The foward controls are linkages and extensions that move the rear brake and shifter to the front frame of the motorcycle. This gives the rider the ability to stretch his legs out for a more comfortable riding position on long rides rather than having his legs directly underneath his hips.
They are the shifter and brake moved forward so when the legs are outstretched they are still on the controls rather than having to bring your legs back to center.
If the bike is actually equipped with forward controls, they are typically located at the bottom of the frame downtubes. Forward controls are another name for the brake and shift controls utilized by your feet that are forward of the "mid controls",which are located just below the engine. Center mass of the bike itself.