Ryobi Reel Easy Bump Head with Speed Winder

Reloading a string trimmer can often be a tedious task, but my experience with the Ryobi Reel Easy Bump Head with Speed Winder has been a breath of fresh air. As someone who frequently works on yard maintenance, I am always on the lookout for tools that can make the job easier and more efficient. This replacement trimmer head from Ryobi does just that, with a few caveats.

One of the standout features of this trimmer head is its reload speed. Ryobi claims it can be reloaded in under 60 seconds, and I found this to be accurate. The process is straightforward: insert the line through the head until there is an equal amount on both sides, then use the Speed Winder crank to rotate the head until approximately six inches of line are showing on each side. This simplicity significantly reduces downtime, allowing me to get back to trimming without much fuss.

Compatibility is another strong point for this trimmer head. It's designed to work with both .080 inch and .095 inch line, which covers most of the common string sizes used in residential and even some commercial applications. This versatility is a big plus for those who might have different trimmers or different trimming needs. I tested it with both sizes and found it worked equally well with each.

The craftsmanship of the Reel Easy Bump Head is commendable. Made from durable plastic, it feels robust and well-constructed. During my time using it, I didn’t experience any issues with the material integrity, even when bumping it against hard surfaces to feed more line. The bump feed mechanism works as intended, with a simple tap on the ground extending the string. This feature is particularly useful for maintaining a consistent cutting length without having to stop and manually adjust the line.

Installation of the trimmer head was a breeze. I followed the included instructions, and the entire process took just a few minutes. It fit perfectly on my Ryobi RY15523A trimmer, but it’s worth noting that it’s meant to be a universal replacement, so it should fit a range of models. This ease of installation is a significant benefit, especially for those who may not be mechanically inclined.

Despite these positives, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the majority of my experience was positive, I did come across a few comments about the durability of the trimmer head. Some users mentioned that their units did not last as long as they would have liked. In my case, I’ve only used it a handful of times, and it has held up well so far. However, if you are someone who puts heavy use on your trimmer, it might be something to keep an eye on.

Another minor issue is related to the precut rewind string. While the concept of having precut strings is great for ensuring you use the right amount, it can be a bit of a hassle if you prefer to cut your own lengths or if you run out of the precut strings provided. That said, it’s not a deal-breaker, but more of a personal preference.

In terms of performance, the trimmer head excels. It feeds the line smoothly and consistently, which is a crucial aspect for any bump feed system. The improved design over the original trimmer head is evident in its functionality and ease of use. I appreciated how it made my trimming tasks less cumbersome and more efficient.

The price point of the Reel Easy Bump Head is quite reasonable, especially considering the time and effort it saves during reloading. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your yard maintenance routine. Given its ease of use, compatibility, and overall performance, I find it to be a worthy addition to my tool collection.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Ryobi Reel Easy Bump Head with Speed Winder to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient trimmer head replacement. Its quick reload time, ease of installation, and durable construction make it a valuable tool for both casual and frequent users. While there are some concerns about long-term durability, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive, and I believe it offers excellent value for its price. If you’re in need of a new trimmer head that simplifies the reloading process and performs well, this Ryobi model is definitely worth considering.