I agree that single-lever Honda bases are probably about as good, or bad, as quite a few others, and the main reason we see so many of them damaged is that they have been used by contractors. Also, if affordable argon-arc welding were available, a lot of contractors would keep their Hondas longer - the engines are usually not too bad when they scrap them, though more often than not they are blowing oil smoke.
You will be able to see how well your base repairs hold up, and meanwhile give the mower a try and see how you like it. So far, my HRU195 (with the heavy-repair to the base) is my all-time favourite mower.
