Honda HRX217HYA starting instructions

I have been starting my Honda HRX217HYA by pushing the engine speed lever all of the way up, pulling the starting cord and leaving it that way. Have to admit that it looks a little awkward in that position but the instructions seem to say to do this. When having it tuned up last week the technician said that that was the choke position and that I should pull it back back a bit (where it looks more normal). Which is the right way? There is nothing labelled on the lever indicating it is the choke position. Also, I thought this lawn mover had an auto choke. Thoughts?



Thanks,

Ed