Electric mini-pumps are arguably the hottest new cycling gadget of the past couple of years, and seemingly every brand is getting in on the action. Hutchinson is the latest to bring a new electric inflator to market with today’s launch of the FlashAir. In recent years, the French tire manufacturer has grown its product lineup to include bike cleaners, lubes, sealants, and other tire-related tools and accessories, and the FlashAir is currently its only pump product. Let’s check it out.
Hutchinson FlashAir Details
Not surprisingly, the FlashAir looks like many of the other electric mini-pumps on the market. It’s a small rectangular block, but sets itself apart a bit with a rounded shape to one of its ends. Hutchinson refers to it as “ultra-compact”, and it has dimensions of 71 x 45 x 32mm and a claimed weight of 130 grams. For comparison, the Cycplus AS2 Ultra is one of the smallest inflators on the market, and its dimensions are 65 x 47.5 x 28 mm, and it weighs 128 grams (with its cover and hose).
Like the Cycplus AS2 Ultra and several other inflators, the FlashAir has a silicone cover that’s meant to protect the unit, provide extra grip, and serve as a heat barrier. It also features an overheat protection system that pauses inflation if the motor gets too hot during extended use. It comes with an extension hose and adapters for Schrader and Presta valves, plus a ball needle.
The FlashAir features a digital color display that shows both real-time and preset pressures simultaneously. It is capable of inflating to pressures up to 120 psi / 8.2 bar, and it has an auto-shutoff to stop at your desired pressure. It also has a built-in LED light to help you see in poor lighting conditions, as well as an integrated LED battery indicator to keep tabs on battery life. The built-in lithium battery (7.4 V / 300 mAh) charges via an included USB-C cord.
Included with purchase:
- 1× FlashAir mini inflator
- 1× Protective silicone sleeve
- 1× Type-C charging cable
- 1× Schrader valve adapter
- 1× Presta valve adapter
- 1× Ball needle
- 1× Extension hose
- 1× Bilingual user manual (FR/EN)
- 1× Lanyard / Carry strap
- 1× Flash’Air packaging
Pricing and Availability
The new Hutchinson FlashAir sells for €69.99, which is on the lower side of the price spectrum for electric inflators. You can learn more about the FlashAir or find a dealer near you on the Hutchinson website.
