Honda HRC216 Compared to Honda HRX217 Test and Thoughts

I just wanted to provide an opportunity for others to see the difference between both of these great mowers and also the positives for each. Both are great mowers and each have their strengths and weaknesses. Feel free to like, leave a comment, and subscribe! I’ll try to upload content relating to my lawn care weekly. Thanks

[@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...........

[@myke_bota7590]

Great overall review. Thanks for your time and effort I. This great video. Keep on mowin'!

[@brentmarkham9855]

Mike Arruda Thank you, I’m getting them all ready to go for the season now!

[@pdiddy823]

Bro your review was awesome! Better than some “landscapers” review! I appreciate the actual show and tell!

[@erichammond2466]

I've owned the Honda composite deck mowers along with the auto-choke system and personally hated the mower as it did not pick up well and the auto choke was terrible. Switched over to the HRC216 Commercial and LOVE IT. It picks up GREAT and the manual choke lever is perfect. This mower will last forever.

[@ADayInTheLifeOfJames]

Excellent review mate Thankyou; I’ve made my mind up!

[@reedallidap7173]

Love your passion bro. I had the 217 and the drive belt broke. Just bought the 216 I own a business so needed one for the long haul. Great vid

[@brentmarkham9855]

Tobin Frost Thanks man I appreciate it! Thank you for subscribing. More content coming soon!

[@deanobert2470]

Thanks for the comparison, there is so many different models it's hard to know the differences.

[@stevebaker8138]

Great comparison vid Brent.

[@bigmike6853]

They both mulched extremely well considering how tall that grass was. Didn't see any clumping? Honda rules!

[@redgersbeck5005]

Just subbed, I too use Honda mowers, I sport a 216 M2 and an old 215, both these mowers have their strengths on certain jobs, personally, my fave is the ol' 215, I also like my 216, great for mowing up steep lawns, thats where the extra weight comes in handy traction wise. Great vid by the way.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Red Gersbeck Thank you I appreciate it! I’m trying to get a hold of the new HRX217 with the GVV200, non over head valve to tryout and review, but I’ve not heard anything back from Honda yet about using one. Hope to soon tho!

[@redgersbeck5005]

@@brentmarkham9855 Now that I'd love to check out, I hope you can grab that beast and run a review on that one.

[@barryklus]

We have a lawn service in Oregon and were one of the first to go Honda on our mowers around here sometime in the late 80's. My shop won't sell me anything but the commercial K3 since those are the best for taking a lot of abuse; hydro trans, steel deck..etc.. We do a bit of modifying to soup them up a bit which the shop hates also but screw them, they're not out there mowing day after day, we are!

[@barryklus]

The hydrostatic transmission with the shaft drive is the only way to go, imo.

[@barryklus]

I mowed my first lawn commercially in October, 1976, and am still at it, but what do I know?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Barry Klusman You are a champ and yep love my Commercial Honda! Never had a single problem with it, most reliable engine I’ve ran and will run circles around the Kawasaki small engine. Thanks for watching man and hats off to you mowing up in the Northwest!

[@Ruiz9423]

How did soup up the Honda?

[@MrMd5555]

I don't think I'd have noticed the umms had you not mentioned it. Nice comparison video btw!

[@brentmarkham9855]

300 blAKout Haha thanks for watching I appreciate it! Hope you found aspects helpful

[@estebanroman3258]

The commercial machine sound's like the Ken Roczen bike! Good video dude!

[@JaimeRayVaughn]

Ken Roczen rides a bike like I mow the back yard. Starts strong, but after half hour begins to fade.

[@breeze787]

I like the Nexite deck! It's so easy to clean the dirt comes right off with my air compressor or spray from a hose. As dirty as this mower can get I like hosing it off to a brand new finish. And the cut is probably the best thing about it leaving a velvety smooth line cut that leaves my yard so handsome.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Yep both are great walk behind mowers and still own and run today. After this year they’ll be collectors items with Honda being done producing mowers at the end of 2023. Great mowers and love them both! Enjoy yours as well, it’ll last a lifetime!

[@jeffreycaban5107]

​@@brentmarkham9855It's sad that Honda is pulling out of the Push Mowers after 2023. 🥺

[@Marc2k6]

Thanks for an actual review showing these lawnmowers cutting grass that really needs to be cut, showing off the cut quality and the power of these mowers. I will be getting the HRX-217.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Marc2k6 in 2019 Honda will be releasing a new HRX217 with the all new GCV 200, so you should check into that. I think it’s going to be an excellent mower with a nice upgrade.

[@lazylearner967]

That new HRX will be an interesting mower! I wonder if Honda will ever update the HRC. I haven't mowed with a modern HRC. But I have heard that the HRCs could stand to use a little more power.

[@macdonaldjohnstonfan]

Hunky MrB Honda do set the engine speed on their mowers pretty conservatively, in Australia at least, not sure what the HRC is set like in the U.S, but if you change the throttle settings on the GXV160 engine you really get to see how powerful it is, I've changed the revs on my 216, it revs now the same as the mower in this video and I'm really happy with it, never bogs down now in really long and thick grass. From the dealer it was only putting out 4hp or so and now it's pumping out 5.5 to 6hp I reckon.

[@lazylearner967]

@@macdonaldjohnstonfan So which mower powers through the think grass better? For my homeowner use, the GX engine will go forever. I use full synthetic oil and change it just once a year. The mower works as well as the day I bought it 17+ years ago.

[@macdonaldjohnstonfan]

@@lazylearner967 It's hard for me to say exactly, I've never used the HRX217 or HRC216, I use the Australian commercial version which is the HRU216D, its got a four blade cutting disc not bar blades like what the American models have and its also got a totally different deck design which will make a difference. It works really well for me and the GXV160 with the revs adjusted doesn't bog down at all in heavy mowing, but the HRX217 has a 190cc engine so on paper does have more power, but I'm not sure if thats actually true in real world applications. Any GX or GXV series engine will last longer than the GCV or GSV series.

[@bluelude2001]

My hrx217 bogs down sometimes cutting my thick zoysia lawn at 1.5" - i just have to slow down a little. Makes my grass look like a golf course though. Awesome cut.

[@lazylearner967]

Great Video! I too am a huge Honda Mower fan. I have a 215HRM (140 GX commercial engine) for the past 17 years. I replaced the tranny once. Parts are getting more difficult to find. I will pick up a new mower in the next couple of years. Once thing I can't stand is the auto choke feature of the HRX and lower end mowers. I would almost buy the HRC just to NOT have that auto choke. I mow every 3-5 days, from March to November.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Wayne Baker Yes all of the mowers I run non auto choke as well, with the exception of this HRX. I am like you especially as it gets colder, it’s nice to have the ability to choke and with choke seems easier to start.

[@WJCTechyman]

I have an old weather beaten HRM215PX (push only) mower that was given to me. It works well, but I may have to replace the carburetor as it isn't 100% running well, but it still gets the job done.

[@dvdfrnzwbr]

If you're cutting every day I'd say ya spend the extra money for the heavy duty constructed model. But for a Residence that is only going to use the mower 1 - 2 hours a week the lesser construction will suffice. And the lesser model has the Bag/ Mulch door with settings, and adjustable height and storage handle. The lighter weight is also an advantage when turning the mower around after each pass, less work.

[@stefhaniefulton467]

Great video.

[@amirdieselx64]

I have used both mowers and I settled on the HRC I love the mower. The HRC is built heavy duty.

[@brentmarkham9855]

amirdieselx64 Yes I love the HRC216, I did put the spring that controls throttle into the bottom hole, it made a nice difference in power and as you could hear in the video, runs very well.

[@mjot2360]

@@brentmarkham9855 I did the same thing. Every little bit of RPM makes a difference. All about blade tip speed.

[@shreddermanp2]

The Honda HRC Lawnmower Is My 1st Favorite & The HRX Is My 2nd Favorite Lawnmower After The HRC

[@scottdbarr]

Great review between HRC vs HRX. I bought a used HRC back in 2000, still using it. Replaced all 4 tires, change oil once a year, on third bag. Live in Florida so I mow every week in the spring and summer and every 2 or 3 weeks in the winter. Lots of sand so the blades need to be replaced every 5 years or so. I have gone through about 4 carburetors because I was using gas with ethanol which will leave a varnish coating inside the carburetor. So now I use Non-ethanol based gas and at the end of each mowing I empty the gas from the tank and run it dry.

[@zepr-rh1jf]

I have both,picked up for free. Removing the hrc carb is easier compared to the hrx.

[@dannymartinez8522]

Dam it... lucky lol

[@jmwoodruff4690]

I've been using Honda mowers A LONG TIME and still do.(34 yrs+) A little trick when mulching is lower the back wheels by one. If you typically mower your lawn on (5) - the back wheels are on (4). My experience is....it delivers a "better cut" when mulching...and only when mulching.

[@jacobcamacho7379]

JM Woodruff really?

[@biggusbestus551]

Why ?

[@colechalmers5023]

I have the GCV 200 HRX 217 . I installed a tachometer and it was running from factory at 2,800 rpms. I set it at 3,450 at max throttle. I have been told the blades can handel 3,600 rpm. But man it cuts and bags way better . Ill put my modified mower against that commercial lol

[@JonBecker81]

I have the same mower. Have you had any issues with it since adjusting the rpm? Is there just a screw on the governor or something you adjust?

[@patrickrafferty9156]

Just bought mine today and was surprised at how low the rpm is set but then it did the job perfectly lol also very quiet ! how do you modify the rpm ?

[@carlloftin2850]

Great video - will you be doing any videos reviews on the maneuverability? Example showing turning and cutting around objects? With the hrc being a heavier mower is it harder to maneuver?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Carl Loftin Yes I intend on getting a video out this week that shows the best stripping abilities while trying the three different 3 in 1 features. Side discharge, mulch, and bag. I will show a clip on maneuverability. It’s not bad even with the weight. The commercial 30” is easier to maneuver than any 21” mower overall tho. Thanks for watching and your comment!

[@appleztooranges]

I just purchased the Honda HRX217HYA. Thanks

[@DawnJiang-kd6me]

I have a honda hrx 217 hya to.

[@markbrisec3972]

I simply love the HRX217 model and I've been using them exclusively for my small lawn business. I love the plastic deck which makes it considerably lighter and the clippings don't stick to the deck as much as they do to aluminum or steel decks. The 200cc engine is more powerful than the one on HRC216, and although not commercial grade I never had any problems with it. Next the HRX217 has a brilliant Versamow system that allows you to mulch, bag or discharge with a pull of a lever. No mulch plugs. That being said there are 2 things I don't like on this mower. First is the height adjustment system that has a separate lever for each wheel. Come on Honda, you can improve that, one lever for each axle would be just fine. The other con comes from the fact that the HRX217 isn't a commercial grade mower and therefore it's much less sturdy and sometimes feels flimsy or wobbly. But if you take good care of her, especially during the transport, HRX217 should serve you many years as a commercial mower and probably a lifetime if you're a residential user who mows his lawn once a week.

[@WJCTechyman]

I like the height adjustment system as it takes me very little time to set it on a Honda vs the odd system on ExMark where you have to physically remove each front wheel and slot it into another hole.

[@jeffreycaban5107]

Great breakdown between these two Mowers. I'd say if you want a Mulching mower the HRX might be your choice. For Bagging and everything else like longevity the Commercial HRC is the only choice.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Yep you are exactly right. Thanks for the comment and viewing the video.

[@jessegarcia744]

I have both. The HRC217 is my everyday mower. Cuts better on high grass and when wet... The HRC216 has a better cut and bagging.

[@panchovilla3493]

I have a used hr 216 JE Honda mower.... God knows how old it is but it runs smooth and quiet as Hell!!!

[@laughingthrushmusic5269]

I just got the HRX217 and it is insanely impressive. How tough do you think the nexite deck is in terms to long-term abuse? Should I return it and get the hrn216 and sacrifice 30cc to get a steel deck?

[@buckhornlawnservice4982]

I have the HRX217 as my backup mower. The main criticism I've got against it is that the blades hardly have any lift, so it doesn't bag very well, though I know that's not what its primarily made for. A great thing about it I love is the Nexite deck, which makes it super easy to clean.

[@7younggoldy4]

I service around 150 residential lawns. I use push mowers a lot. In honesty I get 1 good year out of the 217 before I start having problems. I've bout about 4 of them. I just bought my second 216. I look for it to last much longer

[@shanechostetler9997]

I have mowed a huge amount of yard on two properties with the previous gen HRR216, 12 years and finally this spring, the height adjust bracket on the right rear wheel broke, the engine keeps purring away. I will buy the current new model, weld the old one up and get 150 for it. Not a bad amortization on a $349 mower 12 years later!

[@zmarkgraf]

kick ass review, fella. thanks!

[@brentmarkham9855]

zmarkgraf Thanks for watching. Glad it was helpful

[@joej.4170]

Used the hrc216 for a year mowing commercially. Mowed some scary yards up to 3 feet tall. Dropped it off the trailer. Abused it. Never broke down always started first pull. Only negative if you mulch with it and grass is wet the deck will cake up badly.

[@blu3.7mustang19]

Joe Jirak some silicone spray should help out a lot from the grass sticking up the deck

[@barryklus]

True that, here we mow a lot in the rain and have to use a bag, you can't mulch..when it begins to clog..stop, clean out the shoot area, back out of that spot, don't try to suck up the big clumps you'll just clog again.. takes longer but we do it. There is nothing better than a commercial Honda or we would use it, btw..

[@mackfar27]

I like the HRC mainly because you can raise the RPM as your cutting to demand more power out of the machine. Also, I prefer the sound of the OHV engine. Sounds industrial. I personally own the HRR216 series, and even that has been a great mower.

[@robertbrown2861]

Put a better mulching blade on the commercial mower for mulching it might help

[@MikeMikeSmith]

I have a 217, I looked at getting the higher grade commercial mower, but couldn’t justify paying a 3rd more. The 217 has been great! I WOULD recommend paying extra for the Hydrostatic Cruise Control.

[@dannymartinez8522]

I heard the deck is made out of some plastic to make it lighter. Does the deck hold it's own?

[@toddpacker7058]

@@dannymartinez8522 no, cracks to bits within the first year of ownership.

[@mjot2360]

On the HRC did you push the throttle just past the fast detent to gain more RPM when bagging? I just bought an HRC216 and it runs a higher RPM when pushed past fast stop. It seem to cut better that way. Thanks

[@brentmarkham9855]

Michael Triolo Yes I totally agree, that’s how I run mine also, it does make a difference!

[@noahmcelwey2598]

I do the same thing. I have a question for you, how high are you mulching on something like Bermuda, here in Texas we have this clover shit everywhere and my hrc 216 won't mulch it for shit, and I feel like it should have more power. I've seen consumer grade mowers that are better at mulching, cheap consumer grade too

[@JWNLawnCare]

We've used both the equivalent Australian models before, started with the HRX217HYU which was awesome when it came to speed, power and mulching quality but then as we did more push mowing work we sold it and got the HRU216M1 which is the top commercial model available here and pretty much comparable to the PDU I believe it is in the US. Slow as hell and pretty underpowered until you bump the revs up but built far stronger and can withstand more abuse. If I had to pick one for my current situation even doing mainly ride on mowing it would be hard because they both have their ups and downs. The HRX would probably be my pick because it is lighter and faster along with more grunt but if I was doing all push mowing I would go the HRU because it is built like a tank. Great video :D

[@brentmarkham9855]

JWN Lawn Care Thanks for viewing and the positive comments. I agree, you cannot go wrong with any of the two, yep the HRC is a tank but the HRX definitely lighter and both do an excellent job.

[@macdonaldjohnstonfan]

JWN Lawn Care I got the old HRU216D back in late 2009 just before Honda added the blade clutch and changed the deck and I've bumped the revs up on it and it makes a huge difference, shame they don't set them up like that from the factory. With the revs bumped up you can really see the power the GXV160 engine is capable of delivering, it doesn't bog down at all in really long and thick buffalo. It does catch better too with the higher revs I find but older and newly re-introduced full chute 196's do catch better in one pass on long grass. I wonder how the newer HRU216M1's go compared to the older pre blade clutch 216D's catching as the chute is definitely narrower than on the old ones?

[@JWNLawnCare]

@@macdonaldjohnstonfan One of my mates has a 19" Chonda, 216D and the 216M2 and he reckons the chute is the same size on the D as the M2. Measured it and all. Does definitely look smaller though I agree.

[@macdonaldjohnstonfan]

@@JWNLawnCare Cheers for that, I've only had a few short looks at the 216M2 at Honda dealers and it just looks narrower, guess I'm used to the old deck design. Would make sense they kept it a similar size as the catching capability is what a few people always mention so they wouldn't want to reduce it any further. Interesting that Honda re-introduced the full chute 19 inch mowers with the Heritage first and then the new deck design late last year, always thought a half chute on the 19's was a mistake.

[@WJCTechyman]

I've had three models of Honda mowers over the years, HR214, HRA214 and HRM215. The NeXite deck on the HRM215 wraps around the rear of the engine and somewhat encloses it on the front, as well as having a polymer fan shroud and gas tank. This may be why it sounds quieter with the polymer deck and engine shroud than the 214 machines with all metal shroud and decks, even though it has a more powerful GXV140 series engine versus the GXV120 engines on the other two.

[@got2getit204]

When your doing leaf clean ups the hrx because i mulch then turn around and suck em (pause) right up at the same time!

[@Capmybets]

Nice mowers. I’ll keep my toro 21 Briggs 6.75hp with side discharge. It can do the same as those Hondas. For 400 bucks new 10 or so years ago and still going strong. Might not mulch as good but that’s about it

[@franciscocastillo9409]

You have to try it to understand these Hondas are amazing

[@Capmybets]

@@franciscocastillo9409 I got one now. The 217 hrx it’s way better than my old toro mower. Thanks

[@raypowell1534]

Your not really comparing apples to apples, it’s more apples to oranges. The HRC has double clutch, steel deck commercial motor and longevity. The HRX isn’t commercial at all it’s more a upgrade from the homeowner version. Don’t get me wrong Honda mowers are the best in my opinion and owning a lawn service Honda HRC is the only mower I buy.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Ray Powell Well stated! I actually sold that HRX 217 in the review and only use the Honda HRC 216 and Exmark Commercial 30 model. However, I am interested in trying out an Exmark Commercial 21X Series with the Kawasaki FJ engine.

[@richstonich3211]

@@brentmarkham9855 can you do a review on the HRC vs the 30 Exmark. I have a lot of lawn and tiffway with is difficult on mulching. I am very much thinking of upgrading to a 30 inch if the mulching is good.

[@omarleslie5299]

That's some lush grass

[@groverleg6190]

The commercial model has the exhaust blowing straight out the front where you are more likely to breathe it. Also, if you mow straight into a plant you could possibly kill some of the leaves or limbs with the exhaust. The side exhaust lets you avoid going close beside a plant on the right side, by simply approaching from the other direction.

[@alvaronayarita]

That’s correct, I don’t like the exhaust in this mower, when I try to mulch the leaves the exhaust blow the leaves to the sides.

[@markbrisec3972]

I'm surprised Honda is installing a smaller and weaker engine on their commercial grade mower than on the semi commercial HRX217. I know it's a commercial grade engine with better air filtration, with an oil filter and multiple other things that make it commercial, but it's still 1 HP weaker and around 2 fp of torque less than the GCV 200 on the HRX. Anybody who's ever mowed a lawn, whether professionally or his own property, knows that you can't have too much power on a walk behind mower. Tall, thick and wet grass will bog down a mower sooner or later, but more power gives you less bogging down and better airflow if you're bagging.

[@timdagg1699]

I have both those mowers and an older Commercial love all 3 have a second 216 coming soon I use them Commercially the hrx almost keeps up but the commercials out perform it

[@joseribera6800]

Have you ever scalp with the 217 (like scalp to put rye grass)If so how does it do. Am a gardener and have only used 216 but want to get the 217 cuz it lighter

[@brentmarkham9855]

The lowest I’ve cut on both the 216 and 217 was at 2” living in the north with cool season turf I always mow high and often. The times I have mowed at 2”, both the 216 and 217 handled it no problem.

[@jerrythecoo3295]

I own a 2009 HRC-216 as well,………. She spanks that grass like it’s nobody’s business!!!!👀😏😎👍🤘👋✌️🇨🇦🌟 #Justkeepingitreal #Hondarulesnuffsaid

[@tonyd1149]

If I may say something,. kindly. When engaging the blade, care to do so s-l-o-w-l-y, giving the blade time to speed up to avoid bogging the engine down. If not, over time, I believe it will damage the engine. (I have the early model, '84, with blade stop). Although my engine is smaller, care still applies. Just adding my 2 cents' worth.

[@JAMESWUERTELE]

Thanks for this. I just bought my HRC216 today. First Honda commercial mower I have ever owned. I’ll go slow with the clutch.

[@tonyd1149]

@@JAMESWUERTELE Hi PUREBLOOD. I'm glad (wisdom) you'll use care when (slowly) engaging the blade via clutch. (I do believe the fast engage [my mom using it] did contribute to some engine damage. My engine smaller than today's models, even worse condition. Engine would bog down [very low RPMs], and just did not sound right/too much stress). Your new Honda will last a very long time. (Still have mine, but smokes @ cold startup_1984. Still starts 1st pull). Love that blade stop, excellent safety feature. God[Bible] Bless.

[@JAMESWUERTELE]

@@tonyd1149 I actually enjoyed mowing my lawn yesterday. I wasn’t sure when I engaged the blades about the high idle, like you say it seems like it’s going to kill the motor. I figured it was my high altitude (6900ft). I’m going to go change the oil today in the new mower and I’ll mulch the front and try this out. Stay safe, Bless you.

[@JAMESWUERTELE]

@@tonyd1149 I actually enjoyed mowing my lawn yesterday. I wasn’t sure when I engaged the blades about the high idle, like you say it seems like it’s going to kill the motor. I figured it was my high altitude (6900ft). I’m going to go change the oil today in the new mower and I’ll mulch the front and try this out. Stay safe, Bless you.

[@tonyd1149]

@@JAMESWUERTELE Excellent mower you're blessed with. Yes, slow blade engage [via handle] is best policy, assuring longevity. [As engaging auto's manual trans. clutch in 1st gear> easy does it]. Glad you enjoyed mowing your lawn. God[Bible] Bless you much. :-)

[@CompetentSalesUSA]

Cutting heights are not the same. I own both of these mowers. The 217 s plenty for most yards, also it is much more nimble. Thank you.

[@dr.crentist3155]

I love that there's no belts on the hrc216

[@dvdfrnzwbr]

I have a 13 year old honda HRX217 mower and I've never changed the belt

[@dr.crentist3155]

dvdfrnzwbr Used for.your house or commercially? Cutting 100+ houses weekly the no belts/cheap wheel gears are the way to go. Also not just about changing a belt. The belt stretches, slips, has to be adjusted

[@tinhinnh]

commercial ones should have bigger engine than homeowners

[@conner5611]

@@tinhinnh the commercial ones are 160cc which is 5hp and the gcv190 is 190cc which is 6hp it's not that big of a difference 5hp is plenty for a lawnmower

[@LeonMTan]

i personally think honda should put gcv190/200 onto that HRC216 body to make it less heavyer, "commercial grade" gxv160 engine does last longer but it's under powered and oddly heavy.

[@72superlead]

I'm just suprised you were able to push 55kgs through that stuff

[@lynheydt3304]

I don’t mind spending the extra money for something that’s going to last. I still have my 24 year old troybilt yes before the were bought out by m t d. Back then I think I payed close to 450 the problem is I can’t get parts for it. I guess most people don’t keep there lawnmowers that long. I hope I get just

[@lynheydt3304]

Service out of it sorry hit the send to soon

[@mowingtrimmingedging214]

They both look to have cut the same. I like how you said it matters what the operators preference is. Not everyone can and/ or will throw down $1,000 for a push mower for commercial work or not. I do wonder how the warranty’s match up. Are they the same?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Commercial is one year, Residential is three year

[@TheBmarquez]

can you put the black bag from HRC part only without assembly and put it on the HRX frame and fit ?

[@brentmarkham9855]

TheBmarquez I didn’t want to say for sure if it will or will not fit. I have not tried it, I feel as if the Commercial frame is slightly different than the HRX frame, therefore the bag may not work as well.

[@TheBmarquez]

Is there any possibility you could try ? I’d love to have a black bag on the HRX as the grey one makes it look dirty and not appealing .

[@brentmarkham9855]

TheBmarquez So The Commercial Wong work because it hooks in at the top differently and it has these weird plastic knobs at top that sit down on the mower slot. However the HRR Honda bag should fit on your HRX, the new HRR bags are black. Those are identical to the HRX bag set up. Google the HRR bag, you’ll be able to find it

[@TheBmarquez]

It shows that the HRR has bushel capacity of 1.9 and the HRX is 2.5. I guess if I did I would lose space . I wonder if anyone makes any for HRX

[@biggusbestus551]

The HRC216 will out last the HRX 4 to 1. I have two one is 15 years old. Mulch is great too very fine cuts. Like you mention the 216 bags wet grass like no other mower period (.) !

[@dannymartinez8522]

How is it better?

[@trumpwon8231]

So, strange the 217 Res. Sounded ok, nut than you fired up the 216 Com. And boy was that a solid sounding motor, which surprised me compaired to a 200.

[@chriscostlow4210]

I really like the hrx217 but with less than 20 hours on mine it blew out the valve stem seat and then caused my rocker arm on exhaust side to break. I think I'm gonna stick with Toro on my next purchase.

[@dannymartinez8522]

With what motor?

[@chriscostlow4210]

@@dannymartinez8522 it's the gcv190 engine.

[@thbigboaby50]

Good video but why the bag on the 217 if you were mulching.

[@corneliusevazan1284]

You failed to mention which Transmission you like better; the belt and pulley on the HRX217 or the shaft drive on the Commercial model?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Cornelius Evazan Definitely the shaft drive on the commercial, not even worth comparing. That drive system on the HRC216 is one of the best! Thanks for mentioning that.

[@horsemany]

@@brentmarkham9855 it should be noted if you have HRX217HYA version it has a constant tension belt with hydro transmission. More reliable than most belt drive transmissions which loosen and tighten each time drive is engaged. Maybe not as nice as shaft drive but very smooth and reliable.

[@zipzap4706]

Shaft - all day, every day

[@pdiddy823]

So 12” grass, is the front tire 12”?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Tires are 8", but yes I would say the grass is around one foot tall. Thanks for watching, I appreciate it!

[@Jerry-me1fy]

I bought a cheap $250 Craftsman lawn mower it doesn't buy grass very well and always clogs up after one strip in thick grass ,every 30 seconds i have to pull the bag off and pull grass out there it backs up. Would buying a Honda lawn mower making a difference bagging the grass?

[@itptires]

Sounds like you need to cut more often or when it's drier out. I have my sprinklers programmed not to run the day before and the day of mowing

[@goons123flofy]

No backing up with mover, safety first. Thanks 4 video

[@javiertulande2362]

Y cual ed la diferencia de precios y características de las dos??no hablo ingles

[@jonathonrossebo1783]

From my experience the HRC 216 is built like a tank compared to the HRX 217. I prefer the HRC 216.

[@wilalhart351]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@briantii]

What about drag pulling backwards? The horrible bushing design on the self propelled used on most current Honda consumer mowers drives me insane. It’s the only thing I hate about my hrr216k8vya. It’s a junk design. I know the hrx and hrc use different transmissions, but does the drive shaft bushing system still induce drag or lockup pulling backwards?

[@brentmarkham9855]

briantii I know exactly what you are taking about on the HRR. I also feel the HRX has similarities as the HRR when pulling it in reverse. However I find the HRC Commercial to be different. In fact I’ve had it on just a slight incline and it’s rolled backwards like a roller derby car. I find minimal to no reverse resistance on the HRC216.

[@briantii]

Brent Markham AWESOME! Thank you so much. I’m giving my HRR one more chance... I’m going to modify the bushings to have a zerk fitting and keep them pumped up with grease. Such a stupid design on an otherwise perfect mower. If that doesn’t work I may just have to go with an HRC or a Snapper since sounds like they actually roll backwards. So annoying that I can get mine working great, but only until the grease / dry lube / whatever wears out or gets contaminated with dust, then it’s back to tearing up my yard when trying to maneuver it. Again, really really appreciate the feedback and great video! Subscribed :-)

[@algorel4763]

Do both models have dual blades?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Al Gorel Yes both mowers have the Honda MicroCut system and both mowers have the dual blades.

[@wayneessar7489]

Please let me know which one will self propel slower. Sometimes I can't walk very fast.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Wayne Essar In speed, I have not noticed a big difference in speed, both speed controls are identical. However since the HRC216 is shaft driven, vs. HRX217 is belt, I do find the Commercial 216 to creep along a bit slower. So 216 is slightly slower at low speed setting.

[@quedogkualum]

What kind of grass do you have?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Quedog KU alum... I have Turf Type Tall Fescue

[@PSkitt82]

I was somewhat disappointed in my HRX 217 when I brought it home and realized it didn't have the blade brake feature that would still let the engine run after the blade stopped. Then again, I got it from Lowe's. I bet I would have probably gotten the feature I wanted if I went to straight to a Honda dealer.

[@estaldamasnl88]

You have 30 days to return it

[@PSkitt82]

@@estaldamasnl88 Nah, I actually like it. It cuts great. Probably the best we've ever had cut our yard. I just wish we had the blade clutch control. It would save time. That's all. The good news is I am only mowing my yard and maybe some friends' yards here and there. So no high expectations to perform at top rate except to make nice yards. 😊👍

[@estaldamasnl88]

@@PSkitt82 I am currently driving two hrs to pick mine up. Currently have a Troy bilt with Honda engine that works like a charm for past 8 yrs but this San Agustine grass fills bag every 3 rows. Mulching will solve this issue plus blade stop when bagging.

[@PSkitt82]

@@estaldamasnl88 Yeah, I mostly just mulch with mine anyway, so I guess I really don't need the blade clutch.

[@Jerry-me1fy]

To get what you want it's $750 at least Lowe's wouldn't carry those

[@SuperTalleyho]

MY 216 leaves a lot of grass behind the mulch plug.

[@ryanfoley9999]

Commercial guys would use the HRX I know I will cause you can half mulch & half bag you don't empty the bag as much a big time saver , time is everything when your a contractor...

[@ericyost5287]

How do you get beautiful grass like that?

[@BeeBopGaming]

Eric Yost CGI 😂

[@ericyost5287]

@@BeeBopGaming what?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Well a lot of dedication, time, and passion lol. To be more realistic, understanding the fertilization process, knowing your lawns needs, mowing frequently and at the highest setting, and proper watering techniques. KZbin Search AllynPaul the Lawncare Nut, that will give you a lot of feedback on where to start. 👍 Thanks for noticing and watching.

[@ericyost5287]

@@brentmarkham9855 Do you know the name/type of the grass that is?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Eric Yost Turf Type Tall Fescue

[@joeraptor1]

How does the power of the gxv163 cc engine compare to the GCV190? I was interested in getting one of these mowers for mulching as our city is ending grass clipping pick up this year. Does that 163 cc engine have enough power for mulching wet spring growth? Thanks.

[@brentmarkham9855]

joeraptor1 I feel the Honda GXV160 has more torque and high end power. The GCV190 runs at a very low rpm where I find that problematic. I did slightly increase the RPM of the Honda GXV160, but out of all my mowers I turn to it the most often. I also run the Kawasaki FJ180V, 180 cc engine. It’s not bad on a 21” machine for mulching. Overall tho, the GXV160 has done a great job mulching in spring, but I do always cut on the highest setting at 4” where I have cool season turf and I like making extremely noticeable stripes.

[@brentmarkham9855]

joeraptor1 Of the three engines I mentioned, the GCV190 is my least favorite. I’d say the GX160 and Kawasaki FJ180V are very close for a 21” mower.

[@joeraptor1]

@@brentmarkham9855 Hey Brent. Thank you for the information. I currently have the commercial toro 21" mower with the Kawasaki FJ180V. It's a great mower, bags well, and mulches quite efficiently but when the grass is wet, it tends to shoot grass out the left side and then it cuts stuck on the left wheels. That leads to a lot of clumping and the need for me to go over the lawns again. I have heard many landscape company owners complain that the GXV160 lacked power compared to the Kawasaki. Hard to decide whether to take the plunge and try out the Honda or stick with the Toro commercial?

[@brentmarkham9855]

joeraptor1 Teah I haven’t had a problem with my Honda Commercial and I’ve mowed wet and dry grass. I will say about any mower is going to have it’s negative moments when cutting tall wet grass. I mow for fun not a career so my Honda HRC gets ran like twice a week at most, never have had a problem and always fires on first pull. Very reliable machine, but again I mow for a hobby and I don’t run the machine 8 hours a day haha, but I do know the GX160 is made for that intensity. Best of luck and I hope I was helpful in some way!

[@nelsoninman3678]

Why didn't you get a toro timemaster?

[@brentmarkham9855]

I have the Exmark Commercial 30, I purchased that instead of Toro Timemaster. I like the look and engine better on the Exmark.

[@allgaming4045]

Is the auto choke good

[@brentmarkham9855]

ALLGAMING404 I’ve never had a problem with the the auto choke system. I still personally prefer manual choke in small power equipment tho.

[@joeraptor1]

Looks the commercial HRC leaves a nicer cut than the hrx. I have a commercial toro 21". Its fantastic but I always wanted to try out that HRC. I'm not sure how it compares to the honda commercial unit?

[@brentmarkham9855]

I’ve ran the Exmark Commercial 21, powered by the Kawasaki FJ180V Kai, I’m assuming your Toro has same engine. It’s a heck of an engine and machine. Actually may be better than the Honda actually.

[@joeraptor1]

@@brentmarkham9855 Yes my Toro has the Kawasaki FJ180V. It is a wonderful machine. Quick, mulches great, the motor is strong and fuel efficient, and is a pretty good bagger. I haven't had the chance to use the Honda extensively to really compare the two machines.

[@joeraptor1]

@@brentmarkham9855 How is that Exmark 30 you bought doing?

[@Clearanceman2]

And here we are at the end of the film. No more new honda mowers after this year. End of an era for sure. I think in ten years no one will even make a new gas mower at all.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Yep definitely sad and disappointing. I feel like Honda Power Equipment is the most reliable on the market. I still have both of these mowers and I will continue to maintain them which should then last forever. The Legend of Honda Mowers should last forever!

[@jeffreycaban5107]

I know. Sad day.

[@TheBerto840]

I've had 3 hrx honda mowers since last year and I've been disappointed in all 3. Especially with home depot and their warranty crap. Anyway the mowers cut good and bag good, they do tend to leave a little strip of grass clippings along side the mower while mowing that is annoying. Another problem they have is pulling the mower backwards the back tires lock up alot. Another crappy thing with these mowers are they're slow...to slow. All 3 have been problematic for me. Debating on trying the commercial 216 or just getting an exmark

[@brentmarkham9855]

Rob Lyons Yeah that is very disappointing. I like the Honda commercial, but those Exmark Commercial 21 X Series with the Kawasaki 180V Kai engine are just unstoppable!

[@ewilliams19]

Hrx slow?????

[@TheBerto840]

@@brentmarkham9855 I bought two exmark 21 x and they have both been pieces of shit and they are only 2 months old. Not sure how I feel about them

[@TheBerto840]

@@ewilliams19 yeah the one with the blade stop and the handles up top with the yellow button to engage blades. Slow as hell

[@misterbulger]

where is your deck set?

[@brentmarkham9855]

tubeyourself I have both mowers set on highest setting, so 4 inches.

[@johnh9507]

the hrc has a real engine the gxv

[@brentmarkham9855]

Absolutely! The Honda GX “Over Head Valve” is the best small engine made in my mind. Always start on first pull, and so reliable!

[@parkerk7018]

The biggest downside for me about the HRC 216 is that you cannot adjust the handle bars which is a big problem for me because I’m very tall and because of that I love the higher handle bars on the hrx217

[@brentmarkham9855]

Yes I’m with you there and I did like how the HRX handle bars can fold completely up for storage purposes if you are limited on space. Fortunately that isn’t a major issue

[@parkerk7018]

@@brentmarkham9855 and the lighter weight of the hrx217 makes a difference too for moving it around and is another plus

[@trumpwon8231]

How tall are you I’m 6’ 3”

[@Torpedomtb]

its the same blades. so should cut the same just how effecient. The light weight deck means it dont need beefy handles. More displacement would mean more torque. But cutting it would be down to torque and power since both use hte same style double blade. The HRC really big diff is better air filter which the HRX and all the other brands using Honda engines have a chinsy air cleaner. And larger fuel tank. The deck is beefier but for personal use and anything over $500 i hope you would take care of so.. This guy is basing sound as a determining factor of power. Both engines are made by Honda, boy are same engine design, one is 160 the other 190. the HRX is 190 so really more powerful. The HRC stuff is more robust not more powerful, it is made to last and of value to the commercial application. Larger gas tank, better air filter, heavy duty deck, bumper guards, more sturdy handle. Is that worth x2 the money?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Torpedomtb Yes true great insight, however the HRC runs at or around 3600 rpm, compared to lower rpms on the HRX, there for the blade resolution is higher which I feel the HRC216 cuts the clippings into a finer final cut quality.

[@Torpedomtb]

@@brentmarkham9855 You can adust the RPM by adjusting the tension of spring on carb. But more displacement means for same amount of torque less RPM is required.. The old adage no replacement for displacement. I think the HRC with the 160 may have steel sleave inserts in engine unlike the HRX and all the other mowers that use the 160. But again almost double the price.I am looking at adapting the HRC air filtration to my parents HRX to see if I can get a better filter on it than the one on the HRX. I dont think power wise the steel sleave is going to matter, I just think its better for wear and tear due to it being a commercial unit of use and heat cycles it will receive. I am back and forth on the two for my own yard. But mulching wise it mulches better than the HRC and if you do proper maint should last.. My Troy Built with 160 engine just had a carb repalced and going on 7 years. very basic mower, no pwr drive, no electric start.. Change oil every spring, air filter 2 times a year, run VP110 race gas.. Just would like the 2 blade of the honda.

[@charliewilson9723]

Dude u need a zero for that yard anyway

[@algorel4763]

I bought the HRX, but returned it. It did not mulch as well as my Toro Super Recycler. Was not worth the $700.00. Sorry Honda fans!

[@brentmarkham9855]

Al Gorel the Toro Super Recycler is a great mower, especially if you purchase the one with Honda GCV engine. They are nice mowers as well!

[@algorel4763]

I have the GCV on other equipment, sensitive carbs. Clean every year. No so with Briggs.

[@brianallen0826]

It's interesting to hear the SuperRecycler mulchers better than the HRX. I have a SuperRecycler with a Briggs engine that I bought 8 years ago and it runs great and mulches great but I do notice if I clean the deck completely I get a very thin line of clippings on the left side of the mowers path, about right in line with the left wheels ( by left side, that is if you're behind the mower): now if there is a ring of grass clippings around the perimeter of the inside of the deck, like right where the very end of the blade is, I get no clippings left. I have been thinking about buying a Honda HRX217, thinking it might be better than my Toro

[@algorel4763]

brianallen0826 When Recycling with any mower, you path should be counter clock wise. The Toro & Honda are probably the best two mowers available to buy. Having owned both I can say the new 200 CC engine on the Honda is above a beast! The Toro is much easier to operate hour after hour. The Personal Pace system out classes the Honda, Period. The longer wheel base on the Honda is great for large lots. The Toro is a better “Trim Mower” just my opinion. Hope it helps! Can’t go wrong with either mower. They are the best out there!

[@brianallen0826]

@@algorel4763 the problem I find with having to mow counter clockwise is the lines end up looking like crap, unless you want to waste a lot of time and gas making perimeter passes. Would you say the Honda gives a better cut? I cut my grass tall, at 3.25" and I have a shit ton of maple and oak leaves in the fall to mulch. Which would you say is the better mower? I have a 1/2 acre lot with very little trim work around obstacles

[@groverleg6190]

You need a better mic dude!

[@rickjames6948]

Engine nearly dies just engaging the blade. Deck has zero vacuuming power. As usual, Honda's are a swing and a miss mower. They are a "good" mower, not a great one. Thank the lord we have Snapper Commercials.

[@justinacevedo4353]

rick james you’re drunk bro, go home.

[@rickjames6948]

@@justinacevedo4353 Show us your video of you scalping your yard with your Chonda. Lets see how many times it bogs down, LOL. Then show all the left over clippings it didn't bag up, yeah!@

[@justinacevedo4353]

rick james scalping the lawn is due to the operator being a tard. And these new HRXs have a 200cc mower soooo

[@jamesd5888]

You really care about the air filter cover? Man...get a life.

[@brentmarkham9855]

james Campbell Actually concerned more about the performance or the dual element air cleaner in the commercial compared to the traditional less air flow air filter in the HRX. So it’s not the cover I’m worried about, more the filter within. If you can’t keep up, take notes bro!

[@dwayneloftice2326]

Junk....pure junk is a Honda mower. My last one lasted 3 years until a frozen axle seized up and became no longer functional. Total Junk! A Snapper has replaced it with precision and control. One hand operations is all that is needed. Where is the class action law suit against Honda for building such garbage?

[@brentmarkham9855]

Dwayne Loftice What model Honda are you referring to? Just stating “Honda Mower” is pretty vague, there are many models.

[@brentmarkham9855]

Dwayne Loftice Last I checked, Snapper 21” commercial mowers were powered by a Honda GX engine. 😝

[@dwayneloftice2326]

@@brentmarkham9855 ....t You would be WRONG about that. Mine has a 8HP B&S that starts on the first pull.....everytime!

[@boballmendinger3799]

Just checked, the 21" is available with either engine....