Does a 2006 Honda 400EX have reverse?

Yes. The 2006 Honda TRX400EX (commonly called the 400EX) was equipped with a reverse gear. Honda added reverse to the model line starting with the 2005 model-year update, and it remained standard thereafter. This places the 2006 model squarely in the years that include reverse, differentiating it from earlier 1999–2004 units that lacked the feature.

Model-year overview

Honda’s 400EX evolved notably over its production run, with reverse being a key change introduced mid-cycle. The breakdown below clarifies which years have it and which do not.

• 1999–2004 TRX400EX: No reverse gear.
• 2005–2008 TRX400EX: Reverse added and made standard, alongside bodywork and chassis updates.
• 2009–2014 TRX400X: Model renamed from 400EX to 400X; reverse retained.

Because 2006 falls within the 2005–2008 window, a stock 2006 400EX includes reverse from the factory.

How to verify on your specific machine

If you’re checking a used ATV or just want to confirm, a few quick visual and functional checks can verify that reverse is present and working.

• Look for the reverse selector: On 2005+ engines, there’s a reverse-actuation lever/mechanism on the right side of the engine near the footpeg.
• Check the shift pattern: Reverse is typically engaged below first gear when the reverse selector is activated.
• Indicator and controls: Some units have a reverse indicator light in the handlebar pod; confirm the presence of a reverse icon or labeling.
• Documentation and VIN: Match the VIN to the model year and review the owner’s manual for reverse instructions applicable to 2005+ models.

These steps help distinguish a reverse-equipped 2005+ engine from earlier engines or modified machines that may have been swapped.

Basic operation of reverse (2005 and newer 400EX/400X)

Operation is straightforward but does include a selector step to prevent accidental engagement. The exact sequence can vary slightly by market and setup; follow your owner’s manual if available.

1. Come to a complete stop and let the engine idle, with the transmission in neutral.
2. Pull in the clutch lever fully.
3. Activate the reverse selector on the right side of the engine (lever/mechanism designed for reverse engagement).
4. Press the shift pedal down to move into reverse (typically located below first gear when the selector is engaged).
5. To exit reverse, pull in the clutch, release the reverse selector, then shift back up to neutral or first.

If engagement feels difficult, recheck that you are fully stopped, the clutch is fully pulled, and the selector is actuated; consult the manual for model-specific nuances.

Notes on swaps and exceptions

Because the 400EX is popular for modifications, some pre-2005 frames may house later engines with reverse, and vice versa. Visual confirmation of the reverse mechanism on the right engine case is the most reliable check, especially on machines with unknown histories.

Summary

The 2006 Honda TRX400EX does have reverse. Honda introduced the feature in 2005 and kept it through the model’s later TRX400X years. If you’re inspecting a specific ATV, verify by locating the right-side reverse selector and confirming the shift pattern below first when the selector is engaged.

How much horsepower does a 2006 Honda 400EX have?

It has a 28 horsepower engine and the Honda 400EX has a top speed of 72 MPH. The 400EX also sports a sturdy steel frame with removable sub-frame and exceptionally rigid cast aluminum swing-arms.

What year did the 400EX get reverse?

The Honda 400EX gained a reverse gear for the 2005 model year. Models from 1999 up to the 2004 model year did not come with reverse, but the 2005 and later models did.
 

• 2005 and up: Feature a five-speed transmission with reverse.
• 1999-2004: Did not come with a reverse gear. 

Does the 2007 400EX have reverse?

June 2, 2006 — Torrance, Calif. With aggressive styling and the convenience of a Reverse gear, the sport-model TRX400EX combines high performance and refinement like nothing else in its class.