The Honda HRX217HXA self-propelled gas mower has all the bells and whistles, except for the electric start, you might expect on a more expensive mower. But since this machine is powered by a Honda GCV190 OHC engine -- which is reputably easy to start and usually with one pull -- that missing element becomes a minor extra you probably won't miss. One standard feature you would likely miss is the rear wheel drive cruise control hydrostatic transmission, a feature on this model that gives you infinite speed control while walking at a comfortable pace. You can vary the ground speed between 0 and 4 miles per hour and gradually phase in the power for a smoother cut, regardless of mowing conditions.

We were also impressed by the amazing flexibility offered by the Versamow System, a complete 4-in-1 mowing system that lets you rear discharge as well as mulch, bag or easily direct any combination of the two. By using the director (lever), you can mulch 100 percent of the clippings, bag 100 percent of the clippings, rear discharge or simultaneously mulch and bag or rear discharge in varying degrees. The design maximizes the flow of grass clippings as well as minimizes the potential for clogging the opening to the bag chute. And since the offset twin-blade configuration and four offset cutting surfaces produce ultra-fine clippings that take less space in the bag, you can mow 40 percent further than with conventional bagging mowers before having to empty the bag. And the 2.5-bushel bag is easy to empty and reattach. Should you prefer the mulching mode, the tiny grass clippings take less space on the lawn so your turf stands straight and clippings quickly decompose to recycle nutrients back to the lawn.

Another feature we like is the RotoStop blade brake system, which by simply releasing the handle, the blade action stops but the engine keeps running. We found this to be a must-have feature when you need to leave the mower momentarily to move items from the mower's path or empty the grassbag. And since the drive wheels are still engaged, you can also drive over gravel or move the mower over the driveway or beds as needed -- all without having to restart the engine. Nine-inch ball bearing wheels provide increased traction, maneuverability and a smoother mowing experience over varied terrain. Each wheel adjusts easily to seven cutting heights ranging from 3/4 to 4 inches to accommodate a wide range of mowing conditions and grass types.

The lightweight Xenoy deck is easy to clean and backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Add to that a high-powered mulching machine with an eco-friendly CARB compliant engine that's easy on the ears and the Honda HRX217HXA self-propelled gas mower just may make mowing your lawn more fun than watching the boob tube.


Pros: Cruise control hydrostatic transmission for infinitely variable speed control, eco-friendly CARB compliant Honda GCV190 OHC engine, 4-in-1 Versamow System, Roto-Stop Blade Brake, high-impact Xenoy Deck, ball-bearing wheels
Cons: Handlebars too long (though adjustable), Xenoy deck susceptible to damage from concrete curbs, though an optional metal side guard kit is an easy fix

Warranty
90 days, commercial use; 3 years, residential use; lifetime, deck (residential use)