Hutchinson Blackbird Racing Tyres: Trev’s Take
Posted by Trevor Barrett on
At Trev’s Cycle Shop, I like to get hands-on with the gear before I put it on the shelves. If I’m going to recommend something, it has to earn its place.
So when Hutchinson released their new Blackbird Racing tyres — a model they’re calling their fastest yet — I was genuinely interested. Hutchinson has been around a long time, but they don’t shout about their products. They tend to let the riding do the talking.
After reading the early reviews and giving them a run myself, here’s what I’ve found so far.
Built for Speed, Without Losing Stability
Some race tyres feel fast but keep you on edge in the corners.
The Blackbird Racing doesn’t do that.
Hutchinson has introduced a new compound, Mach Tread 3.0, which is designed to:
- Reduce rolling resistance
- Improve grip
- Keep the tyre stable when you lean the bike over
Both BikeRadar and CyclingNews commented on how composed the tyre felt at high speeds and during descents. I’d agree — there’s a predictable, steady feel that gives you confidence without pushing your luck.
The Tech
Here’s what the tyre is built around, in everyday terms:
- Faster rolling: Hutchinson’s testing shows the Blackbird beats their Fusion line for efficiency. On the road, it feels easier to hold speed.
- Smoother ride: The casing is supple, which helps reduce vibration from rougher surfaces.
- Aerodynamic tread profile: A slightly slicker centre helps keep you moving without wasting energy.
One thing I noticed is how well they manage road buzz. On chipseal — which we see plenty of in NZ, the tyres take some of the sting out of the surface.
486g for a pair of 28c tubeless-ready road bike tyres is impressively light.
Reliable Grip in All Conditions
Grip is where the Blackbird Racing really stood out.
Cornering felt consistent and stable, even when the road surface wasn’t perfect. On damp roads, the tyres didn’t feel nervous or overly stiff — they settled into the tarmac nicely.
They’re still a race-oriented tyre, so they aren’t built for rough gravel or patchy rural roads, but for normal city and suburban riding, they feel secure.
Who I Think These Tyres Suit
The Blackbird Racing shines for riders who:
- Enjoy faster group rides
- Want to race or set new personal bests
- Prefer a tyre that balances speed with predictable handling
- Like a tyre that feels light and responsive under acceleration
If you’re riding on consistently rough roads, you might want something with extra reinforcement. But for everyday road cycling, these sit right in the sweet spot.
Trev’s Final Thoughts
The Hutchinson Blackbird Racing is a genuinely impressive tyre. It feels quick, smooth, and controlled — and that’s a combination you don’t always get at this level.
If you’re looking for a performance tyre that’s fast but still easy to live with, this is one I’d comfortably recommend.
If you want help choosing the right width or setup for your bike, just get in touch — always happy to help you get rolling.
SHOP Hutchinson Blackbird Road Tyre – Fastest Racing Tube:
