Honda is out to reclaim its crown for the world’s fastest lawn mower with a beast that will hit 240km/h.
Built by Team Dynamics, Honda’s British Touring Car Championship partner and the team behind the original Mean Mower that took the record for the world’s fastest lawn mower in 2014, development has moved on to a whole new level.
Now using CAD design, more bespoke parts, advanced materials, and 3D printing, Mean Mower V2 now packs almost double the power of the original.
The original Mean Mower, launched in 2013, went on to become the world’s fastest lawnmower when it hit an incredible 187.6 km/h, at the IDIADA Proving Ground — a record which has since been surpassed.
A key part of the brief for version two was to retain the look of a lawn mower – in this case the Honda HF 2622 lawn tractor– which it does by carrying over its front cowl, grass box and body panels.
The engine, a 999cc four-cylinder unit taken from Honda’s high-performing CBR1000RR Fireblade SP motorcycle, produces more than 140kW at 13,000rpm.
With a super-light frame and engine dry weight of just 69.1kg Team Dynamics engineers predict an eye-watering power to weight ratio of 745kW/tonne.
The Fireblade DNA continues with the carry-over of several other parts including clutch, ECU, six-speed drive train and full colour LCD display.
The programable 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 145km/h in first gear.
The majority of Mean Mower V2 has been bespoke designed and manufactured, with the chassis made from T45 steel rather than chromoly for durability and flexibility – vital given that it has no suspension.
The all-important matter of braking is taken care of by Kelgate four-piston calipers front and six on the rear – vented to increase airflow and reduce weight.
Goldspeed 10-inch ATV wheels anodised in gold match that of the Fireblade, with special-order Hoosier racing tyres giving the grip.
The only remaining question was who to get to drive the beast?
Enter Jess Hawkins, a 23-year-old experienced kart and car racer, currently performing as a stunt driver with the Fast & Furious Live show.
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