Read reviews on-line and watched YouTube reviewers.  I have had Troy Built and TORO lawnmowers in the past, TORO Timemaster being the most recent.  Like the 30 inch cut of Timemaster but repairs became too frequent and continued to be very noisy.  I wanted self-propelled non-riding mower and Honda had several models that met my criteria for mulching and bagging.  I have had electri-start mowers before, nice but stop working and becomes a pull-start after all.  The ease of starting that YouTube reviewers demonstrated was a big plus as was the maintenance.

I used the mower for the first time this morning and it exceeded my expectations.  Speed control was easy to learn and very responsive.  The grass is mostly Zoysia (southern drought resistant, wide-blade, more like Saint Augustine) at about 4 inches in height so I set the cutting height to 3 inches.  I used a partial bagging/mulching setting (4) and it reduced the number of bags for clippings from around 6 to only 2.  I believe the use of mulching AND bagging plus the small size of clippings made the difference.

And ease of start -- Oh My!!!  What a pleasure.

Overall for now it appears to be a good mower. I was very disappointed in the wheel height adjustments. It seems most all mower manufacturers do not mow lawns where they have to change the height often. It should be Click and go. The adjustments on this mower are very difficult to operate especially the right rear on this model. By the time I pull the handle away from the mower body to release the current height position, the lever hits the wheel before it disengages from its current position. This forces me to "force" the lever in the direction I need it to go typically causing me to over shoot my intended position, now requiring me to do it again. This is a Lawn Mower, it should be SIMPLE!

Can we get this fixed on my mower please, because the other side works as it should (even though its a lousy method).

Purchased my first mower (Craftsman) in 1987. It was a gem, but sadly it failed me after two seasons. I opted to bite the bullet and purchase a mower from in the highly touted HR 216 series of Honda mowers. Not knowing what to expect.. but certainly expecting to get more than 2-3 years out of the Honda mower. To my ultimate surprise, it lasted 14 years. Yes, I replaced the bag, wheels and a couple brake cables but in the end, my $400 purchased spread over the time was $2.39 per month. Unthinkable.... Right!! So in the end I donated to a buddy who was a genius with small engines and when I eventually moved out of the neighborhood, he was still using it. Of course my second purchase of the Honda line of mowers was an upgrade. The new Nexite deck was more expensive but still the same quality mower that I had become to expect. After 16 years of use ($3.13 per month), a couple discharge bags, 2 sets of wheels, one set of cables, one oil change and one tune up, this beast is still rolling. In fact, my neighborhood, which housed a plethora of alternate mowers, from Toro, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Husqvarna and an electric are all now happily Satisfied Honda Mower owners. My second mower of 16 years has now been relegated to a rental property in Richmond (but still gong strong) and I am now the proud owner of a New HRX217VKA mower. I am positive that I will get the same great service out of this newest addition to the Garage. Worth mentioning that have .78 acre lot and enjoy mowing my lawn and then having a cold one afterwards. Honda... Thankyou for making such a great product. You've made my life easier.  

I bought this mower as a replacement for my previous Honda mower which lack of a better word was a lemon. I managed to use the new mower for 4 months and now the trouble begins.

I do not abuse my equipment one bit. When pulling the starter cord I just give it a slight pull and within a pull or two it would start. I never yank the cord fulling extending from the reel. This time after starting the mower the cord did not retract. I stopped the mower so that I could get the cord to reel. Well the cord did not reel, it completely unspooled.

Honda is supposed to have the best mower on the market so far I am not impressed. The quality controls are definitely lacking. The previous mower would never start, two engine failures and now the new mower is having problems. One more problem and I will be done with Honda.

I’m replacing my 10 year old Honda mower with this HRX217VKA. So far I’m loving it even more than my trusty old Honda.  Started on the first pull, the composite deck makes it a breeze to move around, the bigger engine goes right through the thickest grass, and it will definitely go faster than I could ever hope to actually use.

My only negative is that the the dial that selects the speed tends to move it to a slower position as the mower hits the inevitable bumps in the lawn - mighty picky, but unexpected for Honda.

Overall, it’s a great mower and I look forward to using it for many years.

I was looking for a new mower and went to Metuchen Mower. After discussing the various mowers available I decided on the Honda HRX217VKA. The personnel at Metuchen were great, and after two months of using this mower, I realized they knew what they were talking about. They listened to my situation and gave me sound advice and let me make the choice. 

The mower is the easiest unit to start and cut the grass. The height levers are great for changing the cut height the bag catcher is easy and the mower has enough power to do all the mowing that is necessary. I was skeptical about the plastic base but I'm convinced that it will last many years.

GREAT PRODUCT. 

I am really quite pleased with my purchase. The quality of this mower is evident. I added the 12 oz bottle of Honda oil that came with the mower, added some gas and it started on the very first pull.  The self-propelled feature is nothing of great engineering. I was very surprised at the pace the mower went even dialed down to a very low setting. My yard is St Austine and I live in the Bayou region of Louisiana (very tropical). We cut grass most of the year. The grass is thick, but my yard is relatively small (175x60), really too small for the expense of a riding lawn mower (IMHO). I was able to cancel the yardman at $35 /cut. So this mower will pay for itself in 18 cuts.

I could not be happier. At first, I wanted the electric start, but so far I think that would be something I would not need whatsoever since it starts so very easily.

The yard looks picture perfect! and I am a perfectionist.  

This is my first mower in 8 years, and it is truly worth every single penny even though it is on the pricy side. After doing a lot of research on the internet, I landed on this mower and am extremely pleased with it. I could have gone cheaper, but I am so glad I didn't skimp on the quality and reliability of this mower.     

We've always tried to buy mowers with the Honda engine but never total Honda.  WOW what a difference it makes!

Our grass looks like carpet and I bagged it for the first time.  So easy to put the bag on and off.  Also, it starts the very first time you pull it. I love this mower! 

Has the best features in any 21" mower built today, Lite, easy to start, easy to use,ball bearing wide wheels, rolls the best, great paint job, best height adjustment, easy handle adjustment. I wish Honda put all these features in a 32" or so mower. This replaced a Toro Super recycler. 

Thanks Honda for making a great mower!

Just purchases this lawn mower on June 19th, 2019. I did a lot of research and compared it to a number of manufacturers and decided i would try Honda. I have always owned Toro with little or no issues but after reading reviews and checking where i purchased it i thought lt was worth a try.

The best thing you can do is read the owners manual before you do anything. Everything was clear and very straight forward.

It takes a little getting used to but love how it operates. I would say it is the best mower i have ever owned in my 50 years of being a home owner.

Mulching feature saves SO much time and you can't even notice whether lawn was bagged or mulched - Amazing upgrade from my regular mower....Pace Control is right on - took a little getting used to - especially on turns but learning curve was quick and easy.  Phenomenal quality and the warranty is unmatched!  Ten year old son mowed 2 lawns in 1/2 the time as it used to take!

I'm very impressed with my new Honda mower.  That began with ease of assembly and clarity of instructions.

Mower started on second pull of starter cord, then first pull thereafter.  Wheel adjustment is easy and the Mulch/Bag selection is a great idea that I expect to use frequently. 

I bought a Honda because my pressure washer has a Honda engine and starts easily and reliably.  Previous mower could not make that claim.

I have a little more than a 1/4 acre of grass that I cut, with terrain that is flat and slopped. The 'select control drive' is absolutely amazing on this mower. I can set it to my own walking pace and if I crank it up, wow, its a speed walk/light jog pace. The assembly was extremely simple. The grass gets a nice clean even cut. I used to typically bag before but have since changed to mulch. I didn't like to mulch with other mowers as it left towns of grass on the lawn. I believe the twin blade that Honda uses really cuts the grass into fine pieces. In the mulch mode you don't see clumps of grass left behind. I don't track it back into the house after being on the lawn great mulching function. When fall comes around i won't be racking up leaves this year.

COMPARISON: I have used my buddy's Honda Model#  HRR216VKA mower and it is a very nice mower. The self pace works good (not as good as the HRX model). The cut seems to be the same but they both have the twin blade so it would make sense they cut the same (though i didn't use the mulch setting). The HRR says its recommended terrain is 'slopped' but cut just fine on flat areas. Overall its a very good mower as well. I went with the HRX as I live in Indiana and with the rain and moisture I liked the fabricated deck (no rusting). I expect to get at least 15 years out of this investment. The HRX is a little heavier but you won't even notice that just set it to your pace. 

ONLY NEGATIVE: For the price I would have hoped for a little more functionality. This is a $640 mower (after taxes) and isn't cheap. I would have liked to see blade stop added to this model or maybe non-manual adjusting wheel heights. 

I recently have had several back surgeries and the best therapy is walking.

So with that being said, I purchased the Honda HRX217K6VKA figuring that I might as well mow while walking

I've had other mowers that claim to mulch and the Honda cuts more evenly than all the rest and leaves almost no visible clippings. That depends on how tall your grass is.

Mulching is the way to go and exercise at the same time! 

NEXITE DECK
Had been concerned about NeXite deck, but seeing it now believe it is indestructible despite reviews saying rocks made holes. Deck has many more cavities (mostly for strength on edges) for grass particle collection than I imagined, but next day was dry enough to easily brush off or pull out with fingers. Deck also captures wheel levers, nuts and bolt heads. I'm sensitive to handle attachment to deck, and this looks promising. Lots of ordinary nuts and bolts, and some of these might work loose, get lost, but should be able to replace. Anyway, discount reviews about deck integrity: Deck is fine, glad I chose it over steel and over some aluminum decks.

SELF-PROPELLED SPEED CONTROL
Review(s) about are accurate, and my only slight negative. No idea what max speed is like, but about quarter on speed dial is pretty fast for grass cutting. I am a fast walker, can walk faster than max setting, but doubt cut quality would be good. One may hold the bar down for the set speed or relax slightly to vary speed from that set to slower speed for maneuver. The bar is designed to be held by thumbs, and in 1hr15min mine were sore. I will try to figure out how to modify my hold to prevent that. Bit if you want to run through a quick and dirty mowing, set to max and off you go.

ENGINE
Started/re-started easily. Lots of power for deep grass and hill. Filled tank was empty at end of first cut. Noise pretty typical. 

BLADE LOCK
Good safety design feature, but heads up for new owner. Unless you hold the bail, you can not pull the starter rope. OK, but this includes unfolding the handle. The bail hooks under the engine front when handle folded, and you need to hold it as if running engine to get past engine and  to erect handle. Otherwise rope will not extend to permit handle deployment. Bit of surprise respecting handle unfolding.

MY ONLY USE SO FAR
On about .25 acre, half with modest hill, but worked fine cutting at 3" with some tree roots. Will cut at 3.5" next time to get back to previous cut height of 3.25", and further mss roots. Previous mower had slightly smaller wheels, so newer/bigger wheels better. 

At 71, I have resumed taking care of my own lawn and property. I did some research and decided on my Honda HRX after reviewing about a dozen top-rated products, and reading many reviews for each. I was shopping for easy handling, and reliability. Before first use, I read the owner’s manual, twice – which I highly recommend. Started early yesterday morning and finished by noon, having accomplished more within that timeframe than in the last 40 years with lesser equipment. 1. Easy starting (every time), powerful Honda GCV200 engine (power to spare throughout my varied mowing conditions. Hills and rough ground, no problem): Check. 2. Self-propelled, variable speed Select Drive (read up on the Self Drive Control paddle & Control Knob and give yourself 10 minutes hands-on to start your mind meld with the HRX – Magic!) Check. 3. 4-in-1 Versamow System with Clip Director - mulch, bag, discharge, and leaf shred (mulched to perfection over grass with bag off – with bag on, mulched and cleared out a woodland margin, removing ivy, leaf fall, and small branch litter in one pass) Check. 4. MicroCut® Twin Blades (I set the easily adjusted wheel height to mid-way and the lawn looks ready for a round of golf. I hit an unexpectedly thick area of caterpillar grass and simply gave the handy Self Drive Control Knob a tweak to power through the area with consistent trim quality) Check. 5. ETC: Highly agile handling, easy cleanup (deck underside was clear of debris with my dry conditions), convenient equipment design for fueling, oil & air filter access, and aside from a 4.5-star review from hundreds of users, a 5-year warranty! [pay attention to reasonable but substantive equipment care and use issues that can affect the warranty – find the detailed description in Owner’s Manual]. To top it all off, I am less than a mile from my Honda dealer, and Honda Certified service provider. I’m in ‘Honda Heaven’, and recommend this fine mower to anyone interested in excellent lawn care and avoidance of physically “over-doing it” with use of less powerful and reliable equipment.

This is definitely the best mower I have ever OWNED. In the past I've OWNED Honda motorcycle,  Honda pilot, why not a lawn mower.  Cuts great ,love the lifetime deck, variable speed . HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BEAST.

I just purchase my Honda Hrx217 this month and I absolutely love it.  It is very light and has a beautiful cut. I do plan on purchasing another one soon for my wife it is very light and I don't have to worry about her pushing because it basically guides it self.

Thank you,

this isw my first Honda lawn mower.  I have had Craftsmen mowers in the past and still own one at another location.

I used my son which help me make my selection.  I ordered it online Amazon.  Received it in 5 days.  I was very impressed with the packaging of the mower.  It was easy to unpack and very little assembly necessary.  I like the w3ay it operates but I'm not used to the rear wheel drive.  When I push the drive button the mower has a tend ency to raise the front wheels off the ground.  I will have to get used to this and will see after a few cuts.  I have a HONDA POWER WASHER.  The products are very easy to use and far superior too others that I've used and previewed.

This one works exactly what I expected from HONDA. The 200cc engine is strong - no hick ups.

I have been using HONDA engines from 1980. They never disappointed me.

I am so glad I bought a Honda. What an easy to use smooth operating machine. It was the quickest I have mowed in years and my yard looks great. I would recommend a Honda for everyone. Thanks.

I purchased this mower online from Home Depot. When I received the mower ahead of schedule, I could not wait to try it. HOWEVER, I did not receive an Owners Manual, or the bottle of oil that were supposed to come with the mower. No big deal, RIGHT. Well, when you buy a mower this expensive you expect everything to be right so I called Home Depot to ask for my items. I spent an hour trying to talk with a person who could help me. It was one answering machine after another. When I finally reached a person to talk to who would help me, they encountered the same problem that I did. The Honda supplier for Home Depot could not be reached. The number was busy. OVER and OVER and OVER again. She then told me that Home Depot could not help me. I would have to call Honda myself. After many, many calls to the Honda number, I finally got through. After going through the choose this number game on the answering machine I was put on hold. After 28 minutes  on hold I gave up! 

I downloaded the Owners Manual online and purchased my own oil.

I Just bought this unit April 30 2019

We had rain for a good week so the grass is just wet and ground is soaked.

The mower never slowed down and I did not have clumps of grass when I was done.

I just love that unit

Mower cuts well, with ease.  Right out of the box, started first pull. 

Designed very well.....I've used it two times....will see how it holds up.

CONS: I miss the blade brake feature-now I need to stop the engine and restart to empty the bag, move a stick, etc. Seems louder than previous. Wheel height adjustment was hard on the 2012 Honda, and even harder on this one.

PROS Easy starting, just like my old one. The Variable Speed control takes some getting used to, but an improvement. 

I have worked with new mower last week end to find following comment.  As reported, Am very much satisfied with new mower but the silent mower reputation is not with this new 200cc machine anymore, specially when previous 160cc mower that just retired after 16 years of service.   Maybe the reason is, new machine which I did chose the unit without slot control, which previous 160cc mower had, but even though, the REV of new 200cc fixed slot is too fast and too lousy.  Even my neighbor came to me why new Honda mower is so loud noise!

Even though I noticed that I did make a wrong choice without slot control, is there any way to reduce REV as it is so noisy and eat up gas so fast.  I need to slow down about 25% to achieve 75% of current REV slot level.  Another misunderstanding of Select Driver Control,  I thought that this will control not only Driving speed, but also control slot control, but apparently it is not.  Conclusion:  Is there any adjustment available to fix the issue through I understand it is still a fix control.  I just need to regain the "silent Mower" image to my new mower.

Took the mower from the box and unfolded and adjusted the handlebars; added the supplied oil and slowly pulled the engine through about 5 times. Filled the fuel tank and the engine started on the first pull.
My grass had gotten taller than I usually like due to the rainy weather we have had lately. I elected to use the discharge with the control all the way to "bag", and with the wheels on 3, the mower didn't miss a beat! The rear discharge did not clog, nor did it leave many clumps; just a heavy haze on top of the yard, like any other mower would in high grass. I feel that it would be perfect if I hadn't had to wait so long for the first cut of the year.

Really like the smart drive control. Just set the dial to the desired speed and use either thumb to engage. Typical of most self propelled mowers, it does take a little effort to back the mower up, but this is not a big deal for me.

Second Honda I've owned. First one (push mower) went 22 years ... still runs!!  Never changed the oil ... and it never burned any!  Amazing machine. I sharpened the blades and replaced the wheels dozens of times. But I was getting too old to push anymore, so I bought this new self-propelled one.  Works great ... can't keep up with the high speed walking setting ... too fast.

My only complaint so far, is that it is difficult to pull backwards because of the gears.  I've had to learn a new way to mow the yard ... always forward.  But you can't always do that.  Advantages outweigh the disadvantages though.

Started first pull out of the box!!!  Had the best rated battery powered mower, I guess they have there place. This mower cut HALF of my mowing time first mow. Sold the battery mower and will not look back. Honda quality and power just can't be beat! 

Malcolm, Boise, Idaho

We just purchased this lawn mower - why have I been killing my body the past couple of years with our dying lawn mower.   This is a dream!  I will not dread mowing the lawn anymore!!  Pros? Responsive, starts easily, cuts great!  There are no cons!!   

Thanks Honda!

Very positive experience with first week of use. Was a bit concerned when I observed oil on the cardboard of the shipping carton, then I speculated that the factory test run caused a bit of spillage when the oil was emptied from engine factory test run. No more leakage was noted after adding oil for my initial test run.

Mulched grass from the initial mowing was so fine that almost no clippings discharged from the rear of my mower. Starting was easy. Plenty of power to pull me and the mower uphill. Inspection of the underside of the mower revealed almost no residual clippings after the first couple of days of mowing. I am very pleased with the GCV200 engine. Love the light weight design and transmission operation. The drive controls were easy to use and well conceived. Light weight is very important when pulling the mower backwards. The manual is very well written although would like to have seen move use of bold print in critical notes. 

The mower runs like a top, cuts like a champ and has great features. I love being able to leave mower run and have blade stop spinning. It starts easily and moves easily for being a heavy mower. 

The totally stupid things Honda did: The rear wheel adjusters are horrible, one of mine can't even be moved into all positions. The metal level is not stiff enough, it just bends outward toward the wheel. For an $700+ mower? Really?

Next item seems to be a trend. It is uncomfortable to hold/push because of the handle design. The clutch bail/level is designed that the only spot you can hold onto all three bars comfortably is if your hands are near the center of the handle. Who wants to push a mower around with your hands almost touching in the middle? It's almost like being handcuffed. The other option: if you have size 24 hands and can span from the outside of the handle to the inside - covering the clutch bail, then you might be okay too. Apart from that, the best I've found is holding the right hand on top of the handle, and the left hand more on the left outside.  This is partially all because of the special yellow button you need to push to engage the blade; it's big and bulky. In my opinion is setup is a major fail. What about the old bail designs that followed the contour of the handle so you could hold the handle in the best position for you??

Don't know yet if I'm keeping it. It's a lot of money for a mower I gripe about every time I have to push it around.

Who tests these things? Anyone in the real world?

We bought this mower to do precise work around trees and borders and to get into tight spots that are too risky to try with an 1100 lb zero turn Grasshopper.  It starts on the first pull, cuts great, and is easy to operate.  This is the second one we have purchased, same model.  

The only thing that gave it a 4 for ease of use is the height adjustment for the rear wheels.  The space between the wheels and the adjustment lever is too small to pull the lever out of the notch to move it because it flexes too much and contacts the wheel.  I have to use a long pry tool (long screwdriver) to move it out of the notch to make the adjustment.  This was the same problem with the first one (same model).  But as you can see we still bought another one.  it is otherwise a very good machine.   

Just bought this top-of-the-line mower to replace an EGO Self-propelled Battery powered mower (1 year old - had circuit board problems that they had trouble fixing - otherwise excellent mower)

GOOD THINGS about new Honda Mower: Powerful 190 CC engine; Electric Start - starts quickly; Quite well balanced; very good mulching; very even cutting has lawn looking flat/good; okay maneuverability; Appears to be good quality; lot of good feedback from other owners.

NOT SO GOOD THINGS about new Honda Mower: Select Drive Speed Control -- doesn't really effectively or accurately set maximum ground speed. Set at minimum it may or may not move based on how you hold both sides of control lever down.  Two sides of control lever are very flexible and how/where you depress them varies the amount of engagement. Seems like all select drive knob settings from 1/4 to full turn set mower at very fast pace and it's difficult to find a setting for a medium speed walk. By contrast the EGO cordless mower had an extremely easy and accurate speed control. Also mower is somewhat awkward and heavy to maneuver on a lawn with many obstacles and non-straight lines. Engine is louder than other gas mowers I've had - but it could be due to larger engine. Mower is expensive but does have high quality/reputation plus all features.

OVERALL: Am quite satisfied with mower and will recommend to others but with reservations about ground speed control.

As a former Honda automotive engineer and three-time Honda car owner, I bought my mower a little over 3 years ago from an authorized Power Equipment dealer (along with a Honda HHT25S trimmer) with full confidence in Honda quality and that they would stand by their product and treat me right if there was a problem.  Thinking the price premium for Honda quality is worth it, I convinced my wife and spent the $600 on the mower.  I love this mower--functionally, it's great except for the mulch/bag setting in the middle of the range is iffy.  Easy to start, cuts great, solid deck, large bag that actually fills.  Powerful engine.  Actually made mowing somewhat enjoyable.

BUT---

This season, toward end of season, one day it just wouldn't start.  I did some basic inspections (no clogged fuel filter, carb was clean, plug was new, oil level OK, gas is good) and then took it back to the dealer and they determined a valve was seized and impossible to un-stick.  After nearly 6 weeks of waiting, Honda authorizes a full engine replacement due to internal failure (still waiting for it to be installed.)  So in the meantime, I pay someone to mow my yard (not reimbursable under warranty per Honda) and get told by Honda that this is being handled per standard procedure.  No one from Honda called me apologetic or eager to fix the issue, dealer says it's all a wait on Honda, blah blah.  So in the meantime, I sit waiting...

Long story short--if you don't get a dud, it should run great for a long time.  I mean, it's a Honda right?  And people sell these used with 10 years on them right?  And they are 3x the price of a Troy Built at Lowe's so they have to be better right?  And your local dealer told you it's a great warranty but they don't break right? 

But have a problem?  Have fun working with Honda on a warranty claim.  Be ready to explain multiple times it's not for commercial use (if you use it for your home), estimated hours on the unit, and deal with your dealer that--according to Honda--is an independent operation that they have no control over in terms of how your claim is handled.  My opinion, a premium branded product like Honda Power Equipment should mean that when there is a problem, the dealer/Honda takes care of you immediately.  In other words, within a week or so after the unit was checked by my dealer, I should have had either 1) my unit back with a fresh engine or 2) been sent out the door with a brand new mower--or even a loaner.  $600 is chump change for Honda.  You get better service at Harbor Freight or Sears when something breaks.   

So no more Honda for me--NOTHING.  I was shopping for a $2000 generator for home backup before this happened, but have to reconsider that.  I have zero confidence that if the unit has a problem, Honda or my local dealer would take care of it, and quickly at that.  I'll go to Harbor Freight and throw it away if it breaks, buy another 2 or 3 times for the price of the Honda.  Hopefully my Billy Goat with the $300 extra Honda GSV190 engine doesn't take a crap like this GCV190 did, since apparently I'll just be SOL and have to remove and replace the motor myself for $300 or so.  

So here's my invitation to HONDA to make this right by me:  Send me a check for my yard mowing fees for as long as my mower is down (soon to be $80).  If you want me back as a customer, let's talk about a better price on your super premium generators that I'll have to buy from your super premium dealer network, and why it's a better long term buy than something else like a Yamaha or Predator or Kohler.  Cuz the dealer told me they don't break and since it's a Honda, they command the super premium price

So my star rating reflects how the company handled this issue.  If they would have just did it right, 5 star review no problem.  But, they chose not to.  

Call me anytime.  

I bought a Honda because I've owned two Honda SUVs which have been very reliable. The mower was easy to start and quieter than my old mower. My first problem was controlling the speed. Instead of being described as "walk behind" it should be "run behind". The clutch was way too sensitive and the mower deck would raise up skipping over parts of the lawn. Fully engaged the speed is way beyond a walking pace. I found a cable adjustment that I was able to back off enough to make speed control manageable. Although rear-wheel drive gives you more traction, the front-wheel drive is more manageable. With my old front-wheel drive mower I could just pull down on the handle and raise the front wheels off the ground and easily make tight turns and adjust the position of the mower.

One other concern is I read in the manual that if you operating the mower above 5,000 feet you should take it to a dealer to have the carburetor modified. I presume that since I bought it in Denver that it would already be ready to operate above 5,000 feet. It seems to operate fine so I'm not going to worry about it.   

I, previously, used a Zero Turn on my 5 acres.  

However, I have relocated and now have Quarter acre, so I ordered a Honda push mower, because of their motor quality.  

I was pleasantly surprised that very little assembly was required.

It was easy to start.  However, I found it Hard to turn, and Very hard to adjust the rear wheels up and down because, unlike the front wheels, the mower has to be lifted up.

I've had this mower for two years now and have found it to be absolutely terrific in the quality of the cut it produces.  I've used the versa mow feature at many different settings but found the setting of 8, which mulches about 80% of the clippings and back discharges the remainder to produce the best results.   It appears not placing the setting all the way to 10 allows some of the vacuumed air to exit the mower deck.  I live in Eastern Tennessee and portions of my lawn are filled with bermuda grass and the lawn looks like a perfectly laid carpet when I'm done, and changing directions each time I mow.  This is the best mower I've ever owned.

When I choose to bag I place the versa mow setting on 6.  It seems I need to empty the bag less times as the clippings are reduced to the smallest size.

I make sure the blades are sharp and I change the oil (synthetic) according the the specs.  I also use ethanol free gas to ensure longevity.  I'm expecting a very long life from this mower.

The self-propelled feature on this mower is a joke. When you are going down a slope it literally pulls you faster than you want to go, even on the low setting. When going up a slope, when you really need it, it doesn't even engage or work most of the time; and when it does work you have to assist it by manually pushing it along.

The wheel height adjustment levers are so stiff and hard to move, that it is pretty much beyond my ability to adjust the height of the mower.

I will try it one more time, but at this point I am pretty sure I will be returning the mower.

Has a great engine, nice feature set but don't be fooled. The twin blade system does not mulch well. Consistently leaves a inch wide row of clippings as you make a pass and periodically 'belches' a clump of grass during a pass.  Make no mistake, this not overgrown or wet grass.  My turf is in excellent shape and thick but this mower performs poorly in mulch mode.  Even in full bag mode, the suction is lacking.

Lastly, the mower is very heavy. Leaves deep wheel mark impressions which make for an ugly, messy look. My previous mower performed so much better on both of these points that I regret switching.

My first HONDA mower, after 10 great years needs replacement,  but the engine (160cc HRR21969VKA) still runs as new!  Needs tires/wheels, maybe new transmission, new mulching blades (the old ones lasted 10 years), maybe new belt(s).  Might pass it on to my son...  However, I still used it this past week while taking time to carefully shop many other makes and models.

Still, after all the comparisons, I came back to HONDA. 

The new HRX317VKA has a larger engine (190cc), new composite deck, larger wheels and more substantial height adjustment, etc...  Started on first pull..!!!!  Very strong...

We shall see how it goes through the rest of the SW Florida summer season.

Very strong engine and effortless with self propulsion system.   

Expect mower to last and purchase decision influenced by the 5 year, versus 3 year, warranty.

Initial cutting operation as expected, neat and clean.  

I picked up my mower from the store and saw it was well boxed and Undamaged. Got it home, cut one end out of box so I could roll the mower out of the box (myself). Checked the mower for any damage, non existed. Assembly was easy, which was fitting the bag to the bag frame. Read the operator's manual, poured the 10w-30 oil provided in it's receptacle, filled it with gas, readjusted 4 wheels to the same height, pull once on the start cord and off with my dream machine. My previous mower was a Honda Harmony 215, so you can understand why I'm thrilled with my new Honda Mower.

This lawn mower is replacing a husqvana 800 awd. I have used it twice and it has done a great job of cutting grass.  It is easy to start and the feature of mulch or bag or a combo of both is easy to use  The engine seems to be the same one I had on my husqvana so I emagine the engine will never be an issue  

awesome !

easy wheel adjustments

great cutting and mulching adjustment

Never buy any other mower

Awesome machine

Thought Id spend a few extra bucks and get a good mower. Wow!! Really disappointed. Lawn mower started the first time and now it wont start. Brand new mower and off to the repair shop I go.

I Love All The Features. One Pull It Starts All The Time, the mower is easy to keep clean, it isn't that heavy

the instructions were easy to understand,  it's easy to check the air filter, easy to fill with gas, it's easy on

gas seeing the price of gas now day's. It's easy to adjust the deck also. You really come a long way's.

I owned I Honda Lawn Mower since 1988 it served it's time never had issue's till yesterday the the

axel broke so it was time to make the change. And I'm glad I Did. I Know the Mower I purchased

will give many good years of service. keep up the good work thank's. 

Love the electric start and love the rear drive wheels.  Easy to operate with the thumb controls. Simple to adjust the height and no difficulty getting the full grass bag off the lawn mower to empty. Wish  I got a extra key for the electric start and I also wish I got a battery charger to keep the battery charged over the winter.  This is without a doubt the best lawn mower I have owned. 

I should have waited until honda dealer was open , I had one before an it had a blade clutch, this one does not , disappointed.

It's just what you expect from Honda.

Simple easy quality

I only rated 5 Stars because they didn't have 6

I like my

I just replaced my previous Honda, which I have had for 19 years.  Starts on the first pull, runs great and works exactly as advertised.  Excellent quality.

Self propelled speed is amazing with variable speed selections.  At some of the lower setting it's almost too fast.  Not sure I could keep up with it at some of the higher setting.  Can be used as a self-propelled, but can also be pushed if you are so inclined.

Hopefully this mower will also last 19 years!!

started first pull right out of the box-comfortable operation position-cut through heavy growth in mulching mode with ease-cutting height settings out of the box not equal- adjustment of rear wheels alittle bit of a struggle-self propel knob did drift with operation and I do think the drive could be stronger however if your lawn has no slopes mower would be perfect. One more note- gas tank is too small for larger areas- keep the gas can nearby.

This mower is a pleasure to use. It starts on first or second pull every time. The bag has a large capacity and is easily dumped. The mulch/bag lever is easily moved to adjust amount bagged. Works great for leaf removal. It has plenty of power easily cutting high grass without  any bogging. It cuts evenly and leaves no trail of grass the mulch is very fine. The power assist is adjustable to any terrain and operates very smoothly with no abruptness at all. I highly recommend this mower.

My Honda Lawn Mower finally died after 22 years of trouble free service.

So there was only on option when it came to a new one.

Just used my new Honda HRX2175VKA for the first time, yesterday and I love it.

I like the new, adjustable self propelled drive system and the ability to mulch and bag at the same time is a great feature that was not available on my previous model.

The best Lawn Mowers available !! 

When purchasing my Honda mower at Home Depot in West Seneca NY a notice by the mower said if I purchased it there that there would be an additional year of warranty added to the original warranty, I truly hope that is the case.

Thank you, Mark A. Brahaney

P.S. My 1986 Honda HTR3009 Riding mower is still in operation- it is all original aside from cutting blade replacement. Still going with original belts!

I have to confess I was a scared spending this much money on a lawn mower. But I had to change mowers. Ive had 2 back surgeries and if I keep bagging our lawn cause our toro wouldn't mulch at all any more, I would end up with another back surgery. I love mowing the lawn and being out side. So a new lawn mower that could mulch better seemed like a good idea. My husband has mowed and liked Hondas before and when he saw the twin blade action he thought that would be best. I moved Monday after purchase on saturday and the lawn looked great. I set it to full mulch, and there was not one blade of grass not cut and mulched, looked fantastic. One of the features I like is you can half mulch and bag if you want. great idea!!!!

It only took me 45min to mow verses the last one 1 hour 30 minutes plus bagging and emptying the bag. Hard on my back lol. No Joke! I was in pain!

This new mower from Honda Yeah!!! Love it!! I can be outside, walk along, great for back surgery and enjoy the great outdoors and get exercise all in one, enjoying the fresh smell of cut grass. I have to tell you I had to turn the speed low, it moves quick, but as I mow more through the season I hope to move faster. 

Best choice that we made. Thank you Honda, thank you my sweet husband for buying it for me for Mothers Day. Best gift ever.

This lawn mower is the best mower I have used by far.  It is head an shoulders above Toro or Lawn Boy.  The clip director is probably my favorite feature.  You can select how much of the clippings are mulched and how much of them get bagged or discharged.  It really works well.  

The select drive takes a bit to get used to but once you have gotten used to it, it feels very natural.  

I can't say enough good things about this lawn mower it's well made, very powerful and does exactly what it is intended to do: cut grass.  I will never buy another brand of mower.  This is the best.

The mower works and  has excellent power.  But, the drive track is an issue, you always have to adjust it.  I am unsure of the reason for this.  Does the Manufacturer have a solution....

Need to replace my Toro Super Recycler after 20 years of use. This spring the old mower just wasn't getting through the grass well and the bag chute was plugging frequently.

So after a great deal of research I opted for a change and went with the Honda. My initial concern was that it wouldn't power through my very thick grass. Well this machine ate it up and didn't bog down at all. The 190cc provided plenty of power and I was able to completely fill the bag. This is a significant design improvement from the narrow chute my old mower had. I really like the ease of use and especially the select drive. I have many obstacles to mow around and the drive didn't drag when pulling back like my old mower. My new Honda mower runs great and definitely gets the job done.

In 6 inches of grass the Honda cut right through and bagged very cleanly. The cut was clean and left my lawn looking immaculate. (Just the way I like it.)

I really hesitated buying the Honda just as I didn't have any experience to draw on in how it would work. But I have to say I am very satisfied as I am very particular about my tools and how well they work and hold up. This is just my first use so I will have to check back in once I have several cuts with bagging and mulching so I can provide a full review. 

I don't mind paying a little premium for a good quality product and so far the Honda mower hasn't disappointed. Ease of use couldn't be better and I was in the grass mowing from the box in les than 15 minutes.

Very disappointed seeing the rear wheels spinning and the lawnmower going nowhere.  It happened too many times.

I have cut my lawn for the past 31 years with Craftsman lawnmowers and have never had this issue 

Very difficult for the wheels to get enough traction to go over small bumps in the lawn.

The 190cc engine has good power and the ball bearing wheels make it easy to roll.  There is slight engine vibration and have to give a full hard pull to start engine.  It will start on first pull and is fuel efficient.  Some grass areas have to be mowed twice for smooth looking cut.  It would be nice if could mow at least 1/2 inch higher at 4.5 inches.  Overall so far it is getting the job done.

outstanding unpack & assembly (very minor assembly) instructions.  attachment of grass clipping bag to bag frame was not readily obvious, but instructions were very clear.  about 10 minutes to get mower ready to operate (including fast read of operating instructions).

Filled with gas (oil fill was part of assembly), started on 2nd pull.  I had read the instruction to let run for about 10 minutes before stopping. No problem; started on first pull each time I emptied the grass catcher.

Great cut of lawn. Especially nice: instructions tell you which wheel setting to use for different grass cutting heights.  No trial and error required.

Only criticism: set speed control on level ground, but mower speed varied significantly when changing from up to down-hill, and vice-versa, use.  Had to adjust speed many times in one cutting of lawn.  Perhaps I will get used to it over time.

I just brought this unit home this morning, so I really can't give a valid review on overall performance yet, but it was purchased based heavily on its review in Consumer Reports.
I'm getting up in years and I decided that this year I was going to treat myself to a self-propelled model. I've never had one before.  I have an acre of grass to cut. and I use a John Deere lawn tractor to do most of the back, but I still like to use a push mower in the smaller front yard and around the sides of the house for that neater look.
This machine is everything they said it was. It's heavier than most standard lawnmowers out there, but the quality is evident right out of the box. This is one solid machine.
I gassed it up and just ran it around the backyard for ten minutes but the cut it gave me looks like carpet.
And naturally it started on the first pull.
I had it set on full mulch, and I can't see any clippings at all. I may never use the bag.
And this thing is POWERFUL. It will pop wheelies being it's rear-wheel drive.
While many mowers sold today use a 163cc engine, this one is 190cc, and the difference it obvious.
I very much preferred RWD over many other models FWD after reading pros and cons in reviews.

The drive speed control is nice, and when set at full speed you almost have to jog to keep up with it. But what's really nice is that no matter how high you set the speed, it's still variable via the hand levers.
The lever on the deck that lets you select between "full bag" and "full mulch" is fantastic because there's 10 variable selections between the two so you can choose any degree of 'bag and mulch' simultaneously.

I LOVE the composite deck since it will never rust, and from the reviews I've seen, grass won't stick to the underside like every other steel deck mower. That  remains to be seen if it's true or not, but I really like the idea of easy cleanups.
Even adjusting the deck height is easy. Each wheel has its own lever but for once, the slots are large, well defined
and clearly marked for perfect adjustments every time.
The inline gas valve is a nice feature too, it will make it so much easier to run the mower dry come winter, and it's location lends itself well to draining the gas tank.

Between the 5-year factory warranty, and the lifetime warranty on the deck, this may well be the last lawnmower I ever buy...

very impressive. easy to unpack and set up. started on 3rd pull. operation is great. dual blade system does a great job cutting and mulching. engine has plenty of power. emptying the bag is extremely easy. getting used to the self propelled system takes some time, but is coming around. I keep mowers a long time, and I think this is a keeper.

Received Mower in a box purchased from a Honda Authorized Dealer on internet. Very simple unpacking of mower, unwrapped packing on mower, adjusted handle bar made sure it was secure, filled oil as indicated, gas in the tank, I noticed no choke on engine, pulled in blade control lever pulled starter rope/grip. fired up on 1st pull. So easy to mow with lots of power, really munches the grass, all easy adjustments: Cutting Height, Clip Director, like the Select Drive Control!    I give this mower 5 star !!

My wife has a "broken" left arm but She normally mows our lawn with our 5+ year Craftsmen self-propelled mower.

I mowed the lawn 1-time recently with our "old' mower & knew that it was time for a change!  I read the outstanding ratings the HRX series mower just received in CR and knew that "now was the time"!  I started shopping Online & found Max Tools.  They processed my Order & delivered in less than 4 days!  Set-up was a "no-brainer" - just take it out of the box, put in the gas & oil & start mowing!  The really great news is that my wife went our & mowed our big lawn with "just one -arm"!  Amazing!  No sweat!  Nice job Honda!

Started on first pull out of box.  Then barely starts, and sputters for 

5 minutes before taking off and running normally or killing.

Gas was sold as non ethanol and no apparent moisture

in it. Runs same with fuel valve on or off.

Bought this model five years ago. Nothing but troubles after two years. Chute wont close totally shooting grass in abundance out the the back. Never starts easy, even after continous use. Pull your butt off on every start. 

Brought back to local dealer for service twice. Fixed for a couple weeks but returned to old ways of improper operation

bought at Home Depot. Told to send to All Seasons equipment for repairs. Treated very disrespectfully there because of not buying it there.

Going to another dealer further away this spring hoping for a permanent fix

After researching for several weeks I decided to purchase this Honda mower yesterday and I'm very pleased with the quality of the mower.  The design is simplified and there is not a lot of plastic parts to break.  It was very easy to unpack and setup.  The operation instructions were very clear and informative.  After the initial setup was completed the mower started up on the first attempt.  I like to cut my grass high and this mower with adjust up to 4" cut height.   I'm looking forward to cutting my lawn this summer to see how this mower performs.   

I have just purchased a Honda Lawnmower model HRX217VKA with self propelled drive to replace our 22 year old Honda model HRM215PDA self propelled mower.

We provided one of our family members with our old mower that is still running fine with no issues.

Just had to replace a set of wheels twice over the years and 2 blades.  But the engine is running fine.

We wouldn't consider any other mower other than a Honda.  

This lawn mower is incredible.  I was a bit skeptical about the plastic type material, however I go over twigs and other debris all the time and it's no problem at all.  I was also skeptical paying such a premium for a lawn mower but I have no regrets.   I'd say the most incredible features really has to be how it picks up everything if you change the selector to bag everything.   I was going to buy a professional leaf blower but now there is no need to as this lawn mower picks up everything very cleanly without leaving any leaves on the ground and I don't even have a smooth lawn.   The other thing that is nice is you don't need to prime the fuel or set the choke, instead you just pull one time and it fires up easily.  If you are debating price, features, capability, etc. this is definitely one of the best lawn mowers your money can buy!!

My mower arrived yesterday. I unboxed it, added oil and gasoline. Pulled the rope and it started and ran great on the first pull (50°F).

Mowed the lawn and it worked great. Being used to a Lawn Boy with Sens-A-Speed it was a little different to make it go, but I soon got the knack of it. Being the end of the season, the goal was to pick up leaves more than mow the grass and it did a beautiful job using the full bagging option. Engine power is superb.

I do need to adjust the drive cable as it pulls a little hard in reverse and low speed is pretty fast.

Only one problem. The right rear height of cut mechanism was not working as designed. I could tell that the adjusting lever was not pulling out far enough to allow the easy movement to change cutting height. I removed the mechanism and a slight grinding of the lever and the adjusting arm slot, did the trick and it works as advertised. I lubed the shutter with some silicone spray, which really helped its operation. I did have to add an additional 2 oz of oil to bring it up to the full mark.

So far, so good, and I'm looking forward to many years of service from this great machine. I love the ball bearing equipped wheels and the composite deck. It will get about 80 hours of operation each season.

Top notch, A-1 product, IMHO.

This mower is rated one of the top machines in Consumer Reports magazine.  I like the 5-year warranty, ball bearing wheels, the feature that allows one to mulch, bag, or do some of both.

I expected the engine to start easier and quicker. I have used the mower twice in the two weeks since I bought it the middle of October, and both times it has taken me three pulls before it started.

I also have been somewhat disappointed in the self-propelled feature.  It seems to be inconsistent in the speed at which I have it set -- slowing almost to a crawl at times, and going at the set speed about 60% of the time.  When I adjust the speed setting, it seems to take about two minutes before the new setting is recognized.

Lawn mowers are generally very reliable and typical wear out.  As such, in 20 years, I have only had three lawn mowers - a craftsman (that is still running fairly well and is used at our rental property); a Troy Built (which had a great Honda motor but EVERYTHING else about the lawn mower was deficient); and, this new Honda.  The price was very high, but right out of the box, it was up and running in less than 5 minutes.  Cranked first time and I was literally cutting grass 5 minutes after getting home.  The engine is smooth and powerful and the mulching/bagging operations are superb.

My only initial concern is related to the Nexite deck - I really wonder how well that will hold up with bumps and scrapes against tree trucks as I mow around them.  It has a lifetime guarantee, so I guess they will stand behind it.

My only real gripe (and I have read this in other spots) is that the speed range (set by dial) goes WAY WAY too high.  Even at the very lowest max speed setting it moves faster than I like.  I want to have my grass very neatly cropped and I prefer to move at a slower speed to ensure proper cutting and mulching.  Using the drive engagement lever, though, i can modulate the speed to my liking.

Other than that, this is by far the best mower I have ever had.  

...and did I mention that I LOVE the motor.  Phenomenal Honda quality!

This mower replaced my previous 13 yr old Honda mower (which was built like tank and reliable like Honda is known to be). I was searching for a mower that had better grass mulching capabilities; havent tried mulching leaves yet since its still early fall. This mower has exceeded my expectations with its cutting and mulching capabilities; the deck is super lightweight; I have a hill that I must maneuver around. And its self propelled mower can propel the deck as fast as a light jog. 

The only downside I have is the handle for select drive requires a bit of a learning curve. I have knob set at the first split bar of the select drive; and if you gently depress the handle it moves forward at proper pace; however if you depress the handle all the in; the mower moves much faster! I'm not sure if that is the way it was designed but I can live with it. 

I know these mowers are built to last; so if properly cared for I plan on enjoying this mower for another 10-13 years. thanks Honda.

I wish i could have given if 5 stars but i just couldn’t. First, let me say that i was replacing a 6 1/2 HP Craftsman lawnmower that i have had for about 15 years. It had become tired and wasn’t mowing my Saint Augustine lawn very well anymore. I don’t have a huge yard but Saint Augustine is a very thick lawn requiring more HP that a typical lawnmower. 

Pros:

-Very powerful mower. glides through the St. Augustine with ease even when lawn is overgrown.I would have to creep through the thick stuff with the old mower or it would die.

-Self propelling is very powerful. It will do wheelies. I keep the adjustable self propel power at about 1/3 power.

-Starts with ease. no priming needed

Cons:

-While its fun to have your wife take a video of you doing a wheelie with your new mower and putting it of Facebook, It tends to still do wheelies even when turned down to 1/3 power and it doesn't mow the lawn where you did a wheelie

-My biggest disappointment is with the rear wheel drive for two reasons. First, with my old mower i could easily go over sprinkler holes by lifting up the back of the mower and letting the front wheel drive propel me. I now basically have to lift up the whole mower and push in over sprinter holes or even up on to the lawn from the sidewalk or it will gouge out a 21" circle in the lawn. Second (and most frustrating), My front yard is on a slight incline and when I try to mow directly up this incline, it will literally peel out and not drive forward until I push it up the incline. Now, instead of going directly up that incline, I mow in the opposite direction and am going uphill at an angle on the other side of the yard. Luckily my yard is angled on one side.

I can't help wondering why they wouldn't make this mower with all wheel drive like some of the other cheaper mowers??

I have enjoyed using my Honda brand Lawnmowers over the past 2 decades.  Generally speaking, their performance and reliability has been stellar.  However, this new mower has been causing me stress, due to improper cutting, i.e., it leaves a small "mohawk" line of uncut grass on the right side, causing the lawn to look like an infant has done the mowing.  I have had many complaints, and, have this one and only complaint thus far.  I am looking forward to stellar customer service from American Honda Motor Co., Inc, and it's many authorized dealers to rectify this situation.  Through my research online, I have discovered that this is a common problem for the new and current line of mowers, and I take it that many other owners believe it may be due to a possible design flaw. ????  

Anyway, I would still recommend Honda brand Lawn Mowers to anyone... 

I am a cheapskate first off.  I did not want to pay over $600 for a lawn mower.  However, after reviewing this one on Consumer Reports, it was top rated even higher than the best Honda mower.  We have used this mower since June and it is the best mower that you will ever own.  I have a very large lot and did not intend to use the bagging system and wanted to mulch only.  This mower really does the best job and does not leave large piles of cut grass as a normal mower would do.  This mower works great and speeds the process by making you keep a steady pace.  The select a drive system is outstanding, I have it set very low and this is fast enough for me.  

The UPS driver even commented on the mower and said that I would really love it once I started cutting grass with it.  He was right.  I will forever own Honda Mowers.

The GVC engine is delivered with a poorly engineered auto-choke feature.  Honda charges 15 dollars for the repair parts and 16 dollars for the silicone needed for the installation of the new replacement parts.

Designed intentionally to fail and renders the mower useless. 

Shame on you Honda and your engineers.  Stand behind your design and own up to your mistakes.  Supply your consumers with free upgrades for faulty designs. 

Makes it impossible to start - One star for Ease of Use

Poor quality design - One star

Features - Auto choke feature is faulty - 1 star

overall - 1 star.

I hate lawn mowers! It seems that no matter what I. Ut, they last about three years, ans then i have to buy another one. I'm not particularly hard on them, but I do expect them to last, and to do a good job.

I purchased this Honda because,they have a reputation for longevity, quality, and come with a 5-year warranty.

Right out of the box,I could tell this one was good. It felt "solid" and started with the first pull. The dial for spped on the propulsion system is a bit ambitious; I usually mow pretty fast, but on the slowest, I felt like I was jogging! And that's okay.

Mowed easy, flat, cut was excellent, mulching was grear. No complaints.

I purchased the lawnmower today.

I carefully read the instructions to make sure I did not miss anything. The instructions were very clear.

After putting in oil and gasoline the lawnmower started on the first pull. I like the powered wheels and the Select Drive Control. I can set the lawnmower to move at a pace comfortable to me. Nice.

The grass bag is easy to put on and to remove.

For having just bought the lawnmower and using it once, I am pleased.

A lot of power 

Have to go over it twice to get a good mulch.

This mower is perfect for my needs.  Starts on first pull.  2 blade system cuts beautifully.  The height adjustment is perfect for Florida st Augustine grass.  Honda has the highest cut among comparable products. The weight of the mower is moderate and does not sink in my thick grass.

I have had the mower for 1 month and love it.  I hope time will be on my side and the mower holds up as I expect it will.

just got rid of a toro personal pace mower 

it took 2years to realize that is was a glorified push mower.

immediately purchased the new Honda mower 

wow what power it drives...... I steer....just what I wanted 

even on the low speed ...it's very fast ....

wish it had blade break ......but is very comfortable on the hands and starts with one easy pull

i always hear that Honda was the Porsche of mowers ...now I know why ..

I have used the Honda HRX217VKA four times since I purchased it in May 2017. I am mowing a mostly flat (two inclines, 10 and 20 degrees respectively) 1 acre lawn with a lot of nooks and edges. I have been very satisfied with the mower as it has been providing a cut far superior to what I had been used to by my landscapers using commercial riding mowers. The cut is perfectly even and the grass clippings are fine enough to not create an overly messy appearance when using the "mulch" setting. Controls are easy to use, especially the wheel drive control which I have found to be very responsive and not at all "jumpy". I have not had any problems with wheel traction even is damp conditions. The ergonomics allow for a perfect in-place pivoting when reversing directions at the end of the mowing line (I am particular to this as I do not like adjusting the mower position when starting a new line). A full gas tank lasts for about one hour of engine running so you can do a lot of work without stopping to refill. The hard plastic material makes the mower lighter and probably quieter. It does not dent or rust and cleans easily. Speaking of cleaning, I found that a chunk of clippings does enter the rear chute even in the full mulching setting, so you have to manually remove these clippings after each mowing if you care to keep the mower clean at all times.

Overall a very good purchase so far, the freshly mowed lawn looks so good that I am actually looking forward to mowing each week.

when i opened the box three nuts and two bolts lay on the ground.  They had come out of the handles.    I had to go back to HD to buy a replacement bolt and then spend thirty minutes reinstalling them and checking every other bolt.   Not at all the quality that i exect from a $600 Honda mower.   It did a good job once i finished checking it out but the poor quality control of the fastners concerns me.   What else wasnt done properly that i cant see?  

Out of the box, almost no assembly required, only the catch bag.  Filled the engine with the oil supplied, fueled up. Pulled the cord once, bingo, started.  Ran roughly until the fuel flowed, then smooth and quiet.  Had to run it at the slowest walk speed, it was a little quick for this old guy.  Let's hope it runs this well in the foreseeable future.

In El Paso, TX there's not much to mow. But now, 35 years later, I'm in North Carolina and there's PLENTY to mow.

This was an exciting purchase for me - when I brought the mower home I immediately mowed for 1 1/2 hours - well past sundown. The smell of the new engine burning in, and the fresh mowed clippings, together with occasional clacking of twigs caught underneath...it was sheer pleasure. Altogether, over the next two days I mowed 1.2 acres. When I get my technique down it will probably take about 3.5 hours. The lay of the land is nearly flat, and took 3 tanks of gas (.75 gal total). I started on the 2.5" setting, but agreed with a friend's advice to move the blade to 3". He convinced me I'd be glad to spare the blade of many twigs.

Word of mouth said Honda was the way to go. Really only looked at the Honda line. After my purchase I discovered that Husqvarna also uses the Honda engine (not re-branded, it clearly says Honda), and it's possible other lines use the Honda engine too. It might be worthwhile to consider their features and pricing too.

Considered options like Blade Stop System and Electric Start but cost was the driving factor. 

While I wasn't interested in spending more on the aforementioned features, I was, however, more willing to spend a bit more to get into the HRX line due to upgrades in wheel size, engine size, and warranty.

There are 5 trees on the property, of the oak and hickory variety, so I'm looking forward to trying the Mulch setting in autumn.

Early signs are good that this will be a fun machine to own for the next few years. The Select Drive Control is a good design effort, but hand(s) must be kept close to the center of the bar to keep a grip on it. This makes it hard for one-handed, under-the-tree-limbs driving.

The range of speed settings does not feel "infinite", as advertised, but the knob is in a handy position for operation. Also, the knob is a bit difficult to twist and could have used more grippy notches.

The lay-down handlebars make it super compact for storage or transport. Engine starts with a half effort pull! 

Used the mower once.  Was easy to get ready for use.  Easy to start.  Controls took a little getting use to but by the time I was finished I was very comfortable with them.  The lawn was absolutely beautifully cut.  Very even.  I can't wait to mow again.  Can't remember ever thinking that before.

Having averaged 20 years per lawn mower, this is now #3 in my ownership. I expect a good lawn mower to last a long time.

After a lot of research, and soul searching I decided to spend more than intended in hopes of having another 20-year lawn mower.  Out of the box this Honda was ready to start mowing in about 15 minutes.  I have about a 1/4 acre yard, and had over 2 weeks of growth to mow.  After checking the oil - the mower already was filled with oil, despite the warnings that there was no oil installed, adjusting the wheels height (a little difficult as the levers on the rear wheels did not disengage easily, but this should only be a 1-time setting) and then adding fuel, the mower started on the very first pull.  The Select Drive Control took a little getting use to, but works great. I bagged the first mowing, and after stopping 7 or 8 times to empty the clippings, the mower again started on the first pull EVERY time!  I love it!  The bag is a very nice size, simple to use, and to empty (much easier than my old Craftsman mower bag). I am about 5"10" and feel as though the handle is a little higher than I would like, even on the lowest of 3 settings, but it could just be that my old mower handle was getting worn and drooping lower than when it was new.  If this 1st-pull starting performance continues, I will be loving this lawn mower.  It appears well-constructed, easy to service and maintain, and after only one use, so far, I highly recommend this HRX217 model.  I hesitated because of the plastic instead of steel deck, but it appears solid, and with the lifetime warranty, I decided to go with it. Now, for the test of time.  By the way, the lawn looks great - a very nice cut.

We purchased a HONDA HRX217VKA form Home Depot last summer and every time I use it my hatred of it increases.  My reasons are listed below:

1.  The electric start is sluggish, it is not an easy start.  On the other hand it will eventually start.

2.  The extra large bag is not  convenient for transferring yard waste to mandatory lawn waste bags - the dimensions of bags was not even a consideration for Honda when they decided to create a bag that was more square than rectangular.

3.  Yard waste accumulates around the bag and chute area, so grass and leaves are deposited/blown into the yard when the mower is restarted or it remains and needs to be blown off with a compressor or leaf blower.

4.  On a related note, the machine has too many nooks and crannies where grass and leaves can accumulate under the machine which also need to be blown out.

5.  Maneuverability is a joke, especially when you are mowing up a hill using the power boost and holding the self-propel, you have to release the power boost to turn left or right.

6.  Mower does not easily go backward.

I truly wish we had never purchased this mower and I will never recommend it to friends or family. 

I purchased this mower on a Saturday to replace a Sears RWD Self propelled mower purchased 1 year to the date. After a bit of research I decided on this mower, but went to a dealer to see what they would recommend. They had this mower and my 2nd choice (22" cut with Self Pace). So after pushing and lifting, I went with my first choice. This mower performed well on my first use (Wednesday). Very easy to start. We cut and bag so, while cutting at approximately the same height, we went from 8 to 9 bags  and almost 2 hours to 4 bags of grass clippings in an hour and 20 minutes. The mower really cut the pieces up smaller so more grass would fit in the bag. The propulsion took a bit getting used to since it takes off like a rocket on paved surfaces, but responds a better on grass. It will definitely pull its own weight and once I figured out the speed control is basically a throttle, I would turn it up to push the mower up the hills and not use it on the downhills. This is a really nice quality built mower and I wish I would have made the purchase last year but was deterred by the cost. If you value your time and a nice looking yard, this mower is definitely worth a second look.

I have had a honda HRA214 since 1984, it still runs but it was time for something new that doesn't burn oil.  I had actually considered rebuilding my old mower but the cost would've been more than what I paid for this new one.
We brought it home I had it together with oil in it in under 10 minutes, my wife pulled the starter and it started first pull!

She mowed our front lawn in about 30 minutes and declared she loved it, we are on about 1/2 acre.

If this mower lasts just 1/2 as long as our last honda that will be 17 years!

The only complaint is there is that the old HRA would let the mower run without the blade turning and it shuts the new mower off. 

Easy assembly, started on first pull. Have only used for about 10 minutes so far, so input is limited at this time. Direct drive seems to work well so far, but I cannot see using any more than the minimum setting.Would not be able to keep pace with the mower. Only real complaint is wheel adjustments, especially rear wheels. I have (still) a 15 year old honda mower, and rear wheel adjustments are exactly the same. Horrible design and I would have expected an improvement after all these years ,especially at this price. Very poor to say the least, and honda needs to go back to the design stage on this so very basic yet essential detail. Very disappointed in this as it has been a very weak design issue with my original mower and now I look forward to the same problems.

9

Learned about Honda Mowers about a year ago from a co-worker. What particularly interested me was the blade and speed control at the top of the handle and clip director option. In April 2017, my current walk behind mower failed prompting me to make a decision on a new mower. I did a little research online. One site called the Honda "The Cadillac" of mowers they evaluated. I purchased the HRX217VKA and very pleased with the results. The cut is excellent and the Clip Director serves my purpose well. One of my neighbors has an older Honda mower and came over to take a look as if it were a new car. He too thought the Clip Director was a great feature.

I am very pleased with the mower and features I highly recommend this model.

Purchased yesterday and mowed, it is everything I was hoping for.  My mowing is primarily on the side of hill and mowing going up was unbelievable, first time it pulled me up the grade, didn't have to push, great!!  The reason I gave it a four (4) was getting use to the rear wheel drive, but that became easier as I mowed and will improve with further use.

Worst buying experience I have ever had, contacted Honda Power about dealer, they never even read my letter just sent back a response to do the things I told them I had done in my short letter.

Packing was awful oil everywhere, this unit appeared used and not new to me.  The model number on the box is HRX217VKAA  what the extra A stands for no one can tell me but not the same as the one in Home Depot.   It going to cost me $150 to send this heap of @#$% back.

Honda NEVER AGAIN. 

Just bought the mower yesterday.  My previous mower lost it's drive tranny and had been bogging down on the thick grass.   To find a replacement, I did some research online for a mower that could handle hills -- not just power assist but would that would pull me if I wanted.  The Honda stood out not only because of the drive, but because of the 4-in-1 capability, the two-blade mulching feature, and the advertised one-pull engine.  So I got the mower home, added gas (oil had been added at the dealer) and started in.  To my delight, the engine started on the first pull, the speed setting I selected was too fast and I had to slow it down, and the double blade system, mulched the grass into little pieces.  I gave the mower a test and tried mowing the hill (about 20 degrees) vertically.  Aside from the drive (rear) wheels slipping a bit on the wet grass, the mower handled it with ease.  Once I got it moving up hill, I didn't have to push!  (I know that's not the recommended way of mowing a hill, but this was a test.)   On flat ground, the mower easily pulled me along if I set the speed high enough and it cut through the thick grass without even a hint of the engine working harder.  I did have to raise the mower height to avoid minor clumping, but even before I did that, the mower would charge through the toughest grass.  However, the one negative I have is that raising and lowering the mower height is a bit of a pain.  All four wheels have to be adjusted and the springs are so tight that you have to walk around the mower to move each one. 

I have yet to try the bagging system, but I suspect it would have come in handy if instead of raising the mower deck, I had the bag on with mostly mulching.  Might have picked up the clumps I saw with the deck lower.  I'll try that in the future. 

All in all, I finally sprung for an excellent mower and am very satisfied with its first performance.  Cut my mowing time by about 30%.

I purchased this to replace an HRR216 mower that I purchased sometime around 2003, which up until now was the best mower I ever owned. Never failed to start, and required absolutely nothing except fuel. I replaced the blades and air filter a few times...that's it. 

So, when the deck began rotting through, I never thought twice about another Honda. I did decide to go with the Nexite deck, mainly since I seem to be lazy about cleaning the mower as much as I should. After using the HRX217, I truly believe this mower will easily last me 15-20 years.

I brought it home, opened the box, raised the handle, added oil, filled the tank and it started without hesitation on the first pull of the rope. It is an absolute joy to use, simple, intuitive, and it does a fantastic job. The Select Drive lets me move at a pace that saves me at least 15 minutes every time I mow, and the Clip Director mulches and bags amazingly well. 

It hurt initially to spend $599 on a mower when another HRR216 would have surely served me well for another 15 years for $200 less, but after using this mower, I have zero regrets about upgrading to the HRX217. You cannot go wrong with any Honda mower. Find the one with the features that best fit your needs, and don't even bother looking at anything else. 

Very nice quality as you would expect from a Honda product. I added the oil, put in gas, pulled rope slow once and it Started right up. so easy!! the pull pressure is very slight. The adjustable speed control is flawless, except, make sure your holding on and ready for some cardio if it is set to hi ground speed. On high you literally are jogging behind it and it still cuts through tall grass like it's not even there. the speed is adjustable so you can slow it down to a slow crawl, and finger pressure on the speed control paddle also makes it adjustable to your exact speed and releasing it, slows it down for corners or changing direction.

Fantastic Mower, I'm sure it will be handed down to the Grandkids.

Select drive works well.  Mulches reasonably well considering that this is not designed to serve exclusively as a mulching mower.  I do not bag my clippings ever. Honda should offer a mower that is made to just mulch like Toro does.  The Toro Pace drive is very cumbersome on hills and not good for maneuverability.  I replaced a 29 year old Toro, but didn't like the Pace drive system at all.  So I went with a Honda.

Gave up the blade clutch to save 8 extra pounds of weight.  This was a good move, as the mower is much lighter than my old mower and very easy to maneuver.

The speed is very controllable with the select drive when going around beds and tree rings.

Tested my neighbors HRR mower with a smart drive.  Found this to be totally uncontrollable with respect to speed.  Honda should not offer a smart drive and use the select drive instead for these HRR models.

The Honda engine is very quiet

Very satisfied with my Honda selection. It is more fun to mow my grass that it was with my old Toro.

My daughter just just moved into her first house so I gave her my my older model that was going into its 8th Year of service. Still looks great, runs flawlessly, and cuts like new. She loves the adjustable and smooth "thumb" speed control and the 4-in-1 Versamow system that lets her determine how much to mulch and/or bag. To replace my older HRX I looked/tested several other brands at lower prices to replace it but none compared to the quality, features and ease of use I have experienced with this Honda equipment. I still have/use a Honda riding mower model 4514 hydrostatic trans with liquid cooled engine that runs, mows and still looks better than many comparable riders on the market today. I am just sold on the quality of all the Honda products I have owned. If you do the recommended simple routine maintenance (monitor and change the oil per the owners manual, keep air filter clean/replace as needed, inspect/service the spark plug and keep the blades sharp it may be the only push mower you will ever have to buy! On top of that all the maintenance mentioned is very simple to perform.

Easy assemblyy started on first pull wow

This mower hauls ass had to keep the speed on min uless you wanna jog at 4 miles per hour lol

lots of power and left a fine looking cut.

Hopefully will have lots of years of good service

Also you have Blands listed one of your authorized service dealers.

Sorry but if you live in the spring area I would from previous experience suggest you go elsewhere.

After my purchase of the HRX217K5VKA I added the oil, added fresh gasoline and on the first pull my Honda started.

Every time since it has been just one pull to start the mower.  It cuts beautifully.  I'm hoping for many, many years of good service.

Bought it at Home Depot...on-line & shipped free to store.  Features I like:  The ability to choose whether to bag or mulch the clippings...or to choose some of each. The bag is easy to empty.  The grass clippings are shorter & therefore I don't have to stop as often to empty bag. Plenty of power.  Adjusting the walking speed...nice feature, all though doubt I will vary it much.

For me, it was a nice "upgrade" from my previous 13 year old Costco self propelled mower.

Bottom line...Very happy w/ this purchase

Mower is less than one year old.  Bought in the spring of 2016.   Its very Hard to start in colder weather.   It takes several hard pulls to start in 50 degree weather.  Cannot start at all in colder weather.  Must rely on auto choke as there is no manual choke override.  Mower is heavy and, at times, hard to maneuver.  No impressed with the 5 year warranty as the items that are most likely to fail are not covered  (such as pull rope).

Best mower out there for cutting and bagging. Thank you Honda

After much research, we just purchased this Honda mower late in the season since we just moved into our newly constructed home in the woods.  New grass growth encouraged by a warm fall meant I would need to mow a time or two before a frost sends the grass into dormancy.  Lots of leaves and nuts were accumulating in the new grass since our home is surrounded by mature oak, walnut and hickory trees.  The mower starts very easy and is easy to maneuver on our sloping lot.  Really like the adjustable self-propelled speed adjustment...you can make adjustments while moving.  The mower cuts very evenly and the mulching feature really works great even with the leaves and nuts.  Quiet too, didn't even awake my napping wife while I mowed.  Would highly recommend this mower.     

Wife and I set it up in a few minutes...set mower to full mulch @ 3.5 inches high in thick bluegrass mix...performed well. Noted that the engine slightly revs up and down when it is cold until it warms up...then the engine runs steady...I assume this is a function of the governor and/or choke.

If I knew that a mower existed that mulched this efficiently I would have switched from a standard bagging mower before now.

Consumer Reports rates Honda mowers #1 overall...I would agree.

After owning an MTD-Pro push mower with a honda GCV160cc 5.5hp motor for many years, purchasing another mower with a honda motor was a no-brainer. I expected quality craftsmanship and great results and this mower exceeding my expectations. At home depot, after tax, this mower was about $630, which seemed steep to me, but as I expect it to last just as many years as my last honda engine mower I purchased it anyway. The superiority of this mower over every other push / self propelled I had used was immediately clear. The first thing I mowed was an area that we had neglected for a number of weeks and the grass was about 18 inches tall. This mower cut right through this, without the motor bogging down even a little bit. Set to full bag it didn't leave any noticeable clippings and the up-draft under the cutting deck must be phenomenal because, where our last lower would typically lay down half of the grass this long and require multiple passes, this mower left each pass looking like it had never gotten out of hand. 

The select drive max speed is incredibly fast, you almost need to jog behind it. Even when bagging very tall grass moving at such a speed the mower is able to leave each pass looking great, not missing a single blade of grass.  My wife and kids are able to operate this model with ease. Changing the cut height, select drive speed and bagging was no issue for anyone in the family. My daughter does have a bit of trouble starting it, but I believe this is only due to the fact we purchased the 190cc motor and it's a bit harder to pull start than our old 160cc. This model is available with an electric start, but we passed on the option.

I highly recommend this mower!

I really like my new Honda mower.  I bought it on-line 05/02/2016.

It does a great job even on my crappy lawn (no water in California, so grass grows very poorly).

It starts easy and moves very quickly.

I warn you: Very sandy conditions at my house ate through my blade in just 5 mowings (an actual hole was created).

First oil change went well.  (Make sure you use a VERY shallow pan since there is no drain plug.)

Time will tell just how good this purchase really is, but so far, I am happy.

John G.

I like the fact the deck is rust resistant and the engine is honda. 

My first use of the lawnmower was that it seemed a little bit quieter than the sears lawnmower that I had.

The twin blade was another benefit that I liked also.

I also put synthetic oil with Lucus oil additive to give it a better oil for longer life of the mower.

All in all Im enjoying the mower. 

This is my second Honda VKA.  The first one lasted me 15 years and still starts just like it did on day one.  The self propel did not work well any more so I sprung for a new one.  Honda improved the self propel controls on the newer model, which I believe was needed.  Runs like a dream. If it performs as well as my first one, I know I made the right choice. 

I am so glad my other unit failed I actually look forward to mowing can ya believe that LOL. 

Thank you Honda.

Wayne

I've had the mower for 3 weeks and I've used it 3 times.

So far I have not been able to find any faults. It does everything they say it can do and it does it very well. For the short period of time I've had the mower I have to say it is the best lawn mower I've owned out of the 8 different mowers I've purchased in my life. It is the second Honda lawn mower and I was happy with the first one but I gave it to my son so I needed a new one but I was happy with the first Honda mower as well.

very easy set and easy to use

It was delivered today.   Started on the first pull just as everyone else says.   I was replacing a dying tiff mower which would have been $2000 to replace.  I wanted similar cut as the tiff but was pretty sure that a rotary mower would never give as clean a cut.   I was wrong.   On the lowest height setting of the HRX, I was able to mow the same height as my tiff mower. The Finished lawn looks velvety smooth - at least as good as with the other mower.   Needless to say, I'm very satisfied.   

Best mover I ever purchased, even with the grass as high as it was today, I went up to Home Depot and purchased the mower. Brought it home, put in the gas and oil and it started up on the first pull.  

I used the mulch setting and with the grass nearly 6 inches high as we were out of town, it cut fast, clean and never stalled in this high grass. The other mower I purchased which is less than a year old would constantly stall in in normal grass height in mulch mode. Going to sell it.

Love your product and the information I viewed on line before I purchased was exactly what I received, a great mower from a great and trusted company.

Thank you

I would like to say this is the best mower I have used in 50 years of mowing experience. After reading the manual, added the oil & gas, it started on the first pull. After 4 tanks of gas I must say Honda got it right. Adjustable wheels & handle bar height are very easy to use. Don't forget how light the mower is. The bagger will fill the bag completely. The engine runs flawlessly with no throttle, choke or primer needed. I liked this mower so much I bought my daughter one as a house warming gift. 

I have owned 3 TORO mulching mowers in the last 10 years. They all seem to wind up with the same problem, the drive system/transmission starts acting up after about 3 or 4 years. After spending about $115.00 to try and ahave my last one repaired I decided it was time to bite the bullet and purchase a new mower. I didn't know what brand to buy, only that it wouldn't be another Toro. After I read numerous customer reviews on many different websites I decided it was time to buy a HONDA. I couldn't find anyone that could say much of anything bad about them. I drove to the nearest HONDA dealer to me (Central Equipment in Lexington, KY) and spoke to 2 differtent salesmen, one of whom actually owns a HONDA himself.

Long story short, I have mowed my yard 9 times since purchasing my new HONDA on 4/1/2016. I am still amazed every time I mow at how well it slices through all types of grasses. No clumps of grass left behind, even if my grass has gotten a little too tall, or if it is a little wet when I mow. It has actually cut my mowing time by about 25%, because it cuts so cleanly with one pass. I was concerned that it was a 21" cut when I had been used to a 22" cut on my old mower. Due to the HONDA's efficiency I have cut my mow time from 2 hours to 1 1/2 hours and yard has never looked better.

It starts with one pull every time and the self propelled function is amazing!

I bought the 2015 model hrx217vka to replace and upgrade from my previous Honda mower. The new smart speed control is different but nice. The old mower had the 160 engine whereas this one as the 190. The 160 always had enough power, but I figured more is better. 

My complaint is the mulching quality. It is very sub par and requires me to have to go back over the same spots multiple times. The mulch clippings collect at the left rear tire and leave a streak of grass clumps. The grass is not that long and is not wet. 

How do I stop this from happening or is this just a flaw in the deck design?

Well my last mower finally died it was a beast a Husqvarna as long as you didn't have to mulch with it.

I didn't want to spend the very over priced money on the honda HRX217 But when i seen it had the duel micro blades and the leaf shread mode I thought ok lets give it a try. And I looked at alot of the reviews. I will have a lot of leaves to deal with this fall and I hate bagging them so I am looking to see if this cuts the bagging in half. Plus I wanted a mower that can mulch grass wet,dry or tall. My last mower could not but culd plow through tall grass and shoot it out the side. Ok Bought the Honda at Home Depot not a dealer because I saved big time. Took back something to get a nice credit and I only Paid $300 for this more not bad. After  taking it out of the box adding the oil and gas. It took about 15 pulls for the mower to start. Then once it started took about 40-50 seconds for it to reach the right running speed not a great first impression here Honda. I have used the mower three times now in the all mulch mode and love it. Cuts nice and smooth eats tall grass up. I don't understand though when I go to start the mower now it starts on first pull. But you have to wait a good 40 seconds for the engine to warm up to right speed this is a tad wierd never had to wait on any of my other mowers once started. Once warm mower is ready to cut and I am pleased with the cutting. I can't wait to use the leaf shread mode this fall.

Have used this mower a few times and it works great!

I set it as partial bag & mulch and it does a fantastic job.

Don't know why I waited so long to change to Honda!!!!!!!!!!!

I've only had this lawn mower for a couple months, and use it weekly for 1/3 acre yard.  It is stored away in a shed, so it is not in the elements (minus having spider webs on it).  So far, I am mostly pleased with it's performance.  I felt that it is a bit over priced, but hopefully worth it in the long run, which is why I decided to buy it.  I wanted a quality lawn mower that was going to last, and Honda engines are known to be of great quality.  Plus I did a lot of research and this had the best reviews, which was also important in my decision into paying this much.

Pros:  Starts up every time, usually on the first pull and a few times it took three pulls.  I love the mulch system.  Prior to owning this mower, I've always bagged my clippings, but no longer have to with the mulch capabilities this machine provides.  I can barely see the clippings left behind.  It looks as if it were bagged (huge plus in saving lots of time and no bags).  I also like the self-propelled feature.  Pulls very nicely which almost makes me run! It cuts the grass very evenly, and cleans up easily thanks to the material of the deck.

Cons:  One flaw that I have noticed is that the speed dial (that increases the speed of self-propelled feature) will generally go back to the lowest setting when I go over bumpy terrain.  So every once in awhile, during the course of my mowing, I will have to turn the dial back to the speed I desire.  It gets annoying sometimes.  Another thing I am starting to notice is the wear on all 4 of the tires.  They are starting to peel off the edges of the tires.  So I will probably have to get new tires in a year or so.  

If you can afford it, I would recommend it.

I had been a John Deere user for the past 10 years, but the problem that bothered me the most of its inability to mulch without leaving grass clippings all over the side walks while cutting.  I had heard a lot about Honda's mowers and their mulching capabilities, so I decided to make the Pricey plunge for the Honda HRX217VKA.  It was a very easy setup, straight out of the box, added oil and gas and I was off to tackle my lawn.  My initial observation: Twin blade system does a great job of leaving a smooth lawn and very small clippings.  It starts so easy even my 10 year grandson was able to start it first attempt, it cuts so nicely it leave my yard looking like a golf course.  I would highly recommend this mower to anyone.  The only tear I shed was shelling out the $600 to purchase.

AAA+++

Surpassed my expectations...bought this off a consumer reports review.  I am impressed with this mower.  I can say it's the best one that I have owned and you just can't beat the Honda Warranty. 

I did lots of homework before making this purchase.  We hadn't purchased a mower in 21 years. (The old one was a push mower.)  I like nearly everything about our new Honda HRX2175VKA except:

* it weighs 89# and I find it hard to maneuver around trees, bushes, etc. I'm exhausted after I get done mowing.

* I started out with the "paddle drive control (HRX2174 Model)", but have a somewhat uneven lawn and couldn't maintain a steady speed.  It surged ahead when I tried to speed up and when I made a turn on my uphill lawn it would do wheelies. So I replaced it with the 2175 "Select Drive Control" model.  I much prefer it. I can set a maximum speed which works great and have more control overall.

* I was charged a $60 restocking fee when I returned the 2174 model (which I was not told about when I purchased it. At first they wanted to charge me a $120 restocking fee!)  I was very upset about this!! I bought the 2175 from a different store. 

* This is an expensive machine

*I like that the blade is close to the side so it can get pretty close to fences.  However in the front, the blade is 8" into the body of the mower so it's hard to mow under plants. 

*It mulches the lawn great! I completely mulch 95% of the time. I don't find clumps of clippings at my feet as other reviewers have mentioned, (but I don't mow when it's wet.) I look forward to seeing how it does with leaves this fall which is one of the reasons I bought the heavier duty mower.

I just wish it were a lot lighter weight.  We can send people to the moon but can't seem to make a lighter weight mower (or vacuum:)

I have had this mower for just over a month. LOVE it. I think the bag is my favorite feature. You can actually pull it off and lift it up between the handle rails. All my old mowers, you had to drop it on the ground and drag it out. The way the blade cuts the clippings and the design of the bag, which actually fills up with out clogging the mower, has reduced my bag dumps from 6 or 7 per mowing to 3. HUGE time save. The select a mulch setting is great and very easy to use. Just set the lever to the amount you want bagged or mulched and you are good to go. No dumb blocks or deflector to install. Starts on the FIRST pull every time and the pull requires very little effort. There are many more postive things I could list, but I think you get the idea by now. 

I strongly recommend this mower to to anyone in the market for a new mower.

Honda has a problem with the auto choke feature and the mower wont start in year two or three with out manually reaching under the breather and pushing the auto-choke forward.  Starts on first pull every time once you do this.  Honda needs to fix the linkages on auto-choke to make it reliable in out years.

I bought the Honda mower because I have had good luck with Honda small engines and figured their mower should be a solid purchase.  Disappointed.   If they fix the choke - everything else is good.