Exmark commercial 21 review after two months vs Honda HRC216

Exmark commercial 21 review after two months vs honda hrc 216
In this video I do a debrief type review, and share my impressions of the Exmark commercial 21 X-Series lawn mower after 2 months of use. I go over some of the things I like and dislike about this commercial lawn mower, and I compare it to the Honda HRC-216 that I have used as my main mower in my lawn care business the past 13 years. The Exmark commercial 21 featuring the Kawasaki FJ180V motor, is a great choice for anyone looking for a robust commercial quality lawn mower to use day after day, and year after year in a lawn care business. The Exmark commercial 21 is a definite contender to be considered the best commercial 21 lawn mower for a lawn care business.
Disclaimer: The products in this video were sent to me by the manufacturer for free, for me to use and share my thoughts or review. The opinions shared in this video are my own honest impressions of the product.
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[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Leave a comment down below and let me know if you have used the Exmark commercial 21 x-series mower, and what you like or dislike about it. Also share your thoughts on how you think it compares to the Honda HRC-216.

[@neilnorton8769]

own 2 of them, great mower if you don't need it to mulch. Worst mower I've ever used in regards to mulching. Won't mulch more than 2 inches of grass, then bogs down. Very disappointing, because I spent almost 3k on two of these mowers, and can't use them to mulch. Being that I'm an Exmark guy, it's really frustrating.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Ok. I haven’t had a chance to try mulching yet or even mowing in the constant rain yet. Thanks for watching.

[@kedrickreddsr1995]

I have 2 of these mowers. 1 with the blade clutch and 1 without. They are very good machines and have had them for 5years with no issues. I have had no problems bagging or mulching with either machine

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

@Neil Norton Nice. 👍 Thanks for watching.

[@BYDonBermudaGrassCentral]

Awesome review, thanks 👍🏾

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

No problem. Thanks for watching.

[@momdadschneider8502]

Great review! Thank you.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

I appreciate the feedback. Thanks for watching.

[@glennevitt5250]

Hey Thank you For The Information ☺️Great Video

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching.

[@gregorysampson8759]

Great review! Exactly the type of info I needed! Used a Honda for years but ready for something different. Don't think the exmark will do it for me. I like the snapper commercials. Dont use a 21 much so I'm going to go with a cheaper toro personal pace fir the moment and keep an eye out for a used commercial 21. ( I use a 36 vride wherever I can get it into which is why not much use for a 21 but there are a few spots only a 21 will fit!)

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Thanks for watching.

[@103eaglecrest]

Brilliant hand grip design. The same guy that designed current day gas cans must have designed the handle for the Exmark.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

It’s simple and gets the job done. Thanks for watching.

[@WJCTechyman]

Your explanation was well conceived and I agree with you on some points. That said, aluminum decks aren't as good for mowing as people think. There's a reason Honda uses the NeXite polycarbonate deck instead of continuing with aluminum and the same with steel. Aluminum is a soft metal and impacts and sand after a while wears aluminum decks out. If you remember to clean your equipment after a period of time, the steel deck can last longer than most aluminum decks. For oil I don't really see the purpose of anything more sophisticated than splash oil lube on mowers in this size range. Every 100 hours in commercial mowing can be simply twice per season. you're also spending more money on consumables with pressure lube in the form of oil filters. Honda engines like this are known to last decades. Most of the time if you are doing lawn mowing you will find yourself using a rider/stand on or a wide path machine like the Scag SFC 30. The Honda or this Exmark are relegated to areas where you can't get your larger mower in to mow like some backyards. This Exmark is a glorified Toro and belts are an obvious and big issue I find with anything from these two companies. The benefits of the Honda in this regard is it's a shaft drive transmission and an actual blade brake clutch. The Toros I had before used a belt as the clutch, not very nice. After a few mowings I had the blade slip and slow down while mowing the grass. I'm also not a fan of the transmission and also the handle bars. I know you said the transmission goes in the Hondas but after having 40 year old Hondas with bullet proof transmissions and Toro/Exmark's reputation of bad transmissions is, what are you doing to a fluid based transmission that it wears out within a few years? The sad part is Honda is discontinuing its mower lineup in the US and now we are stuck with the likes of Toro/ExMark and several Briggs owned brands. It's the end of a fantastic era.

[@EuroYardService]

We have the exmark 30 with pretty much the same features. I love the simplicity of the machine. Although we don’t have a Honda mower I have used one multiple times and did not like it at all as it seemed to have too many control gimmicks. Just thinking that Kawi engine is a beast for the 21”. I wish exmark had a bigger engine for the 30” The front wheel hight adjustment is bulletproof for having non caring employees operate the machine and running into obstacles. I overcome the issue touching the wheels with wearing gloves at all times. Good review!

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Lots of great points. Thanks for watching.

[@TheDannymarine90]

Lawn are employees can be real assholes with their employers machines.

[@WJCTechyman]

Control gimmicks? Honda has very few compared to Toro/Exmark, I mean, Personal Pace is a bad idea as it utilizes belt slip (and thus wear) to vary ground speed. Honda uses an actual variable speed transmission. The transmission on the Commercial Hondas is much more robust as it's shaft driven. Honda's control cables are motorcycle grade, you'd be lucky to find that on most other mowers. The Honda roto-stop is the best built blade brake clutch unit out there and Honda was the example that the US government said to companies like Toro, "From now on, you have to put this safety system on your mowers." Well, they did, somewhat, Toro's was the worst implementation as it used a belt or it was reduced to an engine break/zone start. I have experience with both Hondas and Toros, and I personally prefer everything on Honda's machines over Toro. Heck, I'd sooner mow with Cub Cadet than Toro, and I do, in riders.

[@mattlac3061]

I have a Toro commerical 21.. its basically the same as the exmark. I love it, and it made me alot of money, it was the only mower I used last year. This year iI bought a Honda commercial hrc215, used, as a back up and I hate everything about it. I also bought a 32 a few weeks ago, it's a game changer.

[@cameronmcnulty8732]

Which model is it?

[@mattlac3061]

@@cameronmcnulty8732 the toro is a 22290, my Honda is a hrc215

[@J8T369]

I've been buying Honda Commercial for years. I have tried other mowers, but IHMO it is a proven favorite. My helpers agree.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

There is no doubt the Honda is a good mower. I built my entire business around using it as my main mower, but as the saying goes, they don’t make them like they use to. The past versions in my opinion were much more robust. Thanks for watching.

[@andrewbartleman9169]

The honda is reliable but I found it didn't do anything great. It did everything mediocre at best. The hydrostatic transmission was the best thing of the mower. You just need to keep the wheel ratchets clean. Give them a shot of fluid film and that is it. Make sure you dont have any thread wrapped around the axle as it can rip the seals and the fluid can leak out of the transmission. Adjust your cables properly for speed control. And blow out the decks with air weekly when you do machine maintenance. Toro is my go to 21 mower. Or the Eastman/gravely/John deere/kubota commercial 21 is my favorite. Pretty similar to the exmark but it uses a 3 speed transmission.

[@rsookdd8632]

Is the Honda good for commercial?

[@WJCTechyman]

@@rsookdd8632 Compared to even this one? Yes.

[@rickmcghee755]

Are used Hondas Last Summer this summer I will be buying to 21 in Exmark here in about a couple months

[@brentmarkham9855]

Honda 21” Commercial is my pick! I’ve ran them for many years in Ohio and never had a problem! Exmark Commercial 30” is a great mower, I’ve ran these past few years.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Good video tho man! I appreciate it

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Thanks for watching. 👍

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

I’ve used the Honda for 13 years. First one I bought in 2005 was great and I used it for 10 years doing at least 80% of my mowing with. I replaced it because the deck was all rusty and getting holes. The second one I bought in 2015 and it had lots of issues. It got stolen so I purchased a third in 2016 and it had all the same issues as the second. I’ll do a video on it soon.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Lawn Care Business Success Sounds good I appreciate your insight and look forward to it!

[@hixnada8278]

Lawn Care Business Success hello - can you please detail all the issues you have with the HRC? I’m interested to hear what issues you had.

[@neostephens8980]

I've had my Honda HR21 for many years and still works like a charm. No issues at all with the self-propelled operation. The exMark's are great too, but to say the sel-propelled stopped after one year on the Honda - man you must have really done something bad for that to happen.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

I said it slows down after about a year with regular use. It’s not a one off issue. Tons of people complain about it. It happens to all of them. If it has not happened to yours then all I can guess is that it’s not a main mower for you and does not get as much use. Thanks for watching.

[@WJCTechyman]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess It's fluid based, you are doing something wrong. I've had my Honda HRC2163HXC (Canadian variant of the HRX216HXA, made in the same factory) for three seasons now and not a problem. The same goes for the HRX217HYC I bought recently and the previous owner had it for ten years. You know the cables are adjustable, right? I say this because they stretch over time. Also, your use of the Exmark transmission where you're using it is like riding the clutch in a car: there's a belt driving that transmission and when not using it at the right speed you will be replacing that belt many times per year.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

@@WJCTechyman I will say the Honda transmission is less of a problem then the ratchet mechanism they use in the wheels. I’ve replaced so many of those over the years. I use to keep a bag full of them in the trailer. Once they go you have no forward motion. On the Exmark I’ve been using the much larger and heavier commercial 30 model for 4 seasons now and have not replaced the transmission belt once yet and it’s the main mower in my business. In fact I only just replaced my first belt on it this spring. The belt that goes from the motor to the first blade spindle. So your point about having to replace belts multiple times a year is incorrect.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

@@WJCTechyman the one thing I will agree on with the Hondas is the older ones were way better that’s for sure. Way to many quality control issue with the newer ones. That’s why I went to a different brand in the first place after using Honda for over a decade. Here a video review I did about the Hondas where I talk about the issues I’ve had and compare with an older unit. Honda HRC 216 Long Term Use Review kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqTKm6p5bJuieaM

[@WJCTechyman]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess The ratchet system in the HRC is exactly the same as the 40 year old HR214. Also, I've never had to replace any belts in my Hondas over their lifespans. I also looked at the price of one of these Exmarks, it's as expensive as the Honda. I find it interesting you have had so many problems with your Honda as a lot of service companies on KZbin have found it to be the opposite where the Exmark is full of bugs and problems.

[@elephantom12]

Nice review. I have the toro 22290 which is basically this exmark mower with the Kawasaki non KAI engine and it is a little disappointing considering I paid $1200 for it. It bags quite nicely but it is an awful mulching mower even with short grass. When mulching It always spits grass out the left underside of the deck which then gets immediately ran over by the back wheel creating this tire track of grass pieces across the lawn. Its unfortunate they couldnt have put a side discharge plate on this mower but I think they may sell some kind of side discharge plate mod for the back. Again, pain in the butt considering the cost of these things in Canada.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Ok thanks. I haven’t tried mulching with it yet so I’ll soon see how it does and report back on my long term review after the season ends. Thanks for watching.

[@joeraptor1]

I have the 22290 as well. I added a lift handle/engine guard along with side deck protectors for $80. I live in Canada as well. You are correct about grass spitting out the left side and sticking to the left wheel when mulching. It is especially more pronounced in wet grass. The side steel deck protectors help a bit. I haven't tried the side discharge kit. Have you tried lowering the front cutting height 1/2 inch lower than the back?

[@WJCTechyman]

@@joeraptor1 Honda says in one of the manuals the best way to mow the lawn in mulching mode is a counter-clockwise concentric spiral. I noticed my Honda Commercial unit does something very similar at times, but not as pronounced as you are saying. I know, lines make a lawn look cool but something that may solve your problem. To bag and side discharge, it's clockwise.

[@bigbirdyolo2885]

Bought a Honda residential mower to replace my family’s lawn boy. Really wish I got a commercial mower for the house, these residential mowers feel cheap compared to the old lawn boy I used and feel like it’s gonna break soon. Maybe I’ll get an ex mark cause they seem pretty awesome 👏🏻 😎

[@russellmartin830]

Dude I cut 12 yards a week for at least 10 months out of the year (side gig) and I use a HRR 217 residential Honda. Yep they have some issues but I haven't used a lawnmower in a commercial application that doesn't have issues. They all break you just have to learn how to fix them. I have never brought any of my lawn equipment to a shop for repair.

[@WJCTechyman]

@@russellmartin830 Most of my stuff has been like that where I repaired it myself but the last few years the dealers from where I purchased my Cub snow blower and the other from where I bought my Honda go in for yearly maintenance due to the fact that I want to support my local businesses and it takes some stress off me by paying the $140 Canadian convenience for someone else looking after them for me.

[@tbasshandyman7610]

do you know if we can get casters for front wheels. it is a beast to turn around on a hill with very healthy st. augustine grass. good thing it is variable speed

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

No there are no castor wheels available for this mower that I know of. Thanks for watching.

[@Unlikelygap123]

I was thinking, you could adjust the cable for the self propulsion to be "looser" so that it doesn't grab till its more comfortable for your hands.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Possibly. Thanks for watching.

[@ignaciorojas7724]

Transmission has been a big issue with exmark for me. Within a year I had to replace it on one of the two I own. I want to try a Honda but I'm so used to the simplicity of the exmark when adjusting the height...

[@kevinbrooks1104]

They have pretty much fixed them ,in the beginning that was a issue, not so much anymore

[@TheBerto840]

My exmark 21 x series sucks bagging when it's wet. Clogs up bad and leaves a hell of a mess. One of my guys hit a rock in the yard and bent my shaft (been sitting here dead for a year now). Pull rope breaks quite a bit, I've been through probably 8 of the pull rope assemblies. I've never had the hrc216 but I run the Honda hrx217 which mows great but leaves trails of grass clipping on the side of the mower (I've had 3 and they all did it) and it's slower than a turtle. If you turn the cable to speed it up it makes the tires stick and won't pull backwards. Gonna try the hrc216 next I believe

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Try raising the rear wheels up a notch or two higher to adjust the pitch of the deck in wet conditions or with leaves. It’s a trick I’ve been using for many years with all my 21” mowers including the Honda HRC-216 in tough conditions. Also check out my long term review video on the Honda hrc-216. Here’s the link. Thanks for watching. Honda HRC 216 Long Term Use Review kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqTKm6p5bJuieaM

[@nathan7336]

Do you use the blade that comes with the mower, or do you get on of their other options.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

I just use the blade that came with the mower. Thanks for watching.

[@kevinbrooks1104]

The blade that came with the mower is awesome I live in spokane wash and mow all types of grass as we have grass seed farms all around us, the point being is that blade really mulches good and also cut long and wet grass well

[@kalebbrown93]

Is there a different angle for the push bars to make the wrist in a more ergonomic condition when using it?

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

The mower has three different height adjustment for the handle that change the angle. They are not adjustable on the fly though. You have to unbolt the handle and reposition then tighten the bolts. Thanks for watching.

[@Michael-wb8gs]

would adding stabil help with the vapor lock issue

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

I have no idea. Something to try maybe. Thanks for watching.

[@rickmcghee755]

I thought your contractors to have ran two x marks for 4 years and the only thing they had to do to one is put a transmission in that's pretty good compared to those Honda

[@kevinmartin4787]

I just got a 30 inch but I am going to trade it in for a 21 inch because the 30 inch is just too big for me

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

I’d rethink it. Give it some time. It is big and heavier but you quickly adapt to using it. I have never looked back to using a 21. The 30 saves me 2 hours a day vs using the 21. So awesome. Thanks for watching.

[@kevinmartin4787]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess Last night I decided to keep it. Thank you so much for your reply because now I know I did the right thing.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

@@kevinmartin4787 no problem. It seems like a massive mower at first but I found I quickly adapted to it. I hear people complain it’s too heavy and wears you out and I scratch my head. It’s self propelled and I use it on hills all the time. It pivots easily. And saves so much time and walking compared to a 21. Been using mine for 3 seasons now and can’t believe I used a 21 for 14 years previously.

[@clevercloverlawncare5066]

I am watching this because I need to pull the trigger soon. 173 pounds for the 30” is too heavy to lift over the curbs to get to the slopes at my hotel property. And I noticed the odd self-propelled bar position. But the 124 lb. 21” was doable. I have maybe 6 other smaller properties where I should be using push and not my z2. The upper half of the slopes is what is too dangerous. That said, I need the pressurized engine, correct? Any regrets, Kevin?

[@WJCTechyman]

When you say 30 inch, do you mean the Toro/Exmark Time master? Or do you mean some other wide area mower? If it's the time waster err master, stay away. A lot of issues, you're better off owning anything else as the reason I call it the time waster is you will have it in the repair shop quite often. I guess it could also be called the Toro CashEater. Just a really bad design.

[@mattlac3061]

so, if you had to pick one. What would it be? thanks for the video

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Honestly as of right now I’d have to say the exmark. Too many issues with the Honda unless you buy and sell them after one year. At first I thought it was a one off thing like I got a lemon, but after buying the third one two years after the problem one and having all the same issues that’s what drove me to look for an alternative.

[@creatingmind4910]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess what issues were you having with the Honda?

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

@@creatingmind4910 I did a long term use review video of the Honda issues I have encountered. Here’s a link. Thanks for watching. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqTKm6p5bJuieaM

[@creatingmind4910]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess thank you for your quick reply I'll definitely give it a look. Also did you get around to reviewing the mulching capabilities of the 21 inch exmark? Thanks

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

@@creatingmind4910 I don’t do a lot of mulching in my business but I did do a video on a mulching test with that mower. Here’s the link. Thanks for watching. kzbin.info/www/bejne/enallGuQnM-Um7s

[@jmb92555]

I've owned two. One w/ a Honda engine and the other had the Kawasaki engine. Both were good but the Honda powered mower was a beast. Best small mower I ever owned. I'm not saying the FJ180V isn't a great engine. It is.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

I agree the Kawasaki is a nice engine but the Honda engine seems to have more torque. Thanks for watching.

[@jmb92555]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess Sounds good to me. I've never looked at the specs of either engine but I've owned that mower with both engines. The Honda powered one would cut through grass that the Kawi powered one would struggle with and it would leave a good cut even on tall wet grass. And even better is the Honda parts are cheap and easier to get.

[@joeraptor1]

Wow, that is surprising. I always thought the Kawasaki was more powerful, at least on paper.

[@pleaseplantme-lawnmowingse3859]

What are some reasons to purchase this over the 30’’ cause I don’t see one ? Thanks

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Great question. I would say budget would be one if you can’t afford the 30. Access on properties would be another. I know of whole neihbourhoods in hilly areas that require mowers be taken up stairs. The 21 would be doable with one person to go up stairs backwards. No chance with the 30. Another reason would be maintenance. The 21 is a much simpler machine. The 30 has many moving parts like 3 belts, and multiple pulleys that would need maintenance or replacement from time to time. Thanks for watching.

[@DIYDad1]

Hondas have always had transmission issues on their mowers. My Honda with the composite deck is otherwise in perfect working order with hundreds of hours on it but the self propelled doesnt work at all. Very frustrating. Good review I just wish these didnt cost so much just for a 21" push mower!

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Have you checked the ratchets in the wheels. The Honda’s use a little round part with spring loaded wings that pop open to turn the wheels but tuck in when you pull in reverse. Those are what makes the clicking sound you hear on the Honda’s. Those wings get all buggered up and dirty or rusty and they won’t open thus not turning the wheel. Put some vice grips on the shaft underneath to hold it from turning while you unbolt the wheel. Slide it off and you will see the little ratchet mechanism. If it’s messed up simply replace it and the self propel will work again. Thanks for watching.

[@DIYDad1]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess I'll check it out thanks for the suggestion. I was having trouble with the bail bar fully returning so I'm thinking the cable might be bad or something too, the drove only sometimes engages when everything is stone cold then stops working when it warms up. Kinda weird. I know the drive belt is ok. I'll have to tear it all apart one of these days and mess with it.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Yeah check it out. I’ve replaced tons of them over the years. Those ratchets will start to work intermittently when they start failing. Usually the right side fails more often due to the direction the blade spins putting more debris in that area. I forgot to mention that they are in the wheel when you pull the wheel off. The inside of the wheel will have notches that the ratchet wings grab on to to propel the mower.

[@WJCTechyman]

I have seen more broken transmissions on Exmark/Toro than I have on Honda. I guess it depends.

[@hixnada8278]

Have you compared this Exmark and the Honda HRC216 mower to the Kubota WGC6? I would be interested to know more about the Kubota.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

No I have not. I didn’t even know Kubota made a 21” commercial mower. Thanks for watching.

[@hixnada8278]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess yes - the Kubota has been our for 3 or 4 years now. Kubota hasn’t done much to market it, so not many folks have seen them.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Oh ok. It’s not available in Canada I guess because it’s not on the kubota canada website. I just looked at the .com version to see it. Aluminum deck, Kawasaki fj180, 3 speed gear driven transmission, blade break clutch. It’s interesting, I like the aluminum deck, and Kawasaki engine. I’m not too keen on the 3 speed transmission, and the small fuel tank, but I’d have to try it to give a proper assessment in all the different conditions I mow in. Too bad it’s not available in Canada. There’s a Kubota dealer very near by where I live, I would have gone to go see it in person.

[@Shanester66]

Im deliberating over the Kawasaki or Honda engine. The machine will be used for my yard only. Now that you have used the X machine with the Kawa, would you choose that engine over the Honda? Any advantages in your opinion? One over the other?

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

They both have their good and bad. I like the fuel shut off right on the carburetor of the Honda. Let’s you flip the mower easier with no issues of flooding the carb. The Kawasaki fuel shut off if along the fuel line so even when off there’s enough fuel in the line to flood the motor. Not a big deal but an annoyance. I like the external oil filter on the Kawasaki. Great feature to prolong an engine. The Kawasaki has enough power to mow a lawn, but I feel it lacks the torque the Honda has. It can sometimes feel likes it underpowered in thick or wet grass. The Honda was a beast all the time in all conditions as far as power goes. The biggest problem I had with the Honda was the fuel cap venting clogging in heavy rain and making the motor die, but it never slowed down or lacked power in tall wet grass. Thanks for watching.

[@Shanester66]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess Yes, I saw some of these features in your vid. Thank you. So in your professional opinion for residential application, do you think the Honda is a better bet for me? I wont be mowing in the rain so that is a non issue.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

For residential use doing just your own lawn on a regular basis I don’t think you can go wrong with either. Are the mowers the same with the same options that your choosing between or do the different engines represent different models as well?

[@WJCTechyman]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess The oil filter has one problem though, you need to replace it with each oil change or every other oil change. There's also the problem of proprietary parts here, you may have to buy a Kawasaki brand oil filter. Honda engines have been known to run for decades and don't have pressure lube.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

@@WJCTechyman no proprietary oil filters needed. Lots of brands available that fit. I use Oregon brand ones but I’ve had regular Fram filters as well.

[@thegreek8962]

I own the HRC216. My HRC216 was purchased on July 2, 2001. I use it for home only on 25,000 sq' mow~able area. It has cut in the rain and thru 4" of wet grass with ease. I have had "ZERO," issues what so ever and I mean NADA!. Plug changed 6 times, 4 fuel filters, 8 air cleaners with the blade unit sharpened 3 times each on 2 new blades. I can honestly say that I could have gotten by with less maintenance upkeep, but old habits die hard. If I had to replace my HRC216 I would buy another just like it. IMHO, there is no match for the HRC216 ever made by any company EVER! ~~ "FYI." I offer the simple fact that any major issues that may arise, thanks to KZbin, I will be able to resolve, leaving my HRC216 being the same hard working mower for at least another 20yrs...........

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Thats great that yours has done well for you but it no surprise. First of all it’s an older model and they were awesome. Much better than the current ones. I know because I’ve owned 3. One was a 2005 and was awesome. Then two newer ones in recent years and they did not compare to the older one and both started having issues after the first year. Second you are using yours on one property once a week. Completely different application. I use them in their intended purpose as a commercial mower in a business. I would also point out that I would mow more grass in a week or two with my hrc than you do in an entire year with your hrc. So completely different scenario. My videos are meant for lawn care business owners who will use the machines to put food on the table for their families, and put the machines in very tough conditions each day, and trailer them around. So it’s no surprise to me if a homeowner takes a commercial machine to mow their own property and it lasts many decades. Thanks for watching.

[@treborterb]

is the position of the handle bar adjustable

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

It looks like it has a few options for handle angle when you put the bolt on the cross brace. Thanks for watching.

[@tonymontana3742]

Would this be a better mower for hills considering the possibility of oil starvation, also what is the price of this mower?

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

I’m not sure on the oil starvation part of your question. I’m sure there is a specification out there somewhere on the maximum hill angle that can be safely mowed before it becomes a issue. The price varies by region so best to check with your local Exmark dealer.

[@WJCTechyman]

Oil starvation? We had a Honda HR214 that mowed 70 percent hills on the house we had out in the country for eight years. It kept going for 22 years total. We got our money's worth.

[@groverleg6190]

Can't you use your thumbs to adjust the forward speed?

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Yes you could if that’s more comfortable for you. Thanks for watching.

[@boournscanucks]

I just got a pair of these with a navigator and used my thumbs. Zero discomfort.

[@Jerry-me1fy]

Which one bags grass better without clogging up?

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

They both bag really good but I would give the advantage to the Exmark. It seems to have better vacuum and packs the clippings in the bag tightly and doesn’t leave corn rows of uncut grass like the Honda seems to occasionally. Thanks for watching.

[@dandylawnandmaintenance4407]

So I have a HRC216. Just wondering you mentioned that you have had some issues with the last couple you had purchased. What type of common problems have you had?

[@okcrc]

I've had multiple (10+) HRC216 and will continue to use them. In my experience with them I've had multiple wheel ratchets go bad, slop develops on front wheel height adjustment, the drive shaft to the transmission fails, there is a bracket that the drive cable uses to attach at the trans side that causes them to go slow if they get bent, and some have developed hard to adjust front wheels. All of these problems have been due to thousands of hours of rough treatment from me and my guys. I've learned that with better care and preventative maitnenace that they last a lot longer without problems. I also believe the slop issue develops from bouncing on the trailers and have eliminated it on recent purchases by using a block of wood attached to the trailers that keep the front wheels in the air when secured to the trailer. I've also never had the actual transmission go bad on any of my abused units. My guess is when people say they've had trans problems its actually one of the mentioned issues I've had. What usually kills my HRC216s is they start to burn oil and will smoke after 2000+ hours or a damaging blade strike. I've lost one engine to a bent crankshaft but that was me hitting something. All of this said I will continue to buy HRC216 for my business. Also we only mulch and side discharge anymore. We are a zero bagging company for the last 5 years.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Probably too many things to list here. But front left wheel doesn’t touch the ground when on pavement on both mowers. Leaves what I call corn rows of uncut strips of grass along the left side. Have to double cut all the time. Deck generally seems unlevel because the right side seems to cut shorter than the left. Cables stretching causing the throttle control to be wrong. Have to mow in almost choke setting and putting the lever to off dose not turn the mower off. Self propel works intermittently and has slowed down considerably to the point of frustration. Gas cap venting clogs in the rain and causes the engine to die repeatedly. I have to constantly open the fuel cap to keep mowing a yard. Tire tread almost completely worn after only two seasons. My original Honda tires still look new after ten years of use. I will have to make a similar video about the Honda mower. Thanks for watching.

[@erichammond2466]

Ergonomically the Honda HRC Commercial is awesome.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Yes I agree ergonomically. The handle position is well thought out. Thanks for watching.

[@JsCrazyCutzLLC]

👍

[@yairval9]

that wheel thing is a huge deal, i when from exmark to Toro, wore out, exmark kept the quality cut, We mow commercial accounts exmark rules

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

It’s a bit of a pain to change each front wheel but has the benefit of being very durable. I’ve had the honda commercial 21 wheel adjustment wear out over time as well. Thanks for watching.

[@JoseLopez-rq7rs]

What the xmark ccs ?

[@kevinbrooks1104]

I own this one 2 things about it drives me crazy 1. the surging sound it make ,2. There is no way to turn it up. 3, the handle has more speed behind it. but it is a good mower

[@hossmoss3378]

Hey bud Does it fold down like the Honda does

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Nope. It’s a full commercial grade mower so no folding handles just like Hondas full commercial mower the HRC-216. Thanks for watching.

[@ytwatcher2021]

I have had an issue with an exmark when I was mowing under a bush it slowed it down and the mower was brand new!

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Not sure I understand. Did you hit the throttle control under the bush? Thanks for watching.

[@ytwatcher2021]

Yes that is exactly what happend

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Oh ok. Yes that’s to be expected with the throttle in that location. I always just use the trimmer under bushes. I thought you meant something else because you said the mower was brand new. Thanks for watching.

[@manofculture4945]

Well obviously it’s going to slow down if you hit the throttle lmao

[@kimoclyde]

That height adjustment feature is a deal-breaker.

[@WJCTechyman]

It takes me less time to set my Honda than it does figuring out the holes in the front. The system Scag has is awesome on its SFC-30

[@185mma]

I've been landscaping for about 6 years now and I bought my own exmark so I wouldnt have to use the hondas at work.....

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Wow. That’s brand dedication! Thanks for watching.

[@jonienglish3231]

Can the Tires be Replaced ? i have the Lawnboy 22270 with 3 piece wheel design and the Tread Looks very Similar 8" size tire

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Sorry I’m not sure. Thanks for watching.

[@dasira1]

Exmark has plenty of self propelled issues after 2yrs of commercial use... You just need to know how to adjust and maintain the mower

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Ok. Interesting. I guess it’s the same with all mowers. My Honda’s would go about a year before needing the ratchet mechanisms in the rear wheels replaced for the self propel to work properly. Thanks for watching.

[@WJCTechyman]

The same can be said for Honda but I have had zero issues after 2 years or three seasons of commercial use

[@HockeyMamusia]

Does this mower have a primer bulb?

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

No it does not. Thanks for watching.

[@HockeyMamusia]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess Thank you very much, we bought this mower and are having a tuff time starting it, thought maybe it had a primer system that we were unaware of. Great video btw.

[@curbappeal2013]

@@HockeyMamusia I initially had the same starting problem. The dealer needed to adjust the choke. Starts so much easier now

[@tougenokaibutsu]

damn pitty this thing is so expensive, it's the one I need

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Yes, good quality is not cheap. Especially for products made here. 🇺🇸 Thanks for watching.

[@tougenokaibutsu]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess can the arms fold down? I need a mower I can lift into the back of my wagon.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

No the arms are not meant to fold. I think you can only find that on non commercial or residential use mowers.

[@tougenokaibutsu]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess my commercial victa mastercut 460 folds up nicely and is easy to pick up but it's only 18"

[@CBuiltThings345]

I just bought an ex mark commercial 21 x series and unfortunately it came poorly assembled and broke during the first half of the first lawn I used it on. Multiple things seemed off before the bbc control gave out. Going back tomorrow to hopefully get everything worked out. Not the case for every mower sold but this should be disclosed especially when someone spends $1500 and has to wait two weeks for it to come in because ex mark didn’t just send it to me for free. Everything else spoken about in this video seemed on point. Also definitely know that this is a heavy mower that is difficult to use and control if you have only used residential mowers in the past.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

How am I supposed to disclose issues you have with your mower when mine didn’t have those issues. Your dealer should be doing the final assembly and pdi on the mower before they deliver it. I know my dealer does with every piece of equipment they sell. Thanks for watching.

[@185mma]

You won't get a better commercial mower exmark is THE BEST

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Yes it’s definitely a great mower. Thanks for watching.

[@markbrisec3972]

I tried this mower, actually it's twin brother - Toro commercial 21" and I got rid of it.. I returned to my trusty Honda HRX 537. I actually like that model more than Honda's commercial 21" mowers since it has a plastic deck. I say plastic but it's some kind of wizzardry space age material Honda calls Xenoy. It's light as feather, it doesn't rust and the grass doesn't stick to it at all. Also HRX 537 comes with Honda's new 200 cc engine vs their 170 cc for commercial models. And you can tell the difference. Sure, it won't last as long as commercial engine and it's not as beefy, but I've mowed with Honda for 5 years and hadn't had any problems.. And last, but not the least - the price.. Honda is around 400$ cheaper than this Exmark.. So Honda all the way...

[@WJCTechyman]

I totally agree with you, in Canada the polycarbonate deck is called NeXite. Similar material Rainbow vacuums, motorcycle and Canadian/American football helmets are made of. I have an HRX217HXC..or HYC...whatever the machine was named 10 years ago and it's quite nice. Fairly quiet, mulches incredibly well with the twin blades and can really pack the bag, so much in fact the machine gets rear heavy making tipping it fairly easy. I also own a commercial machine and like it for the durability. Of course Honda mowers are the unit I am most experienced with for mowing lawns as back in the 1980s my parents bought one to mow up and down the hills that was our lawn out in the country. It was also the mower I mowed with as a kid.

[@vegass04]

@@WJCTechyman A walk down a memory lane... Here's some bad news.. Honda has recently announced they're getting out of the small gas engine business all together and that they won't be developing or selling any new gas powered lawn mowers.. The reason is the forth coming ban on selling and using small gas engines by the state of California. Of course others will soon follow. Internal combustion engines have ran their course. R. I. P.

[@WJCTechyman]

@@vegass04 That's not entirely true. In the States mower production ceases because Honda is re-tooling that factory for ATVs. Mowers are still made in France so we don't really know what's actually happening. Honda has stated it is still making small engines, will continue to make its other power equipment. Honestly, this changeover from making internal combustion engine powered equipment to plastic battery powered lawn mowers isn't any better since it still relies on fossil fuel to make the plastic and mine the toxic element Lithium to make incredibly volatile batteries that are incredibly difficult to recycle if not recyclable at all. Land fills of these batteries pose a bigger threat than spent nuclear fuel and internal combustion engines. It's interesting, if we were able to change the fuel from gasoline to hydrogen those engines would be puffing water vapour exhaust.

[@kennethslaughenhaupt1681]

Problems with the Honda huh. HUH. I've said that for years. Nobody listens. I have 3 mowers. Snapper euro 21 inch platinum is same as what you describe. And it has a cast aluminum deck.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Nothing is perfect I guess. It all comes down to finding what works best for you and your situation. Thanks for watching.

[@rickjames6948]

Noticed when you adjusted the rear, looked like the right side didn't get adjusted the same as the left. And REMOVING the front wheels for adjustment? WHAT?? Being a commercial guy, mowing hundreds of yards, EVERYONE has dogs......... And all the dog waste as you called it........ No sale on the missed mark mower.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

The rear on both sides adjusted fine. No issues with the single point rear adjustment. I agree the front system is a bit of a pain although it’s actually just as quick to adjust once your use to it. Still would prefer a single height adjustment like on the rear though. On the plus side it’s a solid system with no moving parts to wear out effecting the height of cut like the Honda. As far as dog waste goes and your comments on “everyone has a dog” I only have 3 properties that have dogs and since I implemented a animal waste surcharge if the yard is not clean a few years back, everyone cleans up after their dog before I arrive to avoid the surcharge. Thanks for watching.

[@curbappeal2013]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess I love my exmark 21 X series e Kaw motor. I too implemented a $15. animal waste surcharge, to cean equipment between jobs to keep from tracking waste to next property. Only needed to charge 4 customers, one time each. Now yards are waste fee on cut day.

[@pitkinweldingfabrication7573]

The bottom power bar was probably designed to use your thumb...

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Probably. It depends on your hand size though. For me that’s too uncomfortable on my wrists. Thanks for watching.

[@normandong4479]

A bit too much verbage at the start. A concise description of mowing, cut quality and bagging is what viewers need to make a decision on a mower. Is the engine powerful enough? Is the noise level same as or higher? Is it designed to start Easier or require repeated attempts? Can self propel be turned off for better economy?

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Cut quality and bagging performance are great. The engine is very powerful and has no issue getting through thick lush lawns or wet grass. The noise level is about the same as the Honda HRC216. The engine starts easy on 1 or 2 pulls. The pull cord feels easier to pull than the Honda. If you don’t want to use the self propel you just don’t squeeze the lower bail, but I don’t think it’s worth it. The time and fatigue saved using the self propel can easily translate into more lawns per day making more $$$. Thanks for watching.

[@rickmcghee755]

Both Hondas have CVT transmission problems

[@andrewbartleman9169]

You mean hydrostatic? The hydro on the hrc is bulletproof. As long as you don't get thread or wire wrapped around the axle and rip the seals out it will keep working. You can also easily change the hydraulic fluid. You can buy it from your dealer. Most of peoples issues with speed is an adjustment issue. And also you need to keep the wheel ratchets clean. Best to keep clean ones ready to swap out.

[@rickjames6948]

My Snapper Hi-Vac has none of those problems.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

That’s great for you. No offence but the only way I would believe it though is if I used it myself in the tough wet conditions I have to work in doing the types of lawns that I do with it. If there is one thing I’ve learned doing reviews is that no equipment is perfect. They all have their own flaws. What might be good for one person in on part of the country or scenario is terrible for someone else. That’s why I always say here in the Pacific North West we have the toughest mowing conditions. Always long wet lush thick grass each week with lumpy bumpy lawns. If it can handle it here then it’s probably good in most other areas. But the same can’t be said the other way around. Thanks for watching.

[@andrewbartleman9169]

@@LawnCareBusinessSuccess I can say the hi vac is not a great cut. It will suck a fine off pavement but the cut is much like a Honda hrc216. Will leave mowhawks or random blades of grass will stand up

[@earthq1077]

Really good video but I feel it's a little long

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

Thanks for the honest feedback. It helps for filming and editing future videos. Thanks for watching.

[@Zachpoteet380]

The Honda's are too slow for me and not as powerful as my exmark

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

The Exmarks are great mowers for sure. Thanks for watching.

[@garagesale5948]

I'll bet in mulching mode the Honda is superior

[@WJCTechyman]

I personally like the way the HRX mulches compared to the HRC.

[@theonebro4009]

This mans inhale is loud

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

The wireless mic was on my chest just under my chin. But I’m glad you found the value in the video. Thanks for watching.

[@theonebro4009]

Man your luck to have exmark i would buy a 30inc exmark

[@Midwestmillsy]

queue the honda fan bois.....how dare you say anything remotely critical, in any way, at any time, for any reason, of the honda. Hail Honda. RIP 2023.

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

😂 Thanks for watching.

[@WJCTechyman]

Not just the fan boys, landscapers that have used both brands including Toro say they went from Exmark back to Honda. I have used a multitude of mowers over the years and nothing just works when you need it like a Honda does. No belts, the best blade brake clutch on the market and it packs the bag. My other favourite mower was my Mom's MTD made Yardworks with a Honda GX140-based PowerMore engine. Hold the bail, pull the cord and it just started, no problem. It was an incredibly basic machine as it only had mulching and side discharge. It had one of the most basic auto choke systems out there, a spring loaded choke butterfly that was flung open by the air from the flywheel. No thermostats.

[@1bwm474]

This particular mower...said way too often.

[@185mma]

Dont buy a Honda, waste of money and time

[@WJCTechyman]

The only company that starts with H and ends with A that I will be steering clear of, Husqvarna. The parts are more expensive than Honda and half the quality. Compared to Honda, the quality of build isn't Honda grade either.

[@frozenrope8766]

You lost me at about the 60th "particular"

[@LawnCareBusinessSuccess]

No problem. You can pick up a map at the gift shop.