Self-propelled work machine with at least one axle

The work machine (1) has steering elements (8,9) that are arranged transversely at the operating handles (11,12) in the direction of the axis of driving shaft (5) connected with a chassis (4). A manually operable actuator of a control device is connected to a drive unit (3). Asetting and adjustment device is provided with a magnetic field generating permanent magnet formed without contacting an electronic sensor whose position relative to the position of the magnetic field by actuator is set and changed.