I found a 24" wheeled at a cycle shop around the corner so I put on reserve. I'll call them later on and if really in stock, I'll pick it up tomorrow. Really thinking about a trailer this trip to carry it and some more larger items. At least it would be easier to load and unload a trailer than the truck bed.
I've read you can get chains for the wheeled blowers to increase traction. Our driveway is about 15' x 70' (measured from orthoimagery) and pretty level so tracked is overkill. the difference between 24" and 28" is one pass, so not a real problem. I do want electric start, if only for the times my shoulder and back are giving me fits - I'm not getting younger. It also makes it easier for MLW to run it, if need be. Second choice would be the 28" wheeled. If only tracked are available, I won't turn one down. That would make it possible to clear a path down the hill to the frozen pond. I guess I can start ice-fishing.
I decided on the Honda for a few reasons: they use their commercial engines in the blowers, the electric start is a 12-v battery like in a car, and I prefer the hydrostatic transmission. They are not cheap, but if properly maintained, it will probably outlast me and lazy lobster will inherit it.