The Rise, Reign, and Revival of Hutch BMX
In the golden age of BMX, few names carried the prestige and flash of Hutch BMX. Born from a passion for performance and style, Hutch carved out a legacy that still gleams—literally—in the chrome-plated memories of riders and collectors alike.
Origins: From Maryland to the Mainstream
Hutch BMX began in 1979 in Pasadena, Maryland, founded by Richard Hutchins. What started as a humble bicycle shop quickly evolved into a mail-order powerhouse. Hutchins noticed a growing demand for high-quality BMX parts on the East Coast—many of which were only available on the West Coast. His solution? Bring the best to the East through mail order, and eventually, build something even better.
By 1981, Hutch BMX had transitioned from reselling to manufacturing. Hutchins partnered with Profile Racing to produce the first Hutch-branded frames and forks. That same year, Hutch released its first complete bike—the Hutch Pro Racer. With its shimmering show-chrome finish and sleek black components, it was dubbed “the most beautiful bike in the world.” At over $400, it was also one of the most expensive BMX bikes of its time.
Innovation Meets Style
Hutch BMX wasn’t just about looks—it was about pushing the boundaries of design and performance. The company introduced iconic components like the Bear Trap pedals, deep-H stems, and Aerospeed cranks. These weren’t just functional; they were bold statements of intent. Hutch used exotic materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, magnesium, and titanium, setting a new standard for BMX gear.
Sponsored Legends
Hutch BMX didn’t just build bikes—they built a team. In the early 1980s, Hutch sponsored some of the most talented riders in the sport, including Tim Judge, Rich Farside, Toby Henderson, and Mike “Hollywood” Miranda. These athletes weren’t just racers—they were ambassadors of the Hutch brand, tearing up tracks and turning heads with their chrome-plated machines.
Frames like the “Judge” and “Hollywood” were named in honor of these riders, further cementing their legacy in BMX history.
What’s Hutch Up To Now?
Today, Hutch BMX lives on as Hutch Hi-Performance Inc. While the company no longer dominates the BMX scene as it did in the '80s, it continues to produce high-end BMX components and frames, often catering to collectors and enthusiasts who crave that vintage flair. Their products remain true to the original ethos: performance, style, and a touch of East Coast attitude.
Hutch Video from the 80's
(1986) Hutch Freestyle Team
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