One again, Honda lawn mowers have earned top ratings from Consumer Reports. In the May 2013 print issue, Honda mowers earned four of the top five spots. The number-one ranked HRR216VKA also continues its designation as a best buy, indicating it is considered a particularly good value for the price. The other three mowers, ranked #2, #4, and #5 by Consumer Reports, are part of Honda’s popular HRR series of walk-behind mowers.
HRX Series
The #1 ranked mower, the HRX217VKA, is self-propelled with variable speed Smart Drive and an easy starting Honda GCV190 engine with Auto Choke System. The 4-in-1 Versamow System lets you mulch, bag, and discharge grass or shred leaves. A convenient knob even lets you mulch part of the grass and bag the rest in a sturdy 2.5 bushel grass bag.
The twin blade MicroCut system means superior mulching and bagging from ultra-fine clippings. With a single switch, you can easily change from mulching, to bagging, to discharge without need for other attachments. The rust-free NeXite mowing deck can be adjusted to seven different mowing heights.
HRR Series
The three HRR series mowers listed by Consumer Reports share several features. These self-propelled residential mowers have a five-speed Adjustable Smart Drive for speeds between 0 and 4 miles per hour. The reliable, fuel-efficient GCV160 engine has an Auto Choke System.
These mowers feature the same twin blade MicroCut system in the HRX mower and can be adjusted to six mowing heights, so you’ll be able to get the precise cut you need for your lawn.
The mowers also feature a handle with foam grip that can adjust to two comfortable mowing positions and fold over so you can store the mower more easily. The 21” mowing deck is made of durable steel for long life, and the grass bag holds 2.4 bushels.
#2 – HRR216K9VLA
In addition to the features listed above, this mower has a self-charging electrical start and flywheel brake safety system to stop the engine quickly. It has a 88 lb dry weight and 90 lb operating weight.
#4 – HRR216K9VYA
In this mower, the Roto-Stop blade system allows you to stop the blades without stopping the engine. This lets you to step away from the mower to move items out of the way or empty the bag without turning off the mower. This model has a 90 lb dry weight and 93 lb operating weight.
#5 – HRR216K9VKA
Like the VLA mower, this model features a flywheel brake safety system to stop the engine quickly. It has a 80 lb dry weight and 83 lb operating weight.