Push mowers powered by Honda engines have become a popular choice for homeowners and professionals seeking a high-performing, reliable lawn mower. Honda engines are renowned worldwide for their superior engineering, fuel efficiency, and durability. When incorporated into push mowers, these engines provide the power and reliability needed to tackle residential and commercial mowing with ease.
There are several excellent Honda-powered push mowers on the market such as the Honda HRN216VKA, Toro Recycler 20379, Troy-Bilt TB160, and Lawn-Boy 10736. These mowers utilize Honda’s GCV160 or GCV170 engines to deliver excellent mulching, bagging, and discharge capabilities. Key features like variable speed control, dual lever height adjustment, and multi-blade cutting systems allow Honda push mowers to handle all types of grass and terrain with precision.
Compared to other mower engines, Honda sets itself apart through better fuel efficiency, lower noise levels, and proven long-term reliability. This translates to lower operating costs and less maintenance over the lifespan of the mower. Ultimately, investing in a Honda-powered push mower means investing in years of unparalleled mowing performance. With the right Honda engine push mower, homeowners and professionals can keep their lawn well-maintained and pristine season after season.
Why Choose a Push Mower with a Honda Engine?
Honda engines have earned a sterling reputation for their engineering, efficiency, and durability over the decades. By incorporating these superb engines into push mowers, users gain significant advantages:
- Reliability and Durability: Honda engines are meticulously engineered and manufactured to the highest standards. They are known for having an exceptionally long service life, often running smoothly for over 3,000 hours. This reliability saves users time and money on repairs.
- Power and Performance: With higher horsepower ratios than comparable engines, Honda motors provide abundant power to tackle thick, wet grass and hills with ease.
- Fuel Efficiency: Honda’s exclusive technology like the GXV270 V-Twin engine allows mowers to conserve fuel, cutting gas costs significantly over a season of mowing.
- Low Noise: Honda’s quieter engines operate below 90 dBa, reducing unwanted noise pollution.
- Mulching and Bagging: Specially designed decks and Honda’s excellent torque take mulching and bagging capabilities to the next level.
- Ease of Use: Handy features like adjustable handles, automatic chokes, and speed controls make Honda push mowers simple and convenient to operate.
For homeowners and professionals looking for maximum quality, performance and value in a lawn mower, a Honda engine push mower is a perfect solution. Next, let’s look at some of the top models on the market.
Top Honda-Powered Push Mowers
Honda HRX217K5VKA
The HRX217K5VKA is Honda’s premium residential push mower, providing commercial-grade power and performance. Key features include:
- 187 cc Honda GCV190 engine – Provides strong, reliable power even in tall, thick grass. Easy starting with the automatic choke.
- 21 in. wide steel deck – Sturdy, rust-proof construction delivers precise cutting.
- MicroCut Twin Blades – The specialized twin-blade system cuts grass more finely for superior mulching and bagging.
- Versamow System – Converts between mulching, bagging, and side discharge with ease.
- Variable speed Smart Drive – Self-propelled speed adjusts to user’s mowing pace for comfort and control.
For homeowners seeking the pinnacle of Honda’s engineering and performance, the HRX217K5VKA is a feature-packed mowing machine.
Toro 22” Recycler Lawn Mower
The Toro Recycler combines Honda reliability with innovative cutting technology. Features include:
- 160cc Honda GCV160 engine – Easy to start and running smoothly every time. More power than Toro’s standard 140cc engine.
- 22 in. steel deck – Allows wider cutting path to finish mowing faster.
- Personal Pace Self-Propel – The mower automatically adjusts speed to match the user’s walking pace for effortless mowing.
- Atomic Blades – Creates finer clippings for superior mulching and nutrient return to the lawn.
- 3-in-1 TriAction Cutting System – Converts from mulching to side discharge to bagging.
For larger yards, the Recycler’s wider cutting path, robust Honda engine, and convenience features make quick work of mowing.
Troy-Bilt TB160
With Honda power and thoughtful design, the TB160 handles home lawncare needs. Distinguishing features include:
- 160cc Honda GCV160 engine – Provides steady power and starting ease with the automatic choke.
- 3-in-1 TriAction cutting system – Givesbagging, discharge, and mulching capabilities.
- 21 in. wide cutting deck with rake bumper – Protects fixtures and optimized air flow for a clean cut.
- Ergonomic handle – Comfortable foam grip minimizes hand fatigue.
- 11 in. rear wheels – Wide wheels roll over bumps easily for greater maneuverability.
For homeowners wanting an affordable, well-designed Honda mower, the TB160 hits the mark with easy operation and versatile mowing modes.
Honda HRS216PKA
The HRS216PKA demonstrates Honda’s engineering prowess in a lightweight but robust package. Notable features include:
- 160cc Honda GCV160 engine – Provides quiet yet powerful performance.
- MicroCut Twin Blades – Dual specialized blades enhance grass mulching for a healthy lawn.
- 21 in. steel mowing deck – Rust-resistant and offers 6 height adjustments from 1- 3.5 inches.
- 8 in. smooth ball bearing wheels – Allows easy maneuvering over rough terrain.
For a compact, nimble mower that excels at mulching, the HRS216PKA is an excellent choice to maintain smaller lawns.
Lawn-Boy 10736
This push mower from the iconic Lawn-Boy brand offers Honda reliability in a lightweight package. Features include:
- 160cc Honda GCV160 engine – Easy starting with maximum mowing power.
- 21 in. steel deck with rake bumper – Provides cornering control for a clean cut.
- 2-Point height-of-cut system – Quick cutting height changes from 1.25 to 3.75 inches.
- 11 in. rear wheels – High wheels for easy movement over uneven ground.
For nimble handling and lighter weight, the Lawn-Boy 10736 satisfies homeowners with flatter, smaller lawns.
Honda-powered push mowers
| Model | Engine | Cutting Width | Mulching | Bagging | Self-propelled | Wheels | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda HRX217K5VKA | 187 cc Honda GCV190 | 21 in. | Excellent | Excellent | Yes | Rear 8 in. front 3.5 in. | $$$$$ | 5/5 |
| Toro 22” Recycler | 160cc Honda GCV160 | 22 in. | Very Good | Very Good | Yes | Rear 8 in. front 7 in. | $$ | 4/5 |
| Troy-Bilt TB160 | 160cc Honda GCV160 | 21 in. | Good | Good | No | Rear 11 in. front 7 in. | $ | 3.5/5 |
| Honda HRS216PKA | 160cc Honda GCV160 | 21 in. | Excellent | N/A | No | Rear 8 in. front 3.5 in. | $$$ | 4/5 |
| Lawn-Boy 10736 | 160cc Honda GCV160 | 21 in. | Very Good | Good | No | Rear 11 in. front 7 in. | $$ | 4/5 |
Honda Engines vs Other Brands
While Honda engines do come at a higher initial price point, they offer advantages over engines from other manufacturers that make them worth the investment.
Fuel Efficiency
Honda engines like the GCV160 offer greater fuel efficiency, burning up to 20% less gas compared to typical 110cc to 140cc engines found on comparably sized mowers. Over years of mowing, the gas savings really add up.
Reliability
The engineering and strict quality control of Honda motors lead to exceptional reliability. While other engines may last 1,000-2,000 hours on average, Honda’s can operate smoothly for over 3,000 hours. This longevity saves greatly on maintenance expenses.
Power and Performance
With higher displacement and horsepower than standard engines, Honda motors can power up inclines with thicker grass that would cause lesser motors to bog down. More torque enables the blade to cut through dense lawn conditions.
Noise Levels
Honda’s attention to engine design provides engines that operate much more quietly, at noise levels typically around 84 dbA versus 90 dbA and up from other cheaper engines. This reduced noise allows for mowing without as much disruption.
Cost Considerations
While Honda engines have a higher sticker price, their gas efficiency, reduced maintenance requirements, and years of added lifespan mean lower total cost of ownership in the long run. For professional use, Honda is easily the most cost effective engine choice.
What to Look for in a Honda Push Mower
With a range of excellent Honda-powered push mowers on the market, you can zero in on the model with the best combination of features to suit your specific lawn care needs:
Cutting Width
The width of the mower deck determines the swath cut with each pass – wider decks like 22 inches allow faster mowing, while narrower decks around 21 inches provide more maneuverability in tight areas.
Engine Size and Power
Smaller 160cc Honda engines provide ample strength for typical residential mowing, while larger 187cc variants like the GCV190 tackle thick, uneven grass with greater ease. More power means less effort pushing through dense turf.
Handling and Maneuverability
For ease of use, look for large rear wheels at least 8 inches in diameter, adjustable handle heights, and lightweight materials like aluminum decks. Self-propelled drive systems automatically adjust speed to match walking pace for effortless mowing.
Mulching Performance
Many Honda mowers feature special blade designs and decks which finely shred grass for nutrient return to the lawn. For the best mulching results, look for mowers with MicroCut or twin blades.
Grass Collection
For clean mowed grass collection, look for a mower with an easy to attach rear bag and high suction power like those with deep or domed decks to completely collect clippings.
Ease of Maintenance
Honda engines themselves are very low maintenance. Look for easily accessible features that simplify routine upkeep like oil fills, deck wash ports, replaceable filters, and spark plug access.
Budget and Costs
Honda-powered mowers range from economical models around $350 like the TB160 to premium mowers over $500. Consider both purchase price and long term savings on gas and maintenance. More expensive self-propelled models can save labor costs over push models.
Operating and Maintaining Your Honda Push Mower
Follow these tips to keep your Honda push mower performing at its best for years of reliable service:
- For fuel, always use non-ethanol gasoline with a rating of 87 octane or higher to prevent damaging the fuel system components. Add a fuel stabilizer to keep gas fresh between uses.
- Check oil levels regularly, and change oil after the first 20 hours of operation to remove initial break-in contaminants. Change oil yearly thereafter.
- Replace air filters at least annually, and clean or change spark plugs periodically. Use Honda original parts.
- Sharpen blades at least once per year, or more often depending on use. Keeping blades sharp prevents tearing grass.
- Use a garden hose to rinse grass clippings and debris from the mowing deck after each use to prevent buildup.
- Wipe off any spilled gas or oil to reduce risk of fire hazard or stains. Allow the engine to fully cool before storing.
- If the mower will be idle for more than 30 days, drain the fuel or add fuel stabilizer to prevent gumming up the carburetor.
With proper operating practices, your Honda engine will provide years of peak mowing performance.
FAQ
Are Honda push mowers difficult to start?
No, Honda engines are designed for easy starting. Most models have automatic choke systems, so there is no priming or choke adjustments required before starting. Just a few pulls of the starter cord brings the engine to life.
How long can I expect a Honda mower engine to last?
With proper maintenance, Honda small engines are designed to provide at least 3,000 hours of operation. This means years of use for a typical homeowner. Honda engines are known for their long lifespan under heavy use.
What is the best way to care for a Honda engine?
Use fresh, non-ethanol fuel with fuel stabilizer added to maximize engine life. Check oil levels regularly and change oil annually. Replace air filters and spark plugs as specified in the owner’s manual. Store the mower properly between uses.
Why are Honda engines more expensive than other brands?
The higher manufacturing quality and engineering that goes into Honda engines does make them cost more initially. But their better fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and increased longevity results in a lower total cost of ownership over the many years of service they provide.
How do I know which cutting height to select?
As a general rule of thumb, cut grass at the highest setting possible for the health and type of grass. For example, cut fescue and ryegrasses between 2.5-4 inches high. Shorter heights of 1-2 inches can be used for bluegrass, Bermuda and Zoysia grasses.
Should bagging or mulching mode be used when mowing?
Mulching is generally preferable if your mower has this capability. The fine clippings left in place break down to provide free nutrient fertilization to the lawn. But bag clippings if the lawn is overly thick to remove the excess.
How often should I sharpen mower blades?
Plan to sharpen mower blades at least once per year. More frequent sharpening may be needed with very heavy use or mulching of thick grass. Keeping blades sharp prevents tearing of grass blades for a healthier lawn.
How can I improve Honda mower performance on hills?
For hilly yards, choose a more powerful GCV190 engine model. All Honda mowers can handle typical slopes, but self-propelled models make climbing hills easier on the user. Taking a partial width pass can also improve traction on steep inclines.
Conclusion
For homeowners and professionals seeking a high-performance, environmentally friendly lawn mowing solution, a gas-powered push mower with a Honda engine is an optimal choice. Honda motors are revered for their proven reliability, fuel efficiency, quiet operation and ability to expertly mulch or bag grass clippings. Leading Honda mowers like the HRX217K5VKA, Toro Recycler, and Lawn-Boy 10736 offer robust, innovative features tailored to residential and commercial mowing needs. While higher in upfront cost, a Honda push mower’s lower lifetime maintenance requirements and gas savings make it a savvy investment for achieving a pristine lawn for years on end. With Honda’s engineering expertise, you can push mow with power, efficiency and confidence.