Lightweight is good and what did I use it for it’s a lawnmower ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxTPN04aT-Qdjr_KS3ql7ng8wnU3wwsCqk also recommend Yes it is lightweight so hence not as robust as our old one. But if you take care it does the job really well.
I have both. I use the HRX for the front yard and the HRR for the back yard. The HRX is electric start. It is a beast for thick St. Augustine. Good thing about having two mowers..is the wife does the back yard...I do the front yard. Life is good.
I went with the HRX with the Hydrostatic transmission and the blade stop. Blade stop is a complete game changer for those who bag their yard. Start it once and it stays running the entire time you are mowing.
Thanks Garage Dad. Was narrowing down my search for a new mower and was pretty sure I wanted a Honda. This review and comparison put me over the top and as you recommended, I bought the HRR. Thanks.
The average consumer that spends the money on a Honda mower, is going to keep it for 20 years+. That's where the benefits of the Nexite deck will be seen. The HRR deck will eventually rust out.
Great review!!! My Craftsman Eagle is just over 19 years old and has been in the shop only once. It's been a tough old bird but I have been looking at Honda mowers. I have a Honda generator that is over 15 years old and starts every time on the first pull. So this is why I'm buying a honda. Thank you for this valuable information Garage Dad!!!!
At my local stores, there is a $210 price difference. I see nothing that warrants basically a 33% higher price tag of the HRX. I think you nailed your comparison and your conclusions are accurate.
The HRX gets a lot better when you add the blade stop function and hydro transmission. I don’t know if you can get that on the other one. I have a big yard and it’s nice to be able to transport it to the other side of the yard without the blade running.
I agree with your recommendation for most people. I have had the HRR now for 2 full mowing years and love the drive system. I have what I consider a small front yard but a large back yard. The back yard is sloped about 5 degrees and I had a very hard time pushing my 19 inch electric mower up that slope so I opted for the gas powered self-propelled Honda with the rear wheel drive. It has absolutely no problem going up that grade even on wet grass. The thumb drive on the HRR operates as a speed control that is very responsive and yet easy and comfortable to use. Being able to easily and continuously adjust the walking speed is absolutely necessary as I navigate up and down the slope and around various obstacles and shape changes to the cutting pattern. I live in the Tampa area and have St Augustine grass. This mower is a beast and has no problem cutting even if I miss a week and the grass is longer than normal. The dual blade does an excellent job of mulching. the blades of grass into tiny square pieces. I also like the Roto-Stop feature that allows me to stop walking to pull up a weed or two. When I let go of the Blade-Control Lever the blade stops and the engine slows but does not turn off. After I pull out a couple of weeds I simply hold down the Roto-Stop button with my right thumb while pulling back the Blade-Control Lever with my left hand and the blade engages and the engine picks back up to full speed again. It is ingenious and I use it often. I absolutely love this mower. Great job Honda.
I was coming home from work and my neighbor was throwing his Hrx 217 away took it home cleaned the carburetor started on the first pull. The best mower I’ve ever owned. Mine even has throttle control. So I don’t have to stop the engine to empty the bag
The blade brake clutch and the throttle control are two separate features. Depending on how old the mower is, Honda has changed “feature” between levels of the model line. For safety please ensure that the blade is stopping even if the motor is running - only the noise from the blade motion (windage) should go away when you release the BLADE drive bail.
A few years ago, after mowing vicious, fast growing south Florida St. Augustine for 40+ years, I bought my first brand new mower - a Honda HRX from Home Depot, but with the Smart drive system that your HRR has. It is (was) AWESOME. I just gave it to my son-in-law. I'm heartbroken. But I wanted him, in his first house, who has never cut lawns before, to have the best. *sigh*
Hah! That's what I have, an HRX217 w/ the flappy paddle Smart Drive (also bought at Home Depot, but 10+ years ago!). One day, when my turf management guy showed up for an application shortly after I'd finished mowing, he looked wistfully at my Honda and blurted out that he wished he'd never sold /his/ Smart Drive 217! I also have a 2019 HRX217 with the Select Drive, and while it's fine, the older Smart Drive one makes me feel like I'm Edward Scissorhands - if he had Honda lawnmower hands instead of scissor hands lol. I can just whip it around, up and down the hills...a real pleasure to cut with!
That’s interesting, do you find it tipping back on you? The drive wheels are in the back so theoretically more weight towards the rear helps with traction.
mine bounces if i get lazy and let the mower pull me...agreed, they needed a better center of gravity, especially when bagging and rear weight increases.
I live yards from salt water and am replacing my 10 year old HRR. Not due to rust, but the drive wheels have worn glass smooth and offer zero traction. Two weeks ago a large metal plate/bracket underneath came unbolted and badly mangled in the blade and possibly bent the shaft. It needs a new blade and has noticeable vibration now. Yesterday the self propel failed and I found a broken curved metal bracket on the lawn. Without self propel it is exhausting work on a larger lawn. I can probably fix all these issues with enough research and money, but am looking at just buying a HRX and selling the HRR as a fixer. Good review.
Thanks for the review. I'm looking at the NeXite BECAUSE my Honda deck completely corroded even though it's kept in a garage and I clean under the deck every time I finish. Otherwise, the mower still runs great after 5-6 years on my WV lawn.
Great video, I think the hrr model will be fine for me. Don't think I'll need to spend the extra for the nexite deck. Ive had an old Troy built with a Honda engine for about 15 years and it's deck hasn't rusted away yet. But I have a couple years newer Troy built and it's deck cracked on me a couple years ago, but I just ordered a new replacement deck from Troy built for $60 and its been good as new since.
I have had an HRX 537 for about 13 years. It has never failed and has a tough life. The plastic composit deck is lighter than the steel deck and easier to pull back which you need to do a lot when youre mowing. Just my exoerience thats all.
Looking to purchase a new mower and this comparison was great. although my options asr the HRR and HRN as the dealer doesn't stock the HRX. Thanks again gives me plenty to consider.
My HRX has the Smart-"Thumb"-Drive, and I do like it, especially mowing up banks. It's almost effortless. It took a little getting used to at first, but it didn't take long at all for it to become my preferred mower. I also have an HRR that I'm restoring that doesn't have the Smart-Drive. That may be a modification that will have to be done. Have a great day!
Nice comparison, I have an HRX from 2014 with the blade clutch and I love it. It's been a great mower and nothing else compares IMO. My fiance's dad has a 2016 HRR and he has heavily used it over the last 4 years and it's been great to him. I agree that most people will be more than happy with that model. I've used his several times and found it to be a great mower. I just recently bought my mom a brand new HRN model which replaced the HRR series and she loves it. I think Honda made some nice improvements over the HRR with it including improving the feel of the Smart Drive self propel and getting rid of that resistance their mowers have had when pulling them backwards. I think the biggest advantage you get with the HRX is that versamow clip director. I love being able to mulch and bag together and have the best of both worlds instead of being one or the other. Parts of my front yard grow so thick and tall so quickly that it's too much to fully mulch so I put the director in the middle or at least partially towards bag so it frees up engine power and you don't have to worry about leaving clippings behind. Gives the yard that clean look you get with bagging but you still get the benefits of mulching. Plus you don't have to empty the bag as often as you do when you have it on full bag.
You are my new hero! NO ONE calls out the poor design of the HRX ergonomics with the self propelled handles. AND I have the more expensive version with the drive handle (not the thumb paddles). TERRIBLE design. And I’m a Honda fanboy but this HRX is a big misstep for them. And they tried to fix it with the drive handle you own and still not much better when you need variable speed. You never hear that feedback on reviews.
I've had the HRR for 3 years now, except mine is basic without self propulsion. I have a relatively flat property so I don't mind pushing. The cut quality on these Honda mowers is just fantastic. I don't think I'll ever switch to a different mowing brand. I think the personal pace from Toro has the best self propulsion system, it seems more intuitive than the Hondas.
I've had my Toro w/electric start, self propulsion going on 19 years, only thing the propulsion went out, been pushing it for two yrs now and It wears me out, very heavy, this woman is selling her Honda so I'm going to check it out on Saturday.
I would go with the hrx because u always see the metal decks rusted out on the Hondas with the engine still working so I would rather spend a little extra money to have the better deck so it doesn't rust out
I’ve owned my HRX over 10 years. Bought new at a Honda dealer after seeing the deck strength demonstrated at the Detroit auto show. They had Honda SUV sitting on 4 mowers. Mine is key start and everything still works. I’m charging the battery twice a season now. No big deal. I mow a steep hill. Never an issue with the drive. Mine has the ground speed control on the left handle. Easy to change speeds on the fly. Sounds like they should have kept this design. If I have to mention something I’d change it would be a larger fuel tank. Love this mower.
The faster speed setting is for transport, its not for mowing. The mower has a blade stop feature so you can leave the engine running without the blade being engaged so you can use the mower's engine to move the mower around like to take it from your garage to your lawn or whatever.
The place were the deck material matters the most is under the deck when it gets packed with grass. Owners ever clean them so they rust from the underside and rot out.
i got a honda on my husqvarna rh its a 160 cc motor there tanks and i had a 80's craftsman with a honda as well back in the day and was a great mower as well there solid they could survive a nuke war
The wheel height numbers are on the rear as well. They are molded into the deck but just not painted. You can see them in your shot of the wheels. Very easy to see and set.
The HRX217 VKA(200cc) is a great mower. I have 4 nit picks with mine. Mine turns to the left very, very slightly. The handle is on the highest setting and I still feel like it is too low for me. The speed is on the absolute lowest setting, but still feels a tiny bit faster than what I want sometimes(again 200cc) But the biggest thing is $600 and *no blade stop.* If you want to start the mower without running the blade, then you have to go up one model... $730... Overall, it's still the best 21inch mower you can buy. I know it will outlast and cut better than any consumer grade mower.
A friend of mine buys a new $199 mower every 2 or 3 years. Our Honda's cost a lot up front, but it's just oil changes and blade sharpenings for at least 5 years and probably not much more after that.
You don't want that blade stop, the clutch for that roto stop is nothing but trouble. Much more reliable without it and plus these honda mowers start so easy that it's really not worth the expensive repair to have a roto stop clutch.
I use the the HRX217 as a go to mower for commercial use in my small landscaping business. I've had 190 cc model for years and just recently bought a new one that comes with a more powerful 200 cc engine. Although HRX 217 is the top of the line residential grade mower, I use it commercially over Honda's full on commercial models for several reasons. First and foremost is its deck. It's obviously made of plastic, but it's some kind of special space age plastic that's tougher than a steel deck. It doesn't rust, you can't dent it, brilliant. And what's most important - it's super light so maneuvering it is a joy. Blade brake clutch system and versamow are also great. If there's one thing I don't like on the HRX 217 that it's not sturdy. Without supporting brackets on the handle, mower sometimes seems wobbly and flimsy. Otherwise, a brilliant machine.
I’ve had both models. The HRR for a yard with st Augustine and it worked freaking amazing, all mulching. Never felt under powered. The HRX for my yard with Bermuda now and it’s just ok on mulching in the thickest parts of the bermuda. I to liked the HRR paddle better drive too. I use the HRX paddle in a varying like I did with the HRR. Don’t care or use the in between bag and mulching. Don’t understand it really.
Excellent and informative vid. I have the the HRR216VYA, personally I like the blade stop feature and use it often to pick up twigs or leave it running when transitioning to different surfaces or over a curb. The machine does mulch very well with the twin cut blade system. I have run into times when the grass was a little high/damp and it has bogged down with the 169cc engine. Overall I am happy with my machine, if I can do it again or was buying one today I would go with an HRX with the blade clutch especially now with the boost in power with the 200cc engine. I also like the larger wheels and tires of the HRX and the addition of the ball bearing supported front wheels not just the rear wheels as on the HRR series. As you mentioned another 2 or 3 inches in cutting width would be nice and the larger engine in the HRX would likely handle that extra width without issue.
@@matthewinga9546 The only problem is the gears on the back of the actual wheels are a different size so I used the gears from the factory hrr wheels and put them on the new hrx wheels and they work perfect and have been since I did this modification 2 years ago. The gears are held on to the wheels via plastic tabs so I just used my soldering iron the heat the plastic tabs and fold them up to be able to remove the gears then heated them again the push the tabs back down once the gears were installed. You only have to do this to the 2 back wheels so it's not hard at all. I use my mower everyday for commercial use and the wheels have been holding up for over 2 years now and the tread on the hrx wheels seems to be actual rubber as opposed to the factory plastic hrr wheels so they are very durable and the tread still looks new even after all of the use I've put on them.
I was excited to use my new HRX today. Very nice machine. The new 200 CC engine is a brute. I do have two concerns that will probably go away with use. 1. The select drive system was poorly engineered. I still have my 20 year old Toro Super Recycler with the Personal Pace system. No contest, Personal Pace Rules period. 2. Concern is this HRX is a dust producing machine to say the least. I think it maybe over mulching, I know that sounds stupid. It just makes a dirty mess. I wish the air filter was more heavy duty. It is adequate at best. I will get to like it , it’s just tuff when you are use to the Toro. Great video I might add!
The rear wheels on the HRX have numbered adjustments that are cut into the plastic. I missed it the first few times as well because the numbers are the same color as the plastic deck.
Purchased the HRR 2 weeks ago and it is a fantastic mower. I use the 3.5" height setting in mulch mode and the lawn looks great. New piece of kit has me working on other appearance essentials. Plants are all pruned and waiting for hot weather to hit. We had 1/2" shy of record rainfall this spring and 725" of show in the mountains. Snowbird will be open on 4th of July. Honda has won my heart with the HRR. I will care for it well and it will run until gas mowers are illegal. Had a Cub Cadet before but it just won't cut grass high enough.
Just got the HRX and I love it so so much, lol! That HRR looks fantastic too, but the versa-mow was what sold it for me on the HRX. That makes my life so much better OMG--so nice. I might've missed it, but you don't think that the twin blades on the HRX allows for a better quality of cut? Or does the HRR also have the dual-blade system? Great concise review and you hit all the major areas of concern imo! 👍🏼
5:43 I don’t really understand, I can see the numbers on the back, into the plastic. They are done during the injection, through the plastic mold, so not with a sticker in that case ;) Not as visible, but still here ! Great video, thanks !
The blades are indeed interchangeable....I use the HRX blades on my HRR I find I need to replace the blades every other year along with the wheels on the HRR as the tread wears down to slicks.. I mow 2 times a week in summer and always bag. Great mowers! I change the oil and air filter 2 times a year and sharpen the blades routinely. I go above and beyond taking care of my HRR and it performs like its brand new. I also find it helps to do a yearly cable adjustment to jeep the drive mechanism super responsive
I'm with you. I am an absolute *_FANATIC_* about my HRX217HZA. It's the nicest machine, of any kind, that I have ever owned. I came up with the money and decided I was going to buy the best. I change my oil every 10 hours. I put 50 hours a year on her. I've done so much work upgrading that mower it's pitiful. Magnetic dipstick, protective side rails, tach/hour meter, Plasti-dipped wheels, lawn striping kit and on and on and on. My obsession with that mower is a problem. LOL. I even named her Kathryn. It's sick, I know.
@@heinzkitzvelvet Good idea on PlastDip wheels. All my neighbors are over-pensioned retired Boomers with the best Honda mowers and nuclear green chemical lawns. It will drive them nuts thinking I have some kind of special edition orange-wheeled Honda that they somehow missed at the dealership.
@@madcowusa4277 Orange. Now that would be different. Never thought of going with wild colours. I used a black base with graphite pearl as a top coat so the wheels better match the deck. I might try something like that next season. I respray them every spring because it peels away by the end of the season and looks bad. BTW, that's an interesting phrase, "over-pensioned" retired boomers. What does that mean, over-pensioned?
@@heinzkitzvelvet To me, "over-pensioned" means they have a nice fat monthly retirement check that was part of the their previous employment's benefits package or they were offered profit sharing which they're now cashing in on, hahaha!
@@Believe231 ok. It's sounds kind of negative. Like over-privileged. I mean, it sounds like they worked the years required for that pension that they are recieving.
5:42 the numbers for mow height for the back wheels are literally visible in your video. they're embossed in the deck rather than on a sticker... no need to count.
You’re absolutely right, others have pointed this out , too! Totally missed them. Not sure how I never noticed them, guess I was looking for the same thing I saw on the front. I still think it should be the same format all around to avoid confusion but definitely not a worthy criticism of the HRX.
The Nexite decks are notorious cracking. Once it starts there is no stopping it. Being the owner of a small repair shop these come into my shop on a regular basis. Honda is good about their warranty although nit every mowers damage is covered. They are vert stringent about the circumstances which contributed to the damage. Overall, any Honda mower is a good choice. Personally a steel deck, cared for properly, is my choice. Every day .
Drive system mechanics are the same, differing only in interface. Think of the select drive system as smart drive with a 'max speed' setting. If you put the select drive on full speed and operate it the same as you do the smart drive system, it will react the same. Solid video! Appreciate the side by side walk around and commentary.
Thank you, glad you liked it! I am not sure I agree with you on the drive system though. In my experience if you have “full speed” selected on the HRX you can’t go slowly by just pressing the lever a little. At least on mine it basically either engages or not, very little in between... whereas on the HRR no adjustment needed to go slow on parts or max drive power uphill.
@@garagedad4540 I think it depends on how much slack you have in the clutch cable. Two rotations in or out of the barrel adjuster can be the difference b/w the Select Drive functioning as basically an on/off lever for the transmission, or allowing more granular control (though it doesn't match the variable control offered by Smart Drive).
I still have my 15 year old Honda mower and it works great, but looking next year to upgrade "maybe." The self-propelled drive does tire out my thumbs (no adjustments), better after mowing ever week your thumbs get use to it. I do like the HRR though a little more than the HRX.
Thank you .... The drive system did it for me I do constantly have to go up and down while cutting my grass ...I was going to buy the HRX but I know I will break the drive system ...🌈🇨🇦
I have an hrr i was thinking of upgrading to hrx, considering the drive system, your review decided for me, I don't think I would like the hrx drive system, I like to slow down and speed up while cutting and hrr is so simple and easy to adjust speed, thank you for your review
I enjoyed the video. Just got a new HRX217- I kind of liked the older style of speed control, but probably will get used to this new one. As far as the plastic deck, I have seen a good number of older Honda mowers with serious rust on the decks that still had good engines, and I don't live anywhere near salt water, so maybe this was addressing those problems. My old HRX 217 plastic deck is still in great condition after 10 or so years of use.
Did you get used to the newer Select Drive control? Just curious, because I have an 11-year old HRX217 w/ the Smart Drive, and a 2-year old HRX217 w/ the newer Select Drive clutch grip. The definitely feel different in the hand!
@@joepapp01 After a few months, I sold the new one and bought another older HRX in good shape w the older control. I didn't like the new one, never got used to it, and read a lot of reviews from people that didn't like it either. Another issue was the new HRX didn't have a blade clutch that shut off the blade while the engine continues to run. I really like that feature, especially since my son is 7 and there are usually at least a few small toys that have to be picked up while mowing. The "old" HRX I now use has the blade clutch.
@@mickm5097 so does your HRX with the blade brake clutch have neither the smart drive controller nor the select…just a “standard” clutch lever? My neighbor has an electric start HRX217 with the blade brake clutch, and I’ve used it a couple of times this season. The BBC isn’t a feature that I value, but totally see the utility of it if you have kids. My brother’s lawn always has toys and balls on it from his kids lol. I was surprised with the additional weight of the BBC/electric start model…at least +10lbs on my “standard” smart drive hrx. Will you try to keep yours for as many years as possible? I’m not that much of a lawn care fanatic, but I do cut my yard + 2 of my elderly neighbors’ yards weekly, so…idk, it’s kinda fun to have have a preferred brand of mower and be in a decade+ long rhythm of cutting efficiently with it lol
@@joepapp01 Mine is probably just like your neighbor's. It has the electric start (not something I need really) and the orange handle speed control w 6 or so notches to set the speed, in addition to the blade clutch. I will keep it for as long as it is reliable, I think. My lawn has a mild slope, and the newer HRX control was inconsistent on it- pressing down sometimes made it move a lot slower or faster than I preferred in different areas of the lawn, whereas the older notched control always moves the mower at the same pace, no matter what. The HRX feels sturdy too, like a tank compared to other mowers, which is good, as long as the self propel keeps working. I used to have Craftsman mowers, which I liked a lot- to me the front wheel drive was easier to control. Just pressing down on the handle to lift the front wheels slightly if I wanted to stop the self propel, never had to let go of the propel lever. And it was easy to pull backwards- in contrast, every Honda mower I've had at some point has the intermittent wheel dragging when pulling them backward. Not sure why Honda never fixed that issue. Still, Honda quality and reliability tops other mowers that I know of, so it's nice to have one.
@@mickm5097 so funny that you describe the HRX as tank-like. I literally told my neighbor, "Your mower is like a Tiger tank - what a beast!!" (I don't think he's into ww2 military history like I am, so I didn't geek out and explain that I also thought mine was tank-like, but more like a Panther (44 vs 58 tons!!) lol. I also had Craftsman mowers before I bought Honda #1 (model: HRX217K2VKAA) in 2010!! Truly one of the best purchases I ever made (that Honda). In fact, the only full-retail-price purchase of a consumer item that I made that tops the HRX217K2VKAA was a Starbucks-branded, Italian-made espresso machine in about 2001. My brother and I both have them, and after 20 years they continue to pull perfect shots. I know what you mean about the drag when pulling rearward on the Honda mowers, and I'm honestly not unhappy to hear you mention this, as it makes me feel calmer about mine - both of which manifest the same drag, plus a bit of noisiness. I hope you get a ridiculous # of years out of your Honda. I lucked into being able to buy a factory service manual that's applicable to both of mine, and even has a chapter of the electric start sub-variant. This really changed the equation for me and made effective end-user maintenance w/ factory parts a long-term option. Idk where in the world you are, but I'm in suburban Pittsburgh (so southwest PA) and I never see other Honda NeXite mowers (even though of course Home Depot, and now Lowe's, have sold them here). I've seen a few "extended" neighbors using steel-decked Honda mowers, but my anecdotal experience is that this isn't a popular choice here, except ofc for my neighbor, me, and the guy I bought the used 2019 HRX from lol. OK, Be well!!
Fantastic review sir! Great on the important details. I do believe I have read some reviews that say you are still able to just your speed with the paddles even after you set the speed? I could be wrong but the paddles have a lot of play to push down for a reason. I’m a little confused I guess. Would love to hear what you think because this is a very important consideration before I buy.
Honda introduced the Xenoy (aka NeXite) composite mower decks on HRM models in the early 1990s. That's no gimmicks. Because most people don't clean their mower decks after mowing and because grass often could contain some level of moisture or absorb moisture secondarily when clumped under the deck, steel decks do tend to corrode if not properly maintained and periodically treated. Composite decks, by definition, avoid such a problem. Obviously, all of this matters if one intends to keep their mowers for a long time (ex. 15+ years).
I just got rid of my old Toro mower and bought a very old Honda on craigslist a couple weeks ago, an old hrm215 with the similar plastic deck as the hrx, best mower I've ever owned! Even with the older 140cc engine, those older Honda's still start on the first pull and have tons of power. Doesnt even hesitate or bog down at all in tall thick grass like my old Toro used to do, and I'm sure it will last for a very long time hopefully! Great comparison!
DIY Dad got a hrx215 for free off Craigslist. guy probably dumped it because the drive didn't work and the pull cord broke. put a new cord on it and started up after a few pulls and runs great. pulled out all the grass buildup underneath and found a broken belt. trans works fine. so ordered a new belt and good to mow.
@@berardia4 you cant beat that deal! Ran into a bit of trouble with mine this weekend mowing though, belt is still good but I might have to pull off that plastic cover to access the belt and gear box, the drive bar doesnt always fully return to the disengaged position when I let off the drive, so sometimes it sticks, which also makes it so the self propelled stops working half way through mowing once in a while. So I'll have to try and fix that, taking that plastic belt guard off is kind of crazy, two bolts holding it on also holds the engine to the deck, and had to take the right wheel off to remove the other nut, and one more on the inside of the grass bag chute. Still couldn't get it off. Might try again in a few days I think it's just really stuck on there. Luckily the belt is fine yet, I think the cable that engages the drive might be hung up somewhere but I cant see it without tearing it apart! Oh well, at least the engine is rock solid :)
@@DIYDad1 yeah that shield was tough to get off. The one 12mm bolt was frozen. I recently got an impact gun and would not have been able to get it off otherwise even after using penetrating oil.
Have you ever had issues with a strip of grass being left on the left side, just inside the wheels, that’s unmowed? Change the blades to new Honda blades this season and I’m getting a streak of grass that’s not getting cut. Trouble shot everything I can think of...still leaves uncut grass.
I have a 15 year old HRR. it’s been a great mower hose it over the dog during my divorce and it’s still doing better than the dog and most importantly, it doesn’t shit all over my lawn. I haven’t done much to it other than sharpen the blades a couple of times and change the oil every couple of years but it’s starting to get a little sluggish and it needs a couple of hundred bucks in maintenance and I thought i would upgrade to a self propel model. The HRX is at the top of my list but I prefer the TORO super recycler with the Honda engine. The downside to the Toro is that the Honda engine is the weaker 159 cc and the biggest deal breaker is it doesn’t have the blade stop when you let go of the throttle so I have to keep restarting it. Decisions, decisions?
I bought the HRX217 with an orange old style throttle with cruise control and blade stop and I switched from Toro. I disagree I think you definitely want the HRX because it will go as slow as you want and not drag a old guy like me around the yard. I found that other model be with the paddles for throttle control was a pain. It does how ever not turn as smoothly as my Toro did but the cut quality when I mulch is way better than my Toro .i do still have my Toro but will most likely give it to someone for next season
Just out of interest, have you thought about trying to swap the wheels from the HRX onto the HRR? I have the HRR here in Australia, and the tread has worn completely off the rear drive wheels, and it is greatly exacerbated by the rear wheels locking up and not free wheeling when pulling the mower backwards. But I totally agree that the HRR could do with the bigger wheels. I would love to know if they were interchangeable as I would buy the bigger wheels. Great review. Thanks.
David Ludrock Putting bigger wheels on the HRR would mess up the cutting heights a bit. But what I’ve done with my HRR is I’ve put these new style wheels on it that Honda now makes. They have so much better traction and are made of a better material. ua-cam.com/video/GLPqdKXDo9E/v-deo.html
This vid will help you address the issue with real wheels locking up when pulling it backwards. Its due to the crappy plastic bushings Honda used on the HRR. ua-cam.com/video/ZvpqyWQUb48/v-deo.html
Thanks for sharing Garage! I've had my HRR for about 6 years now in Florida and my deck is rusting out. Also, I've had to maintenance the self propelled system once and it needs it again. My question, how would you compare the robustness of the self propelled systems of each? It seems I've heard people say they have gone 8 plus years without needing to do anything to the HRX self propelled drive? Thanks.
I am glad you have had good luck with the HONDAS, mine hasn't been so good, I have the home entry model , bought about 4-5 years ago at the orange box store.and its currently broken, year 2 it needed a new pull starter cord, last fall when mowing up the leaves the rear drive stopped working and the wheels lockup when being pulled backwards, I doubt that the mower has 20 hours on it, I have had CRAFTSMAN and MURRY's in the past both lasting for 20+ years. I have bought TORO, HUSKY, AND troybuilt FOR MY SCHOOL DISTRICT MAINTENANCE CREWS and all performed much better then the HONDA and the HONDA cost over twice as much as the other brands. I do credit HONDA for being an easy starter, but that does little good when you can't even move it. Although at times it a 3-4 pull to start when the engine is warm. Sadly my mower has ben maintained by the book, still looks like new, but uts dead, NEVER another Honda for me, and thats sad as I RODE honda MOTORCYCLES from the 60's-90's
Keith White I bought a HRX217HZA just last week, though it’s on backorder and no telling when I’ll get it... the discounts are crazy now. That mower lists for $959 and paid $780 + an extra year warranty.
zfilmmaker that is a good deal. Mine was 645 in 2014. Besides changing oil , spark plug, air filter and blade no maintenance. Starts on first pull. You will love it.
@@keithwhite6096 I mainly decided to buy based on price. I've had several Lawn Boy's... in the last decade quality has gone downhill. I've been ready to part ways for a while. Honda seems to have the best bang for the buck. Everything I buy with a Honda motor seems to last. Case in point, I bought several high-end snowblowers only to find out they were all junk compared to a Honda. That goes for pressure washers also. Thanks for your input!
@@keithwhite6096 if you haven't already, you may eventually want to replace the drive shaft bushings and dust seals (each rear adjusting arm takes two bushings, and they absolutely wear out over time).
Advantage of plastic deck isn't so much in the fact that it doesn't rust. The real advantage is the fact that the grass sticks much less on the smooth plastic deck than on a metal one.. Big difference..
Great videos I bought the HRR and had it for 6 months before it started stalling and shutting down. Now looking to get another one. It broke my heart cuz I love Honda lol. Kind of hesitant to buy Honda again.
John McLain At just 6 months it is still under warranty, so bring it back to your dealer. It sounds as though the carb. Needs an adjustment. Pretty simple fix, then you will be up and running again.
Randy Jorgensen I called up Home Depot what’s where I bought it from. They actually took it back Now I don’t have a lawnmower. I don’t know if I should buy the same one again or upgrade to HRX model. I don’t have hills on my lawn it’s square and level. I’m confused. HRX is few hundred more. Or just buy a toro or something. Il not sure what kind to buy now because of my bad experience with Honda.
John McLain Mowers are mechanical things, and mechanical things can have problems occasionally. This don’t mean it’s a bad product. My new toro had the rear wheel drive system fail after just one lap around my yard, big bummer. But I had it fixed under warranty and it has worked fine ever since. I guess my point is, don’t stress over it too much. There is no such thing as the perfect mower, but they are truly ALL good enough. So pick one based on “does it have the most important features to me”, then consummate the marriage with your credit card, and live happily ever after!
@@Jigsawmaster1 Yep, same here, I bought a new Honda HRX, and after a month, it developed a problem & became hard to start when the engine was first started for the day. It actually turned out to be the gas, it had absorbed water or something, and so it wouldn't fire easily. Drained the old gas out thru the carb drain plug, used fresh non-ethanol gas (ie expensive), and she fired on the first pull, and ever since! Was very close to returning it, but called up a Honda mower dealer and they said to try that trick first, and it worked and then to NEVER, EVER put ethanol gas in it! It's very hard to find non-ethanol gas in this corn belt state!
I have the HRX, it's fairy new. The wheels are made of rubber. What I don't like about it is it's too fast and I have to practically run behind it to keep up. Also I put it on my hillside and pressed the clutch, I was shocked when it just stayed in place, it didn't go up the hill. I keep it outside under a tarp so the plastic housing better than metal for me. Oh, and mine doesn't start on the first pull either. Last time it took 3 to 4 pulls so that auto choke thing doesn't work well.
The height adjustment is marked for the rear wheels. The numbers are molded into the plastic and are visible around the 5:40 mark in the video. Thanks for the posting, I was wondering if the drive paddle varied the speed on the HRR and you answered that.
James LaRocque - you’re absolutely right! I never noticed those markings, thanks for catching my error! I still think they should be marked the same way on all four wheels but this is great to know!
Lightweight is good and what did I use it for it’s a lawnmower ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxTPN04aT-Qdjr_KS3ql7ng8wnU3wwsCqk also recommend Yes it is lightweight so hence not as robust as our old one. But if you take care it does the job really well.
I have both. I use the HRX for the front yard and the HRR for the back yard. The HRX is electric start. It is a beast for thick St. Augustine. Good thing about having two mowers..is the wife does the back yard...I do the front yard. Life is good.
I use an HRH536 since last week. It's a beast!
One of the best comparisons I have seen on the internet. Great Job
Thanks! Glad you found it helpful.
I have a 1984 Honda mower and abuse the heck out of it,and still works great and its 35 years old.
Frederick Zaugg of course
I went with the HRX with the Hydrostatic transmission and the blade stop. Blade stop is a complete game changer for those who bag their yard. Start it once and it stays running the entire time you are mowing.
Thanks Garage Dad. Was narrowing down my search for a new mower and was pretty sure I wanted a Honda. This review and comparison put me over the top and as you recommended, I bought the HRR. Thanks.
I bought an HRR back in 2005. I just this Spring replaced the transmission but otherwise the mower has been a great workhorse for me.
I'm grateful for people like you that do a great review and are nicely prepared. thank you!
The average consumer that spends the money on a Honda mower, is going to keep it for 20 years+. That's where the benefits of the Nexite deck will be seen. The HRR deck will eventually rust out.
Great review!!! My Craftsman Eagle is just over 19 years old and has been in the shop only once. It's been a tough old bird but I have been looking at Honda mowers. I have a Honda generator that is over 15 years old and starts every time on the first pull. So this is why I'm buying a honda. Thank you for this valuable information Garage Dad!!!!
This is the best review of these mowers on the entire internet! Thank you!
At my local stores, there is a $210 price difference. I see nothing that warrants basically a 33% higher price tag of the HRX. I think you nailed your comparison and your conclusions are accurate.
The HRX gets a lot better when you add the blade stop function and hydro transmission. I don’t know if you can get that on the other one. I have a big yard and it’s nice to be able to transport it to the other side of the yard without the blade running.
I've had an HRR for several years and I would never give it up =)
I agree with your recommendation for most people. I have had the HRR now for 2 full mowing years and love the drive system. I have what I consider a small front yard but a large back yard. The back yard is sloped about 5 degrees and I had a very hard time pushing my 19 inch electric mower up that slope so I opted for the gas powered self-propelled Honda with the rear wheel drive. It has absolutely no problem going up that grade even on wet grass. The thumb drive on the HRR operates as a speed control that is very responsive and yet easy and comfortable to use. Being able to easily and continuously adjust the walking speed is absolutely necessary as I navigate up and down the slope and around various obstacles and shape changes to the cutting pattern. I live in the Tampa area and have St Augustine grass. This mower is a beast and has no problem cutting even if I miss a week and the grass is longer than normal. The dual blade does an excellent job of mulching. the blades of grass into tiny square pieces. I also like the Roto-Stop feature that allows me to stop walking to pull up a weed or two. When I let go of the Blade-Control Lever the blade stops and the engine slows but does not turn off. After I pull out a couple of weeds I simply hold down the Roto-Stop button with my right thumb while pulling back the Blade-Control Lever with my left hand and the blade engages and the engine picks back up to full speed again. It is ingenious and I use it often. I absolutely love this mower. Great job Honda.
I was coming home from work and my neighbor was throwing his Hrx 217 away took it home cleaned the carburetor started on the first pull. The best mower I’ve ever owned. Mine even has throttle control. So I don’t have to stop the engine to empty the bag
Haha! Your neighbour's stupidity is your win!!!
I wish I had ignorant neighbors!! :)
Eric Orlando I don’t suspect you want ignorant or stupid, perhaps “less discerning” fits? 🙂
The blade brake clutch and the throttle control are two separate features.
Depending on how old the mower is, Honda has changed “feature” between levels of the model line. For safety please ensure that the blade is stopping even if the motor is running - only the noise from the blade motion (windage) should go away when you release the BLADE drive bail.
A few years ago, after mowing vicious, fast growing south Florida St. Augustine for 40+ years, I bought my first brand new mower - a Honda HRX from Home Depot, but with the Smart drive system that your HRR has. It is (was) AWESOME. I just gave it to my son-in-law. I'm heartbroken. But I wanted him, in his first house, who has never cut lawns before, to have the best. *sigh*
Hah! That's what I have, an HRX217 w/ the flappy paddle Smart Drive (also bought at Home Depot, but 10+ years ago!). One day, when my turf management guy showed up for an application shortly after I'd finished mowing, he looked wistfully at my Honda and blurted out that he wished he'd never sold /his/ Smart Drive 217!
I also have a 2019 HRX217 with the Select Drive, and while it's fine, the older Smart Drive one makes me feel like I'm Edward Scissorhands - if he had Honda lawnmower hands instead of scissor hands lol. I can just whip it around, up and down the hills...a real pleasure to cut with!
The thing I love about the nexite deck is that it does not corrode or rust
A plastic deck? You have got to be kidding me! I have a Toro with an aluminum deck. Its such a tank and so light.
@@misterbulger I was joking pal calm down
@@misterbulger those plastic junk ass mowers don’t last
@@misterbulger I own the newest toro super recycler with an aluminum deck it’s awesome
Great comparison, very detailed 😊. I just bought my first Honda, HRX 217VYA, all the Honda’s get great reviews .
I just bought an hrx 217. My only complaint is it needs a little more weight towards the front end. But cut quality is great
That’s interesting, do you find it tipping back on you? The drive wheels are in the back so theoretically more weight towards the rear helps with traction.
mine bounces if i get lazy and let the mower pull me...agreed, they needed a better center of gravity, especially when bagging and rear weight increases.
That’s true, when I first started to used I was feeling weird, I wanted to put some weight at front
I wish I would've seen this before I bought the hrx. Thanks for the video 👍
I live yards from salt water and am replacing my 10 year old HRR. Not due to rust, but the drive wheels have worn glass smooth and offer zero traction. Two weeks ago a large metal plate/bracket underneath came unbolted and badly mangled in the blade and possibly bent the shaft. It needs a new blade and has noticeable vibration now. Yesterday the self propel failed and I found a broken curved metal bracket on the lawn. Without self propel it is exhausting work on a larger lawn. I can probably fix all these issues with enough research and money, but am looking at just buying a HRX and selling the HRR as a fixer. Good review.
madcow usa get a toro timemaster
Thanks for the review. I'm looking at the NeXite BECAUSE my Honda deck completely corroded even though it's kept in a garage and I clean under the deck every time I finish. Otherwise, the mower still runs great after 5-6 years on my WV lawn.
(If you haven't already,) don't buy the lousy steel deck model. Those 8-inch wheels suck, too, in comparison to the 9-inch!
Great video, I think the hrr model will be fine for me. Don't think I'll need to spend the extra for the nexite deck. Ive had an old Troy built with a Honda engine for about 15 years and it's deck hasn't rusted away yet. But I have a couple years newer Troy built and it's deck cracked on me a couple years ago, but I just ordered a new replacement deck from Troy built for $60 and its been good as new since.
I have had an HRX 537 for about 13 years. It has never failed and has a tough life. The plastic composit deck is lighter than the steel deck and easier to pull back which you need to do a lot when youre mowing. Just my exoerience thats all.
Looking to purchase a new mower and this comparison was great. although my options asr the HRR and HRN as the dealer doesn't stock the HRX. Thanks again gives me plenty to consider.
My HRX has the Smart-"Thumb"-Drive, and I do like it, especially mowing up banks. It's almost effortless. It took a little getting used to at first, but it didn't take long at all for it to become my preferred mower. I also have an HRR that I'm restoring that doesn't have the Smart-Drive. That may be a modification that will have to be done.
Have a great day!
Nice comparison, I have an HRX from 2014 with the blade clutch and I love it. It's been a great mower and nothing else compares IMO. My fiance's dad has a 2016 HRR and he has heavily used it over the last 4 years and it's been great to him. I agree that most people will be more than happy with that model. I've used his several times and found it to be a great mower. I just recently bought my mom a brand new HRN model which replaced the HRR series and she loves it. I think Honda made some nice improvements over the HRR with it including improving the feel of the Smart Drive self propel and getting rid of that resistance their mowers have had when pulling them backwards. I think the biggest advantage you get with the HRX is that versamow clip director. I love being able to mulch and bag together and have the best of both worlds instead of being one or the other. Parts of my front yard grow so thick and tall so quickly that it's too much to fully mulch so I put the director in the middle or at least partially towards bag so it frees up engine power and you don't have to worry about leaving clippings behind. Gives the yard that clean look you get with bagging but you still get the benefits of mulching. Plus you don't have to empty the bag as often as you do when you have it on full bag.
I'm thinking of buying the HRN216VYA with the blade clutch.
You are my new hero! NO ONE calls out the poor design of the HRX ergonomics with the self propelled handles. AND I have the more expensive version with the drive handle (not the thumb paddles). TERRIBLE design. And I’m a Honda fanboy but this HRX is a big misstep for them. And they tried to fix it with the drive handle you own and still not much better when you need variable speed. You never hear that feedback on reviews.
I've had the HRR for 3 years now, except mine is basic without self propulsion. I have a relatively flat property so I don't mind pushing. The cut quality on these Honda mowers is just fantastic. I don't think I'll ever switch to a different mowing brand. I think the personal pace from Toro has the best self propulsion system, it seems more intuitive than the Hondas.
I've had my Toro w/electric start, self propulsion going on 19 years, only thing the propulsion went out, been pushing it for two yrs now and It wears me out, very heavy, this woman is selling her Honda so I'm going to check it out on Saturday.
I would go with the hrx because u always see the metal decks rusted out on the Hondas with the engine still working so I would rather spend a little extra money to have the better deck so it doesn't rust out
I’ve owned my HRX over 10 years. Bought new at a Honda dealer after seeing the deck strength demonstrated at the Detroit auto show. They had Honda SUV sitting on 4 mowers. Mine is key start and everything still works. I’m charging the battery twice a season now. No big deal. I mow a steep hill. Never an issue with the drive. Mine has the ground speed control on the left handle. Easy to change speeds on the fly. Sounds like they should have kept this design. If I have to mention something I’d change it would be a larger fuel tank. Love this mower.
The faster speed setting is for transport, its not for mowing. The mower has a blade stop feature so you can leave the engine running without the blade being engaged so you can use the mower's engine to move the mower around like to take it from your garage to your lawn or whatever.
The place were the deck material matters the most is under the deck when it gets packed with grass. Owners ever clean them so they rust from the underside and rot out.
I just bought a HRN with the smart drive and blade control and I like being able to just let go of the paddles when I want to turn or go backwards.
The HRX has the adjustment numbers for the rear wheels. It’s on the deck
Got the HRX today, totally in love
i got a honda on my husqvarna rh its a 160 cc motor there tanks and i had a 80's craftsman with a honda as well back in the day and was a great mower as well there solid they could survive a nuke war
The wheel height numbers are on the rear as well. They are molded into the deck but just not painted. You can see them in your shot of the wheels. Very easy to see and set.
The HRX217 VKA(200cc) is a great mower. I have 4 nit picks with mine. Mine turns to the left very, very slightly. The handle is on the highest setting and I still feel like it is too low for me. The speed is on the absolute lowest setting, but still feels a tiny bit faster than what I want sometimes(again 200cc) But the biggest thing is $600 and *no blade stop.* If you want to start the mower without running the blade, then you have to go up one model... $730...
Overall, it's still the best 21inch mower you can buy. I know it will outlast and cut better than any consumer grade mower.
A friend of mine buys a new $199 mower every 2 or 3 years. Our Honda's cost a lot up front, but it's just oil changes and blade sharpenings for at least 5 years and probably not much more after that.
You don't want that blade stop, the clutch for that roto stop is nothing but trouble. Much more reliable without it and plus these honda mowers start so easy that it's really not worth the expensive repair to have a roto stop clutch.
My deck on my old Murray rusted out and the front wheels fell off.
I use the the HRX217 as a go to mower for commercial use in my small landscaping business. I've had 190 cc model for years and just recently bought a new one that comes with a more powerful 200 cc engine. Although HRX 217 is the top of the line residential grade mower, I use it commercially over Honda's full on commercial models for several reasons.
First and foremost is its deck. It's obviously made of plastic, but it's some kind of special space age plastic that's tougher than a steel deck. It doesn't rust, you can't dent it, brilliant. And what's most important - it's super light so maneuvering it is a joy.
Blade brake clutch system and versamow are also great. If there's one thing I don't like on the HRX 217 that it's not sturdy. Without supporting brackets on the handle, mower sometimes seems wobbly and flimsy. Otherwise, a brilliant machine.
I’ve had both models. The HRR for a yard with st Augustine and it worked freaking amazing, all mulching. Never felt under powered. The HRX for my yard with Bermuda now and it’s just ok on mulching in the thickest parts of the bermuda. I to liked the HRR paddle better drive too. I use the HRX paddle in a varying like I did with the HRR. Don’t care or use the in between bag and mulching. Don’t understand it really.
Excellent and informative vid. I have the the HRR216VYA, personally I like the blade stop feature and use it often to pick up twigs or leave it running when transitioning to different surfaces or over a curb. The machine does mulch very well with the twin cut blade system. I have run into times when the grass was a little high/damp and it has bogged down with the 169cc engine. Overall I am happy with my machine, if I can do it again or was buying one today I would go with an HRX with the blade clutch especially now with the boost in power with the 200cc engine. I also like the larger wheels and tires of the HRX and the addition of the ball bearing supported front wheels not just the rear wheels as on the HRR series. As you mentioned another 2 or 3 inches in cutting width would be nice and the larger engine in the HRX would likely handle that extra width without issue.
BBC is necessary, comes on handy when u have to stop and clear the lawn of debris etc, also bagging! Even though i mulch as well!
I have the HRR and I upgraded the wheels to the 9" ball bearing wheels that come on the HRX for only $45. Now my HRR is the perfect mower.
Big Texas: I was thinking about doing that too, I’m glad you posted that. Did you have any problems or need any modifications?
@@matthewinga9546 The only problem is the gears on the back of the actual wheels are
a different size so I used the gears from the factory hrr wheels and put them on the new hrx wheels and they work perfect and have been since I did this modification 2 years ago. The gears are held on to the wheels via plastic tabs so I just used my soldering iron the heat the plastic tabs and fold them up to be able to remove the gears then heated them again the push the tabs back down once the gears were installed. You only have to do this to the 2 back wheels so it's not hard at all. I use my mower everyday for commercial use and the wheels have been holding up for over 2 years now and the tread on the hrx wheels seems to be actual rubber as opposed to the factory plastic hrr wheels so they are very durable and the tread still looks new even after all of the use I've put on them.
Great review! Thank you! The drive system comparison really was helpful.
HRX is really good for a push mower one of the best of its kind.
if you're in a wet or temperate climate the plastic deck is preferred, whereas if your grass is generally dry the steel deck will do.
I was excited to use my new HRX today. Very nice machine. The new 200 CC engine is
a brute. I do have two concerns that will probably go away with use.
1. The select drive system was poorly engineered. I still have my 20 year old Toro
Super Recycler with the Personal Pace system. No contest, Personal Pace Rules period.
2. Concern is this HRX is a dust producing machine to say the least. I think it maybe over
mulching, I know that sounds stupid. It just makes a dirty mess. I wish the air filter was more heavy duty. It is adequate at best.
I will get to like it , it’s just tuff when you are use to the Toro. Great video I might add!
Good comparison review but 1 correction, the gcv190 has 6.5hp and gcv160 has 5.5hp 😁😉 it's on the manual
The rear wheels on the HRX have numbered adjustments that are cut into the plastic. I missed it the first few times as well because the numbers are the same color as the plastic deck.
Purchased the HRR 2 weeks ago and it is a fantastic mower. I use the 3.5" height setting in mulch mode and the lawn looks great. New piece of kit has me working on other appearance essentials. Plants are all pruned and waiting for hot weather to hit. We had 1/2" shy of record rainfall this spring and 725" of show in the mountains. Snowbird will be open on 4th of July.
Honda has won my heart with the HRR. I will care for it well and it will run until gas mowers are illegal. Had a Cub Cadet before but it just won't cut grass high enough.
Stephen Lambrecht if gas mowers become illegal I’m buying a stockpile battery mowers are shit
Gas mowers being illegal in the next 10-15 years isnt too far fetched of an imagination since government can shut anything down @ will..
Just got the HRX and I love it so so much, lol! That HRR looks fantastic too, but the versa-mow was what sold it for me on the HRX. That makes my life so much better OMG--so nice. I might've missed it, but you don't think that the twin blades on the HRX allows for a better quality of cut? Or does the HRR also have the dual-blade system? Great concise review and you hit all the major areas of concern imo! 👍🏼
I have the HRR mower. It has the dual blades. I believe all Honda’s have dual blades. The HRR mulches great. The 160 CC engine is a beast.
5:43 I don’t really understand, I can see the numbers on the back, into the plastic. They are done during the injection, through the plastic mold, so not with a sticker in that case ;) Not as visible, but still here !
Great video, thanks !
The blades are indeed interchangeable....I use the HRX blades on my HRR I find I need to replace the blades every other year along with the wheels on the HRR as the tread wears down to slicks.. I mow 2 times a week in summer and always bag. Great mowers! I change the oil and air filter 2 times a year and sharpen the blades routinely. I go above and beyond taking care of my HRR and it performs like its brand new. I also find it helps to do a yearly cable adjustment to jeep the drive mechanism super responsive
I'm with you. I am an absolute *_FANATIC_* about my HRX217HZA. It's the nicest machine, of any kind, that I have ever owned. I came up with the money and decided I was going to buy the best. I change my oil every 10 hours. I put 50 hours a year on her.
I've done so much work upgrading that mower it's pitiful. Magnetic dipstick, protective side rails, tach/hour meter, Plasti-dipped wheels, lawn striping kit and on and on and on. My obsession with that mower is a problem. LOL. I even named her Kathryn. It's sick, I know.
@@heinzkitzvelvet Good idea on PlastDip wheels. All my neighbors are over-pensioned retired Boomers with the best Honda mowers and nuclear green chemical lawns. It will drive them nuts thinking I have some kind of special edition orange-wheeled Honda that they somehow missed at the dealership.
@@madcowusa4277 Orange. Now that would be different. Never thought of going with wild colours. I used a black base with graphite pearl as a top coat so the wheels better match the deck. I might try something like that next season. I respray them every spring because it peels away by the end of the season and looks bad.
BTW, that's an interesting phrase, "over-pensioned" retired boomers. What does that mean, over-pensioned?
@@heinzkitzvelvet To me, "over-pensioned" means they have a nice fat monthly retirement check that was part of the their previous employment's benefits package or they were offered profit sharing which they're now cashing in on, hahaha!
@@Believe231 ok. It's sounds kind of negative. Like over-privileged. I mean, it sounds like they worked the years required for that pension that they are recieving.
Great review. My Murray Briggs Stratton is done, so I am done with those cheap engines...
5:42 the numbers for mow height for the back wheels are literally visible in your video. they're embossed in the deck rather than on a sticker... no need to count.
You’re absolutely right, others have pointed this out , too! Totally missed them. Not sure how I never noticed them, guess I was looking for the same thing I saw on the front. I still think it should be the same format all around to avoid confusion but definitely not a worthy criticism of the HRX.
The Nexite decks are notorious cracking. Once it starts there is no stopping it. Being the owner of a small repair shop these come into my shop on a regular basis. Honda is good about their warranty although nit every mowers damage is covered. They are vert stringent about the circumstances which contributed to the damage. Overall, any Honda mower is a good choice. Personally a steel deck, cared for properly, is my choice. Every day .
I like how he says they did not mark the numbers in the back , when he zooms in the numbers are on the deck , he just didnt care to look
Had the HRR for 15 years. Deck began to rust out and once the transmission went out, I went HRX.
Drive system mechanics are the same, differing only in interface. Think of the select drive system as smart drive with a 'max speed' setting. If you put the select drive on full speed and operate it the same as you do the smart drive system, it will react the same. Solid video! Appreciate the side by side walk around and commentary.
Thank you, glad you liked it!
I am not sure I agree with you on the drive system though. In my experience if you have “full speed” selected on the HRX you can’t go slowly by just pressing the lever a little. At least on mine it basically either engages or not, very little in between... whereas on the HRR no adjustment needed to go slow on parts or max drive power uphill.
@@garagedad4540 I think it depends on how much slack you have in the clutch cable. Two rotations in or out of the barrel adjuster can be the difference b/w the Select Drive functioning as basically an on/off lever for the transmission, or allowing more granular control (though it doesn't match the variable control offered by Smart Drive).
I still have my 15 year old Honda mower and it works great, but looking next year to upgrade "maybe." The self-propelled drive does tire out my thumbs (no adjustments), better after mowing ever week your thumbs get use to it. I do like the HRR though a little more than the HRX.
thanks for this comparison. especially the smart and select drive feature.
Yeah they have the cut height numbers for the HRX on the back wheels too it's just on the side. Take a better look at it.
I have both GCV190 and 160 for lawnmowers and pressures, I definitely prefer bigger engine
Thank you ....
The drive system did it for me
I do constantly have to go up and down while cutting my grass ...I was going to buy the HRX but I know I will break the drive system ...🌈🇨🇦
I have an hrr i was thinking of upgrading to hrx, considering the drive system, your review decided for me, I don't think I would like the hrx drive system, I like to slow down and speed up while cutting and hrr is so simple and easy to adjust speed, thank you for your review
I enjoyed the video. Just got a new HRX217- I kind of liked the older style of speed control, but probably will get used to this new one. As far as the plastic deck, I have seen a good number of older Honda mowers with serious rust on the decks that still had good engines, and I don't live anywhere near salt water, so maybe this was addressing those problems. My old HRX 217 plastic deck is still in great condition after 10 or so years of use.
Did you get used to the newer Select Drive control? Just curious, because I have an 11-year old HRX217 w/ the Smart Drive, and a 2-year old HRX217 w/ the newer Select Drive clutch grip. The definitely feel different in the hand!
@@joepapp01 After a few months, I sold the new one and bought another older HRX in good shape w the older control. I didn't like the new one, never got used to it, and read a lot of reviews from people that didn't like it either. Another issue was the new HRX didn't have a blade clutch that shut off the blade while the engine continues to run. I really like that feature, especially since my son is 7 and there are usually at least a few small toys that have to be picked up while mowing. The "old" HRX I now use has the blade clutch.
@@mickm5097 so does your HRX with the blade brake clutch have neither the smart drive controller nor the select…just a “standard” clutch lever? My neighbor has an electric start HRX217 with the blade brake clutch, and I’ve used it a couple of times this season. The BBC isn’t a feature that I value, but totally see the utility of it if you have kids. My brother’s lawn always has toys and balls on it from his kids lol. I was surprised with the additional weight of the BBC/electric start model…at least +10lbs on my “standard” smart drive hrx. Will you try to keep yours for as many years as possible? I’m not that much of a lawn care fanatic, but I do cut my yard + 2 of my elderly neighbors’ yards weekly, so…idk, it’s kinda fun to have have a preferred brand of mower and be in a decade+ long rhythm of cutting efficiently with it lol
@@joepapp01 Mine is probably just like your neighbor's. It has the electric start (not something I need really) and the orange handle speed control w 6 or so notches to set the speed, in addition to the blade clutch. I will keep it for as long as it is reliable, I think. My lawn has a mild slope, and the newer HRX control was inconsistent on it- pressing down sometimes made it move a lot slower or faster than I preferred in different areas of the lawn, whereas the older notched control always moves the mower at the same pace, no matter what. The HRX feels sturdy too, like a tank compared to other mowers, which is good, as long as the self propel keeps working. I used to have Craftsman mowers, which I liked a lot- to me the front wheel drive was easier to control. Just pressing down on the handle to lift the front wheels slightly if I wanted to stop the self propel, never had to let go of the propel lever. And it was easy to pull backwards- in contrast, every Honda mower I've had at some point has the intermittent wheel dragging when pulling them backward. Not sure why Honda never fixed that issue. Still, Honda quality and reliability tops other mowers that I know of, so it's nice to have one.
@@mickm5097 so funny that you describe the HRX as tank-like. I literally told my neighbor, "Your mower is like a Tiger tank - what a beast!!" (I don't think he's into ww2 military history like I am, so I didn't geek out and explain that I also thought mine was tank-like, but more like a Panther (44 vs 58 tons!!) lol.
I also had Craftsman mowers before I bought Honda #1 (model: HRX217K2VKAA) in 2010!! Truly one of the best purchases I ever made (that Honda). In fact, the only full-retail-price purchase of a consumer item that I made that tops the HRX217K2VKAA was a Starbucks-branded, Italian-made espresso machine in about 2001. My brother and I both have them, and after 20 years they continue to pull perfect shots.
I know what you mean about the drag when pulling rearward on the Honda mowers, and I'm honestly not unhappy to hear you mention this, as it makes me feel calmer about mine - both of which manifest the same drag, plus a bit of noisiness.
I hope you get a ridiculous # of years out of your Honda. I lucked into being able to buy a factory service manual that's applicable to both of mine, and even has a chapter of the electric start sub-variant. This really changed the equation for me and made effective end-user maintenance w/ factory parts a long-term option.
Idk where in the world you are, but I'm in suburban Pittsburgh (so southwest PA) and I never see other Honda NeXite mowers (even though of course Home Depot, and now Lowe's, have sold them here). I've seen a few "extended" neighbors using steel-decked Honda mowers, but my anecdotal experience is that this isn't a popular choice here, except ofc for my neighbor, me, and the guy I bought the used 2019 HRX from lol.
OK, Be well!!
Fantastic review sir! Great on the important details. I do believe I have read some reviews that say you are still able to just your speed with the paddles even after you set the speed? I could be wrong but the paddles have a lot of play to push down for a reason. I’m a little confused I guess. Would love to hear what you think because this is a very important consideration before I buy.
The numbers are on the back they are embossed into the molding
Honda introduced the Xenoy (aka NeXite) composite mower decks on HRM models in the early 1990s. That's no gimmicks. Because most people don't clean their mower decks after mowing and because grass often could contain some level of moisture or absorb moisture secondarily when clumped under the deck, steel decks do tend to corrode if not properly maintained and periodically treated. Composite decks, by definition, avoid such a problem. Obviously, all of this matters if one intends to keep their mowers for a long time (ex. 15+ years).
I just got rid of my old Toro mower and bought a very old Honda on craigslist a couple weeks ago, an old hrm215 with the similar plastic deck as the hrx, best mower I've ever owned! Even with the older 140cc engine, those older Honda's still start on the first pull and have tons of power. Doesnt even hesitate or bog down at all in tall thick grass like my old Toro used to do, and I'm sure it will last for a very long time hopefully! Great comparison!
DIY Dad got a hrx215 for free off Craigslist. guy probably dumped it because the drive didn't work and the pull cord broke. put a new cord on it and started up after a few pulls and runs great. pulled out all the grass buildup underneath and found a broken belt. trans works fine. so ordered a new belt and good to mow.
@@berardia4 you cant beat that deal! Ran into a bit of trouble with mine this weekend mowing though, belt is still good but I might have to pull off that plastic cover to access the belt and gear box, the drive bar doesnt always fully return to the disengaged position when I let off the drive, so sometimes it sticks, which also makes it so the self propelled stops working half way through mowing once in a while. So I'll have to try and fix that, taking that plastic belt guard off is kind of crazy, two bolts holding it on also holds the engine to the deck, and had to take the right wheel off to remove the other nut, and one more on the inside of the grass bag chute. Still couldn't get it off. Might try again in a few days I think it's just really stuck on there. Luckily the belt is fine yet, I think the cable that engages the drive might be hung up somewhere but I cant see it without tearing it apart! Oh well, at least the engine is rock solid :)
@@DIYDad1 yeah that shield was tough to get off. The one 12mm bolt was frozen. I recently got an impact gun and would not have been able to get it off otherwise even after using penetrating oil.
Have you ever had issues with a strip of grass being left on the left side, just inside the wheels, that’s unmowed? Change the blades to new Honda blades this season and I’m getting a streak of grass that’s not getting cut. Trouble shot everything I can think of...still leaves uncut grass.
I have a 15 year old HRR. it’s been a great mower hose it over the dog during my divorce and it’s still doing better than the dog and most importantly, it doesn’t shit all over my lawn. I haven’t done much to it other than sharpen the blades a couple of times and change the oil every couple of years but it’s starting to get a little sluggish and it needs a couple of hundred bucks in maintenance and I thought i would upgrade to a self propel model. The HRX is at the top of my list but I prefer the TORO super recycler with the Honda engine. The downside to the Toro is that the Honda engine is the weaker 159 cc and the biggest deal breaker is it doesn’t have the blade stop when you let go of the throttle so I have to keep restarting it. Decisions, decisions?
Just picked up an broken HRR for free and put a new carb and clutch cable on it. Now it runs great. How much should I ask for it on craigslist?
Hay just found your channel and looks great. Like the Honda hrx 476. I’m in the U.K. and fix mowers and all types of garden equipment
I bought the HRX217 with an orange old style throttle with cruise control and blade stop and I switched from Toro. I disagree I think you definitely want the HRX because it will go as slow as you want and not drag a old guy like me around the yard. I found that other model be with the paddles for throttle control was a pain. It does how ever not turn as smoothly as my Toro did but the cut quality when I mulch is way better than my Toro .i do still have my Toro but will most likely give it to someone for next season
THANKS FOR YOUR REVIEW, REALLY HELPED ME IN MY PURCHASE (:
i have always just counted the notches numbers would be hard to see or get dirt on them anyway..
Just out of interest, have you thought about trying to swap the wheels from the HRX onto the HRR?
I have the HRR here in Australia, and the tread has worn completely off the rear drive wheels, and it is greatly exacerbated by the rear wheels locking up and not free wheeling when pulling the mower backwards. But I totally agree that the HRR could do with the bigger wheels. I would love to know if they were interchangeable as I would buy the bigger wheels. Great review. Thanks.
David Ludrock
Putting bigger wheels on the HRR would mess up the cutting heights a bit. But what I’ve done with my HRR is I’ve put these new style wheels on it that Honda now makes. They have so much better traction and are made of a better material. ua-cam.com/video/GLPqdKXDo9E/v-deo.html
This vid will help you address the issue with real wheels locking up when pulling it backwards. Its due to the crappy plastic bushings Honda used on the HRR.
ua-cam.com/video/ZvpqyWQUb48/v-deo.html
@@KirbyVacuumCollectorFixer thanks for that. I'll give those K10 wheels a go.
@@cliffm.9796 they use crappy plastic drive shaft bushings on the HRX line, too lol
Thanks for sharing Garage! I've had my HRR for about 6 years now in Florida and my deck is rusting out. Also, I've had to maintenance the self propelled system once and it needs it again. My question, how would you compare the robustness of the self propelled systems of each? It seems I've heard people say they have gone 8 plus years without needing to do anything to the HRX self propelled drive? Thanks.
I like the HRR.. Mower deck design creates a better suction nicer overall quality cuts....
Thanks for the review. I was hell bent on the HRX but after watching I think I may go with the HRR
I am glad you have had good luck with the HONDAS, mine hasn't been so good, I have the home entry model , bought about 4-5 years ago at the orange box store.and its currently broken, year 2 it needed a new pull starter cord, last fall when mowing up the leaves the rear drive stopped working and the wheels lockup when being pulled backwards, I doubt that the mower has 20 hours on it, I have had CRAFTSMAN and MURRY's in the past both lasting for 20+ years. I have bought TORO, HUSKY, AND troybuilt FOR MY SCHOOL DISTRICT MAINTENANCE CREWS and all performed much better then the HONDA and the HONDA cost over twice as much as the other brands. I do credit HONDA for being an easy starter, but that does little good when you can't even move it. Although at times it a 3-4 pull to start when the engine is warm. Sadly my mower has ben maintained by the book, still looks like new, but uts dead, NEVER another Honda for me, and thats sad as I RODE honda MOTORCYCLES from the 60's-90's
ua-cam.com/video/ZvpqyWQUb48/v-deo.html
What's the price of each one and I wonder if you can put a set of tires from the hrx on the hrr?
After almost a year, did the wheels harden on the HRX? In April, it would be great if you did a 1 year review.
I got mine in 2014 and no they are same consistency. I am in Nebraska so we get all 4 seasons.
Keith White I bought a HRX217HZA just last week, though it’s on backorder and no telling when I’ll get it... the discounts are crazy now. That mower lists for $959 and paid $780 + an extra year warranty.
zfilmmaker that is a good deal. Mine was 645 in 2014. Besides changing oil , spark plug, air filter and blade no maintenance. Starts on first pull. You will love it.
@@keithwhite6096 I mainly decided to buy based on price. I've had several Lawn Boy's... in the last decade quality has gone downhill. I've been ready to part ways for a while. Honda seems to have the best bang for the buck. Everything I buy with a Honda motor seems to last. Case in point, I bought several high-end snowblowers only to find out they were all junk compared to a Honda. That goes for pressure washers also. Thanks for your input!
@@keithwhite6096 if you haven't already, you may eventually want to replace the drive shaft bushings and dust seals (each rear adjusting arm takes two bushings, and they absolutely wear out over time).
I like your take on the drive system...
Good honest review, thanks. Ken UK
Advantage of plastic deck isn't so much in the fact that it doesn't rust. The real advantage is the fact that the grass sticks much less on the smooth plastic deck than on a metal one.. Big difference..
i know he doesnt bag but most of us do. The HRX has a bigger bag which may be important to some people.
I live near the ocean and store my HRR indoors. The deck still corroded through in 3 years. I’ll never have another steel deck mower.
For St Augustine grass the HRX is the one to have.
@mrZ71 Hydro drive, and ease of operation. Great mower!!
mrZ71 -30% more Torque, for one.
mrZ71 HRX has a larger 190cc engine with a bit more torque than the HRR 160cc
I love the smart drive system on my hrr
Very helpful presentation. Thank you!
Great videos I bought the HRR and had it for 6 months before it started stalling and shutting down. Now looking to get another one. It broke my heart cuz I love Honda lol. Kind of hesitant to buy Honda again.
John McLain At just 6 months it is still under warranty, so bring it back to your dealer. It sounds as though the carb. Needs an adjustment. Pretty simple fix, then you will be up and running again.
Randy Jorgensen I called up Home Depot what’s where I bought it from. They actually took it back Now I don’t have a lawnmower. I don’t know if I should buy the same one again or upgrade to HRX model. I don’t have hills on my lawn it’s square and level. I’m confused. HRX is few hundred more. Or just buy a toro or something. Il not sure what kind to buy now because of my bad experience with Honda.
John McLain Mowers are mechanical things, and mechanical things can have problems occasionally. This don’t mean it’s a bad product. My new toro had the rear wheel drive system fail after just one lap around my yard, big bummer. But I had it fixed under warranty and it has worked fine ever since. I guess my point is, don’t stress over it too much. There is no such thing as the perfect mower, but they are truly ALL good enough. So pick one based on “does it have the most important features to me”, then consummate the marriage with your credit card, and live happily ever after!
Randy Jorgensen Yeh you are right. I’m gona buy it again cuz I loved it. Thanks for the advice.
@@Jigsawmaster1 Yep, same here, I bought a new Honda HRX, and after a month, it developed a problem & became hard to start when the engine was first started for the day. It actually turned out to be the gas, it had absorbed water or something, and so it wouldn't fire easily. Drained the old gas out thru the carb drain plug, used fresh non-ethanol gas (ie expensive), and she fired on the first pull, and ever since! Was very close to returning it, but called up a Honda mower dealer and they said to try that trick first, and it worked and then to NEVER, EVER put ethanol gas in it! It's very hard to find non-ethanol gas in this corn belt state!
Great review!! Shopping now, looks like HRR for me!
At 5:41 you can see the numbers on the back of the mower by the wheels on the HRX.
I have the HRX, it's fairy new. The wheels are made of rubber. What I don't like about it is it's too fast and I have to practically run behind it to keep up. Also I put it on my hillside and pressed the clutch, I was shocked when it just stayed in place, it didn't go up the hill. I keep it outside under a tarp so the plastic housing better than metal for me. Oh, and mine doesn't start on the first pull either. Last time it took 3 to 4 pulls so that auto choke thing doesn't work well.
I think mine needs some Gumout to fix the hard starting problem. Maybe gasoline was left in it too long.
Look a little closer the height numbers are indeed on the rear also..
The height adjustment is marked for the rear wheels. The numbers are molded into the plastic and are visible around the 5:40 mark in the video. Thanks for the posting, I was wondering if the drive paddle varied the speed on the HRR and you answered that.
James LaRocque - you’re absolutely right! I never noticed those markings, thanks for catching my error! I still think they should be marked the same way on all four wheels but this is great to know!
@@garagedad4540 yeah, they don't make them easy to see, for sure. Even if they scuffed the faces of the numbers, they might show up better.
@@garagedad4540 maybe you could take a bright permenent marker and trace over the numbers to make it more visible 😎