I love Honda commercial lawn mowers because the engines are great and the mowers stand up to a lot of beating during the season. And now Honda came out with a great new push mower model: HRN 216.
The new HRN 216
Recently I got to use the new Honda HRN 216 push mower as our cutting season started. And just barely, with the COVID19 pandemic raging in British Columbia and everywhere else.
Honda put a new powerful GCV170 engine into this new mower and I’m sure it will do well all season with heavy weekly use.
Improvements
There are some important improvements to note. One, this new mower produces finer clippings which means that more clippings fit into the bag. This results in less time spent emptying the mower bag and more time mowing. I suspect this will make all landscape company owners very happy.
And two, because the mower produces finer clippings, they become better mulch. And finer clippings means that fewer clumps are created and grass distribution is better.
Remember, mulching grass clippings is free fertilizer and I recommend it. One problem with mulching has always been the clumpy look on top of the lawn and this new beast should eliminate the problem. (I have yet to try the mulching function.)
The green mulching lever is easy to use and doesn’t require any tools.
Three, Honda shows clogging tests on their website and promises superior clogging toughness. Maybe I will get to test it in the field, especially on wet days.
Weak point
While Honda produces great engines, one problem (not exclusive to Honda mowers) has been the wheel adjustment levers. As the mowers see heavy use, the wheel adjusters become loose or break right off.
The new HRN 216 has dual-lever height adjustments which means that you only have to worry about two levers, not four.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I can’t wait to test this new Honda mower more extensively in the field. I want to see the finer clippings and less clogging. Assuming Honda delivers on its promises, this new mower will be a beast.
Keep your blades sharp and have a great season.
Tri-City Power Equipment
Phone: (604)520-3000
Fax: (604)524-1777
98 Fawcett Road, Coquitlam BC
V3K 6V5
