Hutchinson Releases WYRM Downcountry Tire
Bridging the gap between a fast rolling cross-country tire and a burly enduro tire is Hutchinson’s latest addition to their model line - the WYRM. The radical tread pattern can be used as a front or rear tire and aims to combine an efficient rolling tread that still offers enough bite on rugged terrain. This new intermediate-style tire is only available in 29 x 2.4" and depending on the manufacturing location, varies in weight, price, and color choices.
A lighter version receives the Hutchinson Racing Lab label and is made in France. This tire costs £69,95 / €75,99, weighs 950g, and comes in either black or tan wall. A less-expensive version that only comes in black costs significantly less - £42,95 / €45,99, but weighs 1000g.
Hutchinson WYRM Details
• Use: Downcountry/Trail
• Sizes: 29 x 2.4"
• XC Race Riposte tri-compound
• 66 TPI casing
• Hardskin bead to bead reinforcement
• Black or Skinwall (Racing Lab only)
• 950g (Racing Lab), 1000g
• MSRP: Racing Lab: £69,95 / €75,99, Standard: £42,95 / €45,99
• cycling.hutchinson.com
• Use: Downcountry/Trail
• Sizes: 29 x 2.4"
• XC Race Riposte tri-compound
• 66 TPI casing
• Hardskin bead to bead reinforcement
• Black or Skinwall (Racing Lab only)
• 950g (Racing Lab), 1000g
• MSRP: Racing Lab: £69,95 / €75,99, Standard: £42,95 / €45,99
• cycling.hutchinson.com
In terms of construction, Hutchinson uses a 66 thread per inch (TPI) casing with bead to bead reinforcement. The compound is made up of three durometers, but the exact shore numbers are not specified. Hutchinson says that the WYRM is designed to be run with lower pressures, although those pressures will vary depending on rider weight. The central set of chevron blocks is said to reduce rolling resistance while the wider pair claims to aid in a smoother transition. Small sipes promote deformation of the shoulder lugs.
For more information and availability, head to cycling.hutchinson.com.
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Rotating mass the furthest out from the hub makes such a difference in feel especially affecting snappiness in acceleration and direction change. Personally I ride sub 900 on my trail/AM bike everywhere too, except when in mountains with jagged rocks.
Also depends on your focus. Up or down.
I ride technical trails, steeps and some bike parks too with said tire weights. It also on depends on your weight and smoothness though, I'm only 75kg and get away with it pretty well.
When in the Alps or bigger parks I go for beefier sidewalls though and if I lived in sea2sky I would probably go for around 1000. (But then I wouldn't choose a DC bike).
Round
Quite grippy
Quite good in most conditions
Quite good rolling resistance
Weights vary between expected norms
Sizes - tough!
Prices are bound to satisfy some and irritate others.
Sorry!! - its either this or go back to writing my EOFY performance review (which ChatGPT is doing a hell of a good job for).
Product Review: Hutchinson WYRM Downcountry Tire
Rating: ★★★★☆
The Hutchinson WYRM Downcountry Tire is a high-performance mountain bike tire that is designed to excel in various off-road conditions. Having had the opportunity to test this tire extensively, I can confidently say that it delivers a solid performance overall.
One of the standout features of the WYRM Downcountry Tire is its exceptional grip. The tire's aggressive tread pattern provides excellent traction on loose dirt, rocky terrains, and even wet surfaces. Whether you're climbing steep hills or navigating technical descents, the tire maintains a firm grip, instilling confidence in the rider. It offers a good balance between low rolling resistance and enhanced grip, which is crucial for maintaining speed and control on the trails.
The durability of the Hutchinson WYRM Downcountry Tire is another aspect worth mentioning. The tire's construction feels robust, and it has held up well to rough trails and sharp objects encountered along the way. I have experienced minimal punctures or sidewall damage, which is a testament to its resilience. This durability translates into a tire that can withstand the demands of aggressive riding and last for a reasonable period.
In terms of performance, the WYRM Downcountry Tire performs admirably in most conditions. It rolls smoothly on hard-packed trails, allowing for efficient pedaling and speed. The tire's wide profile enhances stability, especially during high-speed descents, providing a solid platform for control and maneuverability. However, it's worth noting that in extremely muddy conditions, the tire may struggle to shed the mud efficiently, affecting its overall performance.
One area where the Hutchinson WYRM Downcountry Tire could be improved is its weight. While it is not excessively heavy, there are lighter options available on the market. For riders who prioritize weight savings, this might be a drawback. However, the tire's performance and durability make it a worthwhile compromise for most riders.
Overall, the Hutchinson WYRM Downcountry Tire is a reliable and high-performing option for riders seeking a versatile tire for aggressive off-road riding. Its exceptional grip, durability, and solid all-around performance make it a suitable choice for cross-country and trail enthusiasts. While it may not be the lightest option available, it compensates with its impressive traction and robust construction. Whether you're tackling technical descents or embarking on long climbs, the WYRM Downcountry Tire proves to be a capable companion on your mountain biking adventures.
I asked it to re-write last year’s blurb but ‘more impressive and positioning me for promotion’.
What it produced was 95% perfect, just minor tweaks required.
This morning, no word of a lie, my manager advised I am getting promoted next week!!
Next year I’ll be asking ChatGPT to line me up for a Ferrari and a new Enduro bike each year thereafter.
Would You Rate Me?
What’s Your Romantic Meaning?
Will You Ravage Me?
Once I know the answer to these questions, I will let you know if I’m in hot, or not.
This is too heavy and won't be going anywhere near my "downcountry" or even "trail" bikes.
1kg is a weight of tyre that I run on my "all mountain" bike and definitely a good bit more knobbly than this creature.
Nice try Hutchinson but you'll have to make the tyre actually light for your target market to look twice at it unless you only want to sell to the dozen or so people who need the reinforced carcass to save their rims from rocks...
What's bad about the current Griffus? Maybe I'm not fast enough, but to me it is a better alternative to the DHF.
rode 2.5 as a front tire, mostly N shore, no prob cornering. Also I wet I find it good enough. Carries speed well. Best casing in sub 1.1kg range.
The only negative I find is availability.