If you rely on your Honda self-propelled mower to keep your lawn looking pristine, nothing is more frustrating than losing traction or feeling the drive system slip.
Worn or damaged rear wheels are frequently the culprit, leading to uneven cuts, poor maneuverability, and increased stress on the transmission.
Restoration requires precision-engineered replacements that guarantee seamless integration and durable performance.
We understand that compatibility is paramount, which is why we’ve assessed the market’s leading rear drive wheel kits for popular Honda series like the HRR216, HRB216, and HRX217.
Investing in high-quality wheels, often featuring robust metal gears, ensures your mower returns to effortless, efficient operation. Discover the ideal solution to revitalize your machine today.
1. 2 Pack Honda HRN216 Rear Wheels – Best Budget Friendly
This twin pack of rear drive wheels provides an effective, no-nonsense solution tailored specifically for the popular Honda HRN216 series.
Engineered to match the factory specifications, including the critical 42710-VR8-N00ZA part number, these high-quality plastic wheels restore self-propel functionality precisely.
The 8-inch diameter and substantial 2-1/4 inch tire width deliver a solid contact patch on the turf, improving grip and stability.
Installation is notably simple, requiring only basic tools and the removal of a single hex nut per wheel, making this a quick and cost-effective repair for compatible self-propelled models.
It is important to confirm that your mower is one of the VKA, VLA, or VYA variants, as compatibility is strictly limited.
Best For: Owners of specific HRN216 self-propelled models needing a reliable, exact-fit replacement without premium features.
Key Specs
- Part Number: 42710-VR8-N00ZA
- Tire Diameter: 8″
- Tire Width: 2-1/4″
- Material: High-Quality Plastic
Pros
- Perfect fit for specific HRN216 variants.
- Quick, straightforward DIY installation.
- Cost-effective, budget-friendly option.
- Solid traction from a wider profile.
- Durable high-quality plastic construction.
Cons
- Extremely limited compatibility.
- No stated manufacturer warranty.
- Lacks metal gear components.
2. XaXmTee HRR216 Rear Wheels Kit – Best Premium Quality
The XaXmTee kit represents a significant upgrade over standard parts, focusing on enhanced longevity and superior performance.
These rear drive wheels feature a unique hybrid construction, blending high-strength plastic with a protective rubberized tread.
Critically, this kit integrates durable metal gears within the hub, addressing the common failure point of stripped plastic gears often found in older or generic replacements.
The improved design provides superior traction, especially beneficial when mowing on slopes or damp turf.
Compatible with a broad range of HRR, HRS, HRT, and HRN series mowers, this 8-inch kit ensures smoother, more reliable self-propelled engagement and improved handling.
Best For: Users seeking an investment-grade solution that guarantees robust durability and enhanced grip across various Honda models.
Key Specs
- Wheel Diameter: 8″
- Wheel Type: Rear Drive Wheels
- Material: High-strength plastic and rubber
- Included Quantity: 2 pcs
Pros
- Integrated durable metal drive gears.
- High-traction composite tread design.
- Broad model compatibility range.
- Premium construction materials.
- Noticeable performance upgrade.
Cons
- Slightly higher investment cost.
- Rubber may wear quicker on pavement.
- No warranty details provided.
3. Replacement Rear Wheels for HRR216 – Best Value for Money
This replacement wheel set delivers exceptional cost-to-performance value, making the crucial upgrade of integrated metal gears highly accessible.
Designed specifically for 8-inch applications, these 2-inch wide wheels fit flawlessly onto models spanning the HRR, HRS, and HRT series.
The inclusion of a metal gear solves the inherent weakness of all-plastic OEM parts, ensuring a solid, confident connection to the mower’s drive unit.
The precision 1/2-inch bore specification allows for quick and easy axle alignment, meaning your mower can be back in service almost instantly.
This solution is perfect for DIY repairs where achieving reliable, long-term drive system engagement is the primary goal without exceeding a budget.
Best For: The budget-conscious homeowner prioritizing the mechanical strength of metal gears over premium rubber treads.
Key Specs
- Material: High-quality Plastic with Metal Gear
- Diameter: 8″
- Width: 2″
- Bore Size: 1/2″
Pros
- Integrated durable metal gears.
- Offers exceptional repair value.
- Very simple to install quickly.
- Wide compatibility across models.
- Precise 1/2-inch bore fitment.
Cons
- Only carries a short 6-month warranty.
- Tread is standard plastic material.
- No enhanced all-terrain grip.
4. Rear Wheels for Honda HRN216 – Best for HRN216 Models
This specialized set is precision-engineered to provide a guaranteed fit for the Honda HRN216 series, specifically the self-propelled VKA, VLA, and VYA variants.
By combining a robust plastic body with an integrated metal drive gear, this replacement wheel set offers enhanced durability compared to weaker, original all-plastic designs.
The dimensions are optimized with an 8-inch diameter and a notable 2-1/4 inch width, which helps provide a slightly broader footprint that enhances stability and improves traction on softer ground.
This focus on the specific HRN216 models ensures the drive mechanism engages reliably, restoring factory performance with parts that are robust enough to handle demanding use.
Best For: Owners of self-propelled HRN216 models who require a specific fit and demand the added strength of a metal gear assembly.
Key Specs
- Diameter: 8″
- Width: 2-1/4″
- Material: Plastic with Metal Gear
- Compatibility: HRN216 VKA/VLA/VYA
Pros
- Guaranteed, perfect HRN216 fit.
- Includes essential metal drive gear.
- Wider 2-1/4 inch profile.
- Robust construction for longevity.
- Easy alignment during replacement.
Cons
- Strictly limited to HRN216 models.
- Warranty is limited to 6 months.
- Focuses only on specific variants.
5. wyevee 42710-VE2-M02ZE Rear Wheels – Best Heavy-Duty Performance
If you routinely tackle thick grass, steep hills, or uneven terrain, the wyevee rear drive wheels offer a genuine heavy-duty upgrade.
These wheels feature an aggressive, deep-grooved tread design paired with reinforced sidewalls, specifically engineered for maximum bite and slip prevention in challenging conditions.
Distinguishing this set from many alternatives is the incorporation of dual-seal ball bearings, a commercial-grade feature that significantly smooths rotation and blocks debris that typically causes premature hub failure.
The premium materials ensure a robust, solid feel, providing exceptional durability capable of withstanding rough impacts. This set is compatible with numerous Honda HRB, HRR, HRS, and HRM models.
Best For: Professionals or homeowners with large, difficult, or sloped properties demanding maximum all-weather grip and commercial-level bearing quality.
Key Specs
- Traction Design: Thicker rubber grooves
- Material: Premium Materials
- Feature: Dual-seal ball bearings
- Package Includes: 2 rear wheels (8″x2″)
Pros
- Heavy-duty aggressive traction tread.
- Incorporates dual-seal ball bearings.
- Reinforced sidewalls boost durability.
- Premium, robust build materials.
- Superior all-weather slip prevention.
Cons
- Installation may require reusing gears.
- Represents a higher-end investment.
- Not compatible with all Honda models.
6. 9″ Rear Wheels for HRX217 – Best for Larger Wheels
This specialized replacement set is tailored exclusively for specific high-end Honda models, including the HRX217 series, which utilize a larger 9-inch wheel diameter.
The increased size dramatically improves clearance and provides a notably smoother roll across bumpy or rough lawns.
Constructed from durable, high-quality rubber, these wheels deliver excellent grip and operate more quietly than hard plastic assemblies.
An integrated metal gear ensures positive and reliable engagement with the self-propelled drive system.
Since the 9-inch size is non-standard for most Honda mowers, verifying your precise model number (like HRX217K2HMAA) is critical to guarantee the correct, optimal fit.
Best For: Dedicated owners of specific Honda HRX217 or high-specification HRR216 models requiring a non-standard 9-inch replacement size.
Key Specs
- Diameter: 9″
- Width: 2″
- Material: High-quality rubber
- Compatibility: HRX217 and select HRR216
Pros
- Larger 9-inch diameter size.
- Excellent clearance for rough terrain.
- High-quality, quiet rubber construction.
- Features integrated metal gear.
- Restores original handling characteristics.
Cons
- Extremely specific model compatibility.
- Will not fit most common 8-inch models.
- Mandatory verification of part number.
Buying Guide: Selecting Your Ideal Honda Replacement Wheels
Durability and material quality
Prioritize wheels that incorporate metal internal gears over all-plastic assemblies, as metal prevents stripping under load in self-propelled systems.
High-strength plastic or durable rubber treads and reinforced sidewalls provide longevity and resistance to wear on tough terrain. Always confirm compatibility with your OEM part number for assured quality.
Weight capacity
For frequent heavy use or navigating challenging terrain, look for models designed for heavy-duty performance.
Features like thick rubber grooves and sealed internal bearings—such as dual-seal ball bearings—are indicative of robust construction designed to handle greater operational stress and resist wear from impacts or debris.
Comfort and padding
While padding is not applicable, wheels featuring rubber construction (rather than hard plastic) or a larger 9-inch diameter significantly improve the mowing experience.
Rubber dampens vibrations and allows for a quieter roll, while larger diameters roll smoother over bumpy, uneven ground, stabilizing the mower’s deck.
Portability and setup
Replacement wheels should be designed for easy installation, typically requiring under ten minutes using only basic tools like a wrench for the hex nut.
Ensure the replacement bore size is precisely 1/2 inch to match the axle shaft, guaranteeing proper alignment and immediate functionality without modifications.