Hi guys-

I'm getting ready to purchase a new 2006 Honda Foreman and I'm debating on the electronic shift(FE Model) versus the manual shift(FM Model). I've never owned an ATV but have had motorcycles. Anyone have any recommendations? Any benefits of electronic shift versus manual shift? Any differences in mechical problems? Is it just a matter of preference to shifting with your thumb versus your foot?

 

The ES system has a history of minor problems......it just hasn't lived up to Honda's legendary reputation for bullet proof reliability. The "angle sensor" on the system is currently the subject of a factory recall, so perhaps that has been the problem all along and that will take care of it (????).

Here is my personal take on it. I admit that the idea of ES is attractive, but on the other hand my foot works just fine. So, why would I want to pay extra money for a system that I don't need, especially since it adds needless complexity and may have problems some day. If I were a swanp rider or had to wear huge winter boots all the time or something like that where I couldn't foot shift well, then I might take a chance with it, but otherwise it's something I can live without.