Via a different thread, the fine members of this forum have convinced me to purchase another Honda walk behind to replace my failing 10+ year old model (thank you all again).
Now comes the decision: which Honda model is the best in a real world setting, with price/value as a consideration (I'm an accountant)? :dunno:
Honda has two main lines, the HRR and the HRX. The HRX has some upgraded features but is significantly more expensive than the HRR. The point of this post is to determine whether the extra $$ for the HRX is worth it in a real world setting. Specifically, is the Versamow system all its cracked up to be?
Versamow theoretically allows you the flexibility to bag some clippings and mulch the rest. It also, theoretically, chops up the leaves into tiny bits, although my outgoing dual blade Honda does a pretty good job of that without the versamow.
Pros for HRX:
Engine: The engine on the HRX is a 186 cc while the HRR uses the 160.
Mulching: Versamow on the HRX vs traditional on the HRR.
Deck: HRX has a composite plastic deck that won't rust and is said to cause less grass build up while mowing. I've never had a deck rust to the point its a problem, nor has buildup really been a practical issue.
Drive: The non hydro HRX has the select drive while the HRR has the smart drive. I haven't tested these yet at the dealer but they don't appear to be materially different. Are they?
Cons:
Speed: The HRR is actually slightly faster, by 10%. 10% is 10%.
Weight: The HRX weighs slightly more than the HRR
Cost: The base HRR cost $399 where as the HRX cost $599. Or, you can get an HRR with the blade clutch for $399, still cheaper than the HRX for $599 without (blade clutch on an HRX starts at $699).
Plastic Deck: There are some reports that the deck, because it sort of flares at the bottom, can get damaged if it hits a sidewalk or driveway.
Models I'm considering:
HRR216VKA: $399, no special features
HRX217VKA: $599, no special features
HRR216VYA: $499, blade break clutch. Thinking of this as a compromise.
Now comes the decision: which Honda model is the best in a real world setting, with price/value as a consideration (I'm an accountant)? :dunno:
Honda has two main lines, the HRR and the HRX. The HRX has some upgraded features but is significantly more expensive than the HRR. The point of this post is to determine whether the extra $$ for the HRX is worth it in a real world setting. Specifically, is the Versamow system all its cracked up to be?
Versamow theoretically allows you the flexibility to bag some clippings and mulch the rest. It also, theoretically, chops up the leaves into tiny bits, although my outgoing dual blade Honda does a pretty good job of that without the versamow.
Pros for HRX:
Engine: The engine on the HRX is a 186 cc while the HRR uses the 160.
Mulching: Versamow on the HRX vs traditional on the HRR.
Deck: HRX has a composite plastic deck that won't rust and is said to cause less grass build up while mowing. I've never had a deck rust to the point its a problem, nor has buildup really been a practical issue.
Drive: The non hydro HRX has the select drive while the HRR has the smart drive. I haven't tested these yet at the dealer but they don't appear to be materially different. Are they?
Cons:
Speed: The HRR is actually slightly faster, by 10%. 10% is 10%.
Weight: The HRX weighs slightly more than the HRR
Cost: The base HRR cost $399 where as the HRX cost $599. Or, you can get an HRR with the blade clutch for $399, still cheaper than the HRX for $599 without (blade clutch on an HRX starts at $699).
Plastic Deck: There are some reports that the deck, because it sort of flares at the bottom, can get damaged if it hits a sidewalk or driveway.
Models I'm considering:
HRR216VKA: $399, no special features
HRX217VKA: $599, no special features
HRR216VYA: $499, blade break clutch. Thinking of this as a compromise.