How does the HRN216PKA compare with the HRN216VKA?

The VKA adds Honda's Smart Drive variable-speed self-propel, while the PKA is push-only. Both share the 21-inch steel deck, GCV170 engine and MicroCut twin blades.

Does it mulch well enough to skip bagging?

Yes. The MicroCut twin blades and Clip Director are designed for fine mulching, and owners report good results in normal growth. In tall or wet grass, mulch in smaller passes.

What maintenance does the GCV170 need?

Change the oil, replace the spark plug and clean or replace the air filter on Honda's schedule, and sharpen or replace the twin blades regularly. No choke cable to adjust thanks to Auto Choke.

Can I adjust the cut height easily?

Yes. Dual levers set 7 positions from 1 to 4 inches, and the quick-release handle folds for storage or adjusts to two mowing positions.

What comes in the box?

The mower, a 1.9 bushel grass bag and the standard handle hardware. It ships without oil or fuel, so add both before the first start.

Is it good for sloped yards?

It can handle gentle slopes, but the push-only drive and 73 lb weight make steeper or large sloped lawns tiring. A self-propelled model suits those yards better.

Where is the Honda HRN216PKA Walk Behind cheapest?

At Causeway Mower, for $699.00, as of our latest check.

Honda HRN216PKA Walk Behind Price History: Lowest $699.00

What reviewers say

Owners of the HRN series generally praise the Honda engine's easy starting and the MicroCut system's mulching and bagging quality. Common complaints center on the mower's weight and the effort of a push-only design on uneven or sloped ground.

What people mention

Mulching qualityPraisedOwners say the twin-blade MicroCut system leaves finer clippings and less visible debris than single-blade mowers.
StartingPraisedThe GCV170 with Auto Choke is reported to start on the first or second pull without choking.
WeightCriticisedAt 73 lb dry, owners find it heavy to lift, turn and push compared with lighter mowers.
Push effortCriticisedWithout self-propel, users report tiring effort on slopes and in tall, thick grass.
BuildPraisedThe 16-gauge steel deck and 8-inch wheels are described as sturdy and long-lasting.
Bag capacityMixedThe 1.9 bushel bag is seen as adequate for light lawns but fills quickly in heavy growth.

From Causeway Mower

21-inch push walk-behind mower
3-in-1 with Clip Director: mulch, bag, and discharge with no attachments
Honda GCV170 engine with Auto Choke System for easy starting
MicroCut Twin Blades System for superior cut quality and smaller clippings
Easy Fold Quick Release handle with 2 mowing positions
Dual-lever height adjustment with 7 cutting heights from 1 in. to 4 in.

Materials: Steel, 16 ga deck; 1 in. steel tube handle; 8 in. plastic wheels
Fit: Push type, no drive control or transmission
Care: Manual fuel shut-off valve for transport, storage, or maintenance
Guarantee: 3 year residential warranty; 90 day commercial warranty
In the box: 1.9 bushel grass bag

About the Honda HRN216PKA Walk Behind

This is a 21-inch push walk-behind mower with a Honda GCV170 engine. It has no drive control or transmission, so you push it yourself. The Auto Choke System means no manual choke is needed to start it, and the engine uses a recoil starter.

The Clip Director lets you slide between mulching, bagging and discharging without attachments. The MicroCut twin blades are stacked and offset to produce smaller clippings. The 16 ga steel deck is designed to optimize air flow for mulching and bagging.

The handle folds over for storage and adjusts to 2 mowing positions. A dual-lever system sets 7 cutting heights from 1" to 4". A 2-way ratchet system reduces the effort of turning in a tight radius. The engine layout has a large fuel tank spout and gives easy access to the oil, spark plug and air filter. A flywheel brake stops the engine when you release the brake lever. A manual fuel shut-off valve can be closed for transport, storage or maintenance.

Engine: Honda GCV170 OHC Premium Residential Engine
Starting: Recoil, with automatic choke
Drive: Push type; no drive control, transmission or ground speed
Deck size: 21" cutting width
Deck material: Steel, 16 ga
Cut height: 1" to 4", 7 cutting positions
Blades: Twin blades (MicroCut System®)
Blade control: Flywheel brake
Functions: 3 in 1: mulch, bag, discharge
Discharge: Rear standard
Bag capacity: 1.9 bushels
Handle