Hutchinson’s Atom clincher, which first broke cover in Road Tubeless guise, has now been launched in conventional TT – tube type – format, making it accessible to a wider market.

The main feature to have been changed is the shape of the bead cross-section, which no longer needs to make an air-tight seal with the rim. It is, therefore, shaped like every other TT clincher but, unlike them, has carbon-fibre beads instead of the Kevlar fibres used in most folding tyres. Being less elastic, the carbon bead can be lighter in weight than Kevlar for the same secure rim fitment.

The other obvious change is the omission of the airtight butyl rubber layer on the inside of the Road Tubeless version, saving a meaty 75g. The Atom Comp weighs a claimed 195g, which is good for a 23c tyre with a reasonably thick tread. the tyre uses a single tread compound developed using Hutchinson’s industry-leading rubber compounding technology and containing a reinforcing thermoplastic material.

Hutchinson claims excellent wear, rolling resistance and grip along with “very good” puncture resistance for the Atom, which has a virually slick tread pattern laid over a 127tpi casing that includes a polyamide puncture-resistant belt.  

Fitted to the RCUK test Trek Madone team radioShack Replica to reflect the US team’s continuing choice of Hutchinson as tyre sponsor, the Atom impressed on first acquaintance with a firm and fast yet supple ride and surplus of dry grip even on shiny urban Tarmac. More soon on RCUK.

Hutchinson Atom Comp £38.99