The Honda HRR216K5VKA self-propelled gas mower has all the essential features that you need to take on a variety of mowing conditions. It comes equipped for 2-in-1 operation in a 4-in-1 design; you can choose to mulch or bag your grass clippings, while an optional rear-mount side-discharge chute and leaf shredder bring this unit to the status of 4-in-1 operation. The cutting system has twin blades and four cutting surfaces; as a result, clippings are cut so small that they seemingly disappear into the lawn. All you see is a beautiful green lawn rather than a lawn littered with a layer of grass clippings on top. The tiny pieces quickly decompose, so you're essentially mowing and fertilizing your lawn at the same time. Should you decide to bag your clippings, you can catch them in an easy on/off 2.4-bushel grass bag. Smaller clippings also take less space in the bag, thereby saving time since the bag will need to be emptied less often.

Powered by Honda's premium GCV160 overhead cam/overhead valve engine, this model sports a unique design that delivers more power with less noise and vibration compared to side-valve engines. The easy-start engine also burns fuel more efficiently and with cleaner emissions. It features a no-hassle automatic choke system for easy cold starts along with an improved Smart Drive variable-speed transmission. We weren't fans of the older version of Smart Drive because it put undue strain on both thumbs and hands, but the improved adjustable Smart Drive wins our approval because it gives you the option of using either your thumbs or the palms of your hands for operation. Five settings allow you to adjust the Smart Drive control up or down to fit your own personal preference; you control the ground speed (up to 3.8mph), which is a big improvement.

We like the smooth ride and great traction that the rear ball-bearing wheels bring to the package. Unfortunately, cutting-height adjustment of the mowing deck takes four times the effort as mowers that are equipped with a single-lever height adjuster; this is because each wheel adjusts independently, though the levers are easy to maneuver. Each lever moves to one of six positions, so you can select cutting heights ranging from .75 to 3.25 inches; we find this range to be more than adequate for most mowing needs. Despite the inconvenience of these adjustments, we find this machine to be a great all-around performer at an affordable price.


Pros: Twin-blade cutting system, lightweight low-emission engine, automatic choke system, variable-speed Smart Drive transmission, rear ball-bearing wheels
Cons: Individual wheel cutting height adjusters, only set for 2-in-1 operation out of the box