Honda’s new lawnmower with SMART Drive System

Honda Power Equipment is introducing a new lawnmower line and apart from the mandatory higher performance and superior fuel efficiency which consumers expect with every new series, the new HRR line is a better mousetrap because it focuses on the user experience. We’re not sure why lawnmowers seem to have escaped the user-friendly evolution of most other household contraptions, but figure it’s worthwhile lauding Honda for its advancements in the hope the other lawnmower manufacturers will do likewise. Specifically, the new HRR line is equipped with a SMART Drive transmission system and new ErgoActive easy-folding handlebars, which combine to offer what Honda claims to be “an infinitely easier lawnmowing experience.” The heart of the SMART Drive transmission system is a Variable Speed Transmission (VST) which allows the user to easily control the mower's speed simply by resting his or her hands on the ErgoActive handlebars which place the mower's primary controls within easy reach, increasing comfort during operation.

The HRR216K3VXA marks the introduction of Honda's newest technological innovation, the SMART Drive transmission system. Developed and tested by Honda R&D, in conjunction with a professional ergonomic specialist for the most comfortable operation, this unique Variable Speed Transmission (VST) allows the user to easily control the mower's speed simply by resting his or her hands on the handlebars. By placing either one or both thumbs on the lever, the operator can easily control the mower's speed and even mow with one hand.

The new HRR Series replaces the HRR216K2SDA/TDA and HRZ216TDA models and incorporates a number of design elements that make easy work of mowing. The HRR's ErgoActive handlebars are designed for both user safety and convenience. In conjunction with the SMART Drive system (VXA model only) this exclusive handle design places the mower's primary controls within easy reach, increasing comfort during operation. The quick-release folding handlebar also provides for easy storage.

Honda's Roto-Stop blade brake clutch allows the user to start and stop blade action while keeping the engine running. Using this technology, consumers can empty the grassbag, move items out of the path of the mower or drive over gravel - without the blade running or having to stop and restart the engine.

The HRR's QuadraCut System includes a twin blade configuration and four offset cutting surfaces for improved performance as well as finer clippings. Finer clippings decompose and deliver nutrients to a lawn more rapidly and result in superior mulching. Larger 9" or 8" wheels (depending on the model) further improve the HRR's maneuverability while a single rear height adjuster (VXA model only) allows for easy adjustment of cutting heights. The mower's large, easy to remove 2.4 bushel capacity grassbag, in conjunction with the QuadraCut twin blade configuration, allows for maximum bagging capability.

The power behind the innovative HRR Series is the overhead cam (OHC) Honda GCV160 engine. Interestingly, Honda is the world's largest engine manufacturer, having sold 20 million engines last year across all of its product lines.

The new HRR216K3VXA and the HRR216K3TDA models will be available in the next few weeks – for availability check with your local Honda power products dealer.