Simplicity makes five models in their Conquest yard tractor category. In the middle is the 23/54. All these models have 23-hp engines and range from 44- to 54-inch cuts with one four-wheel-drive model and two with power steering. The model 23/54 is representative of the Conquest line.

This garden -- or yard -- tractor is powered by a Briggs & Stratton Vanguard engine, the best in the line. With sturdier components and quieter operation, it's designed for high-end residential and some commercial use. It has two-cylinders and is rated at 23 hp -- sufficient for more than mowing. The Tuff-Tork K-66 hydrostatic (automatic) transmission is a good match up with the engine, and is designed to offer more torque for ground-engaging attachments, such as tillers. Forward speed is just over 6 mph and top speed in reverse is 3 mph. Cruise control is standard. The 18-inch turning radius of this model is the same as for most other garden and lawn tractors. The 23/54 is sized to cut lawns of up to about three acres (120,000 square feet) of flat or undulating terrain.

Simplicity makes a solid 10-gauge steel frame for the 23/54 and other Conquest tractors. The mower deck cut is 54-inches wide with three belt-driven blades. Cutting height is adjustable from 1 to 3-3/4 inches with its own spring-loaded handle that's located on the left side of the dashboard. The mowing deck is relatively easy to remove for cleaning or maintenance. Rear tires are 23 inches high, the common size for most garden tractors. The front wheels are 16 inches high, a little larger than other tractors. A built-in traction device minimizes the wheels from damaging lawns of wet grass.

Controls are located for easy operation. Unlike most lawn and garden tractors, the 23/54 has a real fuel gauge that shows the level in the 4-gallon tank. We appreciate that feature. The adjustable steering wheel is padded, and the adjustable 18-inch high seat is comfortable, but there are no armrests or seat belt.

The Simplicity brand is not readily available in all areas. Because the Conquest 23/54 is a higher-priced garden tractor, consider purchasing it from a nearby lawn equipment store with a service department rather than from a big-box store. It will probably not need to be serviced as much as most other garden tractors, but it's nice to know that service is near if you need it.

The 23/54 is a solid, powerful garden tractor that can perform other tasks with options such as the two- and three-bag rear collection system, mulcher kit, dethatcher, tiller, dump cart, dozer blade and snow thrower. However, the basic price for this model is higher than that of other garden tractors that do about the same work. What you're paying extra for is the better engine, more solid construction and more comfortable seating. If these are important features to you and you don't mind the higher price tag, the Simplicity Conquest 23/54 is a great choice for a garden tractor you plan on keeping for a long time.


Pros: Solid engine and transmission, can accept many attachments, well built
Cons: More expensive than other garden/yard tractors