Loop Handle vs U Handle Trimmer: Which One Should You Buy?

AcreMowerLab earns a commission when you shop through links here. It never changes your price. Affiliate disclosure.

Loop handle vs u handle trimmer: how the two handles differ

A loop handle is a single closed grip mounted on the trimmer shaft. One hand holds it, and the other hand stays on the shaft, which makes the trimmer easy to swing around trees, fences and beds. A U handle, also called a bike handle, runs across the trimmer like handlebars, so both hands grip wide apart. That wide grip gives more leverage and steadier control on long passes, but it needs more room to swing.

Handle	Best for	Limit
Loop handle	Tight spots, edging, trimming around obstacles	Less leverage on heavy growth
U handle	Long sessions, clearing, heavy growth	Wider swing, needs more room

When to pick each handle

Pick a loop handle when most of the work is edging along paths, fences and beds, or trimming around trees and posts. The single grip turns fast in tight quarters. Pick a U handle when the job is clearing larger areas, cutting through thicker growth, or working for a long stretch without stopping. The wide grip shares the load between both arms and keeps the cutting head steady on long passes.

Ground matters too. On hills and uneven ground, a loop handle lets the operator adjust the cutting angle quickly around obstacles. On flat, open ground, a U handle pays off over distance. Either way, clear debris from the work area before trimming, and wear eye and hearing protection.

Before buying either style, check how the handle mounts. The kits here are replacement handle bars with mounting hardware included, and they list the STIHL models they fit. A handle that does not match the shaft or mounting point will not sit right, no matter how good the grip feels. Use the fit list on the listing and match it to the trimmer model before ordering.

The gear: loop-handle kits, ranked

All three kits below are loop-handle kits, ranked by fit, grip and stated detail. A buyer who wants a U handle should look for a bike-handle kit made for the same trimmer.

1. KIKEEP Universal Loop Handle

The KIKEEP kit ranks first for its universal fit and grip. The listing describes an ergonomic design with good gripping surfaces, a T-shaped painted and coated plastic handle, and dimensions of 6.69 by 3.94 inches at 9.52 ounces. It fits STIHL FS44, FS55, FS80, FS85, FS90, FS110, FS120, FS200 and FS250, plus other trimmers.

2. HAISHINE Loop Handle for STIHL

The HAISHINE kit ranks second as a STIHL-focused option. The listing describes wear resistance, durability and low noise, with easy installation, and lists an item weight of 10.24 ounces. It fits STIHL FS44, FS55, FS80, FS85, FS90, FS110, FS120, FS200 and FS250, plus other STIHL line trimmers and brushcutters.

3. DDRAUY Universal Loop Handle

The DDRAUY kit ranks third. The listing describes an ergonomic design and lists an item weight of 9.5 ounces, with package dimensions of 8.27 by 7.95 by 2.32 inches. It fits STIHL FS44, FS55, FS80, FS85, FS90, FS110, FS120, FS200 and FS250, plus other trimmers, and lists hill and orchard grassland among its places of use.

Safety

Wear eye and hearing protection when trimming, and clear debris from the work area before starting. Keep children and pets out of the yard while the trimmer runs, and stop the engine before clearing a jam or changing a handle.

FAQ: mowing large lots

Can a loop handle fit any trimmer?

No. Fit depends on the trimmer model: the kits here list STIHL FS44, FS55, FS80, FS85, FS90, FS110, FS120, FS200 and FS250, plus other trimmers, so check the listing against the trimmer before buying.

What is a U handle on a trimmer?

A U handle, also called a bike handle, spreads both hands wide across the trimmer for leverage. It suits long clearing sessions better than a single loop grip.

Which handle is better for slopes and hills?

A loop handle suits trimming around obstacles on uneven ground, while a U handle gives more control on long passes. Keep footing in mind on slopes and clear debris before trimming.

Do these kits include mounting hardware?

Yes. Each kit is a loop handle bar mounting hardware kit, so the mounting hardware comes with the handle.

How heavy are these handle kits?

The HAISHINE kit lists 10.24 ounces, the KIKEEP kit lists 9.52 ounces, and the DDRAUY kit lists 9.5 ounces.

Can I switch handles on the same trimmer?

Yes, if the replacement handle fits the trimmer shaft and mounting point. The kits here are replacement handle bars, so check the fit list against the trimmer before swapping.

More mowing guides

• Straight Shaft vs Curved Shaft Trimmer: Which One Should You Buy?
• 20v vs 40v String Trimmer: Which One Should You Buy?
• String Trimmer vs Brush Cutter: Which One Clears Your Acreage?