http://www.hondapowerequipment.com/products/snowblowers/content.aspx?asset=sb_whychooseBy "hydro" I was referring to Honda’s Hydrostatic Transmission. Like what was on the HS828 you tried.
From the web:
Every Honda two-stage snowblower offers the convenience of our exclusive hydrostatic transmission.
•Easy to control
A single lever accurately adjusts ground speed without affecting the auger rotation speed. Push forward to move ahead; pull back to go in reverse. And adjustments to forward and reverse speed can be made with one hand, quickly and easily.
•Infinite variability – easy to find the right speed for every snow condition
Hydrostatic transmission : from the Honda web site:
Need to slow down as you make a turn? Want to go just a hair faster? The hydrostatic transmission can accommodate your personal preferences, as well as the changing conditions outdoors. Pick a speed and go. Change on the fly. You set the pace, and your Honda snowblower will do the work for you.
•Smooth and predictable speed transitions.
There’s no gears, so no shifting is necessary. The hydrostatic transmission provides ultimate control and improved safety.
•Virtually maintenance free
Honda’s hydrostatic transmission is commercial grade, built to withstand years of use. And unlike some transmissions used by competitive units, the hydrostatic transmission is virtually maintenance free.
