Simplicity has been building residential lawn mowers and tractors since 1937. They have a name in the market as the premium residential mower. The company has built a very loyal following over the years because of their durability and premium features.
The superior cut of a Simplicity mower is the main differentiator among competitors. We used these mowers for several days and they leave an absolutely amazing cut… probably the best we’ve ever experience. The unique deck design is the reason for this.
This company has been owned by Briggs & Stratton since 2004. Most of the mowers are built in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They have similar features to other Briggs & Stratton owned mowers which include Ferris and Snapper.
Simplicity features two different style of mowers: riding tractors and zero turn. The riding mowers are their signature mower that the company was originally built on. In the early 2000’s they began building zero turn mowers with suspension.
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![Simplicity Mowers Review [Ultimate Buying Guide] (1)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw== "Simplicity Mowers Review [Ultimate Buying Guide] (1)") | Simplicity 2691318 Courier Mower, Riding, Zero Turn, Orange | Check Price |
| Simplicity 5901743 Contender XT Mower, Riding, Zero Turn, Orange | Check Price |
| Simplicity 2691455 Regent Mower, Riding, Tractor, Orange | Check Price |
| Simplicity 2691337 Broadmoor Mower, Riding, Tractor, Orange | Check Price |
| Simplicity 2691418 Prestige Mower, Riding, Tractor, Orange | Check Price |
Simplicity Features
Suspension
Simplicity features different types of suspension on most of their riding tractors and zero turn mowers. This allows for a smooth ride so homeowners don’t feel beat up after mowing the lawn.
The riding tractors feature different types of suspension depending on the model. Most units feature their Suspension Comfort System (SCS). These select mowers have front and/or back suspension coils that allow the user improved comfort.
The zero turn units feature three different types of suspension. These include SCS, Pivoting front axle, and full independent suspension. Each of these different types of suspension will also improve comfort and help to increase mowing speeds.
Riding Mower Deck design
The deck design on Simplicity riding tractors is probably the best feature on the mowers. Every unit features a free floating deck that helps to lay down stripes when cutting grass. These are the only mowers on the market, we know of, that have this mowing technology.
Free floating deck
The Free Floating Deck is a front hanging style of deck that uses a roller to support the back of the deck. This allows maximum pressure applied to the roller to improving lawn striping. This is incredibly useful and works best in cool season grasses.
Best cutting mower
We would have to rate these mowers as having the best cut quality within a complete line up on the market. This is largely due to the rollers on the back of each mower. It would be hard to find a better striping lawn mower in the industry.
Zero Turn Deck Design
Deck rollers
All of the zero turn mowers also have a roller on the back, however they are traditionally hung decks. They still provide an incredible cut compared to the rest of the industry but not quite as good as the free floating decks found on the riding tractors.
Large discharge side
The large discharge chute on the zero turn decks allow more grass to exit the mower deck at a time. This provides an incredible cut and allows a user to mower at higher speeds.
Durability
Simplicity mowers are built to last. It is another reason for the loyal following this brand has. The construction of these mowers are truly superior to many other residential brands in the industry.
Premium Mower Features
These mowers have all the bells and whistles throughout the line up. Push button start, power steering, and electric height of cut are just some of the premium features you can expect when purchasing a Simplicity mower.
Riding Tractor Line-up
| Mower: | Regent | Broadmoor | Conquest | Prestige | Legacy XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine and Horspower | 23 or 25 HP Briggs & Stratton Professional Series | 23 or 25 HP Briggs & Stratton Professional Series | 25HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series | 25HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series | 31 HP Briggs & Stratton Vanguard & 33 HP Vanguard EFI |
| Start Type | Key | Push Button | Push Button | Push Button | Key |
| Cutting Width | 38" Stamp, 42" Fab, 44" Stamp, or 48" Fab | 44" Stamp, 48" Fab, 50" Stamp or 52" Fab | 50" Stamp or 52" Fab | 50" Stamp or 52" Fab | 52" or 61" Fabricated |
| Transmission | Tuff Torq K46 Hydrostatic | Tuff Torq K57 or K62 High Speed Hydrostatic | Tuff Torq K66 | Tuff Torq K66 or K72 High Speed | Tuff Torq K92 with Shaft-Driven Front Axle (4WD models) |
| Deck Type | 12 Gauge Fabricated or Stamp | 10 Gauge Fabricated or Stamp | 10 Gauge Fabricated or Stamp | 10 Gauge Fabricated or Stamp | 7 Gauge Fabricated Deck |
| Ground Speed | FWD: 5.5 mph REV: 3 mph | FWD: 5.8 or 6.7 mph REV: 3.5 or 4.0 mph | FWD: 7.2 mph REV: 5.0 mph | FWD: 6.1 or 8.7 mph REV: 3.0 mph | FWD: 9 mph REV: 5.5 mph |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.5 Gallons | 3.6 Gallon | 3.6 Gallons | 3.6 Gallons | 6 Gallons |
| Power Steering | N/A | Select Models | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| 4-Wheel Drive | N/A | N/A | N/A | Select Model | Select Models |
| Traction Control | N/A | Standard | Standard | Standard on 2WD models | standard |
Regent
The Regent riding tractor is an entry level mower with a lot to offer. It has smaller deck options that are perfect if you have a small yard or gates to get in while cutting your lawn.
The mower is well built with everything from a powerful engine, durable hydrostatic transmission, and free floating deck to make your lawn look amazing. There are also rear suspension offerings on the 42” and 48” models.
Key Features:
- Free Floating Deck (Stamp and Fabricated deck options)
- 38”, 42”, 44”, and 48” deck options
- 23 or 25 HP Briggs & Stratton Professional Series Engine
- Tuff Torq K46 transmission
- Hydrostatic drive
- Electric Height-of-Cut adjustment
- Rear suspension on 2 models
- 12 Gauge Frame Steel
- Cast Aluminum Spindles
Who is this mower for?
This is mower is for the homeowner with a small yard or homeowner that may not need a mower for much more than cutting grass. If you’re only needing to cut your grass but want to have a lawn that stands out, this is the mower for you.
Price
This mower ranges from $2,399 – $3,199 depending on deck and engine option.
Broadmoor
The Broadmoor riding tractor is the next step up from the Regent in the Tractor line up. Mechanically, the big upgrade is the Tuff Torq transmission. There are also larger deck sizes including a 50” and 52” option.
This mower has some additional features like power steering (select units), push button start, and an upgraded seat with armrests.
Key Features
- Free Floating Deck (Stamp and Fabricated deck options)
- 44”, 48”, 50” and 52” deck options
- 23 or 25 HP Briggs & Stratton Professional Series Engine
- Tuff Torq K57 (K62 high speed option) transmission
- Push Button Start
- Power Steering on 48” – 52” deck units
- High back seat with Armrests
- Hydrostatic drive
- Electric Height-of-Cut adjustment
- Full suspension on select units
- 10 Gauge Frame Steel
- Cast Aluminum Spindles
Who is this mower for?
If you have a good amount of grass to cut or just prefer some of the additional bells and whistles this is the mower for you. The power steering on these mowers are probably the biggest step up from the Regent. Once you use power steering, you’ll never go back.
Price
This mower ranges from $3,699 – $5,499 depending on deck size. The power steering units start at $3,999. The 48” fabricated deck with power steering for $3,999 is probably one of the best values in the line up.
Conquest
The next step in the line up is the Conquest riding tractor. This mower is a bit beefier build and has a few additional features. The big upgrades are the engine and transmission. These will both last longer and provide better performance than the Regent and Broadmoor.
The power steering with tilt on the 52” model is a nice upgrade on this mower. The differential lock will also help with traction on many different types of terrain. Overall, this is a premium tractor that will hold up for many years to come.
Key Features
- Free Floating Deck
- 50” stamp and 52” fabricated deck options
- 25 HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series Engine
- Tuff Torq K66 High Speed transmission
- Push Button Start
- Power Steering (with tilt on 52” model)
- High back seat with Armrests
- Hydrostatic drive with differential lock
- Electric Height-of-Cut adjustment
- Full suspension
- 10 Gauge Frame Steel
- Cast Aluminum Spindles
Who is this mower for?
This mower is for the homeowner with a fairly large yard and maybe some hilly terrain. The additional engine and transmission power will help with climbing wills and mower in more difficult areas.
Price
Prestige
The Prestige riding tractor has it in the name. This is a top of the line riding mower. It has all of the features you could ask for in a mower including: EFI engine, differential lock, and hydraulic lift.
This mower can handle a lot of grass and also be used for many of your other chores around the yard.
Key Features
- Free Floating Deck
- 50” stamp and 52” fabricated deck options
- 27 HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series EFI Engine
- Tuff Torq K72 High Speed transmission
- Push Button Start
- Power Steering with tilt
- High back seat with Armrests
- Hydrostatic drive with differential lock
- Integrated Hydraulic Lift
- Electric Height-of-Cut adjustment
- Full suspension
- 10 Gauge Frame Steel
- Cast Aluminum Spindles
Who is this mower for?
This mower is for the homeowner with a large yard and/or a lot of extra chores around the house. This mower has a lot of attachment options to help with many different tasks.
Price
Legacy XL
The Legacy XL is the only sub compact riding mower in the line up. It is a mow first, sub compact tractor second type of unit. This machine will out mower about any sub compact tractor on the market while still being very competitive on the tractor side of things.
The big upgrades from the Prestige to this machine is the ability to get a 4WD unit. This tractor allows allows for additional attachments like front loaders and backhoes.
Key Features
- Free Floating Deck
- 52” and 61” fabricated deck options
- 31 HP Briggs & Stratton Vanguard (EFI on 4WD models) Engine
- Tuff Torq K92 transmission
- 2WD and 4WD options
- 540 Rear PTO Option
- Power Steering with tilt
- High back seat with Armrests
- Hydrostatic drive with differential lock
- Hydraulic Lift
- Electric Height-of-Cut adjustment
- 7 Gauge Frame Steel
- Commercial Aluminum Spindles
Attachment Options
- Front-end loader
- Backhoe
- Tiller
- Snow Blade
- Dump Cart
- Box Scraper
- Rotary Broom
- Rear Grader Blade
Who is this tractor for?
This tractor is for the homeowner this a lot of land and projects. It is the all in one sub compact tractor that can do everything from mower your yard to move dirt.
Price
For accurate pricing on this tractor please contact your local dealer.
Attachments and Accessories
Baggers
Simplicity offers a few different style of baggers for both riding tractors and their zero turn mowers. The three bagger options are twin catcher, triple catcher (pictured above), and wide body cart collector (tractors only). Some of these baggers will require a turbo along with the actual bagger.
If you have questions about which bagger is right for you it is best to check with your local dealer. For more info on baggers you can check out Simplicity's website.
Snow blades/Throwers
The Simplicity tractors are capable of power either snow blades and/or snow throwers. It is not recommended to use these units on the Regent mowers as they may be a little underpowered.
For more information about the different snow blades and throwers available click here.
Mulch Kits
All of Simplicity's mowers have mulch kits available. This is great if you want to finely cut your grass multiple times in order to naturally fertilize your grass.
It is recommended to cut your grass frequently when using a mulch kit to avoid large amounts of thatch (this is basically the name for clumped up cut grass that sits on your lawn… not good!)
For more info about their mulch kits visit Simplicity's website here.
Zero Turn Mower Line-up
| Mower: | Compact Courier | Courier (Cargo Bed on select models) | Contender | Citation | Cobalt | Cobalt LE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine and Horspower | 19 hp Briggs & Stratton Single Cylinder, 23 hp Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, or Kawasaki FR600V | 23 or 25 HP Briggs & Stratton Professional series or Kawasaki FR651V | 25HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series | 25HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series | 26 hp Vanguard or 28 hp Vanguard EFI w/ oil guard | 37 hp Vanguard EFI w/ oil guard |
| Cutting Width | 36" Fab and 44" Stamp | 42", 48", or 52" Fab | 48", 52", or 61" Fab | 52" or 61" Fab | 61" Fabricated | 61" or 72" Fabricated |
| Transmission | Hydro-Gear EZT | Hydro-Gear EZT | Hydro-Gear ZT-3200 | Hydro-Gear ZT-3400 | Hydro-Gear ZT-4400 | Hydro-Gear ZT-5400 |
| Deck Type | 12 Gauge Steel | 12 Gauge Steel | 10 Gauge Fabricated | 10 Gauge Fabricated | 10 Gauge Fabricated | 10 Gauge Fabricated |
| Ground Speed | FWD: 6 mph REV: 3 mph | FWD: 7 mph REV: 3 mph | FWD: 9 mph REV: 4 mph | FWD: 10 mph REV: 5 mph | FWD: 10 mph REV: 5 mph | FWD: 12 mph REV: 6 mph |
| Fuel Capacity | 3 Gallons | 3 Gallon | 5.5 Gallons | 5.5 Gallons | 11 Gallons | 11 Gallons |
| Spindle Material | Cast Aluminum | Cast Aluminum | Commercial Aluminum | Commercial Aluminum | Cast-iron | Cast-iron |
| Suspension | N/A | Front suspension on non-cargo. Front & rear suspension on cargo bed models | Full suspension with pivoting front axle | Full suspension with independent front suspension | Full suspension with independent front suspension | Full suspension with independent front suspension |
| Seat | Mid-Back Mesh | Mid-Back Mesh | Premium Adjustable Seat | Premium Adjustable Seat | Premium Adjustable Suspension Seat | Premium Adjustable Suspension Seat |
| Warranty | 3 Year limited residential | 3 Year limited residential | 4 Year or 500 hours Commercial | 4 Year or 500 hours Commercial | 4 Year or 500 hours Commercial | 4 Year or 500 hours Commercial |
| Price |
Courier
The Courier zero turn mower is the entry level residential mower in the line up. There are many different models of this machine.
Three Types of Couriers
Compact
The compact Courier is the smallest and least expensive mower in the Courier lineup. It is great for very small yards or if you have gates or tight areas to get in and out of.
Suspension (SCS)
The SCS suspension Courier features front suspension on the mower. This suspension in a pivoting front axle with coil shocks. This will provide a more comfortable ride than the compact courier.
This mower is also for smaller yards or tighter areas. It is a great homeowner zero turn to make quick work of cutting your lawn.
Suspension (SCS) + Cargo Bed
The SCS suspension plus cargo bed model features front and rear suspension and includes a cargo bed over the engine. This is great for carrying up to 50 lbs of material (maybe nice for a cooler!)
The cargo bed is nice to have for carrying items but it also helps with reducing the sound of the engine. It acts as a buffer between the engine and operator to save your hearing!
Key Features
- 36” – 52” Deck Size
- Stamp and Fabricated Deck Types
- Briggs & Stratton Professional Series and Kawasaki FR Engine Options
- Hydro-Gear EZT Transmission
- 6 MPH forward speed and 3 MPH Reverse
- Cast Aluminum Spindles
- 3 Gallon Fuel Tank
- Foot Operated Height of Cut
- Suspension on select units
- Cargo Bed on select units
Who is this mower for?
The Courier zero turn is for the homeowner with a small yard but wants to cut the lawn quick. It will easily handle a smaller (acre or so) lawn. The mower will provide a great quality of cut and great ride on the suspension units.
Price
This mower starts at $2,649 – $4,649. This is a very reasonable price for this level of mower. They are quality built machines that will make quick work of a small lawn for any homeowner.
Contender
Summary
The Simplicity Contender is the next step up in the lineup from the Courier. This mower is considered an entry level commercial unit.
Key Features
- 48”, 52”, and 61” Fabricated Deck Options
- 25 HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series Engine
- Hydro-Gear ZT3200 Transmission
- 9 MPH forward speed and 4 MPH Reverse
- Cast Aluminum Spindles
- 5.5 Gallon Fuel Tank
- Foot Operated Height of Cut
- Full Suspension with Pivoting Front Axle
Who is this mower for?
This mower is for the weekend warrior lawn care owner or a homeowner with a decent size lawn. If you are mowing over a couple acres a week if may be worth it for you to move up to this mower.
Although, it is an entry level commercial machine it is still backed with great features and a ton of power.
Price
Citation
Summary
The Simplicity Citation is a step up from the Contender. It is a mid-level commercial unit. It can be used in a commercial setting but still probably best fit for the homeowner with a large yard.
It features upgraded transaxles and a much better suspension. This is the first mower in the lineup with a full independent front suspension. It provides an incredibly comfortable ride and allows you to mow at higher speeds.
Key Features
- 52”, and 61” Fabricated Deck Options
- 27 HP Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series Engine
- Hydro-Gear ZT3400 Transmission
- 10 MPH forward speed and 5 MPH Reverse
- Commercial Aluminum Spindles
- 5.5 Gallon Fuel Tank
- Foot Operated Height of Cut
- Full Suspension with New Independent Front Suspension
Who is this mower for?
While this mower would be fine for a part time commercial landscaper it is best fit for a homeowner with a large yard. You wouldn't want to use this mower full time commercial unless you are just starting out and can't stretch your budget any further.
Price
This mower is in the $7-9,000 range depending on engine option and deck size.
Cobalt
Summary
Can you say full blown commercial? The Simplicity Cobalt is the first mower in the lineup that is exactly that. This is a full commercial zero turn mower made to stand up to everyday use.
This mower features a full independent front suspension which provides an amazing ride. You will be able to cut grass at high speeds and feel great after cutting grass all day.
This mower and the Cobalt LE (next mower) are the only mowers in the lineup that feature Vanguard's Oil Guard system.
Key Features
- 61” Fabricated Deck
- 28 HP Briggs & Stratton Vanguard Series Engine
- EFI and Oil Guard System Option available
- Hydro-Gear ZT4400 Transmission
- 10 MPH forward speed and 5 MPH Reverse
- Cast Iron Spindles
- 11 Gallon Fuel Tank
- Foot Operated Height of Cut
- Full Suspension with Independent Front Suspension
Who is this mower for?
This mower is for a commercial landscaper or a homeowner with a very large yard (maybe large fields). This mower is built very durability and can handle a lot of grass for long periods of time.
Price
Please check with your local dealer for pricing on this mower.
Cobalt LE
Summary
The Simplicity Cobalt LE is the big brother of the regular “Cobalt.” It is a similar mower but beefed up with a larger engine and transaxles. There is also a 72″ deck option on this mower that may be of interest to some.
This mower is also built to cut grass all day. It is a full blown commercial mower that features a 37HP Vanguard with oil Guard and Hydro-Gear ZT5400 transaxles.
Key Features
- 61” and 72” Fabricated Deck Options
- 37 HP Briggs & Stratton Vaguard EFI with Oil Guard Series Engine
- Hydro-Gear ZT5400 Transmission
- 12 MPH forward speed and 6 MPH Reverse
- Cast Iron Spindles
- 11 Gallon Fuel Tank
- Foot Operated Height of Cut
- Full Suspension with Independent Front Suspension
Who is this mower for?
This mower is for a commercial landscaper that needs the biggest mower and deck options or a homeowner with a huge yard or fields to mow. This mower flies at 12 MPH and has all the bells and whistles to ensure you have the most comfortable mowing experience.
Price
Please check with your local dealer for pricing on this mower.
Wrapping it up
And there we are! The entire Simplicity mower lineup from top to bottom. This brand has been around for a long time and build an incredibly loyal following over the years.
They have one of the most complete premium residential mower lineups in the industry. We were extremely impressed with the brand's amazing cut quality and attention to detail in their manufacturing.
We also can't forget the comfortable ride of these mowers. The suspension models throughout the tractor and zero turn mowers provide amazing ride comfort.
These mowers are top notch and we highly recommend them to any homeowner! Find your closest dealer here.
What do you think?
Now it's your turn… Have you owned a Simplicity mower? Have you used one before? If so, leave your comments below! We'd love to hear from you!
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