If you want a riding mower that’s easy to operate and comfortable to drive, look to the line of Simplicity Lawn Mowers, Inc. Founded in 1922, the company falls under the umbrella of Briggs & Stratton and has long been known for quality and craft. Their mowers are durable and perform well for years, well beyond their warranties. Three models stand out in customer satisfaction:
the javelin Priced between $3,200 and $3,900, this mower can travel at a speed of 6 MPH in forward and 3 MPH in reverse. The design is a single frame system with front springs that makes for not only a smooth ride but also a smooth mow. It offers six different height options via a lever that is easy to control from the driver’s seat. In fact, Simplicity has designed the Javelin so that all controls are within easy reach. The seats are extra padded, as are the footrests, and the wheels measure 18 inches in diameter, but it has a zero turning radius. You can literally light a dime. The gas tank holds up to 3 gallons, enough to handle most front and back yards without refueling. The engine is made by Briggs & Stratton, the parts by Koehler, and the transmission is provided by Hydro Gear® EZT. Models range in horsepower from 16 to 40.
The crown. It is a slightly smaller Simplicity mower that provides between 13 and 16 HP and runs on electric power. It has two patented design features, the Ground Hugger™ and Auto Leveller™, that work together to provide a clean, smooth cut from 30 to 34 inches wide. The turning radius is around 12 inches, so it’s not as tight as the Javelin. However, like the Javelin, you can adjust the height of cut while operating it through its Dial-A-Cut™ system. Its price range is $2450-2850.
The Regent Simplicity mower. This lawn tractor is the flagship model. Simplicity calls it its most aesthetically pleasing and useful riding mower. Customers seem to agree, placing it as one of the best on the market today. The seat and cab are ergonomically designed for comfort and convenience. People say it’s like traveling in a car. If you have a garden of more than an acre, it is worth considering. It has a rear pivot transmission and a torsion bar suspension. These two things secure the mower to give you better balance and traction, especially on hilly terrain. Foot controls are easy to reach and keep your hands on the wheel, so you can turn directions with ease. It averages around $2600 – $3200 and has an 18-24 HP engine with a choice of a 38″, 44″ or 46″ float deck. The turning radius is 14 inches. It also has a 3.5 gallon gas tank. cruise control and automatic transmission.
Other popular models are Citation, Legacy, Axion and Broadmoor. No matter what your lawn needs, whether you want to lay out patterns like a pro or just want to keep your lawn trimmed and tidy, there’s a Simplicity lawn mower for you.