just got this one today. was getting a troybilt, left to get a cart to load it onto and when i got back, my little lady had a worker load this honda on a cart. she said if you have to mow, you’re getting something better than a cheap baseline mower. great review. thumbs up
You surly didn’t waste my time. Excellent review, being thorough, and covering things that other so-called reviewers tend to fail covering. Thank you sir.
I just bought this mower and what I love about it is it flat out moves. It will actually pop wheelies if you push down on the paddles too hard. Saves me plenty of mowing time.
Went to the Honda dealer to look at motorcycles yesterday and bought this lawnmower. Picking it up tomorrow. Your review makes me feel good about my decision .
I have the same mower. Had it for 15 years and didn’t maintain it very well. Last month I decided I needed a new one because it wasn’t working as good as new. After looking around at new Honda’s and Toros, I didn’t think I was going to get anything more other than self propel. I decided to open up the carburetor and clean it, although it was pretty clean to begin with. I changed the oil and spark plug and sharpened the blades. All very easy. It now looks and works like the day I bought it. This is a great lawnmower that will now last me for another 15 years.
I bought one of these today based on this review and this review a lone. I mowed once with it, and it's probably the best self propelled I've used in recent years.
Good review. I bought my HRR216 from HD in 2012 when it was on sale for less than $400. Mine uses a plastic plug to handle the mulching chores on my St Augustine turf in N FL. I The recoil spring got weak this year, so I replaced it. It still starts on the first pull every time. I would prefer the drive being activated by pulling a lever instead of pushing with my thumbs. The wheel height adjusters are susceptible to being moved by shrubs so I use wire to keep them locked in place. I only burn non-ethanol gas and I use fuel preservative year round to keep the carb happy. This is the best self-propelled mower I have ever owned.
My electric start mower would have cost me $1500 but after Tax Return, only $200. I'm happy with it. It starts first time everytime if used regulary, but if it sits around a couple of months it takes about 8 pulls (electric pulls), to start it. :) I also use fuel stabiliser....
I just got mine for free from a friend who said it didn't start... a tune up kit and new blades from home depot and it started right up no problem. Great review full of great information... great video all the way around.
I have had this mower for about 6 months now and love it great review I am so happy I spent a little extra money and got this instead of some of cheaper companies
I love mine which has both the electric/pull start. Clean, simple design. Easy to work on and I have no problem cutting tall grass. I also tried the bag once and just use the mulch which does a great job. In the past I had 2 Toro riders which did give some problems. I prefer this Honda mower over the Toros and it is worth every penny spent.
Honda engines are not immune to carburetor issues when using typical gas. I think it’s a great idea what you do at the end of the season by mixing the ethanol free gas into the last tank. For added protection, I only use non-ethanol gas for my lawn equipment which I am fortunate to find at my local gas station.
Glad you aren't having trouble with it. Mine usually takes 15 pulls even with a full tank haha. Not mine specifically but just moved into this place and it belongs to the landlord. Thinking whoever was here last didn't take care of it.
Two problems with mine and known problems for everyone who owns one for more than a few years: 1. As said, the plastic wheels. They get bald very quickly, especially the rear wheels. 2. It won't roll in reverse after a while. There is a fix for this and your dealership has a service bulletin (#107). It involves replacing the adjuster arms. I just did mine after 5 years, and there are a dozen TH-cam videos on this matter to help you out. Otherwise an awesome mower.
Thanks for this info, I purchased mine new and it has always been impossible to pull in reverse. It drove Me nuts , I was going to sell it, but now i am going to have it repaired.
I should do a long term review on my HRR216. I have had it 22 years. Replaced plug once, blades once, air filter probably 10 times. Original tires....but they are smooth as glass now. Great machine. Still starts on first pull every week. Was going to buy another Honda, but seems like they are having alot of issues with their mowers now..
My Snapper was 30 years old when I gave it away because I got a Honda Harmony 2. Its not as good as my old Snapper was, but it should be ok. I have to replace the carb on it because someone stored crappy old gas in it. The replacement needle in the carb is $22 and a replacement carb is $17 brand new. As long as you take care of stuff, it should last for a long, long time. You only use a mower 5 or 6 months out of the year. Someone put a single blade on mine( cheapo person) I am going to the duel blade mulching blades. I am already missing my Ninja blade on my Snapper. It was a single blade that was twin forked, designed to keep recirculating the grass clippings through the blade until it was very fine. I could thow a sheet of typing paper in front of it and seriously, it would mulch it so fine, it mixed with grass clippings to the point you really had to look to see the paper. It mulched leaves and pine needles also. I shall see how well this Honda does.
Mine is 4 years old and its had to cut down grass over some uneven / rough terrain on my property . I was amazed that I could get it to start on the first couple of pulls the 2nd and 3rd year when other mowers I owned previously needed 6- 12 pulls into the 2nd season of use
Good to hear about the 'rugged' part. My yards sound every bit as challenging and abusive as what you describe and most certainly tested the 2003 Craftsman 21" lawn mower I'd been using up till now in 2019. It still runs okay but it's time for a change. And oh yeah, the number of pulls it takes to start your Honda? That's good to hear as well. The Briggs And Stratton Engine on my Craftsman developed an annoying habit of requiring a number of pulls to restart after it was hot which seemed to be a problem specific to this particular generation and model of BS engine. A single pull start on your Honda you say... How does 30+ pulls on hot restarts sound, no exaggeration and that being on a relatively high torque/HP/compression engine that requires more forceful pulls than most to begin with. I looked at it as a great 'rowing' sort of workout, would have driven me crazy otherwise. Other than the restarting issue though, that engine's been a real workhorse and reliable as well. Regardless, thanks for this review. Looking forward to an equally tough and reliable mower but one with a way easier to start engine, the Honda HRR216PKA push model.
Thank you for your review. I just bought this Honda . But I actually got lucky when I opened the box. I got the new model. Hrr216k10vka. Dark grey color deck. Different wheels. Again thank you. You helped me choose this lawn mower
That's great to hear because the wheels were the one part of this mower that I would rate at less than 5/5 (not terrible but maybe 4/5). Glad they updated them.
Greatest mower I have ever bought. I had it 4 years and all I did was change the oil, air filter, blades, and plug every year and it never failed to start. I put a new drive belt on it last year and was going to put new rear drive wheels on it this year. The wheels were getting too smooth. Unfortunately I left it under my open carport one night. Some POS stole it. The first day of Spring is in a few days and I have to buy another mower. Having to decide between another Honda HRR216 or a Husqvarna HU800 for just 50 dollars more. The Husqvarna is AWD, has a 190cc Honda engine, and is a 22 inch deck. The HU800 looks every bit as rugged as the Honda and has the reliable Honda engine. Leaning toward the HU800.
Joseph Nichols don't buy the hu800awd. It doesnt mulch well, doesn't side discharge well, doesn't bag well. The only thing it does well is move, it will drag you around the yard. It has the available Honda engine too, but it won't cut as well as the Honda platform. It's a 500 piece of junk imo. I recently sold mine then bought a Toro recycler with personal pace. Much better mower, cuts nice, self propels smooth as butter, but im not a fan of b&s engines. I brought it back and got the true Honda hrr216vka and love everything about it so far. No regrets.
Good video. I have the same mower, but it is about five years old and wow, your mower is beat up. It's a good mower for sure. My Honda does not like cold Milwaukee weather in late Fall. No manual choke and runs very slow until it warms up sometimes taking 15-20 minutes.
The only thing I don’t like about this mower is it is difficult to pull backwards when you have to back up which is often in a small yard. Otherwise love it!!
@@maeu59 Yes, mentioned often, they can be very difficult and no one seems to know why or care but it is a frequent dig...like he wheels which wobble and the rubber wears out fast.
The belt is exposed underneath. Isn't that a problem? I just bought a Hasqvarna LC221AH 4 wheel drive with variable speed. I am returning it since I found out this model is 5 years old and one reviewer who works in lawn and garden said you can't get parts for it since it is not made anymore. Plus underneath there is no cover and 3 gears and the belt are totally exposed. I see this a a problem. All the grass will collect in there and clog it up and the belt would be easy to break if you happen to pass over something like branches or rocks. They were selling it at full price as well. It wasn't cheap at $640. If I'm going to pay that much, I expect to have something that will be quality and last. I haven't seen any Honda mowers here in S.W. Ontario. Lots have Honda engines but the body is made by someone else. I will be looking to see if I can find one but may have to settle for a Toro.
L, The exposed belt has never been an issue. I have the 10 year old version of this mower and I have ABUSED it. The reason I bought it was my backyard had been neglected while I was deployed. Got home, tried to cut it and it killed my old mower. Was so frustrated I went to the store and bought the most mower I could afford - this one. One pass, waist high grass, limbs the size of your wrist, tennis balls, some random piece of metal .... it tore through everything. Several years later I abused it again when my bush hog went out. A 1/4 acre field at a hunt camp that was chest high, uneven ground that had been plowed, small trees, dirt clots, rocks - all went down and this Honda just kept on chugging. That field was the only time I choked the engine down (several times admittedly). Can’t imagine what the 190cc engine is like. I have replaced and rebuilt several carbs, too many blades to count, new wheels, the pull cord broke, so I took the cover off and now I have electric start (Dewalt drill with a 3/4 socket), and this year I finally had to replace the belt. Not broken, just stretched too far. I’d say I got my money’s worth.
@@armyofshea7941 Glad it worked out for you. I was afraid the exposed part would be a problem, so I returned it. I am buying a Toro Self Pace mower. It has great reviews and will be good for me since I can't be running after it. I have breathing problems so I need something that will go at my pace.
Your old blade was great. Just needed sharpening. Many replacement blades don't come pre-sharpened anyway, and would need to be sharpened. I guess Honda's do. Honda needs to use rubber tires with more tread.
I completely agree that they need need more aggressive tires and you're right the blade did not have to be replaced but I was curious to see how easy it would be and was just as simple as I expected!
2-1/2 years ain't squat. I bought a Murray at Sam's about 25 years ago. It has a 5 hp Briggs and Stratton that still starts on the first pull to this day. It is on it's 3rd set of wheels and needs new ones again now.
Good video but I would love to see how you changed the blade as I'm getting ready to do mine. I'm an old lady but try to do as much of my own work as I can. Thanks.
Takes a little strength to loosen bolts on a blade. You may want someone to help you. A few times I used a rubber mallet to hit my socket wrench to loosen a blade. You want that blade on nice and tight.
About to replace my identical mower with a $849 top of the line version. After 10 years the plastic rear wheels are worn completely smooth and generate zero traction and is utterly exhausting to push. The self propel completely failed today and I found a broken curved metal piece laying on the grass. Two weeks ago a large chunk of metal came apart underneath and wound up in the blade. I undid the one remaining bolt and carried on. Engine still runs decent, but pull cord is sketchy. Good mower, but the cost to fix the issues has me buying brand new. No need for TruFuel ethanol-free gas over winter - mine sat each winter with cheap 87 octane for 10 years and the thing started up each spring first or second pull.
How often would you say you should change/sharpen the blade with 1/8th semi flat acre? Also, how often to change the filter? Thanks, great review. Just bought mine in March, 2019 (216VYA with blade stop). Btw: you're quite the Slave Master with your machine. Watch out that it doesn't try to to nab you in the middle of the night for the way you've been treating this engineering marvel. I hope you lock that thing up. Thanks!
Haha thanks! Hey, if a machine advertises its durability and reliability I'm going to make sure I get my money's worth! I doubt you will have to sharpen your blade more than every other year... but just like shaving I think you can start to tell when your blade isn't cutting like it used to and can address it, accordingly. I think it's worth changing the air filter every season for good measure because it's so easy and inexpensive to do.
Thanks and glad you found it helpful! I eventually replaced the whole recoil starter mechanism with a new cord built in because it was so easy, just three bolts right on top.
they need to give you another set of rear drive wheels as well, absolutely the worst mower i have ever owned, pull cord twice and drive wheels stripped out in 3 years, i would go with any other brand as a better choice, i paid 400.00 for mine as well at HD very bad mower in my opinion, i have had much better luck with toro, murry, craftsman, or husky. the mower is a easy start which is its only value
When you replaced those wheels you will see two washers....one flat and one convex. The wobble is because the gears from the tranny engage the larger gears inside the rear wheels and need a small amount of play to not tear up the gears. I have replaced one set of gears and Honda uses CHEAP shit metal instead of real case hardened steel. REAL gears are case hardened steel sacrificing the wheel gears as in a TORO....I am going with a set or Toro gears next time as these gears are already showing excessive wear....which I believe is because I need NEW convex washers to take out some excessive wobble. I abuse the shit out of this mower and run it commercially....I change the oil every 3 months with synthetic, makes this already quiet mower even quieter. I sharpen the blades right out of the box because mowing at 4mph with a 160 engine lays the grass down causing you to double cut....the 190 engine has more RPM and cuts better. EASY to work on....if you ever change the muffler/spark arrestor be very careful NOT to break the bolt off in the aluminum motor block. Heat up the mower, and slightly tighten before loosening...GO EASY....you may need to replace the helicoils so it threats up better. A broken muffler/ spark arrestor will have a real loud metallic sound after dropping this from a bed of a truck going off curbs and washing it to keep it clean (rust NEVER sleeps) ...RUN 93 octane...NOT 87 and you will not need ANY fuel additives. this entry line Honda is better than the HRX 217 with the Zytel plastic body because the bushings and hydrostatic drive do not last 10 years. This metal body mower IS the SHIT...can take a beating and your grandmother could operate this!!! Awesome Review....now sharpen those old blades as backup....you have no sand wear on those fins that pull the grass up for bagging. Even sharpen the NEW blades....cutting grass...not beating it.....you will love sharp blades...the wheels are a weak link and wear out in 2/3 years and several hundred miles. When your mower slows down....adjust the self propel cable first and get ALL the use out of that belt. After you get full deflection out of that adjustment....you will need a new belt...easy and watch the videos on here...beats an 80 dollar service charge....
Hi. I have the HRR116VKAA. I have the flywheel(?) And pulley removed on the crankshaft, but cannot for the life of me figure out how to remove the belt from the the transmission pulley. It has a guard that has recessed/hard to reach nuts. I'm not even sure if that's what will release the belt. Please!Please!Please! If anybody knows how to release the belt from the transmission pulley guard. Thanks!
You had me until you said use 93 octane fuel. Do not run “premium” in a lawnmower engine. They are low compression engines and are engineered to run optimally on 87. Higher octane fuel burns SLOWER leaving you with an incomplete burn.
I'm calling DHS on you lawnmower beater😂 just joking I was given a mower like this, it had old stale fuel in it, I drained the tank, changed the oil & now I got a pretty good mower in my opinion, I mowed a huge field the first time I used it & it ran like a champ, great review.
Thank you so much for this long term review! I just bout a k10 version today (yeah, anyone doubting climate chNge doesn’t live near seattle! Middle of Jan and everyone is out mowing lawns this weekend!). I’m hoping for many years of great service from this mower.
I'm thinking about getting this model because my old Honda is almost 30 years old. It still works but the slow speed has been out for a long time and now the high speed seems to be crapping out. Also its handle is only 34 inches high and I'm tall so it hurts my back now as I'm older. BUT... I really don't like the idea of having to exert constant pressure on those flaps to control the speed. Just for that reason, I think I'm going to go with a Toro. Why did they do that? I would much rather have a lever like my old one.
@@algorel4763 I found a reputable highly recommended repair person nearby. I have my Honda in with him now. He's installing a rebuilt transmission for $200. I found my original receipt. It was ~$600 in 1997- he says it's an excellent mower, which I knew already. I love this mower and am excited to get it back. Especially since I found out the handlebar height is adjustable! I've been bending over, hurting my back for 22 years. Discovered it when I took the handlebars off (for the first time!) to access a a cable adjustment. What a dufus! Also I haven't had the low speed for many years. Mine has a shift lever for slow or fast speeds so I won't have to put up with those funky flappy controls on the new (lower tier) Hondas. Happy to spend the $200!
John Packard we have to do what makes us happy. I have a new HRX, every time I use it I find different hand positions to control the thumb paddles. It is getting better to use now. I need to stop using my old Toro with the Personal Pace system, using it sets me back with the Honda.
I bought this used thinking it would be good Mower. Gas leak killed my grass that was costly to repair. So I had to have it professionally serviced and parts replaced. Takes 4 pulls and doesn’t bag as good as my other machine. So far I’ve been very disappointed and it’s very heavy and hard to maneuver. Just my experience.
Excellent comprehensive review but can you tell me which engine you have? There is the GCX entry level, GSV light commercial and the GXV commercial. Thank you.
I just bought a used one and paid $200 and it ran fine for a few minutes and now won't stay running so drained the fuel, drained the float and changed spark plug and still won't stay running.Any ideas?
I purchased the HRR216VKA today after return the Yard Machines 12A-A1BA729 that quit working after two months. Thank you for your informative review, Im looking forward to using the Honda. Do you use Ethanol free fuel in your lawn mower ?
Glad you found it helpful! I only use ethanol free fuel (like TrueFuel) for the end of the season. My reasoning is that I want to make sure no ethanol sits in the tank or lines over the winter. Otherwise, I just use regular gas during the summer. I think ethanol free gas is better on all engines if you have easy/cheap access to it, but it's certainly not necessary and you would only notice the benefits after MANY years of use.
@@garagedad4540 I've had mine for 6 or 7 years now and I've only used ethanol gas just like in my truck. I've never understood why people think ethanol is the gas is bad. I think it started when ethanol was first put in gas and some of the rubber lines in cars were degraded by ethanol but that isn't the case any more. Now it is like a conspiracy. I would much rather have ethanol sitting in my engine for 6 months than gas. Ethanol is one thing while gas has lighter and heavier elements in it so it becomes gummy when the lighter elements evaporate. I've had this discussion online with a number of people but no one has ever been able to give me a reason why ethanol in gas is worse other than they heard it from someone.
I know this video is going on a year old but you bought the wrong blade set for that mower. I have the same model. You want part number 08720-VLO-S00 instead of 08720-VE2-001 that you have in the video.
I haven’t been able to figure this out, but does anyone know if you can adjust the lever between a mix of mulching and bagging? I know the HRX has notches so you can choose to mulch and bag 20% or 50% etc. Was just curious if the lever has to be locked in one or the other if you can set it in between?!
Glad you found it helpful! I recommend just basic regular gas during the season but personally I use ethanol-free gas (like TrueFuel) for my first tank after purchase and for my last tank of the season.
I just bought a used HRR2168VKA. Any idea how old it is? What is the difference between the HRR216 and the HRR2168? The back wheels can spin when attempting to go up a hill.
Most of the mowers that advertise the one pull start usually are just that. They require some effort but not like the old days of yanking on the cord multiple times !! One good pull and they will start and it doesn’t get worse over time. I would use the thought that if your strong enough to walk behind the mower to mow your yard your strong enough to pull the cord. As with any battery powered starter you could expect to replace the battery etc. like they say, the more things on it the more that can go wrong. FYI I buy my lawn mowers with my (70 Y/O) mother in law in mind and I got this model and I have no doubt she will do just fine.
I'm only 64 so it is still easy for me to pull start a mower. I wouldn't even bother with electric but as we all know, we have different bodies with different defects or strengths. I used to have a Craftsman mower someone gave me because it took so many pulls to start it. I got rid of that piece of crap 20 years ago because I was too old to pull that thing even back then (or maybe too smart).
For same mower. Not a fan of twin blades. It leaves many tall blades of grass even though blades are sharp! Shop said common problem with twin blades. Fix was to take off one blade. Anybody know a fix?
There is a fix for this and your dealership has a service bulletin (#107). It involves replacing the adjuster arms, which like Roy G said contains the bushings.
Thanks for your video. I have a Honda hrr216k3. These Honda every thing breaks all the time. I actually heard that Honda doesn't make the engine at all and maybe why so many problems. My friend you are lucky you are not having any problems but it is not because Honda has a great product they are junk and Honda doesn't make the engine at all and also be aware as I have heard that Honda doesn't stand by the warranty they provide to owners. No kidding I use to own a Briggs and Stratton on a craftsman mower and never had sny problems for 10 years and I cut hi grass, never did any maintenance at all or drained the fuel in the winter time and it started one pull even after the winter. And I never changed the oil either I just topped it off.
Hi my name is Harrison I just got the hrr216vyua lawnmower and I got stuck with the clutch and it could not pull the cable to start it again and this mower is brand new and I only get started once for about 5 minuets and I turn it off and then I tried to start it again and it stuck. I took to the lawn mower service and they all got different but they wanted it to fix overnight or two.
I use Super, like Sunoco Ultra, with a splash of ethanol treatment in the can. In the winter, I either run it dry or use the ethanol free fuel from the can and run it one more time with that.
My Hrr216VYA is 5 years old and the rear wheels keep locking and the front wheels are toed out. Had to take apart the rear wheels/height adjusters, sand the self propel shaft, install new "updated" height adjusters, and spray on a rust inhibitor. Hopefully it will work foi a while. I wont be buying another Honda. I like the engine but the deck has problems. They should have made the rear height adjusters will ball bearings. Horrible design. Will look into a Toro super recycler with the Honda engine. Seems to be the best of both worlds.
Ha! Yes, you're right about that. I used it to mulch leaves all fall and like I said in the video used to stick it under bushes before I got my string trimmer.
just got this one today. was getting a troybilt, left to get a cart to load it onto and when i got back, my little lady had a worker load this honda on a cart. she said if you have to mow, you’re getting something better than a cheap baseline mower. great review. thumbs up
Jason Flanagan just did the same thing!
You surly didn’t waste my time. Excellent review, being thorough, and covering things that other so-called reviewers tend to fail covering. Thank you sir.
I just bought this mower and what I love about it is it flat out moves. It will actually pop wheelies if you push down on the paddles too hard. Saves me plenty of mowing time.
I’ve had that happen to me all the time. I’ve been thinking about adding some weights to the front so it doesn’t wheelie.
Have a Honda mower and still works great after 35 years.
Went to the Honda dealer to look at motorcycles yesterday and bought this lawnmower. Picking it up tomorrow. Your review makes me feel good about my decision .
You are going to impress the ladies while riding down the road on your Honda mulcher
I have the same mower. Had it for 15 years and didn’t maintain it very well. Last month I decided I needed a new one because it wasn’t working as good as new. After looking around at new Honda’s and Toros, I didn’t think I was going to get anything more other than self propel. I decided to open up the carburetor and clean it, although it was pretty clean to begin with. I changed the oil and spark plug and sharpened the blades. All very easy. It now looks and works like the day I bought it. This is a great lawnmower that will now last me for another 15 years.
Best mower I’ve ever owned!🏆HONDA
I bought one of these today based on this review and this review a lone. I mowed once with it, and it's probably the best self propelled I've used in recent years.
I’ve had mine for almost three years now. It works like a charm!
Good review. I bought my HRR216 from HD in 2012 when it was on sale for less than $400. Mine uses a plastic plug to handle the mulching chores on my St Augustine turf in N FL. I The recoil spring got weak this year, so I replaced it. It still starts on the first pull every time. I would prefer the drive being activated by pulling a lever instead of pushing with my thumbs. The wheel height adjusters are susceptible to being moved by shrubs so I use wire to keep them locked in place. I only burn non-ethanol gas and I use fuel preservative year round to keep the carb happy. This is the best self-propelled mower I have ever owned.
My electric start mower would have cost me $1500 but after Tax Return, only $200.
I'm happy with it. It starts first time everytime if used regulary, but if it sits around a
couple of months it takes about 8 pulls (electric pulls), to start it. :)
I also use fuel stabiliser....
I just got mine for free from a friend who said it didn't start... a tune up kit and new blades from home depot and it started right up no problem. Great review full of great information... great video all the way around.
Wow. That's what you call a review. Good job. Very informative
Thanks! I'm glad you found it helpful!
Superior Lawn Care me
M u
I have had this mower for about 6 months now and love it great review I am so happy I spent a little extra money and got this instead of some of cheaper companies
Thank you! My neighbor just gave me this mowing machine❤ Now I have an idea how to take care of it
I retro-fitted tires from an HRX and now I've got best of both worlds.
Great review, thank you for not trying to be a comedian and thank you for no annoying loud music
I love mine which has both the electric/pull start. Clean, simple design. Easy to work on and I have no problem cutting tall grass. I also tried the bag once and just use the mulch which does a great job. In the past I had 2 Toro riders which did give some problems. I prefer this Honda mower over the Toros and it is worth every penny spent.
Honda engines are not immune to carburetor issues when using typical gas. I think it’s a great idea what you do at the end of the season by mixing the ethanol free gas into the last tank. For added protection, I only use non-ethanol gas for my lawn equipment which I am fortunate to find at my local gas station.
Yeah ethanol gas is murder on small engines
Glad you aren't having trouble with it. Mine usually takes 15 pulls even with a full tank haha. Not mine specifically but just moved into this place and it belongs to the landlord. Thinking whoever was here last didn't take care of it.
Excellent review. Comprehensive, clear and helpful. Thank you!
This e1 snapper is best mower I've ever seen. It's amazing, for a walk behind
Two problems with mine and known problems for everyone who owns one for more than a few years:
1. As said, the plastic wheels. They get bald very quickly, especially the rear wheels.
2. It won't roll in reverse after a while. There is a fix for this and your dealership has a service bulletin (#107). It involves replacing the adjuster arms. I just did mine after 5 years, and there are a dozen TH-cam videos on this matter to help you out.
Otherwise an awesome mower.
Thanks for this info, I purchased mine new and it has always been impossible to pull in reverse. It drove Me nuts , I was going to sell it, but now i am going to have it repaired.
I have had mine for about 3 years now and still starts and runs good
I have the same lawnmower bought at Home Depot in 2009. I have nothing to say about it, it keeps starting every weekend has never let me down.
I should do a long term review on my HRR216. I have had it 22 years. Replaced plug once, blades once, air filter probably 10 times. Original tires....but they are smooth as glass now. Great machine. Still starts on first pull every week. Was going to buy another Honda, but seems like they are having alot of issues with their mowers now..
My Snapper was 30 years old when I gave it away because I got a Honda Harmony 2. Its not as good as my old Snapper was, but it should be ok. I have to replace the carb on it because someone stored crappy old gas in it. The replacement needle in the carb is $22 and a replacement carb is $17 brand new. As long as you take care of stuff, it should last for a long, long time.
You only use a mower 5 or 6 months out of the year. Someone put a single blade on mine( cheapo person) I am going to the duel blade mulching blades. I am already missing my Ninja blade on my Snapper. It was a single blade that was twin forked, designed to keep recirculating the grass clippings through the blade until it was very fine. I could thow a sheet of typing paper in front of it and seriously, it would mulch it so fine, it mixed with grass clippings to the point you really had to look to see the paper. It mulched leaves and pine needles also. I shall see how well this Honda does.
Nice review. You hit all the high spots and answered all the questions.
I have the same mower. Can't beat it. Best mower I ever had.
Mine is 4 years old and its had to cut down grass over some uneven / rough terrain on my property . I was amazed that I could get it to start on the first couple of pulls the 2nd and 3rd year when other mowers I owned previously needed 6- 12 pulls into the 2nd season of use
Good to hear about the 'rugged' part. My yards sound every bit as challenging and abusive as what you describe and most certainly tested the 2003 Craftsman 21" lawn mower I'd been using up till now in 2019. It still runs okay but it's time for a change. And oh yeah, the number of pulls it takes to start your Honda? That's good to hear as well. The Briggs And Stratton Engine on my Craftsman developed an annoying habit of requiring a number of pulls to restart after it was hot which seemed to be a problem specific to this particular generation and model of BS engine. A single pull start on your Honda you say... How does 30+ pulls on hot restarts sound, no exaggeration and that being on a relatively high torque/HP/compression engine that requires more forceful pulls than most to begin with. I looked at it as a great 'rowing' sort of workout, would have driven me crazy otherwise. Other than the restarting issue though, that engine's been a real workhorse and reliable as well. Regardless, thanks for this review. Looking forward to an equally tough and reliable mower but one with a way easier to start engine, the Honda HRR216PKA push model.
I just got one and this video was extremely helpful. Thank you for a great review!
Thank you for your review. I just bought this Honda . But I actually got lucky when I opened the box. I got the new model. Hrr216k10vka. Dark grey color deck. Different wheels. Again thank you. You helped me choose this lawn mower
That's great to hear because the wheels were the one part of this mower that I would rate at less than 5/5 (not terrible but maybe 4/5). Glad they updated them.
Greatest mower I have ever bought. I had it 4 years and all I did was change the oil, air filter, blades, and plug every year and it never failed to start. I put a new drive belt on it last year and was going to put new rear drive wheels on it this year. The wheels were getting too smooth. Unfortunately I left it under my open carport one night. Some POS stole it. The first day of Spring is in a few days and I have to buy another mower. Having to decide between another Honda HRR216 or a Husqvarna HU800 for just 50 dollars more. The Husqvarna is AWD, has a 190cc Honda engine, and is a 22 inch deck. The HU800 looks every bit as rugged as the Honda and has the reliable Honda engine. Leaning toward the HU800.
that sucks that your mower was stolen
Joseph Nichols don't buy the hu800awd. It doesnt mulch well, doesn't side discharge well, doesn't bag well. The only thing it does well is move, it will drag you around the yard. It has the available Honda engine too, but it won't cut as well as the Honda platform. It's a 500 piece of junk imo. I recently sold mine then bought a Toro recycler with personal pace. Much better mower, cuts nice, self propels smooth as butter, but im not a fan of b&s engines. I brought it back and got the true Honda hrr216vka and love everything about it so far. No regrets.
Good video. I have the same mower, but it is about five years old and wow, your mower is beat up. It's a good mower for sure. My Honda does not like cold Milwaukee weather in late Fall. No manual choke and runs very slow until it warms up sometimes taking 15-20 minutes.
Great review. Good to hear what happens when you are rough on a mower bc I am also. Thanks!
Very good video, but hoped you would have talked about adjusting the drive cable.
The only thing I don’t like about this mower is it is difficult to pull backwards when you have to back up which is often in a small yard. Otherwise love it!!
Why do you say that? Is it that difficult
@@maeu59 Yes, mentioned often, they can be very difficult and no one seems to know why or care but it is a frequent dig...like he wheels which wobble and the rubber wears out fast.
Skyking929 that’s why I bought the HRR216 PKA.
Steve is right. It is a pain to pull backwards when I am taking it out of the shed. Maybe due to self propelled mechanism.
I have to lift the back wheels when pulling, its a pain
My biggest negative is the wheels on these machines. Mine goes bald every year
The belt is exposed underneath. Isn't that a problem? I just bought a Hasqvarna LC221AH 4 wheel drive with variable speed. I am returning it since I found out this model is 5 years old and one reviewer who works in lawn and garden said you can't get parts for it since it is not made anymore. Plus underneath there is no cover and 3 gears and the belt are totally exposed. I see this a a problem. All the grass will collect in there and clog it up and the belt would be easy to break if you happen to pass over something like branches or rocks. They were selling it at full price as well. It wasn't cheap at $640. If I'm going to pay that much, I expect to have something that will be quality and last. I haven't seen any Honda mowers here in S.W. Ontario. Lots have Honda engines but the body is made by someone else. I will be looking to see if I can find one but may have to settle for a Toro.
L, The exposed belt has never been an issue. I have the 10 year old version of this mower and I have ABUSED it. The reason I bought it was my backyard had been neglected while I was deployed. Got home, tried to cut it and it killed my old mower. Was so frustrated I went to the store and bought the most mower I could afford - this one. One pass, waist high grass, limbs the size of your wrist, tennis balls, some random piece of metal .... it tore through everything. Several years later I abused it again when my bush hog went out. A 1/4 acre field at a hunt camp that was chest high, uneven ground that had been plowed, small trees, dirt clots, rocks - all went down and this Honda just kept on chugging. That field was the only time I choked the engine down (several times admittedly). Can’t imagine what the 190cc engine is like. I have replaced and rebuilt several carbs, too many blades to count, new wheels, the pull cord broke, so I took the cover off and now I have electric start (Dewalt drill with a 3/4 socket), and this year I finally had to replace the belt. Not broken, just stretched too far. I’d say I got my money’s worth.
@@armyofshea7941 Glad it worked out for you. I was afraid the exposed part would be a problem, so I returned it. I am buying a Toro Self Pace mower. It has great reviews and will be good for me since I can't be running after it. I have breathing problems so I need something that will go at my pace.
Yes, it's a problem. I ran over a stick and dislodged the belt with a Honda with exposed belt. It was awful job to replace it.
Your old blade was great. Just needed sharpening.
Many replacement blades don't come pre-sharpened anyway, and would need to be sharpened. I guess Honda's do.
Honda needs to use rubber tires with more tread.
I completely agree that they need need more aggressive tires and you're right the blade did not have to be replaced but I was curious to see how easy it would be and was just as simple as I expected!
Yeah my brand new one used it three time and it took 2 pulls to start it, works great though, cut through some thick grass, no problem.
2-1/2 years ain't squat. I bought a Murray at Sam's about 25 years ago. It has a 5 hp Briggs and Stratton that still starts on the first pull to this day. It is on it's 3rd set of wheels and needs new ones again now.
your aint squat mine is 50years old...lawn boy power
wheres murrays now? junks
Good video but I would love to see how you changed the blade as I'm getting ready to do mine. I'm an old lady but try to do as much of my own work as I can. Thanks.
Takes a little strength to loosen bolts on a blade. You may want someone to help you. A few times I used a rubber mallet to hit my socket wrench to loosen a blade. You want that blade on nice and tight.
@@josephpiazza97 I just use cordless impact wrench.
5 minutes and job is done . :)
@@mickgatz214 Yes, too bad, I do not have one and noyt looking into buying more tools to add to clutter. Any issues sharpening both blades?
👍🏻 Great review, going to purchase this model myself. Thanks for all the info, I’ve had other brands that never lasted more than 4 years.
Glad you found it helpful!
About to replace my identical mower with a $849 top of the line version. After 10 years the plastic rear wheels are worn completely smooth and generate zero traction and is utterly exhausting to push. The self propel completely failed today and I found a broken curved metal piece laying on the grass. Two weeks ago a large chunk of metal came apart underneath and wound up in the blade. I undid the one remaining bolt and carried on. Engine still runs decent, but pull cord is sketchy. Good mower, but the cost to fix the issues has me buying brand new. No need for TruFuel ethanol-free gas over winter - mine sat each winter with cheap 87 octane for 10 years and the thing started up each spring first or second pull.
The HZA is the business. The best there is.
I'd recommend a Tach/Hour meter and a magnetic dipstick at the very least.
How often would you say you should change/sharpen the blade with 1/8th semi flat acre? Also, how often to change the filter? Thanks, great review. Just bought mine in March, 2019 (216VYA with blade stop). Btw: you're quite the Slave Master with your machine. Watch out that it doesn't try to to nab you in the middle of the night for the way you've been treating this engineering marvel. I hope you lock that thing up. Thanks!
Haha thanks! Hey, if a machine advertises its durability and reliability I'm going to make sure I get my money's worth!
I doubt you will have to sharpen your blade more than every other year... but just like shaving I think you can start to tell when your blade isn't cutting like it used to and can address it, accordingly.
I think it's worth changing the air filter every season for good measure because it's so easy and inexpensive to do.
Honda needs to give you a free cord for swaying my purchase to the honda!
Thanks and glad you found it helpful!
I eventually replaced the whole recoil starter mechanism with a new cord built in because it was so easy, just three bolts right on top.
they need to give you another set of rear drive wheels as well, absolutely the worst mower i have ever owned, pull cord twice and drive wheels stripped out in 3 years, i would go with any other brand as a better choice, i paid 400.00 for mine as well at HD very bad mower in my opinion, i have had much better luck with toro, murry, craftsman, or husky. the mower is a easy start which is its only value
I haven't used my HHR216 for almost 10 years, put some gas in it and it ran on one pull!
AWESOME dude thanks for sharing love Japanese products I just purchased the same exact lawn mower yesterday
Great review/update! Planning on getting myself one now!
When you replaced those wheels you will see two washers....one flat and one convex. The wobble is because the gears from the tranny engage the larger gears inside the rear wheels and need a small amount of play to not tear up the gears. I have replaced one set of gears and Honda uses CHEAP shit metal instead of real case hardened steel. REAL gears are case hardened steel sacrificing the wheel gears as in a TORO....I am going with a set or Toro gears next time as these gears are already showing excessive wear....which I believe is because I need NEW convex washers to take out some excessive wobble. I abuse the shit out of this mower and run it commercially....I change the oil every 3 months with synthetic, makes this already quiet mower even quieter. I sharpen the blades right out of the box because mowing at 4mph with a 160 engine lays the grass down causing you to double cut....the 190 engine has more RPM and cuts better. EASY to work on....if you ever change the muffler/spark arrestor be very careful NOT to break the bolt off in the aluminum motor block. Heat up the mower, and slightly tighten before loosening...GO EASY....you may need to replace the helicoils so it threats up better. A broken muffler/ spark arrestor will have a real loud metallic sound after dropping this from a bed of a truck going off curbs and washing it to keep it clean (rust NEVER sleeps) ...RUN 93 octane...NOT 87 and you will not need ANY fuel additives. this entry line Honda is better than the HRX 217 with the Zytel plastic body because the bushings and hydrostatic drive do not last 10 years. This metal body mower IS the SHIT...can take a beating and your grandmother could operate this!!! Awesome Review....now sharpen those old blades as backup....you have no sand wear on those fins that pull the grass up for bagging. Even sharpen the NEW blades....cutting grass...not beating it.....you will love sharp blades...the wheels are a weak link and wear out in 2/3 years and several hundred miles. When your mower slows down....adjust the self propel cable first and get ALL the use out of that belt. After you get full deflection out of that adjustment....you will need a new belt...easy and watch the videos on here...beats an 80 dollar service charge....
Is there a Honda HRR with 190cc? Best I can find is the 160cc. HRX has 200cc
@@LanceMcGrew Ive got a HRR216 160CC. That's a little less than 6 HP. Don't believe this model comes with a 190CC.
Hi. I have the HRR116VKAA. I have the flywheel(?) And pulley removed on the crankshaft, but cannot for the life of me figure out how to remove the belt from the the transmission pulley. It has a guard that has recessed/hard to reach nuts. I'm not even sure if that's what will release the belt. Please!Please!Please! If anybody knows how to release the belt from the transmission pulley guard. Thanks!
You had me until you said use 93 octane fuel. Do not run “premium” in a lawnmower engine. They are low compression engines and are engineered to run optimally on 87. Higher octane fuel burns SLOWER leaving you with an incomplete burn.
I'm calling DHS on you lawnmower beater😂 just joking I was given a mower like this, it had old stale fuel in it, I drained the tank, changed the oil & now I got a pretty good mower in my opinion, I mowed a huge field the first time I used it & it ran like a champ, great review.
Excellent review. Helped me decide to buy a Honda mower that I found on OfferUp
Thank you so much for this long term review! I just bout a k10 version today (yeah, anyone doubting climate chNge doesn’t live near seattle! Middle of Jan and everyone is out mowing lawns this weekend!). I’m hoping for many years of great service from this mower.
I'm thinking about getting this model because my old Honda is almost 30 years old. It still works but the slow speed has been out for a long time and now the high speed seems to be crapping out. Also its handle is only 34 inches high and I'm tall so it hurts my back now as I'm older. BUT... I really don't like the idea of having to exert constant pressure on those flaps to control the speed. Just for that reason, I think I'm going to go with a Toro. Why did they do that? I would much rather have a lever like my old one.
If you ever used a Toro with the Personal Pace system, you would literally hate the Honda!
@@algorel4763 I found a reputable highly recommended repair person nearby. I have my Honda in with him now. He's installing a rebuilt transmission for $200. I found my original receipt. It was ~$600 in 1997- he says it's an excellent mower, which I knew already. I love this mower and am excited to get it back. Especially since I found out the handlebar height is adjustable! I've been bending over, hurting my back for 22 years. Discovered it when I took the handlebars off (for the first time!) to access a a cable adjustment. What a dufus! Also I haven't had the low speed for many years. Mine has a shift lever for slow or fast speeds so I won't have to put up with those funky flappy controls on the new (lower tier) Hondas. Happy to spend the $200!
John Packard we have to do what makes us happy. I have a new HRX, every time I use it
I find different hand positions to control the thumb paddles. It is getting better to use now.
I need to stop using my old Toro with the Personal Pace system, using it sets me back with the Honda.
Great job!!!! they need to hurry you, You touched on everything.......
Nice review, straight to the point. Good job.
I bought this used thinking it would be good Mower. Gas leak killed my grass that was costly to repair. So I had to have it professionally serviced and parts replaced. Takes 4 pulls and doesn’t bag as good as my other machine. So far I’ve been very disappointed and it’s very heavy and hard to maneuver. Just my experience.
Great job ! Really great how thorough this vid is
Thanks, glad you found it helpful!
I'd had mine for nearly a decade before I checked valve clearances. They were still within specs.
Excellent comprehensive review but can you tell me which engine you have? There is the GCX entry level, GSV light commercial and the GXV commercial. Thank you.
This is a gcv160 it's a residential grade engine although its a very stought engine
I was going to get the hrx series but I think I will get this one. Nice review 👍
Has worked great for me, would recommend.
Put hex head screws in rear wheels for better traction and a little stabile in last tank of gas.
I just bought a used one and paid $200 and it ran fine for a few minutes and now won't stay running so drained the fuel, drained the float and changed spark plug and still won't stay running.Any ideas?
You can wrap the wheels with bike tires and you’ll always have traction.
Great video. Simple and to the point.
Are the new blades for the hrr216vka pre sharpened?? How do you prevent rust on the underside of the mower??
Does it have a thermo wax cartridge on the chock system. HRR216VXA
I have one problem with this mower when trying to pull back the wheels locks up and can’t pull back.
You still recommend this mower? I see one for 180 on craigslist. Good deal ? Looks like it is in good condition
Would this be acceptable for a beginner starting up a small residential mowing business or would it be best to get a chimerical model?
I purchased the HRR216VKA today after return the Yard Machines 12A-A1BA729 that quit working after two months. Thank you for your informative review, Im looking forward to using the Honda. Do you use Ethanol free fuel in your lawn mower ?
Glad you found it helpful! I only use ethanol free fuel (like TrueFuel) for the end of the season. My reasoning is that I want to make sure no ethanol sits in the tank or lines over the winter. Otherwise, I just use regular gas during the summer.
I think ethanol free gas is better on all engines if you have easy/cheap access to it, but it's certainly not necessary and you would only notice the benefits after MANY years of use.
@@garagedad4540 I've had mine for 6 or 7 years now and I've only used ethanol gas just like in my truck. I've never understood why people think ethanol is the gas is bad. I think it started when ethanol was first put in gas and some of the rubber lines in cars were degraded by ethanol but that isn't the case any more. Now it is like a conspiracy. I would much rather have ethanol sitting in my engine for 6 months than gas. Ethanol is one thing while gas has lighter and heavier elements in it so it becomes gummy when the lighter elements evaporate. I've had this discussion online with a number of people but no one has ever been able to give me a reason why ethanol in gas is worse other than they heard it from someone.
I know this video is going on a year old but you bought the wrong blade set for that mower. I have the same model. You want part number 08720-VLO-S00 instead of 08720-VE2-001 that you have in the video.
Great review ! Thanks
Great honest feedback. Thanks!
I haven’t been able to figure this out, but does anyone know if you can adjust the lever between a mix of mulching and bagging? I know the HRX has notches so you can choose to mulch and bag 20% or 50% etc. Was just curious if the lever has to be locked in one or the other if you can set it in between?!
Thanks for sharing, you helped me to make my decision!Just one question, which gas would you recommend?
Glad you found it helpful! I recommend just basic regular gas during the season but personally I use ethanol-free gas (like TrueFuel) for my first tank after purchase and for my last tank of the season.
Non-ethanol only for me.
Much Appreciated!
Great review!!! Lots of real feedback for the d.i.y'er!
I just bought a used HRR2168VKA. Any idea how old it is? What is the difference between the HRR216 and the HRR2168? The back wheels can spin when attempting to go up a hill.
You can remove the filter cover and it will have the month and year ( the cover) it was made.
Do you find that this mower "bounces" on uneven grass and the front wheels lift off the ground?
No (and mine is 30+ years old)
Yes it bounces
It's true
No loose bolts and nuts?
So spending the extra hundred for the electric start is probably not necessary? I am 62. I don’t want to have trouble starting it.
Most of the mowers that advertise the one pull start usually are just that. They require some effort but not like the old days of yanking on the cord multiple times !! One good pull and they will start and it doesn’t get worse over time.
I would use the thought that if your strong enough to walk behind the mower to mow your yard your strong enough to pull the cord. As with any battery powered starter you could expect to replace the battery etc. like they say, the more things on it the more that can go wrong.
FYI I buy my lawn mowers with my (70 Y/O) mother in law in mind and I got this model and I have no doubt she will do just fine.
I'm only 64 so it is still easy for me to pull start a mower. I wouldn't even bother with electric but as we all know, we have different bodies with different defects or strengths. I used to have a Craftsman mower someone gave me because it took so many pulls to start it. I got rid of that piece of crap 20 years ago because I was too old to pull that thing even back then (or maybe too smart).
great video!
Thanks!
How do you start it
Thanks 🙏
Ya Welcome. :) ha ha ha....
For same mower. Not a fan of twin blades. It leaves many tall blades of grass even though blades are sharp! Shop said common problem with twin blades. Fix was to take off one blade. Anybody know a fix?
I have never had that problem, but I cut with the slowest speed.
Screw some very short deck screws into your rear wheels and you will have all the traction you need without ever replacing again.
It's really easy tp swap out the pull cord.
Had any problems pulling it backwards?
@hg xob Yes..and I replaced the back wheel bushings unit...no prob since.
There is a fix for this and your dealership has a service bulletin (#107). It involves replacing the adjuster arms, which like Roy G said contains the bushings.
Replace the pull cord... Very good mower.
Why do the new blades look so strange? The offset is different from the original.
Thanks for your video. I have a Honda hrr216k3. These Honda every thing breaks all the time. I actually heard that Honda doesn't make the engine at all and maybe why so many problems. My friend you are lucky you are not having any problems but it is not because Honda has a great product they are junk and Honda doesn't make the engine at all and also be aware as I have heard that Honda doesn't stand by the warranty they provide to owners. No kidding I use to own a Briggs and Stratton on a craftsman mower and never had sny problems for 10 years and I cut hi grass, never did any maintenance at all or drained the fuel in the winter time and it started one pull even after the winter. And I never changed the oil either I just topped it off.
Hi my name is Harrison I just got the hrr216vyua lawnmower and I got stuck with the clutch and it could not pull the cable to start it again and this mower is brand new and I only get started once for about 5 minuets and I turn it off and then I tried to start it again and it stuck. I took to the lawn mower service and they all got different but they wanted it to fix overnight or two.
What’s the best gas to use?
I use Super, like Sunoco Ultra, with a splash of ethanol treatment in the can. In the winter, I either run it dry or use the ethanol free fuel from the can and run it one more time with that.
Not having the ability to side discharge is a real limiting handicap. No sale
You sound just like Phat Dad the RC Car guy!
Shell v-power is ethanol free
My Hrr216VYA is 5 years old and the rear wheels keep locking and the front wheels are toed out. Had to take apart the rear wheels/height adjusters, sand the self propel shaft, install new "updated" height adjusters, and spray on a rust inhibitor. Hopefully it will work foi a while. I wont be buying another Honda. I like the engine but the deck has problems. They should have made the rear height adjusters will ball bearings. Horrible design. Will look into a Toro super recycler with the Honda engine. Seems to be the best of both worlds.
2.5 years old? You really are hard on a lawn mower. That think looks beat.
Ha! Yes, you're right about that. I used it to mulch leaves all fall and like I said in the video used to stick it under bushes before I got my string trimmer.