The DEWALT DCST981B is the professional bike-handle variant of the 60V MAX* FLEXVOLT® brushless string trimmer, designed for all-day commercial landscaping. The bike handle with a dual-arm harness distributes weight across both shoulders for superior operator comfort during extended use. It delivers up to 63% greater peak torque than a 36cc gas trimmer and handles both 0.095-in. and 0.105-in. line at a 17.5-in. swath. An LED display and included DEWALT trimmer head round out the feature set. Battery sold separately.
What is the bike handle on the DCST981B?
The bike handle (also called a bull handle) is a two-handed grip configuration with a horizontal bar, similar to commercial gas trimmer designs. Combined with the dual-arm shoulder harness, it distributes the tool's weight more evenly, reducing operator fatigue during long trimming sessions.
What battery does the DCST981B require?
The DCST981B uses DEWALT FLEXVOLT® 60V MAX* batteries, specifically the DCB609 9.0Ah battery for maximum runtime. The battery is sold separately — consider the DCST980X2 kit if you need batteries included.
How does the DCST981B differ from the DCST980?
Both share the same 60V FLEXVOLT brushless motor and 17.5-in. swath, but the DCST981B features a bike handle and dual-arm harness for two-handed operation typical of commercial landscapers. The DCST980 uses a D-ring loop handle and single-shoulder strap.
Is the DCST981B powerful enough to replace a gas trimmer?
Yes, for most commercial applications. DEWALT rates the DCST981B at up to 63% greater peak torque and 18% greater peak power than a 36cc gas string trimmer (Stihl FS 131), while operating 70% quieter.
What line diameter works with the DCST981B?
The DCST981B is designed for both 0.095-in. and 0.105-in. trimmer line, supporting heavier line for tackling thick brush and heavy overgrowth on commercial properties.
Does the DCST981B have an LED display?
Yes. The DCST981B includes an LED display to communicate battery charge status and operational information, keeping the operator informed without having to check the battery separately.
# DEWALT® 60V MAX* 17-1/2-in. Brushless Cordless String Trimmer With Bike Handle (Tool Only) **Model:** `DCST981B` **Brand:** DEWALT **Category:** String Trimmer > The DEWALT DCST981B is the professional bike-handle variant of the 60V MAX* FLEXVOLT® brushless string trimmer, designed for all-day commercial landscaping. The bike handle with a dual-arm harness distributes weight across both shoulders for superior operator comfort during extended use. It delivers up to 63% greater peak torque than a 36cc gas trimmer and handles both 0.095-in. and 0.105-in. line at a 17.5-in. swath. An LED display and included DEWALT trimmer head round out the feature set. Battery sold separately. ## Specifications | Attribute | Value | |---|---| | Product Type | String Trimmer | | Voltage (V) | 60 | | Cordless / Corded | Cordless | | Power Source | Battery | | Motor Type | Brushless | | Tool Only | Yes | | Batteries Included | 0 | | Charger Included | No | | Cutting Swath In | 17.5 | | Line Diameter In | 0.095 | | Line Diameter Max In | 0.105 | | Shaft Type | Straight | | Weight (lbs) | 26.5 | | Height (in.) | 6.5 | | Length (in.) | 70.88 | | Width (in.) | 16.25 | | Country of Origin | China | | Barcode (UPC) | 885911927338 | | Battery Platform | FLEXVOLT® 60V MAX* | | Warranty | 3-year limited (tool) | ## What's Included - (1) DCST981 String Trimmer - (1) Dual Shoulder Strap - (1) Bull Handle & Guard - (1) DEWALT Trimmer Head Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/dewalt/string-trimmer/dcst981b-dewalt-60v-max-17-12-brushless-cordless-string-trimmer-bike-handle-tool-only/