I've had this reel for about 2 yrs now and have used it very little.  I really like it but my 2 stradics see most of the action.  It pretty much just sit all season until winter rolls around and I use it on my float and fly rod.  Anyway, I hate the handle!  It feels cheap and I can't stand the hard plastic knob.  Is there an upgrade for this to something like the stradics have?  You know more soft and rubbery?

Have you tried swapping on of your Stradic handles over to your Symetre? If they'll fit, you could just order another from Shimano.