Honda UK has unveiled its Mean Mower V2 with which it hopes to reclaim its crown for the world’s fastest lawn mower…the thing will allegedly hit 240km/h.
THE ORIGINAL MEAN MOWER set a speed record for lawn mowers back in 2014, racing to 116mph (186km/h) but that time has since been beaten. Enter Mean Mower V2.
Built by the Team Dynamics Honda’s British Touring Car Championship partner and the team behind the original Mean Mower, Mean Mower V2 is faster and more sophisticated. But it still looks like a lawn mower – the Honda HF 2622 lawn tractor and it continues with that product’s front cowl, grass box and body panels. And the thing can still cut grass.
Dave Hodgetts, Managing Director, Honda (UK), comments: “The original Mean Mower was a great challenge for us and the result was an amazing machine. This time we have moved the game on considerably to build an incredible piece of real engineering, using advanced design and production techniques and calling upon some very clever thinking to bring the performance and power but still retain the look of the production mower. We’re in testing phase now and everything is looking good, with a top speed of more than 150mph very much in our sights.”
To hit 240km/h, Honda borrowed the engine from a CBR1000RR Fireblade SP motorcycle as well as the clutch, ECU, six-speed transmission and full-colour LCD display. “The programmable quick shift gear system promises precise and responsive shift through carbon paddles on the steering wheel – with the team estimating that this new machine could reach 90mph (144km/h) in first gear,” Honda said. Braking is covered off by Kelgate – four-piston callipers to the front and six to the rear – vented to increase airflow and reduce weight. Goldspeed ten-inch ATV wheels anodised in gold match that of the Fireblade, with special-order Hoosier racing tyres giving the grip.
The pilot will be kart and car racer and stunt driver, Jess Hawkins. Honda hasn’t said when it expects to attempt its record. Stay tuned.
