The maintenance tripmeter decreases from 600 miles (1,000 km)

after reset. The maintenance hour meter decreases from 100 hour
after reset.
The initial setting of the maintenance tripmeter is 100 miles (150 km).
The initial setting of the maintenance hour meter is 20 hours.

Maintenance Minder Indicators:
Initial Maintenance
Appears at 100 miles (150 km) or 20 operating hours,
whichever comes first.
Regular Maintenance Interval 1
Appears 600 miles (1,000 km) or 100 operating
hours after the Initial Maintenance or Regular
Maintenance Interval 2 is performed and
maintenance minder is reset, whichever comes first in
the maintenance schedule.
Regular Maintenance Interval 2
Appears 600 miles (1,000 km) or 100 operating
hours after Regular Maintenance Interval 1 is
performed and maintenance minder is reset,
whichever comes first in the maintenance schedule.
When the maintenance tripmeter or maintenance hour meter
amounts to 0, the display of the maintenance minder indicator
changes. When the maintenance tripmeter or maintenance hour
meter are selected, the maintenance minder indicator and lower part
of the multi-function display (4) start blinking. When another mode
is selected, the maintenance minder indicator appears in the display.
(4) (4)
(4) lower part of the multi-function display

Reset the maintenance tripmeter/maintenance hour meter after
maintenance.
To reset the maintenance tripmeter/maintenance hour meter,

proceed as follows:
Press and hold the mode select button (5) and turn the ignition
switch (6) to ON (q). The maintenance minder indicator will appear,
then it will blink twice and the multi-function display will temporarily
show all the modes and digital segments. The indicator message will
disappear.
Reset operation will be cancelled if the mode select button is

released before the indicator blinks twice.
If the maintenance is done before the setting interval, be sure to

reset the meters after the maintenance.
(5) (6) (2)

(2) maintenance minder (5) mode select button
indicator (6) ignition switch

Controls & Features
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch (1) is used for starting and stopping the engine
(page 88). Insert the key and turn it to the right for the ON (q)
position.
The ignition switch is also used to reset the maintenance tripmeter

and the maintenance hour meter (page 36).
Key Position Function

ON (q) Electrical circuits on.
OFF (w) No electrical circuits function.
CENTER OF HANDLEBAR
OFF ON
(1)
(1) ignition switch q ON

w OFF

Controls & Features
Range Select Lever (Except TRX520FM6)
The range select lever (1) has two positions: Drive (D) and Low (L).
See Shifting Gears, page 101.
LEFT SIDE OF FUEL TANK

(1)
(1) range select lever

Controls & Features
4WD Switch
Your ATV is equipped with a 4WD switch (1), which permits a choice
between the “2WD” and “4WD” drive modes. Select a drive mode
that’s suitable for your riding.
Keep both hands on the handlebar while the machine is in motion

and come to a complete stop before using the 4WD switch.
The 4WD switch is located above the throttle lever. To select the
drive mode, with your ATV stopped, push the 4WD switch.
To check your present drive mode, look at the 4WD indicator (2).
2WD mode: the 4WD indicator disappears when the 2WD mode engages.
4WD mode: the 4WD indicator appears when the 4WD mode engages.
If the 4WD indicator does not appear when selecting the 4WD
mode, accelerate your ATV slowly until the 4WD indicator appears.
The 4WD indicator and differential lock indicator both flash together
when there is any abnormality in the front final gear system. See
Front Differential Lock and Speed Limiter Override (Differential Lock
Switch and Start/Override Button), page 42.
2WD mode
2WD mode
(1)
(2)
4WD mode
4WD mode (1)

(1) 4WD switch (2) 4WD indicator

Controls & Features
Front Differential Lock and Speed Limiter Override

(Differential Lock Switch and Start/Override Button)
Your ATV is equipped with a front differential lock feature that

includes a speed limiter and speed limiter override. This system is
designed to provide maximum use of available traction to help you
escape from situations where the vehicle might otherwise become
stuck, in the mud for example.
When the front differential lock mode is activated, the front

differential gear is locked causing all four wheels to rotate at the
same speed. Because locking all four wheels together changes the
way the vehicle handles and increases the amount of room necessary
to turn, a speed limiter restricts the speed to 20 mph (32 km/h).
Pushing and holding the start/override button in this mode allows
you to momentarily override the 20 mph (32 km/h) speed limiter, up
to 40 mph (64 km/h), to help you free the vehicle in more severe
conditions.
You should only use this feature where maximum traction is required
and only in low speeds. For normal riding, use 2WD and 4WD
modes.

Controls & Features
To select the front differential lock mode:
When the 4WD mode is engaged, reduce the speed of your ATV to
below 10 mph (16 km/h) and slide the differential lock switch (1)
over the 4WD switch. The differential lock indicator (2) will flash fast
and the front differential locking process begins. When the locking
is complete, the differential lock indicator stays on.
4WD mode front differential lock mode
(1) (1)
(in the locking (completed
process) locking)
(2) fast (2) (2)
flashing
off
(speed above 10 mph solid light
(16 km/h). Locking
process interrupted)
slow (2)
flashing
(1) differential lock switch (2) differential lock indicator
If the speed of your ATV is above 10 mph (16 km/h), the locking
process will be interrupted and the differential lock indicator will
slowly flash.
If the differential lock indicator does not stay on when the front
differential lock mode is selected, steer the handlebar either to the
left or right all the way while your ATV is stopped. If the differential
lock indicator is still flashing, move your ATV slowly while steering
the handlebar all the way to right or left.
Controls & Features
To activate the speed limiter override mode:
Push the start/override button (3) when the front differential lock
mode is activated.
LEFT HANDLEBAR
Except TRX520FM6 TRX520FM6
(3) (3)
(3) start/override button
Front final gear system failure:

The differential lock indicator and 4WD indicator (4) will both flash
when there is any abnormality in the front final gear system. If this
occurs, the front final gear actuator will stop moving, and the front
final gear system will be fixed in the current position, either 2WD
mode, 4WD mode or front differential lock mode.
If both the differential lock indicator and 4WD indicator flash, reduce
speed and take your ATV to your dealer as soon as possible.
(2) (4)
(2) differential lock indicator (4) 4WD indicator

Controls & Features
Start/Override Button
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(1)
(1) start/override START or SPEED LIMITER
button OVERRIDE MODE
The start/override button (1) is used for starting the engine and
activate the speed limiter override mode. Pushing the button in starts
the engine. See Starting Procedure, page 90.
When the engine is not running and the start/override 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 (r) position
when the start/override button is pushed.
To activate the speed limiter override mode, see Front Differential

Lock and Speed Limiter Override (Differential Lock Switch and Start/
Override Button), page 40.

Controls & Features
Engine Stop Switch e r
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1) (1)
(1) engine stop switch r OFF
e RUN
The engine stop switch (1) is used to stop the engine in an

emergency. To operate, slide the switch to the OFF (r) position. The
switch must be in the RUN (e) position to start the engine, and it
should normally remain in the RUN (e) position even when the
engine is OFF.
If your ATV is stopped with the ignition switch ON (q) and the engine
stop switch OFF (r), the battery will discharge. Turn the ignition
switch to OFF (w) to prevent battery discharge.

Controls & Features
Headlight Switch y t
LEFT HANDLEBAR

(1)
(2)
(2)
(1)
(1) headlight switch y ON

t OFF
(2) headlight dimmer switch u HI
i LO
The headlight switch (1) is used to turn the headlights and assist
headlight ON (y) or OFF (t). The assist headlight turns on only when
the headlight dimmer switch (2) is in the HI (u) position. To operate,
turn the switch to ON (y) or OFF (t).
Headlight Dimmer Switch u i

The headlight dimmer switch (2) is used to change between the high
and low beams of the headlights and to activate the assist headlight.
To operate, turn the switch to HI (u) for high beam headlights and
to activate the assist headlight. Turn the switch to LO (i) for low
beam headlights and to deactivate the assist headlight.
Controls & Features
Recoil Starter (Canada only)
RIGHT SIDE
(1)
(1) recoil starter
The recoil starter (1) is used to start the engine when the battery is
low. See Using the Recoil Starter (Canada only), page 94.

Controls & Features
Throttle Lever
RIGHT HANDLEBAR
(A)
(1)
(1) throttle lever (A) to open the throttle
The throttle controls engine rpm (speed). To increase engine rpm,

press the throttle lever (1) 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.

Controls & Features
Drive Mode Select Switch (Except TRX520FM6)
The drive mode select switch (1) has two positions: AUTO (automatic
shift mode) and ESP (manual shift mode).
See Shifting Gears, page 95.
RIGHT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(1) drive mode select switch

Controls & Features
Gearshift Switch (Except TRX520FM6)
AUTO (automatic shift mode)

These gearshift switches [upshift switch (1) and downshift switch (2)]
are used to select the drive (D), neutral (N) and reverse (R).
See Shifting Gears, page 95 and Riding in Reverse, page 104.
ESP (manual shift mode)

These gearshift switches are used to select the next higher or lower
gear in the transmission. To operate, press the upshift switch (1) to
engage the next higher gear or press the downshift switch (2) to
engage the next lower gear.
See Shifting Gears, page 95 and Riding in Reverse, page 104.
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(2)
(1) upshift switch

(2) downshift switch

Controls & Features
Reverse Switch (Except TRX520FM6)
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(1) reverse switch
The reverse switch (1) is used when shifting the transmission into
reverse (R).
To shift into reverse (R), see Riding in Reverse, page 104.

Controls & Features
Front Brake Lever
The front brake lever is used to slow or stop your ATV. To operate,
pull the lever. For information on braking techniques, see page 108.
Rear Brake Lever/Parking Brake Lever
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 108.
Rear Brake Pedal
The rear brake pedal is used to slow or stop your ATV. To operate,
depress the pedal. For information on braking techniques, see
page 108.

Controls & Features
Parking Brake Lever (Except TRX520FM6)
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(2)
(1) parking brake lock lever

(2) rear brake lever/parking brake lever
The parking brake lock lever (1) on the rear brake lever/parking brake
lever (2) is used to apply the parking brake.

Controls & Features
To apply the parking brake:
Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, then make sure the
transmission is in neutral.
Squeeze the rear brake lever/parking brake lever (1), then rotate the
parking brake lock lever (2) clockwise until it engages the slot on the
rear brake lever/parking brake lever bracket.
For more information on Parking, see page 123.
(2)
(1)

(2) parking brake lock lever
To release the parking brake:

Squeeze the rear brake lever/parking brake lever until the parking
brake lock lever is released from the slot on the rear brake lever/
parking brake lever bracket.
The brake light is activated by applying the parking brake. When

using the parking brake, be sure turn the ignition switch to OFF (w)
to avoid discharging the battery.

Controls & Features
Parking Brake/Reverse Lever (P/R Lever)

(TRX520FM6 only)
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(2)
(1) P/R lever

The P/R lever (1) on the rear brake lever/parking brake lever (2) is
used to apply the parking brake or to shift the transmission into
reverse.

Controls & Features
To apply the parking brake:
Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, then make sure the
Squeeze the rear brake lever /parking brake lever (1), then rotate the
P/R lever (2) clockwise until it engages the slot on the rear brake
lever/parking brake lever bracket.
For more information on Parking, see page 123.
(2)
(1)

(2) P/R lever
To release the parking brake:

Squeeze the rear brake lever/parking brake lever until the P/R lever is
released from the slot on the rear brake lever/parking brake lever
bracket.

using the parking brake, be sure to turn the ignition switch to OFF
(w) to avoid discharging the battery.
To shift the transmission into reverse:

See Riding in Reverse (TRX520FM6), page 106.

Controls & Features
Flag Pole Bracket
RIGHT REAR
(1)
(1) flag pole bracket
Flag poles are optional equipment available from your dealer. To

mount a pole in the bracket (1), follow the instructions that come
with the flag pole kit.
Flag poles are required in some riding areas. Check local regulations
before riding.

Controls & Features
Trailer Hitch
REAR
(2)
(1)
(1) trailer hitch (2) ball
The trailer hitch (1) is located on the rear frame. To use the hitch,
you’ll need a proper size ball (2) 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 75.

Controls & Features
Accessory Socket
LEFT FRONT (2)
(3)
(1)
(1) accessory socket (3) accessory socket cap

(2) front center cover
The accessory socket (1) is attached to the left side of the front
center cover (2). You can use the accessory socket to power a
trouble light, spotlight, CB radio, or cell phone, etc.
NOTICE
Do not plug in any heat-generating accessory, such as an automobile
cigarette lighter, because it can damage the socket.
To use the accessory socket, turn the ignition switch to ON (q), start
the engine. Then turn the headlights OFF (t), and open the accessory
socket cap (3).

Controls & Features
Be sure the engine is on and the headlights are turned off before
using the accessory socket, otherwise you may drain the battery.
The accessory socket’s rated capacity is DC 12 V, 120 Watts (10 A)

or less. If you exceed this limit, you may blow a fuse. See If a Fuse
Blows, page 252.
When you are done using an accessory, unplug it and cover the
socket with the cap.
Be careful not to flood this accessory socket when washing your

ATV.

Controls & Features
Side Utility Box
The side utility box (1) is located on the left side of the front fender.
You may store small, lightweight items in the box.
To open:
Pull up the front of the side utility box cover (2).
To close:
Push down the front of the side utility box cover until it locks in
place. Make sure that the stud (3) is locked securely in position by
pulling up lightly on the front of the side utility box cover.
NOTICE
Do not store valuable items in the side utility box.
Be careful not to flood this area when washing your ATV.

LEFT FRONT FENDER
(3)
(2) (1)
(1) side utility box (3) stud
(2) side utility box cover

Controls & Features
Front Utility Box
The front utility box (1) is located on the front center cover. You may
store small, lightweight items in the box.
To open:
Pull up the front of the front utility box cover (2).
To close:
Push down the front of the front utility box cover until it locks in
place. Make sure that the studs (3) are locked securely in position by
pulling up lightly on the front of the front utility box cover.
NOTICE
Do not store valuable items in the front utility box.

FRONT CENTER COVER (3)
(2)
(1)
(1) front utility box (3) studs

(2) front utility box cover

Controls & Features
Utility Pocket (TRX520FM6 only)
The utility pocket (1) is located on the left side cover. You may store
small, lightweight items in the pocket.
NOTICE
Do not store valuable items in the utility pocket.
LEFT SIDE COVER
(1)
(1) utility pocket

Controls & Features
Storage Compartment
The storage compartment (1) is located below the rear cargo rack
(2).
To open the compartment, unhook the rubber strap (3).
REAR
(3)
(2)
(1)
(1) storage compartment

(2) rear cargo rack
(3) rubber strap

Controls & Features
EPS (Electric Power Steering) (Except TRX520FA5)
This ATV is equipped with an electronically controlled, electric-

power-assisted steering system.
While the engine is running, the EPS (Electric Power Steering) system
provides power from the electric motor, which helps you to turn the
ATV’s handlebar more easily.
The EPS system on this ATV utilizes an overheat protection feature to

prevent damage to system components. In certain extended,
repetitive high-load situations the PS indicator will illuminate and the
system will reduce or even disable power steering assist. The steering
will perform as a normal non-EPS system during this brief period. If
this occurs, safely stop the vehicle and allow the EPS system to cool
down until the PS indicator goes off. After cooling down, steering
will return to normal EPS 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 EPS
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, other than the
temporary overheat condition described above, reduce speed and
take your ATV to your dealer as soon as possible. Continuing to ride
with a EPS system problem can damage system components.
Do not modify your Electric Power Steering system. In case of a

malfunction, take your ATV to your dealer.

Before Riding
Before each ride, you need to make sure you and your Honda are
Before Riding
both ready to ride. To help get you prepared, this section discusses
how to evaluate your riding readiness, what items you should check
on your ATV, and adjustments to make for your comfort,
convenience, or safety. This section also includes important
information about loading.
Are You Ready to Ride? .............................................................. 66

Protective Apparel ................................................................... 66
Rider Training .......................................................................... 68
Age Recommendation ............................................................. 69
No Passengers ......................................................................... 69
No Alcohol or Drugs ................................................................ 70
Is Your ATV Ready to Ride? ........................................................ 71
Pre-ride Inspection ................................................................... 71
Load Limits & Guidelines............................................................. 75
Loading ................................................................................... 75
Load Limits .............................................................................. 76
Loading Guidelines .................................................................. 77
Accessories & Modifications........................................................ 78
Accessories .............................................................................. 78
Modifications........................................................................... 79
Before Riding 65
Are You Ready to Ride?
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 are wearing an approved motorcycle helmet (with chin strap
tightened securely), eye protection, and other protective
clothing.
• You don’t have any alcohol or drugs in your system.
Protective Apparel
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.
66 Before Riding
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 (USA only). Always
wear a face shield or goggles to protect your eyes and help your
vision.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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 a crash.
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.
Additional Riding Gear

In addition to a helmet and eye protection, we also recommend:
• Sturdy off-road motorcycle boots to help protect your feet,
ankles, and lower legs.
• Off-road motorcycle gloves to help protect your hands.
• Riding pants with knee and hip pads, a riding jersey with padded
elbows, and a chest/shoulder protector.
Before Riding 67
Rider Training
Developing your riding skills is an ongoing 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 an 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 (USA only).
Other riding tips can be found in the Tips & Practice Guide for the
ATV Rider booklet that came with your ATV (USA only).
WARNING 3 WARNING
Operating this ATV without proper
instruction could increase your risk of a crash
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.
68 Before Riding
Age Recommendation
The minimum recommended age for this ATV model is 16. For
safety, never let children under 16 years old operate this vehicle.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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 90 cc.
No Passengers
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
Before Riding 69
No Alcohol or Drugs
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Operating this ATV after consuming alcohol
or drugs can seriously affect your judgment,
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.
70 Before Riding
Is Your ATV Ready to Ride?
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 dealer. There may be
damage or other problems you cannot see.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
Pre-ride Inspection
Check the following items before you get on the ATV:
Engine Oil Check the level and add oil if needed (pages
153, 156).
Check for leaks.
Radiator Coolant Check the coolant level and add coolant if

needed (page 171).
Check for leaks.
(cont’d)
Before Riding 71
Fuel Check the level and add fuel (page 148) if
needed. Also make sure the fuel fill cap is
securely fastened.
Check for leaks.
Tires Use a gauge to check the air pressure. Adjust

if needed. Also look for signs of damage or
excessive wear (page 205).
Drivetrain Boots Check for damage (page 213).
Guards Check for damage or looseness (page 212).
Nuts & Bolts 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.
Underbody & Exhaust Check for, and remove, any dirt, vegetation
System or other debris that could be a fire hazard or
interfere with the proper operation of the
vehicle.
Air Cleaner Housing Check for deposits in the drain tube. If

Drain Tube necessary, clean the tube (page 183) and
check the air cleaner housing.
Leaks, Loose Parts Walk around your ATV and look for anything
that appears unusual, such as a leak or loose
cable.
72 Before Riding
Cable Check the cable housings for wear. Check
the fittings for looseness. Replace or tighten
as needed.
Lights Make sure the headlights, brake light and

taillight are working properly.
If you are carrying cargo, also check the following:
Loading Limits Make sure you do not exceed the load limits
(page 76).
Cargo Check that all cargo is secure.
Check these items after you get on the ATV:
Throttle 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 184).
Brakes Squeeze the front and rear brake levers and

step on the rear brake pedal to check that
the controls operate normally. Depress the
rear brake pedal several times, then check
for proper rear brake lever/parking brake
lever freeplay (page 202). Make sure there is
no brake fluid leakage.
Reverse Assist Lever Check the freeplay and adjust if needed

(TRX520FM6 only) (page 187). Make sure the lever operates
smoothly without sticking.
(cont’d)
Before Riding 73
Headlights and Check for proper function (page 45).
Headlight Dimmer
Switch
Engine Stop Switch Check for proper function (page 44).
Steering 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 dealer correct it before you ride.
74 Before Riding
Load Limits & Guidelines
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.
Loading
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
Before Riding 75
Load Limits
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.
maximum weight capacity 573 lb (260 kg)

(includes the weight of the rider,
all cargo, and accessories.)
front cargo rack weight limit = 99 lb (45 kg)

rear cargo rack weight limit = 187 lb (85 kg)
tow weight limit = 1,322 lb (600 kg)
(Combined weight of the trailer
and all cargo in the trailer)
tongue weight = 30 lb (14 kg) recommended
(Weight on the trailer tongue)
tongue and rear cargo weight = 187 lb (85 kg) maximum
(Combined weight on the
trailer tongue and on the rear
cargo rack)
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.
The weight of added accessories will reduce the maximum cargo

weight you can carry.
76 Before Riding
Loading Guidelines
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.
Before Riding 77
Accessories & Modifications
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
Accessories
We strongly recommend that you use only Honda 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 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.
• Make sure the accessory does not interfere with your ability to
shift body position on the seat or operate hand and foot controls.
• Do not add any electrical equipment that will exceed the vehicle’s
electrical system capacity (page 268). A blown fuse can cause a
loss of lights or engine power (page 252).
78 Before Riding
Accessories & Modifications
Modifications
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.
Before Riding 79
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80 Before 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 269).
Safe Riding Precautions .............................................................. 83

Off-road Use Only.................................................................... 83
Keep Hands and Feet on Controls............................................ 84
Control Speed ......................................................................... 85
Use Care on Unfamiliar or Rough Terrain ................................. 86
Do Not Perform Stunts............................................................. 87
Starting & Stopping the Engine................................................... 88
Preparation.............................................................................. 89
Starting Procedure ................................................................... 90
Flooded Engine........................................................................ 91
Bank Angle Sensor Ignition Cut-off System .............................. 91
Stalled Engine.......................................................................... 92
How to Stop the Engine........................................................... 93
Using the Recoil Starter (Canada only) ..................................... 94
Shifting Gears............................................................................. 95
Shifting Gears (Except TRX520FM6) ......................................... 95
Shifting Gears (TRX520FM6) .................................................. 102
Riding in Reverse ...................................................................... 104
Riding in Reverse (Except TRX520FM6)................................... 104
Riding in Reverse (TRX520FM6).............................................. 106
(cont’d)
Basic Operation & Riding 81
Braking..................................................................................... 108
Riding Your ATV....................................................................... 110
Making Turns ........................................................................ 110
Skidding or Sliding................................................................. 112
Riding Up Hills ....................................................................... 113
Riding Down Hills .................................................................. 117
Crossing or Turning on Hills or Slopes .................................... 118
Riding Over Obstacles ............................................................ 120
Riding Through Water ........................................................... 121
Parking ..................................................................................... 123
82 Basic Operation & Riding

Safe Riding Precautions
Before riding your ATV for the first time, please review the ATV
Safety section beginning on page 1, and the Before Riding section
beginning on page 65.
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.
Off-road Use Only
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
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.

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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
Keep Hands and Feet on Controls
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

(1)
(1) footpeg
Control Speed
Riding at excessive speed increases the chance of a crash. 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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Operating this ATV at excessive speeds
increases your chances of losing control of the
ATV, which can result in a crash.
Always go at a speed that is proper for your

vehicle, the terrain, visibility and other
operating conditions, and your experience.

Use Care on Unfamiliar or Rough Terrain
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.)
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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 a crash, 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.
Do Not Perform Stunts
You should always operate your ATV in a safe and reasonable

manner. When riding, always keep all four wheels on the ground.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Attempting wheelies, jumps, and other stunts
increases the chance of a crash, including an
overturn.
Never attempt stunts, such as wheelies or

jumps. Don’t try to show off.

Starting & Stopping the Engine
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Running the engine of your vehicle while in
an enclosed or even partially enclosed area
can cause a rapid build-up of toxic carbon
monoxide gas.
Breathing this colorless, odorless gas can

quickly cause unconsciousness and lead to
death.
Only run your vehicle’s engine when it is

located in a well ventilated area outdoors.
Except TRX520FM6:
If you turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position while in
reverse, the transmission will automatically return to neutral (N)
when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (q) position.
The starter motor will operate when the transmission is in neutral or

the front brake lever is pulled in.

Preparation
(2)
(1)
(3)
(3)
(1) ignition switch (3) engine stop switch
(2) neutral indicator
1. Before starting, make sure the vehicle is on a level surface and

lock the parking brake (page 52).
2. Turn the ignition switch (1) to ON (q).
Confirm the following:

• The transmission is in neutral, and the neutral indicator (2) is ON
and the gear position indicator shows “N”.
• The engine stop switch (3) is set to RUN (e).

Starting Procedure
This ATV is fuel-injected with an automatic choke.

Follow the procedure indicated below.
Any Air Temperature

• With the throttle completely closed, press the start/override
button.
The engine will not start if the throttle is fully open (because the
electronic control module cuts off the fuel supply).
Snapping the throttle or fast idling for more than 5 minutes may
cause exhaust pipe and muffler discolorations.

Flooded Engine
If the engine fails to start after repeated attempts, it may be flooded

with excess fuel. To clear a flooded engine:
1. Leave the engine stop switch set to RUN (e).

2. Open the throttle fully.
3. (USA)
Press the start/override button for 5 seconds.
(Canada)
Press the start/override button for 5 seconds (or operate the recoil
starter several times).
4. Follow the normal starting procedure.
5. If the engine starts, then open the throttle slightly if idling is
unstable.
If the engine does not start, wait 10 seconds, then follow steps
1 – 4 again.
If the engine still won’t start, refer to If Your Engine Quits or Won’t
Start, page 238.
Bank Angle Sensor Ignition Cut-off System
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 (w) position and then back to ON (q). The engine will not restart
until you perform this procedure.

Stalled Engine
You can restart the engine while the vehicle is stopped by squeezing
the front brake lever and pressing the start/override button.
Do not press the throttle lever while starting in gear. The engine will
not start if the throttle is fully open (because the electronic control
module cuts off the fuel supply).
Once you have started the engine, release the front brake lever, then
apply throttle gradually.

How to Stop the Engine
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 to OFF (w).
The engine stop switch should normally remain in the RUN (e)
position even when the engine is OFF.
If your ATV is stopped with the engine stop switch OFF (r) and the
ignition switch ON (q), the battery will discharge.
Emergency Engine Stop

To stop the engine in an emergency, use the engine stop switch. To
operate, slide the switch to either OFF (r) position.

Using the Recoil Starter (Canada only)
The recoil starter is used to start the engine when the battery is low.
To operate the recoil starter:
1. Turn the ignition switch to ON and engine stop switch to RUN.

2. Check that the transmission is in neutral.
3. Grasp the starter grip (1) firmly, then pull it out slowly
approximately 4 in (100 mm).
4. Pull the grip up briskly and fully.
5. After the engine starts, allow the starter grip to return slowly.
Pull the recoil starter grip straight out so that the cord does not
touch the side cover. Repeated contact with the side cover can
damage the starter cord.
If the starter grip does not return smoothly (because of dirt in the
assembly), see your dealer.
RIGHT SIDE
(1)
(1) starter grip

Shifting Gears
Shifting Gears (Except TRX520FM6)
Your ATV has two shift modes: AUTO (automatic shift mode) and
ESP (manual shift mode).
You can select the desired shift mode with the drive mode select
switch.
AUTO (automatic shift mode):

Use this mode for everyday riding. The transmission automatically
shifts to keep the engine at the best speed for riding condition.
The gear position indicator shows “D” for forward gears, “N” for
neutral, and “R” for reverse. Select gear position with the gear shift
switches.
In AUTO (automatic shift mode), you can temporarily shift up or
down by using the shift switches.
ESP (manual shift mode):

In this mode, you can shift gears much like a manual transmission,
but without operating a clutch.
You can select five forward gears, neutral, and reverse by operating
the gearshift switches.
The gear position indicator will show “1, 2, 3, 4, or 5” for forward
gears, “N” for neutral, and “R” for reverse.
When you tow a trailer, select the 1st shift position for proper
performance.

Shifting Gears
Drive mode select (AUTO/ESP)
The drive mode select switch (1) is located on the right handlebar.
To select the drive mode, release the throttle, then slide the drive
mode select switch to the desired position. With the throttle fully
closed, the drive mode can be changed while riding.
RIGHT HANDLEBAR
AUTO (automatic ESP (manual
shift mode) shift mode)
(1)
(1) drive mode select switch
Gear Position selection AUTO (D/N/R), Manual (1-5/N/R)

Two gearshift switches are located next to the left handlebar grip:
upshift ( ) and downshift ( ).
To shift between a forward gear (D or 1), neutral (N), or reverse (R),
bring the ATV to complete stop and press a shift switch to select
gear position.
Select neutral (N) when you start the engine, or if it is necessary to

stop briefly with the engine idling.
The gear position indicator shows “N”.

Shifting Gears
To select a forward gear (D or 1) from neutral (N), press the upshift
switch (2) once.
• In AUTO (automatic shift mode) the gear position indicator shows
“D”
• In ESP (manual shift mode) the gear position indicator shows “1”
To select reverse (R) from neutral (N), use the reverse switch and
press the downshift switch (3) once. See Riding in Reverse
(page 104).
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(2)
(3)
AUTO ESP
(automatic (manual
shift mode) shift mode)
(2) upshift switch (3) downshift switch
Driving in AUTO (automatic shift mode):

After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow these
procedures:
1. With the transmission in neutral, release the parking brake
(page 53), but continue to squeeze the rear brake lever/parking
brake lever.
2. With the throttle closed, select AUTO (automatic shift mode), and
then press the upshift switch once to shift into drive (D).
3. The gear position indicator shows “D”.
4. Release the rear brake lever/parking brake lever and increase
engine speed by gradually opening the throttle.

Shifting Gears
Driving in ESP (manual shift mode).
After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow these
procedures:
1. With the transmission in neutral, release the parking brake
(page 53), but continue to squeeze the rear brake lever/parking
brake lever.
2. With the throttle closed, select ESP (manual shift mode), and then
press the upshift switch ( ) (2) once to shift into 1st gear.
3. The gear position indicator shows “1”.
5. When speed increases, release the throttle and upshift to 2nd
gear by pressing the upshift switch once.
6. Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd, 4th and 5th
(top) gear.
7. To downshift, press the downshift switch ( ) (3) once.
Remember to close the throttle each time you shift to the next
lower gear.
UPSHIFTING SEQUENCE
(2)
(A)
DOWNSHIFTING SEQUENCE
(3)
(A)
(2) upshift switch (A) press
(3) downshift switch

Shifting Gears
You can temporarily shift up or down in AUTO (automatic shift
mode) by using the shift switches.
The transmission cannot be upshifted from neutral to 1st gear or D-
mode when the engine speed is above 2,200 rpm or the ground
speed is above 3 mph (5 km/h).
The transmission cannot be downshifted from 1st gear or D-mode to

neutral when the ground speed is above 3 mph (5 km/h) or engine
speed is above 2,200 rpm.
In ESP (manual shift mode), if the ground speed decreases under a set speed (see
table) the transmission will automatically downshift to the next lower gear.
Drive Range (D)

Downshift Speed
Gear
mph km/h
5th 9 14
4th 6 10
3rd 4 8
2nd 2 3
Low Range (L)

Downshift Speed
Gear
mph km/h
5th 6 10
4th 4 7
3rd 3 5
2nd 1 2
If the ATV is at a complete stop, 4th gear or 5th gear cannot be selected.
If the electric shift system malfunctions, the transmission cannot be

shifted by pressing the gearshift switches. See your dealer. (In an
emergency, a gear may be selected manually so you may move the
vehicle. See Emergency Gear Selection & Operation (Except
TRX520FM6), page 244).
Shifting Gears
Learning when to shift gears comes with experience. Keep the
following tips in mind:
• As a general rule, shift while moving in a straight line.
• Close the throttle completely before shifting. Improper shifting
may damage the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
• Upshift to a higher gear or reduce throttle before engine rpm
(speed) gets too high. Learn the relationship between engine
sound and the normal shifting points.
• Downshift to a lower gear before you feel the engine laboring
(lugging) at low rpm.
• Avoid downshifting to help slow your ATV when engine rpm is
high. Downshifting when engine speed is near its allowable
maximum may over-rev the engine and possibly cause damage.
• To prevent transmission damage, do not coast or tow the ATV for
long distances with the engine off.
Recommended Shift Points

Ride in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate
smoothly. This will give you good fuel economy and effective
emissions control.

Shifting Gears
Your ATV has two gear ranges: Drive (D), and Low (L).
The range select lever (4) is located on the left side of the fuel tank.
To select a transmission range, bring the ATV to a complete stop.
NOTICE
If the range select lever is moved while the vehicle is moving, the
sub-transmission may be damaged.
Drive (D) range

Drive is the normal position; use this range for normal riding.
Low (L) range

Use this range to get more power when climbing, for maximum
engine braking when going down steep hills, and for towing.
LEFT SIDE OF FUEL TANK
(4)
(4) range select lever
If the range select lever will not move easily to another gear range,
rock the vehicle back and forth slightly to line up the gears in the
sub-transmission.

Shifting Gears
Shifting Gears (TRX520FM6)
UPSHIFTING SEQUENCE
DOWNSHIFTING SEQUENCE
Your ATV has five forward gears: 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.
The shift lever is located near the left footpeg. One full stroke of the
shift lever shifts the transmission to the next higher or lower gear in
the shifting sequence. The shift lever automatically returns to the
horizontal position when released.
To upshift to a higher gear, put the toe of your boot under the shift
lever and raise it one full stroke. To downshift, step on the shift lever
and depress it one full stroke.
To select reverse, see Riding in Reverse (TRX520FM6), page 106.
After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow this procedure:
1. With the transmission in neutral, release the parking brake, but
continue squeezing the rear brake lever/parking brake lever.

Shifting Gears
2. With the throttle closed, raise the shift lever one full stroke to
shift into 1st (first) gear.
4. When speed increases, release the throttle and shift to 2nd gear
by raising the shift lever one full stroke.
5. Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd, 4th and 5th
(top) gear.
6. To downshift, reverse this sequence. Remember to close the
throttle each time you shift to the next lower gear.
Learning when to shift gears comes with experience. Keep the

following tips in mind:
• As a general rule, shift while moving in a straight line.
• Close the throttle (release) completely before shifting. Improper
shifting may damage the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.
• Upshift to a higher gear or reduce throttle before engine rpm
(speed) gets too high. Learn the relationship between engine
sound and the normal shifting points.
• Downshift to a lower gear before you feel the engine laboring
(lugging) at low rpm.
• Avoid downshifting to help slow your ATV when engine rpm is
high. Downshifting when engine speed is near its allowable
maximum may over-rev the engine and possibly cause damage.
• To prevent transmission damage, do not coast or tow the ATV for
long distances with the engine off.
Recommended Shift Points

Ride in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate
smoothly.
This will give you good fuel economy and effective emissions control.

Riding in Reverse
Riding in Reverse (Except TRX520FM6)
If you need to ride in reverse, make sure the area behind you is clear
and only operate the ATV at low speed.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop and hold the brakes.

2. Be sure there are no obstacles or people in the way.
3. Press and hold the reverse switch (2), then press the downshift
switch ( ) (1) within 10 seconds to shift into “R” reverse gear.
You can also shift into “R” reverse gear by pressing and holding the
downshift switch ( ) (1), then pressing the reverse switch (2) within 0.5
seconds.
4. Make sure that the reverse indicator comes on and the gear
position indicator shows “R”.
LEFT HANDLEBAR (3)
(2)
(1)
(1) downshift switch (3) upshift switch
(2) reverse switch
Riding in Reverse
NOTICE
Your ATV may be equipped with a reverse speed limiter, which helps
the vehicle to maintain a safe speed while riding in reverse gear.
5. Release the brakes.

6. Open the throttle gradually and ride slowly. Do not open the
throttle suddenly or make abrupt turns.
7. To stop, close the throttle and gradually apply both the front and
rear brakes. Do not abruptly apply the rear brake by itself.
8. Shift out of reverse and into “N” (neutral) or “D or 1” (forward gear)
• To shift into “N” (neutral), press the upshift switch ( ) (3) once.
• To shift into “D or 1” (forward gear), press and hold the reverse
switch (2), then press the upshift switch ( ) (3) within 10 seconds.
You can also shift into “D or 1” (forward gear) by pressing and holding the
upshift switch ( ) (3), then pressing the reverse switch (2) within 0.5 seconds.
The reverse switch will not operate if you operate continuously with
the reverse switch pressed.
Release the reverse switch once.
The transmission cannot be shifted from neutral back into reverse
when the engine speed is above 2,200 rpm or speed of your ATV is
above 3 mph (5 km/h).
The transmission cannot be shifted from reverse up to neutral when
the engine speed is above 2,200 rpm or if the speed of your ATV is
above 3 mph (5 km/h).
If you turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position while in
reverse, the transmission will automatically return to neutral (N)
when the ignition switch is turned to the ON (q) position.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

Riding in Reverse
Riding in Reverse (TRX520FM6)
If you need to ride in reverse, make sure the area behind you is clear
and only operate the ATV at low speed.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, then make sure the

2. Be sure there are no obstacles or people in the way.
3. Fully rotate the P/R lever (1) counterclockwise to engage the P/R
lever with the reverse assist lever (2).
4. While continuing to hold the P/R lever, squeeze the rear brake
lever/parking brake lever (3), then depress the shift lever once to
shift into “R” (reverse) gear.
5. Make sure that the reverse indicator comes on and the gear
position indicator shows “R”.
LEFT HANDLEBAR (1)
(2)
(3)
(1) P/R lever
(2) reverse assist lever
Riding in Reverse
NOTICE
Your ATV may be equipped with a reverse speed limiter, which helps
the vehicle to maintain a safe speed while riding in reverse gear.
6. Release the rear brake lever/parking brake lever.

7. Open the throttle gradually and ride slowly. Do not open the
throttle suddenly or make abrupt turns.
8. To stop, close the throttle and gradually apply both the front and
rear brakes. Do not abruptly apply the rear brake by alone.
9. To shift out of reverse and into neutral, raise the shift lever one
stroke to shift into “N” (neutral) gear.
(the neutral indicator is on and the gear position indicator shows
“N”)
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

Braking
Your ATV is equipped with disc brakes on both front wheels, which
are hydraulically activated by operating the right brake lever. The
single disc brake of the rear drivetrain is hydraulically activated by
pressing down on the brake pedal and mechanically activated by
operating the left brake lever.
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.
As a general rule, the front braking system provides about 70

percent of total stopping power.
For full braking effectiveness, use both the pedal and lever
simultaneously. Using both braking systems will stop your ATV faster
with greater stability.
Except TRX520FM6:
To slow or stop, apply the brake lever and brake pedal smoothly, while
downshifting to match your speed when your ATV is in the ESP mode.
TRX520FM6:
To slow or stop, apply the brake lever and brake pedal smoothly,
while downshifting to match your speed.
Except TRX520FM6:
Gradually increase braking as you feel the brakes slowing your
speed. The increase in engine compression from downshifting will
help slow your ATV when your ATV is in the ESP mode.
TRX520FM6:
Gradually increase braking as you feel the brakes slowing your speed. The
increase in engine compression from downshifting will help slow your ATV.

Braking
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.
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.
Your ability to brake in a turn and to brake hard in an emergency

situation are important riding skills.
Except TRX520FM6:
When descending a long, steep grade, use engine compression
braking by downshifting (in the ESP mode), with intermittent use of
both brakes. Continuous brake application can overheat the brakes
and reduce their effectiveness.
TRX520FM6:
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, Riding Your ATV.

Riding Your ATV
Making Turns
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
Remember that steering the handlebar in the front differential lock

mode will cause steering to be heavy and increase turning radius.

Riding Your ATV
Lean your body to the inside of a turn and forward.
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.
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 from a full stop: Apply the throttle gradually when
you turn and start 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.

Riding Your ATV
Skidding or Sliding
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
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.


Riding Your ATV
Riding Up Hills
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

Riding Your ATV
Shift weight forward when climbing hills.
• Always check the terrain carefully before you start up any hill.
• Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces.
• 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.

Riding Your ATV
Stalling the ATV and/or Rolling Backwards:
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
What to do if the ATV stalls or rolls backwards when climbing a hill:

If you are about to lose all forward speed:
1. Using the front and rear brakes together, bring the ATV to a stop
with the vehicle pointed straight uphill.
2. Get off the ATV while you continue holding the brakes.
3. Shift into neutral, set the parking brake and turn the engine off.
4. Then, assess the situation.
If the ATV starts rolling backwards before you begin braking:
1. Keep your weight uphill.
2. 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.
Remember that operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will
cause braking at both the front and rear wheels.

Riding Your ATV
What to do after the ATV has stalled or rolled backwards:
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.
Be sure your legs are Body position for

clear of the wheels. backing down a hill.
1. Stand with your body facing downhill, beside the vehicle so you
can reach the rear brake lever/parking brake lever with your right
hand.
2. Be sure your legs are clear of the wheels.
Check your footing.
3. Slowly and carefully back the ATV down the hill using the rear
brake lever/parking brake lever to control speed.
4. If you lose control of the ATV, for your safety, get away from the
vehicle.

Riding Your ATV
Riding Down Hills
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
On downhills, shift your weight back.
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.

Riding Your ATV
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.
Remember that operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will
cause braking at both the front and rear wheels.
Remember, braking effectiveness is reduced on any hill with a loose

surface.
Crossing or Turning on Hills or Slopes
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.


Riding Your ATV
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.
Shift weight uphill when crossing slopes.

Making Turns on Slopes
• Compared to riding on level ground, you may need to shift more
weight and lean more when making turns on slopes.
• Do not make turns on any slopes until you have first mastered the
techniques for making turns on level terrain.

Riding Your ATV
Riding Over Obstacles
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

Riding Your ATV
Riding Through Water
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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 a
crash.
Never operate this ATV in fast-flowing water

or in water deeper than that specified in this
owner’s manual.
NOTICE
Water entering the muffler may damage the oxygen sensor and
result in emissions control system malfunction. Have your ATV dealer
inspect the oxygen sensor immediately after water enters the
muffler.

Riding Your ATV
1. Choose a path where both banks have gradual slopes.
2. Proceed through the water at a slow, steady speed.
3. Watch out for submerged obstacles and slippery rocks.
4. Avoid getting the spark plug or air cleaner wet, as this would
cause the engine to stop.
5. After leaving the water, always test both the front and rear
brakes.
• Riding through water can make the brakes less effective than
normal, and may reduce stopping ability.
• If necessary, apply the brakes repeatedly until they dry out and
operate normally.

Parking
1. Look for level parking area. Make sure the ground surface is firm.
2. After bringing your ATV to a stop, hold the brakes while you shift
into neutral.
3. Set the parking brake (pages 53, 55).
4. Turn the ignition switch to OFF (w).
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.

using the parking brake, be sure to turn the ignition switch to OFF
(w) to avoid discharging the battery.
Parking on a Steep Incline or a Loose or Slippery Surface

If you must park your ATV on a steep incline or loose or slippery
surface, use the following procedure:
1. While holding the brakes, set the parking brake.
2. Turn the ignition switch to OFF (w) and release the brakes.
3. If the ATV begins to move, either while sitting on it or after you
dismount, find a better parking location.
4. If rocks or other objects are available, you can block the wheels
as shown for additional security.


Servicing Your Honda
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 replacing fuses, see page 252.
For information about the exhaust emission and noise requirements

of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air
Resources Board (CARB), and Environment Climate Change Canada
(ECCC), see page 270.
USA only
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

The Importance of Maintenance ............................................... 127
Maintenance Safety.................................................................. 128
Important Safety Precautions ................................................. 129
Maintenance Schedule ............................................................. 130
Maintenance Record................................................................. 134
Service Preparations
Maintenance Component Locations ......................................... 135
Tool Kit .................................................................................... 141
Owner’s Manual Storage .......................................................... 142
Seat Removal............................................................................ 143
Rear Fender Cover Removal ...................................................... 144
(cont’d)
Servicing Your Honda 125
Tank Cover Assembly Removal ................................................. 145
Clip Removal ............................................................................ 146
Service Procedures
Fluids & Filters
Fuel .......................................................................................... 147
Engine Oil & Filter ..................................................................... 150
Rear Final Gear Oil .................................................................... 165
Front Final Gear Oil................................................................... 168
Coolant .................................................................................... 170
Air Cleaner ............................................................................... 178
Engine
Throttle .................................................................................... 184
Clutch System (TRX520FM6 only) ............................................. 186
Reverse Inhibitor System (TRX520FM6 only) .............................. 187
Spark Plug ................................................................................ 188
Valves....................................................................................... 191
Spark Arrester .......................................................................... 192
Chassis
Suspension ............................................................................... 193
Brakes ...................................................................................... 196
Tires ......................................................................................... 205
Guards ..................................................................................... 212
Drivetrain Boots ........................................................................ 213
Electrical
Battery ..................................................................................... 214
Appearance Care...................................................................... 219
126 Servicing Your Honda

Before You Service Your Honda
The Importance of Maintenance

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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Improperly maintaining this ATV or failing to
correct a problem before you ride can cause a
killed.
Always follow the inspection and

maintenance recommendations and
schedules in this owner’s manual.
Frequent servicing of the air cleaner is especially important to help

you avoid a possible costly engine repair.
If your ATV overturns or is involved in a crash, be sure your dealer

inspects all major parts, even if you are able to make some repairs.

Maintenance Safety
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

Maintenance Safety
Important Safety Precautions
• Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or
repairs. This will help eliminate several potential hazards:
Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Be sure
there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.
Burns from hot ATV parts. Let the engine and exhaust system
cool before touching.
Injury from moving parts. 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 278).

Maintenance Schedule
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 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 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 278).
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.

Perform the pre-ride inspection (page 71) 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 dealer.
* Should be serviced by your dealer, unless the owner has proper

tools and service data and is mechanically qualified. Refer to the
official Honda Service Manual (page 278).
** In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced
only by your dealer.
Summary of Maintenance Schedule Notes & Procedures:
NOTES:
1. Service more frequently when riding in dusty areas, sand or
snow.
2. Service more frequently after riding in very wet or muddy
conditions.
3. Replace every 2 years. Replacement requires mechanical skill.
4. California type only

Maintenance Procedures:
I: inspect and clean, adjust, lubricate, or replace, if necessary
C: clean
A: adjust
L: lubricate
R: replace
FREQUENCY WHICHEVER INITIAL REGULAR

COMES FIRST MAINT. MAINT. INTERVAL
mi 100 600 1200 Refer to
km 150 1000 2000 page
MONTH 1 6 12
ITEMS NOTE HOURS 20 100 200
* FUEL LINE I —
* THROTTLE OPERATION I 184
AIR CLEANER NOTE 1 C C 178
AIR CLEANER HOUSING NOTE 2 I I 183
DRAIN TUBE
SPARK PLUG I I 188
* VALVE CLEARANCE I I I 191
ENGINE OIL INITIAL= 150
100 mi (150 km), 20
operating hours or 1
month: R
ENGINE OIL FILTER REGULAR= 158, 161
Every 600 mi (1,000 km),
100 operating hours or 12
months: R
* ENGINE IDLE SPEED I I I —
* EVAPORATIVE EMISSION NOTE 4 I: EVERY 2 YEARS —
CONTROL SYSTEM
(For AC type)
RADIATOR COOLANT NOTE 3 I I 170
* COOLING SYSTEM NOTE 2 I I —
* Should be serviced by your dealer, unless the owner has proper tools and service data and is
mechanically qualified. Refer to the official Honda Service Manual (page 278).

FREQUENCY WHICHEVER INITIAL REGULAR
COMES FIRST MAINT. MAINT. INTERVAL
mi 100 600 1200 Refer to
km 150 1000 2000 page
MONTH 1 6 12
ITEMS NOTE HOURS 20 100 200
DRIVETRAIN BOOTS I I 213
FRONT/REAR FINAL GEAR (R: EVERY I 165,
OIL 2 YEARS) 168
* RANGE SELECT SYSTEM I —
(Except TRX520FM6)
* BRAKE FLUID NOTE 3 I I 196
* BRAKE PADS WEAR NOTE 1, 2 I 200
* BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH I I I 204
BRAKE SYSTEM I I I 196
* REVERSE INHIBITOR I I I 187
SYSTEM (TRX520FM6)
GUARDS I I 212
* CLUTCH SYSTEM I I I 186
(TRX520FM6)
* SUSPENSION I I 193
* SPARK ARRESTER C C 192
* NUTS, BOLTS, FASTENERS I I —
** WHEELS/TIRES I I I 205
** TIE-ROD AND JOINT I I I —
BOOTS
** STEERING SHAFT HOLDER I —
BEARINGS
** STEERING SYSTEM I —
* Should be serviced by your dealer, unless the owner has proper tools and service data and is
mechanically qualified. Refer to the official Honda Service Manual (page 278).
** In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced only by your dealer.

Maintenance Record
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.
Miles (km) or ODO or Date Performed Notes

months or hours HOUR By:
100 (150) or
1 or 20
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

Maintenance Component
Service Preparations
Locations
TRX520FA5/FA6/FA7
front brake fluid reservoir
parking brake lock lever front brake lever
rear brake lever/ fuel fill cap throttle lever

parking brake lever

Locations
TRX520FM6
P/R lever reverse front brake fluid reservoir

assist lever
front brake lever
rear brake lever/ fuel fill cap throttle lever

parking brake lever

Locations
TRX520FA5/FA6/FA7
front suspension spring

rear brake caliper pre-load adjusters
seat latch engine oil fill cap
rear brake
fluid reservoir
rear brake light engine front brake

switch oil filter calipers
rear brake lever/parking rear brake pedal

brake lever adjuster
front final gear oil fill cap
front final gear oil drain bolt

Locations
TRX520FA5/FA6/FA7
battery owner’s manual

fuse box air pressure gauge
main fuse 1 40 A spare fuse
main fuse 2 fuse puller
EPS fuse (TRX520FA6/FA7) tool kit
gear change tool
spark plug
coolant air cleaner

reserve tank
rear final gear
oil fill cap
rear final gear
oil drain bolt
engine oil
engine oil
drain bolt
dipstick
air cleaner housing

drain tube
spark arrester
rear suspension spring pre-load adjusters

Locations
TRX520FM6
battery front suspension spring
fuse box pre-load adjusters
main fuse 1
main fuse 2 coolant
EPS fuse reserve tank
rear brake
fluid reservoir
rear brake
light switch
rear brake
pedal
rear brake engine oil front brake
caliper filter calipers
rear brake lever/parking front final gear oil fill cap
brake lever adjuster front final gear oil drain bolt
rear final gear oil fill cap
rear final gear oil drain bolt

Locations
TRX520FM6
owner’s manual
air pressure gauge
clutch adjuster air cleaner 40 A spare fuse
fuse puller
spark plug
seat latch
coolant
reserve tank
spark arrester
engine oil fill cap/

tool kit
dipstick
engine oil
drain bolt
rear suspension spring
pre-load adjusters
air cleaner housing
drain tube

Tool Kit
The tool kit (1) and the gear change tool (2) (Except TRX520FM6) are
stored in the storage compartment (page 63).
After using the tool kit or the gear change tool (Except TRX520FM6),
be sure to use the rubber band (3) to fasten the tool kit and the gear
change tool (Except TRX520FM6) securely.
An optional, larger tool kit may be available. Check with your

dealer’s parts department.
REAR
(1) (2)
(3)
(1) tool kit (3) rubber band

(2) gear change tool
(Except TRX520FM6)

Owner’s Manual Storage
Your ATV provides storage for the owner’s manual so you’ll have it
with you for easy reference. Store your owner’s manual (1) in the
plastic document bag (2) under the rear fender cover (3).
The owner’s manual, air pressure gauge (4), 40 A spare fuse (5) and
fuse puller (6) should be stored in the plastic document bag and
fastened with the rubber band (7).
To remove the rear fender cover, see page 144.

UNDER REAR FENDER COVER
(2) (3)
(1) (4)
(5)
(7)
(6)
(1) owner’s manual (4) air pressure gauge

(2) plastic document bag (5) 40 A spare fuse
(3) rear fender cover (6) fuse puller
(7) rubber band

Seat Removal
Refer to Safety Precautions on page 129.
The seat must be removed for the air cleaner, engine oil (Except
TRX520FM6), engine oil filter, spark plug, battery and fuse
maintenance and to remove the rear fender cover and tank cover
assembly, to access the owner’s manual, air pressure gauge, 40 A
spare fuse and fuse puller.
(4) (3) (2) (6)
(5) (7) (1)

(1) seat latch (5) hooks
(2) seat (6) studs
(3) front prongs (7) grommets
(4) tank cover
Removal
1. Pull the seat latch (1) at the rear of the seat.
2. Slide the seat (2) back and lift it.
Installation
1. Insert the front prongs (3) into the backside of the tank cover (4) and
hooks (5) on the frame, and press the studs (6) into the grommets (7).
2. Press down on the seat until locks.
Rear Fender Cover Removal
The rear fender cover must be removed for the battery, fuse
maintenance and to access the owner’s manual, air pressure gauge,
40 A spare fuse and fuse puller.
(4) (5)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(1) rubber strap (4) rear fender cover

(2) studs (5) tabs
(3) grommets
Removal
1. Remove the seat (page 143).
2. Unhook the rubber strap (1).
3. Firmly pull the studs (2) from the grommets (3).
4. Slide the rear fender cover (4) forward to disengage the tabs (5).
5. Remove the rear fender cover.
Installation
Install the rear fender cover in the reverse order of removal.
Tank Cover Assembly Removal
The tank cover assembly must be removed for the engine oil (Except
TRX520FM6), engine oil filter and spark plug maintenance.
(1)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(3)
(1) studs (3) tabs
(2) tank cover assembly
Removal
2. Carefully remove the right studs (1) and left studs from the
grommets.
3. Remove the tank cover assembly (2) by releasing the right tabs (3)
and left tabs from the slits.
Installation
Install the tank cover assembly in the reverse order of removal.
Clip Removal
Removal
1. Pull up the center pin to release the lock.
2. Pull out the clip of the hole.
1. 2.
Installation
1. Insert the clip into the hole.
2. Press down the center pin securely to lock the clip.
1. 2.

Service&Procedures
Fluids Filters
Fuel
Fuel Recommendation
type unleaded
pump octane number 86 (or higher)
Use only unleaded fuel in your Honda. The use of leaded fuel will
damage the catalytic converter (Except TRX520FM6). If you ride your
Honda in a country where leaded fuel might be available, take
precautions to use only unleaded fuel.
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 274.
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.
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 dealer.
Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline mixture.

Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank.

Fuel
Fuel Capacity
Fuel tank capacity, including reserve:

3.88 US gal (14.7 ℓ)
Reserve capacity:
1.29 US gal (4.9 ℓ)
When there is only one segment left in the fuel gauge (page 27), fuel
will be low and you should refuel as soon as possible.
Refueling Procedure
(2)
(1)
(1) fuel fill cap (2) lower edge of filler neck

Fuel
1. To open the fuel fill cap (1), turn it counterclockwise.
2. Add fuel until the level reaches the lower edge of the filler neck
(2).
Avoid overfilling the tank. There should be no fuel in the filler
neck.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.
You can be burned or seriously injured when
handling fuel.
• Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks and

flames away.
• Handle fuel only outdoors.
• Wipe up spills immediately.
3. (Except California type)

After refueling, turn the fuel fill cap clockwise securely.
(California type)
After refueling, turn the fuel fill cap clockwise until it clicks.
If you replace the fuel fill cap, use a Honda Genuine replacement
part or equivalent.
NOTICE
Gasoline can damage the matte and camouflage coating.
Do not allow spilled gasoline to pool on matte and camouflage
colored bodywork. Also do not allow gasoline soaked rags to be
placed on matte and camouflage bodywork.

Engine Oil & Filter
Engine oil quality is a major factor that affects both the performance
and the service life of the engine.
Using the proper oil (page 151) 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 132. When running in very dusty conditions, oil changes
should be performed more frequently than specified in the
maintenance schedule.

Engine Oil & Filter
Oil Recommendation
API classification SJ or higher except oils labeled as

energy conserving or resource
conserving on the circular API
service label
viscosity (weight) SAE 10W-30
JASO T 903 MA
standard
suggested oil* Pro Honda GN4 4-stroke oil (USA &
Canada), or Honda 4-stroke oil, or
an equivalent motorcycle oil.
* Suggested oils are equal in performance to SJ oils that are not

labeled as energy conserving or resource 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 SJ or higher oils displaying a circular API “energy
conserving” or “resource conserving” service label on the
container. They may affect lubrication and clutch performance.
NOT RECOMMENDED RECOMMENDED
• Do not use non-detergent, vegetable, or castor based racing oils.

Engine Oil & Filter
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.
(1)
(2)
(1) oil code

(2) oil classification

Engine Oil & Filter
Checking & Adding Oil (Except TRX520FM6)
Check the engine oil level each day before operating your ATV and
add if needed.
The dipstick is located at the front left crankcase cover.
Before riding your ATV, check the engine oil level.

1. Park your ATV on a firm, level surface.
2. Start the engine in a well-ventilated area and let it idle for 3 – 5
minutes. If the air temperature is below 10°C (50°F), let the
engine idle for an additional 5 minutes (a total of 10 minutes).
3. Stop the engine and wait for 2 – 3 minutes.
4. Remove the oil check lid (1) by disengaging the stud (2) from the
grommet (3) and releasing the tabs (4) from the slits.
LEFT SIDE
(3)
(2)
(1) (4)
(1) oil check lid (3) grommet
(2) stud (4) tabs
(cont’d)
Engine Oil & Filter
5. Remove the dipstick (5) from the front left crankcase cover and
wipe it clean.
6. Insert the dipstick without screwing it in, then remove the
dipstick and check the oil level. The oil level should be between
the upper level mark (6) and the lower level mark (7) on the
dipstick.
LEFT SIDE
(5)
(6)
(7)
(5) dipstick (6) upper level mark

(7) lower level mark

Engine Oil & Filter
7. If the oil level is near or below the lower level mark, remove the
seat (page 143) and the tank cover assembly (page 145). Remove
the engine oil fill cap (8) from the front right crankcase cover and
add the specified oil into the fill cap hole, up to the upper level
mark on the dipstick.
Do not over fill.
8. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap and dipstick.
9. Install the tank cover assembly.
10. Install the seat.
11. Install the oil check lid.
NOTICE
Running the engine with an improper oil level can cause serious
engine damage.
RIGHT SIDE
(8)
(8) engine oil fill cap

Engine Oil & Filter
Checking & Adding Oil (TRX520FM6)
Check the engine oil level each day before operating your ATV and
add if needed.
The oil fill cap/dipstick is located at the front left crankcase.
Before riding your ATV, check the engine oil level.

2. Start the engine in a well-ventilated area and let it idle for 3 – 5
minutes. If the air temperature is below 10°C (50°F), let the
engine idle for an additional 5 minutes (a total of 10 minutes).
3. Stop the engine and wait 2 – 3 minutes.
4. Remove the oil check/fill door (1) by disengaging the stud (2)
from the grommet and releasing the tabs (3) from the slits.
LEFT SIDE
(2)
(1)
(3)
(1) oil check/fill door (3) tabs
(2) stud

Engine Oil & Filter
5. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick (4) from the front crankcase and
wipe it clean.
6. Insert the oil fill cap/dipstick without screwing it in, then remove
the oil fill cap/dipstick and check the oil level. The oil level should
be between the upper level mark (5) and the lower level mark (6)
on the oil fill cap/dipstick.
7. If the oil level is near or below the lower level mark, then add the
specified oil into the fill cap hole, up to the upper level mark on
the oil fill cap/dipstick. Do not overfill.
8. Reinstall the oil fill cap/dipstick.
9. Install the oil check/fill door.
NOTICE
Running the engine with an improper oil level can cause serious
engine damage.
LEFT SIDE
(4)
(5)
(6)
(4) oil fill cap/dipstick (5) upper level mark

(6) lower level mark

Engine Oil & Filter
Changing Engine Oil & Filter (Except TRX520FM6)
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.
NOTICE
Using the wrong oil filter may result in leaks or engine damage.
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 234). If you do not have the skills or the tools, see your
dealer.
Change the oil with the engine warm to assure complete and rapid
draining.
Drain the Engine Oil:

1. With the ATV on the level ground, remove the seat (page 143)
and the tank cover assembly (page 145), and then remove the
engine oil fill cap from the front right crankcase cover.
2. Place an oil drain pan under the crankcase and remove the
engine oil drain bolt (1) and sealing washer (2).
UNDER ENGINE
(2)
(1)
(1) engine oil drain bolt (2) sealing washer

Engine Oil & Filter
Install a New Engine Oil Filter:
Place shop towels under the oil filter cover because oil will flow out.
1. Remove the oil filter cover (1) and O-ring (2) by removing the
bolts (3). Let the remaining oil drain out. Discard the oil filter (4)
in an approved manner (page 234).
2. Apply engine oil to a new O-ring and install it to the oil filter
cover.
3. Install a new oil filter with the rubber seal (5) facing inward,
toward the engine. Make sure the spring (6) and the “OUT-SIDE
(TOWARDS FILTER COVER)” mark (7) faces away from the
engine, toward the oil filter cover.
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.
NOTICE
Improper installation of the oil filter can cause serious engine
damage.
RIGHT SIDE (4) (6)
(1)
(5)
(7) (2) (3)

(1) oil filter cover (5) rubber seal
(2) O-ring (6) spring
(3) bolts (7) “OUT-SIDE” mark
(4) oil filter
(cont’d)
Engine Oil & Filter
4. Reinstall the oil filter cover, making sure the bolts are tightened
to the specified torque:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
5. Pour the drained oil into a suitable container and dispose of it in
an approved manner (page 234).
NOTICE
Improper disposal of drained fluids is harmful to the environment.
Add Engine Oil:

1. Reinstall the oil drain bolt with the new sealing washer and
tighten it to the specified torque:
18 lbf·ft (25 N·m, 2.5 kgf·m)
2. Fill the crankcase with the recommended grade oil
approximately:
4.0 US qt (3.8 ℓ)
3. Reinstall the engine oil fill cap and dipstick.
4. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 – 5 minutes.
5. Stop the engine, wait for 2 – 3 minutes and check the oil level.
Make sure the oil is between the upper and lower level marks on
the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil but do not overfill.
6. Check that there are no oil leaks.
7. Install the tank cover assembly (page 145).
8. Install the seat (page 143).
If a torque wrench is not used for installation, see your dealer as

soon as possible to verify proper assembly.

Engine Oil & Filter
Changing Engine Oil & Filter (TRX520FM6)
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.
NOTICE
Using the wrong oil filter may result in leaks or engine damage.
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 234). If you do not have the skills or the tools, see your
dealer.
Change the oil with the engine warm to assure complete and rapid
draining.
Drain the Engine Oil:

1. With the ATV on level ground, remove the oil check/fill door
(page 156) and the oil fill cap/dipstick from the front crankcase.
(cont’d)
Engine Oil & Filter
2. Place an oil drain pan under the crankcase and remove the
engine oil drain bolt (1) and sealing washer (2).
UNDER ENGINE
(2)
(1)
(1) engine oil drain bolt (2) sealing washer

Engine Oil & Filter
Install a New Engine Oil Filter:
Place shop towels under the oil filter cover because oil will flow out.
1. Remove the seat (page 143) and tank cover assembly (page 145).
2. Remove the oil filter cover (3) and O-rings (4) by removing the
bolts (5). Let the remaining oil drain out. Discard the oil filter (6)
in an approved manner (page 234).
3. Apply engine oil to new O-rings and install them to the oil filter
cover and crankcase cover.
4. Reposition the spring (7) to the crankcase cover and install a new
oil filter with the rubber seal (8) facing out, away from the
engine. You will see the “OUT-SIDE (TOWARDS FILTER COVER)”
mark (9) on the filter body, near the seal. 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.
NOTICE
Improper installation of the oil filter can cause serious engine
damage.
RIGHT SIDE
(4)
(5) (7)
(6) (8)
(9)
(3)
(3) oil filter cover (7) spring
(4) O-rings (8) rubber seal
(5) bolts (9) “OUT-SIDE” mark
(6) oil filter
(cont’d)
Engine Oil & Filter
5. Reinstall the oil filter cover, making sure the bolts are tightened
to the specified torque:
7 lbf·ft (10 N·m, 1.0 kgf·m)
NOTICE
7. Install the tank cover assembly and seat.
Add Engine Oil:

1. Reinstall the oil drain bolt with the new sealing washer and
tighten it to the specified torque:
18 lbf·ft (25 N·m, 2.5 kgf·m)
2. Fill the crankcase with the recommended grade oil
approximately:
3.2 US qt (3.0 ℓ)
3. Reinstall the oil fill cap/dipstick.
4. Start the engine and let it idle for 3 – 5 minutes.
5. 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
fill cap/dipstick. If necessary, add more oil but do not overfill.
6. Check that there are no oil leaks.
7. Install the oil check/fill door.
If a torque wrench is not used for installation, see your dealer as

soon as possible to verify proper assembly.

Rear Final Gear Oil
Oil Recommendation
type hypoid gear oil

suggested oil Honda shaft drive oil or equivalent
Changing Oil
Change the oil with the rear final gear at normal operating
temperature to assure complete and rapid draining.

Rear Final Gear Oil
2. Place an oil drain pan under the oil drain bolt (1).
3. Remove the oil fill cap (2), O-ring (3), drain bolt and sealing
washer (4).
4. After the oil has completely drained, reinstall the drain bolt with
a new sealing washer and tighten it to the specified torque:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
NOTICE

Rear Final Gear Oil
6. Fill the rear final gear case with the recommended oil.
4.2 US oz (125 cm3)
Make sure the oil level is at the lower edge of the oil fill inspection
hole (5).
7. Coat a new O-ring with grease and install it into the fill cap
groove and tighten it to the specified torque:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
REAR
(5) (2)
(4)
(1) (3)
(1) oil drain bolt (4) sealing washer

(2) oil fill cap (5) oil fill inspection hole
(3) O-ring

Front Final Gear Oil
Oil Recommendation
type hypoid gear oil

suggested oil Honda shaft drive oil or equivalent
Changing Oil
Change the oil with the front final gear at normal operating
temperature to assure complete and rapid draining.

Front Final Gear Oil
2. Place an oil drain pan under the oil drain bolt (1).
3. Remove the oil fill cap (2), O-ring (3), drain bolt and sealing
washer (4).
4. After the oil has completely drained, reinstall the drain bolt with
a new sealing washer and tighten it to the specified torque:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
NOTICE
6. Fill the front final gear case with the recommended oil.
11.0 US oz (325 cm3)
Make sure the oil level is at the lower edge of the oil fill inspection
hole (5).
7. Coat a new O-ring with grease and install it into the fill cap
groove and tighten it to the specified torque:
9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
FRONT
(5) (2)
(4)
(3)
(1)
(1) oil drain bolt (4) sealing washer
(2) oil fill cap (5) oil fill inspection hole
(3) O-ring

Coolant
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.
Coolant Recommendation
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.
NOTICE
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.
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.

Coolant
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.
Checking & Adding Coolant
Check the engine coolant level each day before operating your ATV
and add if needed.
LEFT FRONT
(1)
(2)
(3)
(1) reserve tank (3) LOWER level mark

(2) UPPER level mark
1. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground.

2. With the engine at normal operating temperature, check the
coolant level in the reserve tank (1). It should be between the
UPPER (2) and LOWER (3) level marks.
If the reserve tank is empty, or if coolant loss is excessive, check
for leaks and see your dealer for repair.
(cont’d)
Coolant
3. Remove the radiator cap lid (4) by disengaging the stud (5) from
the grommet (6).
4. Remove the reserve tank cap (7).
Always add coolant to the reserve tank. Do not attempt to add
coolant by removing the radiator cap.
5. Add coolant to the reserve tank as required to bring the coolant
level to the UPPER level mark.
FRONT
(5) (4)
(6) (7)
(4) radiator cap lid (6) grommet
(5) stud (7) reserve tank cap
6. After adding coolant, reinstall the reserve tank cap.

7. Install the radiator cap lid.

Coolant
Coolant Replacement
Coolant should be replaced by your dealer, unless you have the

proper tools and service data, and are mechanically qualified. Refer
to the official Honda Service Manual (page 278).
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
To properly dispose of drained coolant, refer to You & the

Environment, page 234.
NOTICE

Coolant
Radiator Core
Check the air passages for clogging or damage. Remove insects,

mud, or any obstruction with low water pressure. Have the radiator
checked by your 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.
TRX520FA5:
The right, left and center radiator grill covers must be removed to
clean the radiator core.
Except TRX520FA5:
The left and center radiator grill covers must be removed to clean the
radiator core.

Coolant
To clean the radiator core and radiator grill plate:
1. Remove the radiator cap lid (page 172).
2. Remove the reserve tank (1) by removing the bolt (2) and clips (3)
(page 146).
3. Release the hoses (4) from the guides.
4. Hold the reserve tank being careful not to spill the coolant.
LEFT FRONT
(2) (1)
(3)
(3)
(4)
(1) reserve tank (3) clips
(2) bolt (4) hoses
(cont’d)
Coolant
5. Remove the clips (3).
6. Remove the left radiator grill cover (5) by releasing the tab A (6),
tab B (7), tab C (8), hook A (9) and hook B (10).
LEFT FRONT
(9)
(3)
(8)
(5)
(7) (6) (10)

(3) clips (7) tab B (10) hook B
(5) left radiator grill cover (8) tab C
(6) tab A (9) hook A
7. TRX520FA5:
Remove the right radiator grill cover (11) by releasing the tab A,
tab B, tab C, hook A, hook B and hose (12), then remove the
center radiator grill cover (13).
RIGHT FRONT
(3) (11) (9)
(12)
(13)
(8) (10) (6) (7)

(11) right radiator grill cover (13) center radiator grill cover
(12) hose

Coolant
8. Except TRX520FA5:
Remove the center radiator grill cover by releasing the tab A, tab
B, hook A and hook B.
FRONT
(9) (14) (13)
(6)
(7)
(10)
(6) tab A (10) hook B
(7) tab B (13) center radiator grill cover
(9) hook A (14) radiator core
9. Wash the radiator core (14) and radiator grill covers.
NOTICE
Do not apply pressured water directly to the radiator core.
The pressured water can damage the radiator core.
10. Install the removed parts in reverse order of removal.

Air Cleaner
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 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.
NOTICE
Using the wrong air cleaner may result in premature engine wear.
Proper air cleaner maintenance can prevent premature engine wear

or damage, expensive repairs, low engine power, poor gas mileage,
and spark plug fouling.
NOTICE
Improper or lack of proper air cleaner maintenance can cause poor
performance and premature engine wear.

Air Cleaner
Cleaning

UNDER SEAT
(1)
(3)
(2) (2)
(1) spring hooks (3) air cleaner housing cover

(2) retainer clips
2. Unlatch the spring hooks (1) and retainer clips (2).

3. Remove the air cleaner housing cover (3).
(cont’d)
Air Cleaner
4. Loosen the screw (4) and remove the air cleaner assembly (5)
from the air cleaner housing.
5. Remove the clamp (6).
6. Remove the air cleaner (7) from the air cleaner body (8).
7. 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.
8. Inspect for tears or cracks in the foam or seams of the air cleaner.
Replace the air cleaner if it is damaged.
9. Allow the air cleaner to dry thoroughly before applying oil. A wet
air cleaner will not fully absorb the oil.
10. Pour clean Pro Honda Foam Filter Oil or an equivalent (Canada:
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.)
UNDER SEAT (8) (5)
(4)
(6) (7)
(4) screw (7) air cleaner
(5) air cleaner assembly (8) air cleaner body
(6) clamp

Air Cleaner
11. Install the air cleaner on the air cleaner body.
12. Install the clamp.
13. Insert the air cleaner assembly into the air cleaner housing.
14. Fasten the screw.
15. Reassemble by reversing the disassembly sequence.
• Install the air cleaner housing cover with the FRONT mark (9)
facing forward and fit the cut out of the tab (10) at the end of
the air cleaner.
UNDER SEAT
(9) (10)
(10)
(9) FRONT mark
(10) tab

Air Cleaner
Dust Cover
UNDER SEAT
(1)
(2)
(1) dust cover (2) breather joint
Do not push the dust cover (1) too far into the breather joint (2).
If the dust cover is dirty, clean it.

Air Cleaner
Air Cleaner Housing Drain Tube
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.
REAR
(2)
(1) (3)
(1) drain tube (3) air cleaner housing
(2) clip
1. Remove the drain tube (1) by removing the clip (2) under the air
cleaner housing (3).
2. Drain the deposits.
3. Reinstall the drain tube, securing it with the clip.

Engine
Throttle
Throttle Freeplay

RIGHT HANDLEBAR
(A)
(B)
1/8 – 5/16 in
(3 – 8 mm)
(2) (3) (4) (1)

(1) throttle lever (4) lock nut
(2) rubber sleeve (A) decrease freeplay
(3) throttle cable adjuster (B) increase freeplay
Inspection
Check freeplay at the throttle lever (1).
Freeplay:
1/8 – 5/16 in (3 – 8 mm)
Adjustment
1. Slide the rubber sleeve (2) back to expose the throttle cable
adjuster (3).
2. Loosen the lock nut (4).
3. Turn the adjuster to obtain the correct freeplay.
4. Tighten the lock nut and reinstall the sleeve.
5. After adjustment, check for smooth operation of the throttle
lever from fully closed to fully open in all steering positions.

Throttle
Throttle Inspection
1. Check that the throttle assembly is positioned properly and the

securing bolts are tight.
2. 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 dealer.
3. 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.
4. Check the throttle cable for tension or stress in all steering
positions.
5. Lubricate the throttle cable with a commercially available cable
lubricant to prevent premature wear and corrosion.

Clutch System (TRX520FM6 only)
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.
Clutch Adjustment

LEFT FRONT
(2) (1)
(1) lock nut (2) clutch adjuster
1. Make sure the engine is cool.

2. Make sure the ignition switch is OFF (w).
3. Loosen the lock nut (1).
4. Turn the clutch adjuster (2) counterclockwise until you feel slight
resistance.
5. Turn the adjuster 1/4 turn clockwise, then tighten the lock nut to
hold the adjuster in this position.
6. After adjustment, start the engine and test ride your ATV to be
sure the clutch is operating properly.
If you cannot get proper adjustment, or the clutch does not work
properly, the clutch friction discs may be worn. See your dealer or
refer to official Honda Service Manual (page 278).

Reverse Inhibitor System
(TRX520FM6 only)
Reverse Inhibitor System Adjustment

LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(4)
(5)
(3)
1/16 – 3/16 in (2)
(2 – 4 mm)
(1) dust cover (4) lock nut
(2) reverse assist lever (5) adjusting nut
(3) rubber sleeve
1. Turn over the dust cover (1).

2. Check the reverse assist lever (2) freeplay, measured at the
reverse assist lever end near the cable:
1/16 – 3/16 in (2 – 4 mm)
3. To adjust, slide the rubber sleeve (3), loosen the lock nut (4) and
turn the adjusting nut (5) to obtain the correct freeplay.
After adjustment, tighten the lock nut securely.
4. Return the dust cover and rubber sleeve.
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 dealer.

Spark Plug
Spark Plug Recommendation
standard spark plug BKR5E-11 (NGK) or

K16PR-U11 (DENSO)
Use only the recommended type of spark plug in the recommended

heat range.
NOTICE
Using spark plugs with an improper heat range can cause engine
damage.
Spark Plug Inspection & Replacement
2. Clean any dirt from around the spark plug base.
3. Disconnect the spark plug cap (1). Take care to avoid damaging
the spark plug wire when disconnecting the cap.
4. Using a spark plug wrench provided in the tool kit, remove the
spark plug.
LEFT SIDE
(1)
(1) spark plug cap

Spark Plug
5. 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 (2) should have a flat tip
and sharp edges, and the side electrode (3) should not be eroded.
If the electrodes and insulator tip appear unusually fouled or
burned, we suggest that you contact your dealer.
6. Discard the spark plug if there is apparent wear or if the insulator
is cracked or chipped.
7. Using a wire-type feeler gauge, check the spark plug gap (4). If
adjustment is necessary, bend the side electrode carefully.
The gap should be:
0.039 – 0.043 in (1.00 – 1.10 mm)
(4)
(3)
0.039 – 0.043 in
(1.00 – 1.10 mm)
(2)
(2) center electrode (4) spark plug gap

(3) side electrode
(cont’d)
Spark Plug
8. With the plug washer attached, thread the spark plug in by hand
to prevent cross-threading.
9. 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:
a) First, tighten the plug:
NGK: 3/4 turn after it seats.
DENSO: 1/2 turn after it seats.
b) Then loosen the plug.
c) Next, tighten the plug again:
1/8 turn after it seats.
NOTICE
An improperly tightened spark plug can damage the engine. If a
plug is too loose, the piston may be damaged. If a plug is too tight,
the threads may be damaged.
10. Connect the spark plug cap. Take care to avoid pinching any
cables or wires.
11. Install the remaining parts in the reverse order of removal.

Valves
Valve Inspection
Valve clearance should be:

intake: 0.006 ± 0.001 in (0.15 ± 0.02 mm)
exhaust: 0.009 ± 0.001 in (0.23 ± 0.02 mm)
Excessive clearance will cause noise. Insufficient clearance will cause

loss of power and possibly damage the valves.
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 dealer.

Spark Arrester
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.
REAR
(1)
(1) bolt
1. Select a well-ventilated area free of combustible materials and

make sure the exhaust pipe is cool.
2. Remove the bolt (1).
3. 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.
4. Stop the engine and allow the exhaust pipe to cool.
5. Reinstall the bolt securely.

Chassis
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.
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.
The spring pre-loads for your front and rear suspension systems
adjust the amount of force required to begin compression of the
spring.
Consider adjusting your suspensions pre-load whenever you change

your normal load, by adding or subtracting cargo, accessories, or
when riding conditions change.
The way you ride your ATV and the type of ride you want to
experience can also influence your suspension needs.
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 and rough terrain.
Suspension Adjustment
Using a pin spanner, which is available from your dealer, the

suspensions 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 dealer. The instructions found in this owner’s manual are
limited to adjustments of the shock assembly only.

Suspension
Suspension Spring Pre-Load
FRONT REAR
(1) (1)
(2) 1 2 3 4 5 (2) 1 2 3 4 5
(1) spring pre-load adjuster

(2) pin spanner
The spring pre-load adjuster (1) has 5 positions for different load or
riding conditions.
Use the pin spanner (2) to adjust the shock spring pre-load.

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.

Brakes
The hydraulic disc brakes (front) and a single hydraulic mechanical
disc brake (rear) on your ATV dissipate heat generated by the friction
of the brake pads on the discs as the wheels are slowed.
As the brake pads wear, the 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 or brake pedal freeplay does not feel within
the normal range while riding, check the brake pads for wear
(page 200).
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 dealer to have the air bled from the system.
Brake Fluid Recommendation
brake fluid Honda DOT 4 Brake Fluid
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.

Brakes
Fluid Level Inspection
If your inspection indicates a low fluid level, have your dealer add the
recommended fluid.
Do not add or replace brake fluid, except in an emergency. If you do

add fluid, have your dealer check the system as soon as possible.
NOTICE
Brake fluid can damage plastic and painted surfaces. Handle with
care.
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.

Brakes
Front Brake Fluid Level
RIGHT HANDLEBAR
(1)
(1) LOWER level mark
With the ATV on a level surface, check the fluid level.

It should be above the LOWER level mark (1). If the level is at or
below the LOWER level mark, check the brake pads for wear
(page 200).
Worn brake pads should be replaced. If the pads are not worn, have
your brake system inspected for leaks.

Brakes
Rear Brake Fluid Level
RIGHT REAR
(2)
(3)
(2) UPPER level mark (3) LOWER level mark
With the ATV on a level surface, check the fluid level.

It should be between the UPPER (2) and LOWER (3) level mark. If the
level is at or below the LOWER level mark, check the brake pads for
wear (page 200).
Worn brake pads should be replaced. If the pads are not worn, have
your brake system inspected for leaks.
Other Inspections
• Make sure there are no fluid leaks.

• Check for deterioration or cracks in the hoses and fittings. If the
hoses are worn or cracked, have them replaced by your dealer.

Brakes
Brake Pad Wear
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.
RIGHT FRONT (Left side similar)

(1)
(1)
(2)
(2)
(1) wear indicator (2) edge of reference mark
Check the wear indicator (1). If the wear indicator aligns with the
edge of the reference mark (2), both pads must be replaced, see
your dealer for this replacement.
Always inspect both pads in both the right and left front brake
calipers.

Brakes
RIGHT REAR (4)
(3)
(3) wear indicator (4) reference mark
Check the wear indicator (3). If the wear indicator aligns with the
reference mark (4), both pads must be replaced, see your dealer for
this replacement.

Brakes
Rear Brake Lever Freeplay
LEFT HANDLEBAR
(1) (1)
1 – 1 3/16 in
(25 – 30 mm) 1 – 1 3/16 in
(25 – 30 mm)
Inspection
1. Press down on the rear brake pedal several times.
2. Measure the distance the rear brake lever/parking brake lever (1)
moves before the brake starts to take hold. Freeplay
(measurement at the tip of the end of the brake lever) should be:
1 – 1 3/16 in (25 – 30 mm)
3. If necessary, adjust to the specified range.

Brakes
Adjustment
RIGHT REAR
(3)
(2)
(B)
(A)
(2) brake lever adjusting nut (A) increase freeplay
(3) brake arm pin (B) decrease freeplay
Adjust the freeplay of the rear brake lever/parking brake lever with
the front wheels pointed straight ahead.
Turn the brake lever adjusting nut (2), located on the brake
operating rod at the brake caliper. Make sure the cutout on the
adjusting nut is properly seated on the brake arm pin (3).
Other Inspections
• Check that the brake lever and brake pedal assemblies are
positioned properly and the securing bolts are tight.
Except TRX520FM6:
• Make sure that the brake cables, brake arm, spring, parking
brake lever, and fasteners are in good condition.
TRX520FM6:
• Make sure that the brake cable, brake arm, spring, P/R lever, and
fasteners are in good condition.

Brakes
Brake Light Switch Adjustment
Rear Brake Only:

Check the operation of the rear brake light switch (1) at the right
side behind the engine from time to time. Adjustment is done by
turning the adjusting nut (2). Hold the rear brake light switch and
turn the nut in direction (A) if the switch operates too late and in
direction (B) if the switch operates too soon.
RIGHT REAR
(A)
(2)
(B)
(1)
(1) rear brake light switch (2) adjusting nut

Tires
To safely operate your ATV, your tires must be the proper type and
size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
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.

Tires
Air Pressure
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.

Tires
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:
FRONT REAR
RECOMMENDED
4.4 psi (30 kPa) 4.4 psi (30 kPa)
PRESSURE

Tires
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
Inspection
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.
• Nails or other foreign objects embedded in the side of the tire or
tread.
• Excessive tread wear.

Tires
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
FRONT
NEW
Replace
3/16 in
(4 mm)
(2)
(1) (3)
REAR
3/16 in
(4 mm)
Replace
NEW
(1) groove depth (3) wear indicator

(2) wear indicator location mark
To check the condition of a tire tread, measure the groove depth (1)
in the center of the tire, or check the wear indicator (2).
For best performance, you should replace a tire before the tread
depth at the center reaches the following limits:
front 3/16 in (4 mm)
rear 3/16 in (4 mm)
Tires
Tire Repair
A tire that is repaired, either temporarily or permanently, will have

lower speed and performance limits than a new or undamaged tire.
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 If You Have a Flat Tire,
page 246.)
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.
If you have a tire professionally repaired at a non-Honda facility, we

recommend that you have the work checked by your dealer.

Tires
Tire Replacement
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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
Installing improper tires on your ATV can
affect handling and stability. This can cause a
killed.
Always use the size and type of tires

recommended in this owner’s manual.
The recommended tires for your ATV are:
front AT25 × 8-1211 MAXXIS M975

rear AT25 × 10-1211 MAXXIS M978
When you replace a tire, remember:

Have the tire replaced by your 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 dealer.

Guards
(1) (2)
FRONT REAR
(3)
(5)
(4)
(1) engine guard (3) front boot guards
(2) skid plate (4) front driveshaft guards
(5) rear driveshaft guards
The engine guard (1) protects the engine crankcase.

The skid plate (2) protects the frame.
The front boot guards (3) protect the rubber driveshaft boots, and
the front driveshaft guards (4) protect the front driveshafts.
The rear driveshaft guards (5) protect the rubber driveshaft boots
and the rear driveshafts.
Check the guards and plate for cracks, damage or looseness at

intervals shown in the Maintenance Schedule.
Have the guards and skid plate replaced if they are cracked or
damaged. If the guard and plate bolts are loose, tighten them
securely.
Drivetrain Boots
FRONT REAR
(1)
(1)
(2) (3) (2)

(1) rubber driveshaft boots (2) rubber propeller shaft boots
(3) rubber yoke joint boot
Check the rubber driveshaft boots (1), rubber propeller shaft boots
(2) and rubber yoke joint boot (3) for cuts, damage or leaking grease.
If necessary, have your dealer replace them.

Electrical
Battery
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.
NOTICE
Your battery is a maintenance-free type and can be permanently
damaged if the cap strip is removed.
Electrical accessories use current from the battery, even when the
ignition is OFF (w). 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 Battery Charging, page 218).
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 Battery Storage, page 215.
If your battery seems weak and/or is leaking electrolyte (causing slow

starting or other electrical problems), see your dealer.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain

lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.

Battery
Battery Storage
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 Battery Charging, page 218).
Before you remove the battery, be sure to read all the information
that follows, as well as the information on the battery label.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

Battery
The battery is located in a compartment under the rear fender cover.
(1) (2)
(5)
(3) (4)
(1) rubber band (4) positive (+) terminal lead

(2) negative (–) terminal lead (5) terminal nuts
(3) battery
Removal
1. Make sure the ignition switch is OFF (w).
3. Remove the rear fender cover (page 144).
4. Release the rings and remove the rubber band (1).
5. Disconnect the negative (–) terminal lead (2) from the battery (3)
first, then disconnect the positive (+) terminal lead (4).
6. Remove the battery taking care not to drop the terminal nuts (5).

Battery
7. Charge the battery (see following section).
8. Store your battery in an easy-to-reach location off the floor, in an
area protected from freezing temperature and direct sunlight.
9. Clean the compartment after removing the battery for storage.
Dry the compartment.
10. Slow charge the battery (see following section) once every 30
days.
Installation
1. Check that the battery rubber (6) for damage. If necessary,
replace the battery rubber.
2. Make sure the battery rubber is properly installed.
3. Reinstall the battery in the reverse order of removal.
Be sure to connect the positive (+) terminal first, then the
negative (–) terminal.
4. Make sure all bolts and other fasteners are secure.
5. Install the removed parts in reverse order of removal.
(6)
(6) battery rubber
After the battery is reconnected, check the clock. Readjust the clock
if necessary (page 29).

Battery
Battery Charging
(1)
(1) charger
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 (1) designed specifically for your

Honda, which can be purchased from your 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.

Appearance Care
Frequent cleaning and polishing will keep your Honda looking newer
longer.
Frequent cleaning also identifies you as an owner who values their
ATV.
A clean ATV is also easier to inspect and service.
General Recommendations
• To clean your ATV, you may use:

– water
– Hondabrite
– 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, plastic, and
camouflage coating on your ATV (Honda SxS).
• 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 low pressure garden hose to wash
your ATV. High pressure washers (like those at coin-operated car
washers) can damage certain parts of your ATV.

Appearance Care
NOTICE
High pressure water (or air) can damage certain parts of your ATV.
Water entering the muffler may damage the oxygen sensor.
• After cleaning, inspect for damage, wear, and leaks (fuel, oil,
coolant and brake fluid).
Washing Your ATV with a Mild Detergent
1. Cover or plug the exhaust outlet prior to washing your ATV.

2. Rinse your ATV thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. After washing, rinse your ATV thoroughly with plenty of clean
water to remove any residue. Detergent residue can corrode alloy
parts.
6. 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.
7. Remove the cover or the plug from exhaust outlet. Then, start the
engine and let it idle for several minutes. The engine heat will
help dry moist areas.
8. 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.

Appearance Care
Spray Cleaning Your ATV
Avoid using spray cleaner products on the tires or suspension

components.
Suggestions for using spray cleaner(s) follow:
ATV condition Recommended Cleaning

Dust and fingerprint Apply a spray cleaner/polish
smudges. and wipe paint, chrome, glass,
and clear plastic.
Light road grimes. 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.
Heavy grime. Oil leaks. Use a spray cleaner/degreaser.
Brake dust. If necessary, rub with a
sponge.
Rinse and dry.
Apply a spray cleaner/polish
and wipe with a non-abrasive
cloth.
Dull, corroded chrome Apply a high quality chrome/
or aluminum. aluminum polish and wipe
with a non-abrasive cloth.

Appearance Care
Cleaning Matte Painted Surfaces
Use a soft cloth or sponge, plenty of water, and a mild detergent to

clean the matte paint. Dry with a soft clean cloth.
Do not use polishing compounds or wax containing polishing

compounds. These can damage or discolor the matte painted
surface.
Aluminum Wheel Maintenance (TRX520FA7 only)

(Aluminum wheel model)
Aluminum may corrode from contact with dirt, mud, or road salt.
Clean the wheels after riding through any of these substances. Use
a wet sponge and mild detergent. Avoid stiff brushes, steel wool, or
cleaners containing abrasives or chemical compounds.
After washing, rinse with plenty of water and dry with a clean cloth.
Then apply a mild, commercially available spray cleaner/polish or
wax.
For stained or dull-looking wheels, use a quality chrome/aluminum

polish to restore the finish.

Appearance Care
Exhaust Pipe and Muffler Maintenance
The exhaust pipe and muffler are stainless steel but may become
stained by mud or dust.
To remove mud or dust, use a wet sponge and a liquid kitchen

abrasive, then rinse well with clean water. Dry with chamois or a soft
towel.
If necessary, remove heat stains by using a commercially available

fine texture compound. Then rinse by the same manner as removing
mud or dust.
Finishing Touches
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. Do not use wax or polishing
compounds on matte painted surfaces.
If a surface on your ATV is chipped or scratched, your dealer has

touch-up paint to match your ATV’s color. Be sure to use your ATV’s
color code (page 263) when you buy touch-up paint.
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.


Tips
Here’s helpful advice on how to prepare for an off-road adventure,
Tips
how to transport and store your Honda, and how to be an

environmentally responsible ATV owner.
Preparing for a Ride.................................................................. 226

What to Take to the Riding Area............................................ 226
What to Take on the Trail ...................................................... 227
Transporting Your Honda ......................................................... 228
Storing Your Honda.................................................................. 230
Preparation for Storage.......................................................... 231
Removal from Storage ........................................................... 233
You & the Environment ............................................................ 234
Tips 225
Preparing for a Ride
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 (USA only), the Ministry of Natural Resources
(Canada only), riding clubs, and off-road magazines are good
sources of information.
What to Take to the Riding Area
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 Taking Care of the Unexpected,
which begins on page 236.
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.
226 Tips
Preparing for a Ride
What to Take on the Trail
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 limits
(page 76).
Tips 227
Transporting Your Honda
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:

1. Except TRX520FM6:
Set the parking brake.
TRX520FM6:
Set the parking brake and place the transmission in gear.
228 Tips
Transporting Your Honda
2. Secure the vehicle with tie-down straps in the areas shown.
• Suitable tie-down straps are available from your dealer.
• Ordinary rope is not recommended because it can stretch
under load.
• Using tie-down straps in any other areas can damage your ATV.
3. Rock the vehicle back and forth to make sure the tie-down straps
are tight and the vehicle is secure.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(1) front cargo rack (3) rear cargo rack
(2) front carry pipe (4) trailer hitch
Tips 229
Storing Your Honda
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.
For more information about storage, refer to the Honda Winter

Storage Guide, available from your dealer (USA only).
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.
230 Tips
Storing Your Honda
Preparation for Storage
1. Change the engine oil and filter (pages 158, 161).

2. Make sure the cooling system is filled with a 50/50% antifreeze
solution (page 170).
3. Fill the fuel tank. Make sure the fuel fill cap is properly installed.
4. To prevent rusting in the cylinder, perform the following:
• Remove the spark plug cap from the spark plug (page 188).
• 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 (e) position, press the
start/override button several times to crank the engine and
distribute the oil.
• Reinstall the spark plug and spark plug cap.
(cont’d)
Tips 231
Storing Your Honda
5. Remove the battery and charge it fully. Store it in an area
protected from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight. Slow
charge the battery (page 218) once a month.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.
6. Wash and dry your ATV. Wax all painted surfaces.

7. Inflate the tires to their recommended pressures (page 207).
8. Store your ATV in an unheated area, free of dampness, away
from sunlight, with a minimum of daily temperature variation.
9. Place your ATV on blocks to lift all tires off the floor.
10. 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.
NOTICE
Do not store your ATV in an upright position for extended periods of
time. The ATV should be stored with all four tires on the ground. This
can damage the vehicle, and leaking gasoline could be a hazard.
232 Tips
Storing Your Honda
Removal from Storage
1. Uncover and clean your ATV.

2. If your ATV has been stored for more than four months —
change the engine oil (pages 158, 161).
3. If your ATV has been stored for more than two months — ask
your dealer to drain and replace the fuel.
4. Charge the battery (page 218) as required. Install the battery.
5. Perform a pre-ride inspection (page 71), then test-ride your ATV
at low speeds.
Tips 233
You & the Environment
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.
• Tread Lightly. Stay on existing roads and trails, avoid surfaces

that are easily damaged, and ride only in areas approved for off-
road vehicles.
• Keep the Noise Down. 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.
• Choose Sensible Cleaners. 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.
• Recycle Wastes. 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.
234 Tips
Taking Care of the Unexpected
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 Preparing for
a Ride (page 226).
General Guidelines ................................................................... 236

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start .......................................... 238
If the Transmission Is Not Functioning Properly (Except TRX520FM6).... 241
Emergency Gear Selection & Operation (Except TRX520FM6).... 244
If You Have a Flat Tire............................................................... 246
If the High Coolant Temperature Indicator Lights ...................... 250
If a Fuse Blows.......................................................................... 252
If You Crash ............................................................................. 257
If You Lose Your Key ................................................................ 258
If the Battery Is Low (or Dead)................................................... 259
If a Component Fails................................................................. 260
Taking Care of the Unexpected 235

General Guidelines
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.
236 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.

If Your Engine Quits or 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 dealer.
If your ATV won’t start, listen as you press the start/override button.
If you don’t hear the starter motor turning, refer to the Starter motor
doesn’t operate symptom. If you can hear the starter motor working
normally, refer to the Starter motor works, but the engine won’t
start symptom.

Start
SYMPTOM: Starter motor doesn’t operate.
POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO
ignition switch OFF Turn the ignition switch ON.
engine stop switch OFF Slide the engine stop switch to
RUN.
transmission not in (Except TRX520FM6)
neutral Shift into neutral or squeeze
the front brake lever.
(TRX520FM6)
Shift into neutral.
blown fuse Replace with a new fuse of the
same rating (page 252).
battery lead loose Tighten the battery lead.
low (or dead) battery Charge the battery (page 218).
If charging doesn’t help, see
your dealer.
faulty starter motor If all possible causes are
negative, the starter motor
may be faulty. See your dealer.
SYMPTOM: Starter motor works, but the engine won’t

start.
out of fuel Fill the fuel tank.
flooded engine See Flooded Engine (page 91).
loose or unconnected Install the spark plug cap
spark plug cap securely. If the engine still
won’t start, see your dealer.
loose battery cables Tighten the battery terminal
bolts.
weak battery Charge the battery (page 218).
If charging doesn’t help, see
your dealer.

Start
SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but runs poorly.
high coolant Check the coolant
temperature temperature gauge and high
coolant temperature indicator.
Refer to If the High Coolant
Temperature Indicator Lights,
page 250.
runs erratically, misfires May damage catalytic
converter (Except TRX520FM6).
See your dealer.
blubbers (rich fuel See your dealer.
mixture)
sooty exhaust (rich fuel See your dealer.
mixture)
detonates or pings If applicable, switch to the
under load recommended octane gasoline
(page 147) or change your
brand of gasoline. If the
problem persists, see your
dealer.
afterfires (backfires) May damage catalytic
converter (Except TRX520FM6).
See your dealer.
pre-ignition (runs on May damage catalytic
after ignition switched converter (Except TRX520FM6).
OFF) See your dealer.
SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but runs poorly or dies when

hot.
poor or inadequate See your dealer.
fuel flow due to (ensure clean fuel supply)
clogged fuel filter

If the Transmission Is Not Functioning
Properly (Except TRX520FM6)
When the automatic transmission is not shifting properly, the gear
position indicator will show “–” and blink.
See your dealer to check and restore the transmission.
If the gear position indicator shows “–” and blinks, or one or both
shift switches do not function while riding, perform the following:
1. Stop the ATV.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position.
3. After the engine stops, turn the ignition switch to the ON (q)
position.
4. Check the gear position indicator.
If these efforts do not restore proper operation, have your ATV

inspected by your dealer.
When the “–” is blinking in the gear position indicator:

Restart the engine; drive the ATV to a location where it can be
loaded and transported to your dealer.
When the display on the gear position indicator returns to normal:

You may drive on the ATV as usual after restarting the engine.
However, we urge you to have your ATV inspected by your dealer.
If one or both switches are not functioning after restarting the
engine, see Emergency Gear Selection & Operation (Except
TRX520FM6), page 244.

If the ATV does not move, even through “–” is not blinking in the
gear position indicator:
If your ATV won’t move, it is possible the transmission system has
malfunctioned. Use the following procedure to manually override
the clutch of the transmission.
1. Shift the transmission into 2nd gear.
2. Apply the parking brake (page 53).
3. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position.
4. Remove the oil check lid (page 153).
5. Using the gear change tool (1), loosen the screw (2) and release
the lock plate (3).
(2)
(1)
(3)
(1) gear change tool (3) lock plate

(2) screw

6. Locate the emergency valve access hole (4) inside the left front
fender. Using a screwdriver, turn the emergency valve (5) all the
way in. With the engine running, slowly open the throttle to
move the ATV forward.
7. See your dealer as soon as possible.
LEFT FRONT LEFT SIDE
(5)
(4)
(4) emergency valve access hole (5) emergency valve
When the battery is low (or dead):

• See If the Battery Is Low (or Dead), page 259.

Emergency Gear Selection &
Operation (Except TRX520FM6)
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 your dealer.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON (q) position.

3. Remove the gear change tool from the storage compartment
(page 141).
4. Check the neutral indicator.
If the transmission is in neutral, go to step 5.
If the transmission is not in neutral, use the gear change tool to
shift to neutral so you will be able to start the engine. Refer to
How to Shift Gears Manually: (page 245).
5. Apply the parking brake (page 53).
6. Press the start/override button to start the engine.
7. Set 2nd gear position. Refer to How to Shift Gears Manually:
(page 245).
8. Return the gear change tool to the storage location.
9. Install the tank cover assembly and seat.
10. Get on the ATV, release the parking brake, and drive it at a safe
speed to a place where it can be repaired or serviced.

Emergency Gear Selection &
Operation (Except TRX520FM6)
How to Shift Gears Manually:
(A)
(B)
(1)
(1) gear change tool (A) downshift (counterclockwise)

(B) upshift (clockwise)
• With the ATV unoccupied, align the hexagonal hole of the gear
change tool (1) with the hexagonal end of the secondary spindle
which is located on the front crankcase next to the front propeller
shaft.
• To downshift, turn the gear change tool to counterclockwise (A).
To upshift, turn the gear change tool to clockwise (B).
• If the transmission does not shift, rock the vehicle back and forth
and try again.
• Return the gear change tool to the storage location.
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 shut down automatically and the shift
switches will not operate. To reactivate the system, turn the ignition
switch to the OFF (w) position, then turn it back to the ON (q)
position.
It may be required to rock the ATV back and forth to get proper
transmission gear alignment to allow shifting between gears.

If You Have a Flat Tire
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

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 211). Replacing a tire involves removing and re-
installing the wheel (page 248).

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.
WARNING 3 WARNING
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.

Emergency Wheel Removal/Installation

Except TRX520FA7 TRX520FA7
(Steel wheel model): (Aluminum wheel model):
(1) (1)
(1) (1)
(2) (2)
(1) wheel nuts (2) wheel rim
Removal
2. Loosen — but do not remove — the wheel nuts (1).
3. Raise the front (or rear) wheels off the ground and place a
support block under the vehicle.
4. Remove the wheel nuts.

5. Remove the wheel.
• 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.
Installation
1. Position the wheel.
2. Position each wheel nut so that the tapered side faces the wheel
rim (2).
3. 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:
Except TRX520FA7 (Steel wheel model):
47 lbf·ft (64 N·m, 6.5 kgf·m)
TRX520FA7 (Aluminum wheel model):
62 lbf·ft (84 N·m, 8.6 kgf·m)
If a torque wrench was not used for installation, see your dealer as
soon as possible to verify proper assembly. Improper assembly may
lead to loss of braking capability.

If the High Coolant Temperature
Indicator Lights
Normally, the high coolant temperature indicator will only light
momentarily when you turn the ignition to ON (q).
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.
If all the segment of the coolant temperature gauge and high
coolant temperature indicator are 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.
NOTICE
Continuing to ride with high coolant temperature or an overheated
engine can cause serious engine damage.
• 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 for any restriction of air flow to the radiator.
• If there’s no obvious problem, leave the engine on so the fan and
coolant circulating system can continue working. Monitor the
coolant temperature gauge and high coolant temperature
indicator. The indicator may turn off after a brief stop with no
load on the engine.
• Check the radiator fan.
If the fan is not working, turn the engine off. Open the fuse box
(page 253) and check the radiator fan fuse. If the fuse is blown,
replace it with the proper (same rating) spare fuse. Start the
engine. If all the segment of the coolant temperature gauge and
high coolant temperature indicator stays on, turn the engine off.
If the radiator fan is working, visually check the coolant level in
the reserve tank, located under the left front fender. It isn’t
necessary to touch the radiator system.

If the High Coolant Temperature
Indicator Lights
• If the reserve tank is low or empty, don’t ride without adding
coolant (page 171). After adding coolant, turn the engine on and
check the coolant temperature gauge and high coolant
temperature indicator.
If the indicator doesn’t turn off, do not ride. The engine needs
repair.
Transport your ATV to your dealer (page 228).
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 (pages
153, 156) to the upper level mark. If you must leave your ATV to
get oil, secure it as much as possible.
• Start the engine, and check that the coolant temperature gauge
and high coolant temperature indicator goes off.
If you are able to resume riding, continue to monitor the coolant

temperature gauge and high coolant temperature indicator
frequently.
If there is an oil leak — do not ride the ATV until the leak is repaired
by your dealer (page 228).
If there’s a mild coolant leak, you can ride for awhile, carefully
watching the coolant temperature gauge and indicator. Be prepared
to stop and add more coolant or water. If the leak is bad, transport
your ATV to your dealer (page 228).

If a Fuse Blows
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 (1).
Check all the fuses before looking elsewhere for another possible cause of
the problem. Replace any blown fuses and check component operation.
(1)
(1) blown fuse
The main fuse and the circuit fuses are located under the rear fender cover.
Except TRX520FA5:
The EPS (Electric Power Steering) fuse is located under the rear fender cover.
Recommended Fuses
main fuse 1 40 A
main fuse 2 10 A
ES (shift motor) fuse 30 A
(Except TRX520FM6)
other fuses Except TRX520FM6:
20 A x 3, 10 A
TRX520FM6:
20 A x 4, 10 A
EPS (Electric Power 40 A
Steering) fuse
(Except TRX520FA5)

If a Fuse Blows
Main Fuses Access
1. To prevent an accidental short circuit, turn the ignition switch to
OFF (w) before checking or replacing the fuses.
4. To access the main fuse 1 (2), remove the fuse cover (3).
5. To access the main fuse 2 (4), remove the fuse box cover (5).
(5) (3)
(2)
(Except TRX520FM6) (TRX520FM6)

(6) (6)
(4) (4)
(2) main fuse 1 (5) fuse box cover
(3) fuse cover (6) spare fuse
(4) main fuse 2
6. Pull the main fuse 1 (2) out.
If the main fuse 1 is blown, install the spare fuse on the underside
of the rear fender cover (page 142).
(cont’d)
If a Fuse Blows
7. Pull the main fuse 2 (4) out with the fuse puller on the underside
of the rear fender cover (page 142).
If the main fuse 2 is blown, install the spare fuse (6).
8. Install the fuse cover.
Circuit Fuses Access

(Except TRX520FM6) (TRX520FM6)
(8) (8)
(7) (7)
(7) circuit fuses (8) spare fuses
9. To check or replace a circuit fuse (7), pull the old fuse out of its
retaining clips with fuse puller on the underside of the rear fender
cover (page 142).
If the fuse is blown, replace it with a spare fuse (8) 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.
NOTICE
Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases
the chance of damage to the electrical system.
10. Install the fuse box cover.

11. Install the rear fender cover.

If a Fuse Blows
EPS (Electric Power Steering) Fuse Access (Except TRX520FA5)
1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF (w) before checking the fuse.
4. To access the EPS fuse (1), remove the EPS fuse box cover (2).
If the EPS block fuse is blown, install the spare fuse (page 142).
5. Install the EPS fuse box cover.
6. Install the rear fender cover.
(2)
(1)
(1) EPS fuse (2) EPS fuse box cover

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 dealer.

If You Crash
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 dealer check the frame
and suspension after any serious crash.

If You Lose Your Key
Be sure to record your key number (1). Store the spare key and
recorded key number in a safe location. 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 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)
(1) key number

If the Battery Is Low (or Dead)
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 dealer.
(Canada only)
Your ATV will operate even if the battery is low (or dead), as long as
the engine is running. If the engine is not running, it may be started
using the recoil starter.
Except TRX520FM6:
2. Check if the transmission is in neutral by moving the vehicle back
and forth.
3. If the transmission is in neutral, the vehicle will move easily. Go to
step 6. If the transmission is not in neutral, the vehicle will not move.
4. Remove the gear change tool from the storage compartment
(page 141).
5. Use the gear change tool to shift to neutral so you will be able to
start the engine. Refer to How to Shift Gears Manually: (page 245).
6. Apply the parking brake.
7. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF (w) position, then turn it back
to the ON (q) position.
8. Use the recoil starter (page 94) to start the engine.
TRX520FM6:
1. Shift the shift lever in neutral position.
2. Apply the parking brake.
4. Use the recoil starter (page 94) to start the engine.

If a Component Fails
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.

Technical Information
This section contains dimensions, capacities, and other technical
Technical Information
data, plus information on government requirements and how to

break-in your ATV.
Vehicle Identification ................................................................ 262

Specifications ........................................................................... 264
Break-in Guidelines................................................................... 269
Emission Control Systems ......................................................... 270
Oxygenated Fuels ..................................................................... 274
Catalytic Converter (Except TRX520FM6) .................................. 276
Technical Information 261

Vehicle Identification
Serial Numbers
The VIN and engine serial 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 (1) is stamped on the front of the frame.

Remove the radiator cap lid (page 172).
FRONT
(1)
(1) VIN
The engine number (2) is stamped on the upper side of the rear
crankcase.
LEFT REAR
(2)
(2) engine number
262 Technical Information

Vehicle Identification
Color Label & Code
The color label (1) is attached on the left side of the frame.
The color code is helpful when ordering replacement parts. You may
record the color code in the Quick Reference section at the rear of
this manual.
LEFT SIDE
(1)
(1) color label

Specifications
Dimensions
overall length 86.0 in (2,185 mm)
overall width 47.4 in (1,205 mm)
overall height Except TRX520FM6
48.7 in (1,237 mm)
TRX520FM6
48.7 in (1,238 mm)
wheelbase 50.9 in (1,294 mm)
ground clearance Except TRX520FM6
9.7 in (247 mm)
TRX520FM6
9.8 in (250 mm)
Fuel & Lubricants

fuel unleaded gasoline, pump octane
recommendation number of 86 or higher
fuel tank capacity 3.88 US gal (14.7 ℓ)
including reserve
fuel tank reserve 1.29 US gal (4.9 ℓ)
engine oil Except TRX520FM6
capacity after disassembly:
4.6 US qt (4.4 ℓ)
after draining:
3.8 US qt (3.6 ℓ)
after draining & oil filter change:
4.0 US qt (3.8 ℓ)
TRX520FM6
after disassembly:
3.5 US qt (3.3 ℓ)
after draining:
3.1 US qt (2.9 ℓ)
3.2 US qt (3.0 ℓ)

Specifications
Fuel & Lubricants (cont’d)
engine oil API Service Classification SJ or
recommendation higher except oils labeled as energy
conserving or resource conserving
on the circular API service label, SAE
10W-30, JASO T 903 standard MA,
Pro Honda GN4 4-stroke oil (USA &
Canada), or Honda 4-stroke oil, or
an equivalent motorcycle oil
cooling system Pro Honda HP Coolant or an
recommendation equivalent high quality ethylene
glycol antifreeze containing
corrosion protection inhibitors
specifically recommended for use in
aluminum engines
cooling system 1.7 US qt (1.6 ℓ)
capacity
Capacities
passenger operator only
capacity
maximum weight 573 lb (260 kg)
capacity rider, all cargo and accessories
Engine Specifications
displacement 31.6 cu-in (518 cm3)
bore & stroke 3.78 × 2.81 in
(96.0 × 71.5 mm)
compression ratio 9.5 : 1
spark plug BKR5E-11 (NGK) or
(standard) K16PR-U11 (DENSO)
spark plug gap 0.039 – 0.043 in (1.00 – 1.10 mm)

Specifications
Engine Specifications (cont’d)
valve clearance intake: 0.006 ± 0.001 in
(cold) (0.15 ± 0.02 mm)
exhaust: 0.009 ± 0.001 in
(0.23 ± 0.02 mm)
idle speed 1,400 ± 100 rpm
(non-adjustable)
Power Transmission (Except TRX520FM6)

primary reduction 2.680
secondary drive range 1.520
reduction low range 2.187
final reduction front 3.230
rear 3.153
transmission ratio 1st 3.058
2nd 2.157
3rd 1.588
4th 1.181
5th 0.848
reverse 3.996
final drive shaft
Power Transmission (TRX520FM6)

primary reduction 2.103
secondary reduction 1.875
final reduction front 3.230
rear 3.153
transmission ratio 1st 4.230
2nd 2.388
3rd 1.608
4th 1.178
5th 0.848
reverse 5.743
final drive shaft
Specifications
Chassis & Suspension
caster 1°
trail −0.04 in (−1 mm)
tire size, front AT25 × 8-1211 MAXXIS M975
tire size, rear AT25 × 10-1211 MAXXIS M978
tire pressure, front:
front & rear (cold) 4.4 psi (30 kPa)
rear:
4.4 psi (30 kPa)
Electrical
battery GYZ16H
12 V-16 Ah (10HR)
generator Except TRX520FM6
0.595 kW/5,000 rpm
TRX520FM6
0.481 kW/5,000 rpm
Lights
headlight 12 V 35/35 W × 2
assist headlight 12 V 50 W
brake/tail light LED
neutral indicator LED
reverse indicator LED
high coolant LED
temperature
indicator
PGM-FI indicator LED
differential lock LED
indicator
PS (Electric Power LED
Steering) indicator
(Except TRX520FA5)

Specifications
Fuses
main 1 40 A
main 2 10 A
ES (shift motor) 30 A
(Except TRX520FM6)
other Except TRX520FM6
20 A x 3, 10 A
TRX520FM6
20 A x 4, 10 A
EPS (Electric 40 A
Power Steering)
(Except TRX520FA5)
Torque Specification
engine oil drain 18 lbf·ft (25 N·m, 2.5 kgf·m)
bolt
engine oil filter Except TRX520FM6
cover bolts 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
TRX520FM6
7 lbf·ft (10 N·m, 1.0 kgf·m)
rear final gear oil 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
drain bolt
rear final gear oil 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
fill cap
front final gear oil 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
drain bolt
front final gear oil 9 lbf·ft (12 N·m, 1.2 kgf·m)
fill cap
wheel nuts Except TRX520FA7
(Steel wheel model)
47 lbf·ft (64 N·m, 6.5 kgf·m)
TRX520FA7
(Aluminum wheel model)
62 lbf·ft (84 N·m, 8.6 kgf·m)
Break-in Guidelines
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.

Emission Control Systems
Exhaust Emission Requirements
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air
Resources Board (CARB), and Environment Climate Change Canada
(ECCC) 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 (1) is attached on the

left front of the frame.
(Canada only)
The Vehicle Emission Control Information Label (2) is attached on the
left side of the frame.
LEFT FRONT LEFT SIDE
(1) (2)
(1) vehicle emission control information label
(2) vehicle emission control information label (Canada only)

Source of Exhaust Emissions
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.
Exhaust Emission Control System

The exhaust emission control system includes a PGM-FI system and
oxygen sensor.
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.
Evaporative Emission Control System

(USA - 50 States [meets California])
An evaporative emissions control system uses a canister filled with
charcoal to adsorb fuel vapor from the fuel tank while the engine is
off. The vapor is drawn into the engine and burned while driving.
Models sold in and used in California:

An add-on or modified part must be compliant with applicable ARB
evaporative emission control standards. A violation of this
requirement is punishable by civil and/or criminal punishment.
Crankcase Emission Control System

The engine is equipped with a Closed Crankcase System to prevent
discharging crankcase vapors into the atmosphere. Blow-by gas is
returned to the combustion chamber through the air cleaner,
throttle-body and intake-manifold.

Problems That May Affect ATV Exhaust Emissions
If you are aware of any of the following symptoms, have the vehicle
inspected and repaired by your ATV dealer.
Symptoms:
1. Hard starting or stalling after starting
2. Rough idle
3. Misfiring or backfiring during acceleration
4. After-burning (backfiring)
5. 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.
If you loan, sell, or give your competition modified Honda ATV to

someone else, under applicable law, you must inform the new
owner/operator in writing that the vehicle is to be used for
competition only.

Noise Emission Control System
TAMPERING WITH THE NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM IS PROHIBITED:
State laws prohibit, or Canadian provincial laws may prohibit, the
following acts or the causing thereof: (1) 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 (2) 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.
• Removing or disabling any emissions compliance component, or
replacing any compliance component with a non-compliant
component.
Fuel Permeation Emission Control System

This vehicle complies with the Fuel Permeation Emission Control
regulations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the
California Air Resources Board (CARB), and Environment Climate
Change Canada (ECCC).
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.

Oxygenated Fuels
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 and Canada 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.
The following are percentages of oxygenates for non-road vehicles:
ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) up to 10% by volume.

You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume.
Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name
“Gasohol”.
Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol by volume.
The use of gasoline containing a higher percentage (e.g. E15, E20,
E85) of ethanol has not been approved for use in this vehicle and
may cause starting and/or performance problems and can also
damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of the fuel system and are
not be covered by the Distributor’s Limited Warranty.

Oxygenated Fuels
Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL (methyl alcohol).
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.
NOTICE
Oxygenated fuels can damage paint and plastic. Damage caused by
spilled fuel is not covered by warranty.

Catalytic Converter
(Except TRX520FM6)
This ATV is equipped with a three way catalytic converter. The
catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts,
promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gases without
affecting the metals.
The catalytic converter acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit
must be an original Honda part or its equivalent.
The catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the

chemical reactions to take place. It can set fire to any combustible
materials that come near it. Park your ATV away from high grasses,
dry leaves, or other flammables.
A defective catalytic converter contributes to air pollution and can

impair your engine’s performance. Follow these guidelines to protect
your ATV’s catalytic converter.
• Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded

gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the
catalytic converter ineffective.
• Keep the engine in good running condition. A poorly running

engine can cause the catalytic converter to overheat, causing
damage to the converter or the ATV.
• If your engine is misfiring, backfiring, stalling, or otherwise not

running properly, stop driving and turn off the engine.
Have your ATV serviced as soon as possible.

Consumer Information
This section contains information on your warranty and how to get
Consumer Information
an official Honda service manual.
Authorized Manuals ................................................................. 278

Warranty Coverage .................................................................. 279
Warranty Service ...................................................................... 280
Contacting Honda .................................................................... 281
Your Honda Dealer ................................................................... 283
Reporting Safety Defects (Canada only) .................................... 284
Consumer Information 277

Authorized Manuals
The Service Manual used by your authorized dealer is available from
your Honda dealer or Helm, Inc. (USA only, Canada: See your dealer
to order authorized manuals.)
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 on Honda motorcycles,
scooters, ATVs, SxSs and PWCs.
(USA only)
The Winter Storage Guide in conjunction with the Owner's Manual
and Service Manual can help you prepare your Honda motorcycle,
scooter, ATV, and SxS for winter storage.
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.
Description
2014-2024 Foreman & Foreman Rubicon Service Manual
Common Service Manual (61CSM00)
(USA only) Winter Storage Guide (S9507)
2024 Foreman Rubicon Owner’s Manual
Order online: www.helminc.com
Order Toll Free: 1-888-CYCLE93 (1-888-292-5393)

(NOTE: For Credit Card Orders Only)
Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST
278 Consumer Information

Warranty Coverage
Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:
• TRX Limited Warranty
• Emission Control System Warranty
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.
Canada: Please refer to the Warranty Booklet posted on our website

at www.honda.ca.
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.
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.
Almost all of your warranty coverage can be extended through the

HondaCare® Protection Plan (USA only). For more information, see
your dealer.

Warranty Service
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 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 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.

Contacting Honda
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 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 contact Honda directly to comment on your

experiences with your Honda or with your dealer, please send your
comments using one of the following methods:
USA:
POST MAIL
Powersports Customer Relations

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
4900 Marconi Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005-8847
PHONE
Telephone: (866) 784-1870
ONLINE CUSTOMER SERVICE
Website: https://powersports.honda.com/contact-us

Contacting Honda
Canada: Honda Canada Inc., Customer Relations Dept, 180 Honda
Boulevard, Markham, Ontario L6C 0H9, telephone: (888) 946-6329,
facsimile: (877) 939-0909.
E-mail: [email protected]
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 dealer to respond, or possibly acknowledge

your comments directly.

Your Honda Dealer
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, Honda Accessories (USA only), and Honda accessories and
products (Canada only). 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 HondaCare® Protection Plan to

extend almost all of your warranty coverage (USA only).
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 safety training available in your local area.
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.

Reporting Safety Defects
(Canada only)
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a
crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately
inform Honda Canada Inc. and you may also inform Transport
Canada.
If Transport Canada receives similar complaints, it may open an

investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group
of vehicles, it may lead to a recall and remedy campaign.
However, Transport Canada cannot become involved in
individual problems between you, your dealer, or Honda Canada
Inc.
To contact Transport Canada's Defect Investigations and Recalls

Division,
Mailing Address:
Transport Canada - ASFAD
330 Sparks Street
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0N5
Telephone: 819-994-3328 (Ottawa-Gatineau area or

internationally)
Toll free: 1-800-333-0510 (in Canada)
Online:
(English Link:) www.tc.canada.ca/recalls
(French Link:) www.tc.canada.ca/rappels
For more information on reporting safety defects or about motor

vehicle safety, go to
https://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety.

Index
Index
A
accessories .................................................................................78
accessory socket .........................................................................58
age recommendation .................................................................69
air cleaner,
dust cover .............................................................................182
filter ......................................................................................178
housing drain tube ................................................................183
air pressure,
gauge ....................................................................................142
tire ........................................................................................206
American Honda, contacting ....................................................281
apparel, protective ......................................................................66
appearance care .......................................................................219
authorized manuals ..................................................................278
B
bank angle sensor ignition cut-off system ...................................91
battery .....................................................................................214
brake light switch adjustment ...................................................204
brakes,
cables ....................................................................................203
fluid ......................................................................................196
front brake lever ......................................................................51
pad wear ...............................................................................200
parking ....................................................................................51
rear brake lever .......................................................................51
rear brake lever freeplay ........................................................202
rear brake pedal ......................................................................51
braking .....................................................................................108
break-in guidelines ...................................................................269
Index 285
Index
button,
mode select .................................................................15, 20, 21
start/override ...........................................................................42
C
capacity, fuel ............................................................................148
care, appearance ......................................................................219
cargo,
loading and operational guidelines ..........................................77
weight limit .............................................................................76
catalytic converter ....................................................................276
cleaning, appearance care ........................................................219
climbing hills ............................................................................113
clip ...........................................................................................146
clutch system ............................................................................186
color label ................................................................................263
compartment,
owner’s manual .....................................................................142
storage ....................................................................................63
tool kit ..................................................................................141
component fails ........................................................................260
consumer information ..............................................................277
controls & features .....................................................................37
coolant temperature gauge ........................................................31
crash, if you ..............................................................................257
crossing or turning on hills or slopes .........................................118
customer service .......................................................................281
D
differential lock switch ................................................................40
digital clock ................................................................................29
dimmer switch, headlight ...........................................................45
dipstick .....................................................................................153
286 Index
Index
display check ..............................................................................17
display, multi-function ................................................................21
drive mode select switch .............................................................48
driveshaft boots ........................................................................213
drivetrain boots ........................................................................213
E
emission control systems ..........................................................270
engine,
flooded ...................................................................................91
guard ....................................................................................212
number .................................................................................262
oil ..........................................................................................150
pinging ..................................................................................147
starting ....................................................................................88
stop switch ..............................................................................44
stopping ..................................................................................93
won’t start ............................................................................238
environment .............................................................................234
EPS (Electric Power Steering) .......................................................64
exhaust system,
cleaning ..................................................................................72
purging .................................................................................192
F
final gear oil,
front ......................................................................................168
rear .......................................................................................165
flag pole bracket ........................................................................56
flat tire .....................................................................................246
flooded engine ...........................................................................91
front boot guards .....................................................................212
(cont’d)
Index 287
Index
front differential lock ..................................................................40
front driveshaft boots ...............................................................213
front driveshaft guards .............................................................212
front final gear oil .....................................................................168
fuel,
fill cap ...................................................................................135
gauge ......................................................................................27
oxygenated ...........................................................................274
recommendation ...................................................................147
refueling ................................................................................148
reserve fuel supply .................................................................148
tank capacity .........................................................................148
fuses ........................................................................................252
G
gap, spark plug ................................................................188, 265
gasohol ....................................................................................274
gasoline ....................................................................................147
gear shifting ...............................................................................95
gearshift switch ..........................................................................49
guards ......................................................................................212
H
headlight dimmer switch ............................................................45
headlight switch .........................................................................45
high coolant temperature indicator ...............................15, 18, 250
hills,
crossing or turning on slopes .................................................118
riding down hills ....................................................................117
riding up hills .........................................................................113
stopping on hills ....................................................................115
Honda service manual ..............................................................278
288 Index
Index
Honda,
contacting .............................................................................281
dealer ....................................................................................283
hour meter .................................................................................33
I
identification, vehicle ................................................................262
ignition switch ............................................................................37
indicators,
4WD indicator .............................................................15, 19, 23
differential lock indicator .........................................................41
gear position indicator .............................................................25
high coolant temperature indicator ............................15, 18, 250
LOW indicator ...................................................................21, 24
maintenance minder indicator .................................................34
neutral indicator ................................................................15, 18
PGM-FI indicator ................................................................15, 18
PS (Electric Power Steering) indicator .................................15, 19
reverse indicator ................................................................15, 18
inspection, pre-ride .....................................................................71
K
key,
lost ........................................................................................258
number .................................................................................258
kit, tool ....................................................................................141
L
labels, safety .................................................................................5
lamp check .................................................................................16
lever,
parking brake ..........................................................................52
range select .............................................................................38
(cont’d)
Index 289
Index
limit, weight ...............................................................................76
load limits ...................................................................................76
loading guidelines ......................................................................77
lubrication,
engine oil ..............................................................................150
front final gear oil ..................................................................168
rear final gear oil ...................................................................165
M
maintenance,
component locations .............................................................135
hour meter ..............................................................................33
importance ............................................................................127
minder indicator ......................................................................34
precautions ...........................................................................129
record ...................................................................................134
safety ....................................................................................128
schedule ................................................................................130
tripmeter .................................................................................34
manual, service .........................................................................278
maximum weight limit ................................................................76
mode button ........................................................................15, 20
modifications ..............................................................................79
multi-function display .................................................................21
N
neutral indicator ...................................................................15, 18
noise emission control system ...................................................273
numbers, serial .........................................................................262
O
obstacles, riding over ................................................................120
odometer ...................................................................................30
290 Index
Index
oil,
engine ...................................................................................150
front final gear ......................................................................168
rear final gear ........................................................................165
operation component locations ..................................................11
owner’s manual storage ...........................................................142
oxygenated fuels ......................................................................274
P
parking .....................................................................................123
parking brake lever .....................................................................52
parking brake/reverse lever (P/R lever) .........................................54
passengers, no carrying ..............................................................69
pavement, no riding on ..............................................................83
pinging, engine ........................................................................147
plug, spark ...............................................................................188
pre-ride inspection ......................................................................71
problems, unexpected ..............................................................236
propeller shaft boots ................................................................213
protective apparel .......................................................................66
R
range select lever ........................................................................38
rear driveshaft boots .................................................................213
rear driveshaft guards ...............................................................212
rear fender cover removal .........................................................144
rear final gear oil ......................................................................165
recoil starter .........................................................................46, 94
removal,
rear fender cover ...................................................................144
seat .......................................................................................143
tank cover assembly ..............................................................145
(cont’d)
Index 291
Index
reverse,
assist cable ............................................................................187
assist lever .............................................................................187
gear position selection .............................................................96
gear, shifting into ..................................................................104
indicator ............................................................................15, 18
riding in .................................................................................104
switch .....................................................................................50
rider training ..............................................................................68
riding,
basic operation ........................................................................81
clothing ...................................................................................66
over obstacles ........................................................................120
precautions .............................................................................83
preparing for .........................................................................226
safety ........................................................................................2
safety precautions ...................................................................83
through water .......................................................................121
S
safety,
important precautions ...........................................................129
labels .........................................................................................5
riding precautions ....................................................................83
schedule, maintenance .............................................................130
seat removal .............................................................................143
serial numbers ..........................................................................262
service,
customer ...............................................................................281
manuals ................................................................................278
warranty ................................................................................280
shifting gears ..............................................................................99
skid plate ..................................................................................212
292 Index
Index
skidding or sliding ....................................................................112
spark arrester ...........................................................................192
spark knock ..............................................................................147
spark plug ................................................................................188
specifications ............................................................................264
speed limiter override .................................................................40
speedometer ........................................................................19, 21
stalled engine .............................................................................92
stalling on a hill ........................................................................115
start/override button ...................................................................43
starting,
engine .....................................................................................88
troubleshooting .....................................................................238
stop switch, engine ....................................................................44
stopping engine .........................................................................93
storage,
ATV .......................................................................................230
owner’s manual .....................................................................142
suspension,
adjustment ............................................................................193
spring pre-load ......................................................................194
switch,
4WD .......................................................................................39
differential lock .......................................................................40
downshift ..........................................................................49, 98
drive mode select ....................................................................48
engine stop .............................................................................44
headlight .................................................................................45
headlight dimmer ....................................................................45
ignition ....................................................................................37
reverse ....................................................................................50
upshift ...............................................................................49, 98
(cont’d)
Index 293
Index
T
tank cover assembly removal ....................................................145
throttle,
cable .............................................................................184, 185
lever ........................................................................47, 184, 185
tires,
air pressure ............................................................................206
flat ........................................................................................246
repairing ................................................................................210
replacing ...............................................................................211
tread conditions ............................................................208, 209
tool kit .....................................................................................141
trailer hitch .................................................................................57
trailer towing,
operational guidelines .............................................................77
weight limits ............................................................................76
training, rider .............................................................................68
transmission range select ..........................................................101
transporting your ATV ..............................................................228
tripmeter ....................................................................................30
trouble, unexpected .................................................................235
troubleshooting, starting ..........................................................238
turning,
on hills or slopes ....................................................................118
on level ground .....................................................................110
U
utility box,
front utility box ........................................................................61
side utility box .........................................................................60
utility pocket ..............................................................................62
294 Index
Index
V
valve clearance .........................................................................191
vehicle identification no. (VIN) ..................................................262
W
warning labels ..............................................................................5
warranty,
coverage ...............................................................................279
extended ...............................................................................279
service ...................................................................................280
washing your ATV ....................................................................220
water,
riding through .......................................................................121
weight limit ................................................................................76
wheel removal ..........................................................................248
Y
yoke joint boot .........................................................................213
Index 295
Quick Reference
The following is a brief, but important collection of information you
Quick Reference
need to know about your Honda. You’ll also find space to record
important notes.
How To Avoid Costly Repairs
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:
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Engine No.
VIN
Color Label
Owner’s Name
Address
City/State
Phone
Dealer’s Name
Address
City/State
Phone
Service Mgr.
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Scheduled Initial: 100 miles (150 km)
Maintenance Regular: every 600 miles (1,000 km)
Pre-ride Check the following items each time
Inspection before you ride (page 71): 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
(TRX520FM6), switches, steering.
Fuel/Capacity unleaded gasoline, pump octane number
86 or higher
3.88 US gal (14.7 ℓ)
reserve:
1.29 US gal (4.9 ℓ)
Engine Oil/ API Service Classification SJ or higher
Capacity except oils labeled as energy conserving
or resource conserving on the circular API
service label, SAE 10W-30, JASO T 903
standard MA, Pro Honda GN4 4-stroke oil
or equivalent
(Except TRX520FM6)
after draining:
3.8 US qt (3.6 ℓ)
4.0 US qt (3.8 ℓ)
(TRX520FM6)
after draining:
3.1 US qt (2.9 ℓ)
3.2 US qt (3.0 ℓ)
Maximum 573 lb (260 kg)
Weight Capacity rider, all cargo and accessories
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
Tires Front: AT25 × 8-1211
MAXXIS M975
Rear: AT25 × 10-1211
MAXXIS M978
Tire Pressure Front: 4.4 psi
(cold) (30 kPa)
Rear: 4.4 psi
(30 kPa)
Spark Plugs standard:
BKR5E-11 (NGK) or
K16PR-U11 (DENSO)
Coolant ethylene glycol antifreeze (silicate-free)
for aluminum engines in 50/50 solution
with Pro Honda HP Coolant or an
equivalent distilled water
Fuses main 1: 40 A
main 2: 10 A
ES (shift motor): 30 A
(Except TRX520FM6)
other: Except TRX520FM6
20 A x 3, 10 A
TRX520FM6
20 A x 4, 10 A
EPS (Electric Power Steering)
(Except TRX520FA5): 40 A
Quick Reference
Quick Reference
These symbols are used in Controls & Features section:
SYMBOL COMPONENT SEE PAGE
q ON — ignition switch 37
w OFF — ignition switch 37
4WD switch 39
differential lock switch 41
differential lock indicator — lights
when the front differential lock 42
mode engages
start/override button 43
e RUN — engine stop switch 44
r OFF — engine stop switch 44
y ON — headlight switch 45
t OFF — headlight switch 45
u HI — headlight dimmer switch 45
i LO — headlight dimmer switch 45
TRX520FA5/FA6/FA7 only
L D range select lever 38
automatic shift mode — drive mode
AUTO 48
select switch
manual shift mode — drive mode
ESP 48
select switch
upshift switch — gearshift switch 49
downshift switch — gearshift switch 49
parking brake lock lever 52
TRX520FM6 only
Parking Brake/Reverse Lever
(P/R lever):
54
P — parking brake
R — riding in reverse
Quick Reference
California Proposition 65 Warning
WARNING: Operating, servicing and

maintaining a passenger vehicle or off-highway
motor vehicle can expose you to chemicals
including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide,
phthalates, and lead, which are known to the
State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize
exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle
the engine except as necessary, service your
vehicle in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves
or wash your hands frequently when servicing
your vehicle. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.
Improper ATV use can result in SEVERE INJURY or
DEATH

PROTECTIVE
GEAR
NEVER operate:
another vehicle
ALWAYS:
LOCATE AND READ OWNER’S MANUAL.

31HR5690 © 2022 Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

00X31-HR5-6900 All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S.A.

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Read this manual carefully, it contains important safety information.

Models sold in and used in California:

Minimum recommended operator age: 16 Mfg. #

This Owner’s Manual covers the TRX520FM6, TRX520FA5,

This publication includes the latest production information available

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written

© Honda Motor Co., Ltd. 2022

FOR OFF-ROAD USE ONLY

It conforms to US EPA, California, and Environment Climate Change

When you own a Honda, you’re part of a worldwide family of

Your Honda was designed as a recreational ATV for off-road use by

Read the Warranties Booklet (page 279) thoroughly so you

Whenever you ride, tread lightly. By staying on established trails and

Please report any change of address or ownership to your dealer so

You may also want to visit our website at

operating this ATV safely is an important responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have

Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all hazards

You will find important safety information in a variety of forms,

Safety Labels — on the ATV.

Safety Messages — preceded by a safety alert symbol 2 and one

A Few Words About Safety

You WILL be KILLED or

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY

You CAN be HURT if you don’t

Safety Headings — such as Important Safety Reminders or

Safety Section — such as ATV Safety.

Instructions — how to use this ATV correctly and safely.

This entire manual is filled with important safety information —

A Few Words About Safety

ATV Safety ..................................................................................1

Instruments & Controls ..............................................................9

Before Riding ............................................................................65

Basic Operation & Riding .........................................................81

Taking Care of the Unexpected.............................................235

Technical Information ............................................................261

Consumer Information ...........................................................277

Important Safety Information........................................................ 2

Follow the Age Recommendation

Always Wear a Helmet

Never Carry a Passenger

Take Time to Learn & Practice

Because many crashes involve inexperienced or untrained riders, we

Be Alert for Off-road Hazards

Don’t Drink or Use Drugs and Ride

Keep Your Honda in Safe Condition

The labels should be considered permanent parts of the vehicle. If a

ALWAYS USE NEVER USE NEVER CARRY NEVER USE

Operating this ATV if you are under

ALWAYS USE NEVER USE NEVER CARRY NEVER USE

Towing an improperly loaded trailer

would normally use before or while riding your ATV.

The items listed on this page are described in this section.

Operation Component Locations ................................................ 11

10 Instruments & Controls

reverse switch 4WD switch

gearshift ignition throttle lever

start/override drive mode select switch

engine stop switch range select lever