The key to maximizing a mower’s features and longevity is to understand exactly how the equipment works and how to properly operate it around the home. Because every mower is different, even those homeowners who aren’t new to mowing could probably benefit from a few tips, tricks, and helpful steps for their new Honda HRR216 lawn mower. Before getting started, consider these basic ways of operating and handling the mower on the turf and in other areas outside.

Safety Should Always Come First When Preparing to Mow

Don’t start mowing without a full review of safety procedures. First and foremost, make sure that the lawn has been cleared of debris and obstructions, pets, family members, and neighbors. This will eliminate the risk of accidental injuries from unseen, airborne debris, and lead to greater peace of mind overall. Before starting the mower, make sure to check for any engine problems, oil levels and fuel levels, blade damage, and other maintenance concerns. A safe mower is one that is properly maintained and free of defects at the outset. Start the mower on a flat and level surface initially to make the process easier and safer overall.

Operation of the Honda HRR216 Walk-Behind Mower

Operating the Honda HRR216 is actually pretty easy, but it’s a good idea to review the fundamentals of starting and stopping the engine, engaging the blade, driving the mower forward.

1. Starting the Engine

Move the mower to a smooth, flat area, and turn the fuel valve on. Next, simply give the starter grip a pull. The mower may require two or three pulls before starting, so be persistent. As the mower starts, pull the blade control lever tight with the handle to engage the blades and keep the equipment running.

2. Blade Control Lever

The blade control lever must be pulled tight to the mower’s handle at all times, since this is what causes the blade to receive power and spin throughout the mowing task. If the lever is released, the blades will stop spinning and the mower will simply power off.

3. Smart Drive Control

Honda’s HRR216 can largely drive itself forward, but it requires the use of the equipment’s Smart Drive Control. Located atop the handlebar, the control can simply be pressed down to engage self-propulsion. The firmer the control is pressed, the faster the mower will travel forward.

4. Stopping the Engine

To stop the engine, simply release the blade control lever. Turn the fuel valve off to prevent unwanted leaks or sparks while in transit or storage. For long-term storage, be sure to either drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent any remaining fuel from going “stale” and causing ignition problems when the mower is used next time.

Best Practices for Professional Mowing Results

Mowing is a pretty basic activity, but there are some best practices and guidelines that can help homeowners get the most out of their mower while producing a professional outdoor aesthetic. Before heading out with the HRR216 mower for the first time, consider these three best practices for challenging areas of the lawn.

– Slopes

First and foremost, the Honda HRR216 is simply not designed for use on slopes with a grade steeper than 20 degrees. These slopes should be handled with a trimmer or another, alternative piece of equipment. If the slope is manageable with the mower, it’s important to remember one fundamental rule: Always mow side-to-side on the slope, rather than up and down. This allows for far greater control over the mower’s speed, direction, and output.

– Obstacles

Cutting around fences, walls, and even flowerbeds, can be quite a challenge with any mower. The good news is that walk-behind models like the Honda HRR216 allow for a tighter cut than competing riding mowers. To get the most out of the mower around obstacles, make sure the right side of the equipment is tight against the obstacle being handled. Disengage the Smart Drive control so that the mower can be pushed forward manually, allowing for more precise cutting and safer use. Follow up with a trimmer as needed.

– Gravel and Loose Objects

The mower should never be used to go through gravel or mow over larger objects on the turf. The blades can launch these items high into the air can cause damage to the operator or others if the blades do run over gravel and other objects. It’s better to simply release the blade control lever over gravel, or around lawn debris, and then restart the mower afterward.

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