BFGoodrich
BFGoodrich
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BFGoodrich

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BFGoodrich
Product typeTires
OwnerMichelin
Produced byMichelin
CountryUnited States
Introduced1870; 156 years ago (1870)
MarketsWorldwide
Previous ownersGoodrich Corporation
Websitewww.bfgoodrich.com
Series of BFGoodrich off-road tires

BFGoodrich is an American tire brand. Originally part of the industrial conglomerate Goodrich Corporation, it was acquired in 1990 (along with Uniroyal, then The Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company) by the French tire maker Michelin. BFGoodrich was the first American tire manufacturer to make radial tires. It made tires for the then-new Winton car from Winton Motor Carriage Company.

BFGoodrich tires have been fitted to several noteworthy historical vehicles:

  • In 1903 the first car to cross the United States was fitted with BFGoodrich tires.
  • In 1927 Charles Lindbergh's airplane, the "Spirit of St. Louis," which made the first successful solo non-stop flight across the Atlantic, was fitted with BFGoodrich tires.
  • The Space Shuttle Columbia's landing gear was fitted with BFGoodrich tires.[1]

BFGoodrich has been involved in several Baja California Competitions and enjoyed success with 28 overall victories at the Baja 1000 and 13 times winner of the Paris–Dakar Rally.

History

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The former BFGoodrich smoke stacks at the old tire plant, and headquarters in Akron, Ohio

Founded by Dr. Benjamin Franklin Goodrich in 1870, the B.F. Goodrich Company, later known as BFGoodrich, was among the first rubber tire manufacturers to be located west of the Appalachian mountain range. In the previous year, Goodrich had purchased the Hudson River Rubber Company. Based in Akron, Ohio, the BFGoodrich Company began as a manufacturer of rubberized hoses, which were sold mostly as firehoses. The company also produced rubberized belts, similar to those used on modern vehicles as serpentine belts (fan belt). As the company grew, it began to manufacture pneumatic bicycle tires, eventually leading to the production of pneumatic automobile tires in 1896, making BFGoodrich the first company in the United States to manufacture this type of tire.[2]

BFGoodrich was not the only tire manufacturer in the United States at the turn of the 20th century. Among its competitors were Goodyear, Firestone, General and Uniroyal. Due to extensive research and scientific methods, such as tire wear evaluation and longevity testing, BFGoodrich was at the leading edge of the industry. Ford Motor Company, then owned by Henry Ford, chose BFGoodrich tires to be fitted in the new Model A Ford in 1903. That same year, the Model A, equipped with the tires, became the first car to cross the United States from east to west. This event made BFGoodrich a household name.[3] The Goodrich Corporation, formerly called B.F. Goodrich Company, stopped making tires in 1988 and sold the business and the B.F. Goodrich name to Michelin. Although Michelin purchased the rights and many of the factories of B.F. Goodrich within the United States, the Goodrich factories continued tire production under the parent company, Michelin. As of 2023 there are only two (2) of the B.F. Goodrich factories in operations producing tires, while still working under the original B.F. Goodrich name. These last two factory locations are Tuscaloosa, Alabama and Woodburn, Indiana.

Innovation

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Aside from being the first company in the United States to manufacture pneumatic automobile tires, BFGoodrich is also credited for introducing the rubber-wound golf ball, the first pressurized space suit and the use of synthetic rubber. Although significant, these innovations are not as well known as the company’s contributions to the tire industry.[4]

In 1947, BFGoodrich developed the first tubeless tire in the United States. The tubeless tire eliminate the need for an inner tube, which improves performance and safety, as well as enhanced comfort for the car's occupants.[5]

BFGoodrich produced the first radial tires in the United States in 1965. This innovation made tires even safer as radial tires have longer tread life and permit better absorption of road bumps.[6] The company patented an early sort of run-flat tire two years later, in 1967. This technology enables the vehicle to continue to be driven in emergencies by avoiding that the tire becomes flat instantly.[7]

BF Goodrich also developed the PF flyer shoe in 1933.

Aeronautics

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In 1909, BFGoodrich tires were fitted on a Curtiss airplane, thus marking BFGoodrich's entry in the aviation tire market. In this particular event, the plane, fitted with BFGoodrich tires, set a speed record of 75 kilometers per hour in Reims at the first international air race. BFGoodrich tires were also fitted to Charles Lindbergh’s plane, Spirit of St. Louis, when he completed the first solo non-stop transatlantic flight.[8]

In 1934, BFGoodrich produced a prototype for a pressure suit to be worn by airplane pilot Wiley Post at high altitudes.[9] This first prototype was made mostly of rubber, with the exception being the metal helmet and waist strap. The prototype suit was pressurized in an initial test, but it did not hold pressure as it was expected to. With improvements to the concept, a second prototype was made, using the same helmet, which successfully maintained pressurization. The second suit was successful, at least in holding pressure. The suit had shrunk around Post's body and was removed by cutting the suit apart. One year later, in 1935, another prototype was produced and is said to be the first practical pressure suit in the United States. Piloting his plane, the “Winnie Mae”, Post was able to fly to an altitude of approximately 50,000 feet, where he discovered the jet stream, paving the way for modern flight procedures. From this point forward, the suit created by BFGoodrich served as pattern for modern pressurized space suits.[10]

In 1946, B. F. Goodrich purchased the airplane, wheel, and brake division of Hayes Industries.[11][12]

Racing Heritage

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BFGoodrich is also known for their performance and racing developments and achievements. Its roots in racing can be traced as far back as 1914, when BFGoodrich tires were used by the winning car of the Indianapolis 500. This was just the beginning of victories in several competitions including the Baja 1000, Paris-Dakar Rally, World Rally Championships and many other prestigious racing competitions.[13]

BFGoodrich has been active on the competitive off-road scene in the USA since 1973, but it was only two decades later that the American brand got its first taste of the world’s longest and toughest cross-country rally – the Dakar. BFGoodrich, Official Sponsor and exclusive tire partner of the Rallye du Dakar since 2002’s edition, proposes to all competitors access to premium tires and to its racing service present on all the Rallye’s duration.[14]

Offroad

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BFGoodrich developed and markets its flagship All-Terrain T/A and Mud-Terrain T/A tires. The tires have a unique tread pattern and raised white letters on the tire sidewall, their main application is pickup trucks and body-on-frame SUVs. BFG also supplies custom spec tires for Class1, Class 10 and Unlimited Spec Desert car racing. [citation needed]

[edit]

In 1976 BFGoodrich sponsored a short documentary film, Free Wheelin', about vanning, the practice of customizing vans. The film was directed by Bill Buckley and Mel Horace and written by Brock Yates. Cinecraft Productions provided the location production crew and post-production services. Footage for the documentary was shot at the National Street Van July 1976 “4th Annual "National Truck-In" get together in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The movie featured interviews with participants, as well as plugs for BFGoodrich tires and a BFGoodrich "project van," an automobile outfitted with the latest van technology. The film had a full length of approximately 21 minutes but was edited to other lengths so that it could play as either a short or a trailer in movie theaters.[15] In 2023 the film was restored by the Hagley Museum and Library, which had received a grant from the National Film Preservation Foundation for film preservation, and is currently held in its archives.[16][17]

References

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BFGoodrich

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BFGoodrich is an American tire brand founded in 1870 by Dr. Benjamin Franklin Goodrich in Akron, Ohio, marking the establishment of the first tire factory in North America.[1] Originally part of the B.F. Goodrich Company, a rubber manufacturing enterprise, the brand pioneered numerous advancements in tire technology and became renowned for its rugged, performance-oriented products tailored for automotive, aviation, and off-road applications.[1] In 1990, Michelin Group acquired the Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company, incorporating BFGoodrich into its portfolio as a premium brand focused on sports cars, SUVs, light trucks, and extreme off-road vehicles.[2] Under Michelin ownership, BFGoodrich has maintained its legacy of innovation, including the introduction of the first tubeless tire for American cars in 1947, the first U.S. radial tire in 1965 (the Lifesaver), the world's first all-terrain tire in 1976, and the first run-flat tire in 1967.[1] These developments, along with the 1999 launch of the first tire featuring colored tread (Scorcher T/A), underscore BFGoodrich's commitment to durability and performance.[1] The brand's motorsport heritage is equally defining, with early contributions such as supplying tires for the first automobile to cross North America in 1903 and Charles Lindbergh's 1927 transatlantic flight in the Spirit of St. Louis.[1] BFGoodrich achieved consecutive victories at the Indianapolis 500 in 1914 and 1915, powered the Columbia space shuttle in 1981, and secured six straight Dakar Rally wins from 2002 to 2007.[1] As of 2025, BFGoodrich continues to dominate in events like the SCORE International Baja races, where it has competed for over 40 years, and produces high-quality tires, including the 2024 All-Terrain T/A KO3, which features 3-ply sidewall construction for enhanced durability and is available in black sidewall (no white lettering) and raised white lettering (RWL) variants, with reported weight differences of approximately 6 pounds in some sizes between the variants, for commercial and enthusiast markets.[3][4][5][6]

Company History

Founding and Early Expansion

The B.F. Goodrich Company was founded on October 13, 1870, in Akron, Ohio, by Dr. Benjamin Franklin Goodrich, a physician and entrepreneur from New York state, as Goodrich, Tew & Co. The venture was supported by local Akron investors, including Colonel George T. Perkins, who assembled a group of 19 business leaders to provide $19,000 in startup capital, enabling Goodrich to relocate his operations west of the Allegheny Mountains where competition was lower and resources like cheap water from the Ohio & Erie Canal and railroad access were abundant. Initially, the company focused on manufacturing industrial rubber products, starting with the "White Anchor" rubber fire hose—developed after Goodrich observed a failure of traditional leather hoses during a fire—and expanding to include rubber belting, packing, and other molded goods.[7][8] The company was reorganized and incorporated as the B.F. Goodrich Company on May 10, 1880, with $100,000 in capital stock, and Dr. Goodrich served as its first president until his death in 1888 at age 46. Under his leadership, the firm emphasized innovation in rubber processing, establishing a reputation for quality industrial products that attracted further investment and growth in Akron, which soon became a hub for the rubber industry. Following Goodrich's passing, Colonel Perkins assumed the presidency, guiding the company through diversification while maintaining its Akron base. By the mid-1880s, B.F. Goodrich began venturing into tires, producing solid rubber tires for high-wheel bicycles and later carriage tires, capitalizing on the rising popularity of cycling.[7] A pivotal expansion occurred in 1896 when B.F. Goodrich introduced pneumatic bicycle tires and became the first U.S. company to manufacture detachable pneumatic automobile tires, fulfilling an order from the Winton Motor Carriage Company of Cleveland for its experimental vehicles. This innovation, building on bicycle tire technology, positioned the company at the forefront of the emerging automotive sector, where pneumatic tires offered superior ride comfort over solid rubber alternatives. Post-1900, as automobile production surged, B.F. Goodrich shifted its emphasis toward automotive applications, scaling tire output and securing contracts like supplying tires for Henry Ford's Model A in 1903 and the Winton Touring Car that completed the first successful U.S. coast-to-coast drive that same year, demonstrating the durability of their products over rugged terrain. By 1902, tires—particularly for bicycles and automobiles—along with tubes, hoses, and other rubber items, formed a core part of the company's diversified portfolio, laying the foundation for its dominance in the tire market.[9][10][11]

Major Milestones in the 20th Century

In the early 1900s, BFGoodrich achieved significant recognition in motorsports through its custom racing tires, powering consecutive victories at the Indianapolis 500 in 1915 and 1916, marking the company as the first tire manufacturer to win the prestigious race two years in a row. By the 1920s, BFGoodrich had expanded beyond tires into a broader range of rubber products, including conveyor belts for industrial applications, golf balls utilizing molded rubber cores, and druggist sundries such as rubber tubing and bulbs for medical and pharmaceutical uses, diversifying its portfolio amid growing demand for rubber goods.[9] A pivotal aviation milestone came in 1927 when BFGoodrich supplied the tires for Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, the monoplane that completed the first nonstop transatlantic flight from New York to Paris, covering approximately 3,600 miles in 33.5 hours and demonstrating the durability of the company's pneumatic tires under extreme conditions.[12] During World War II, BFGoodrich played a crucial role in addressing the U.S. rubber shortage by advancing synthetic rubber production, introducing Ameripol in 1940 as one of the first viable synthetic rubbers for tires, which enabled the manufacture of military aircraft tires resistant to harsh operational demands.[13] The company also contributed components, including rubber parts made from synthetic materials, to the TBM Avenger torpedo bomber produced by General Motors' Eastern Aircraft Division, supporting Allied naval aviation efforts.[13] Postwar growth accelerated BFGoodrich's aerospace involvement, highlighted by the 1946 acquisition of the former Waco Aircraft Company plant in Troy, Ohio, which was repurposed for manufacturing aircraft wheels and brakes, laying the foundation for expanded production of landing gear systems.[14] In 1947, BFGoodrich revolutionized automotive safety by inventing the first tubeless tire for American cars, eliminating the inner tube to reduce puncture risks, simplify repairs, and improve overall reliability, a development announced on May 11 that quickly became an industry standard.[15]

Restructuring and Modern Acquisitions

In the mid-1980s, BFGoodrich sought to streamline its operations amid competitive pressures in the tire industry by merging its tire business with that of Uniroyal Inc., forming the Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company (UGTC) as a 50-50 joint venture in 1986.[16] This arrangement allowed BFGoodrich to retain a significant stake while transferring day-to-day tire operations to the new entity, which became the fourth-largest tire producer in the United States at the time.[17] By 1988, BFGoodrich fully divested its interest in UGTC, selling its 50 percent share to Clayton & Dubilier Inc., the private equity firm that owned Uniroyal, for $225 million, effectively exiting the tire manufacturing sector.[18] The following year, in 1989, the French tire giant Michelin Group acquired UGTC for $1.5 billion, including the assumption of $810 million in debt, thereby integrating the BFGoodrich tire brand into its global portfolio.[19] This acquisition positioned Michelin as the world's largest tire manufacturer and led to subsequent consolidations within the former UGTC facilities to optimize production efficiency.[20] For instance, in 2009, Michelin closed the BFGoodrich plant in Opelika, Alabama, which had operated since 1963, resulting in the elimination of approximately 800 to 1,000 jobs as production shifted to other locations amid declining demand.[21] Following the tire divestiture, BFGoodrich refocused its remaining operations on higher-margin sectors, evolving into the Goodrich Corporation in 2001 after merging with Coltec Industries Inc. in 1999, with the headquarters relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina.[22] This restructuring emphasized aerospace components and specialty chemicals, divesting lower-performing units to prioritize advanced technologies.[23] In 2012, United Technologies Corporation (UTC) acquired Goodrich Corporation for $18.4 billion in cash, integrating its aerospace divisions into UTC Aerospace Systems (UTAS) to enhance capabilities in aircraft systems and propulsion.[24] The deal, which included regulatory-mandated divestitures to address antitrust concerns, marked one of the largest aerospace mergers in history and bolstered UTC's position in commercial and defense aviation.[25] UTAS later merged with Rockwell Collins in 2018 to form Collins Aerospace, preserving Goodrich's legacy in areas such as landing systems and de-icing technologies.[26] As of 2025, the BFGoodrich tire brand remains under the management of Michelin North America Inc., which continues to invest in production upgrades, such as the $50 million expansion of the Fort Wayne, Indiana, facility in 2011 to increase capacity for passenger and light truck tires.[27] Meanwhile, the aerospace heritage of Goodrich endures through Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation—formed by the 2020 merger of UTC and Raytheon Company and rebranded in 2023—which maintains operations in high-tech avionics and propulsion systems.[28] These restructurings significantly impacted BFGoodrich's workforce, with the 1980s tire exit and subsequent mergers leading to thousands of job reductions across manufacturing sites as the company shifted from labor-intensive rubber production to specialized aerospace engineering.[29] The 2009 Opelika closure alone displaced over 1,000 employees, reflecting broader industry trends toward consolidation and automation in the 2000s.[30] Overall, the transformations enabled a pivot to high-technology sectors, improving long-term profitability but at the cost of traditional industrial employment.[31]

Tire Division

Development and Key Innovations

BFGoodrich pioneered significant advancements in tire technology following its early 20th-century focus on rubber production, particularly through the introduction of radial tire designs that revolutionized durability and performance in the tire division. In 1965, the company launched the first U.S.-made radial tire, known as the Lifesaver or Silvertown Radial 900, which featured a construction that provided longer tread life, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced handling compared to bias-ply predecessors.[32][1][33] This innovation marked BFGoodrich's aggressive investment in radial technology at a time when most American manufacturers resisted the shift from bias-ply tires.[34] During the 1960s and 1970s, BFGoodrich advanced synthetic rubber formulations and tread compounds to support radial tire performance, building on its earlier synthetic rubber expertise from World War II-era developments like Ameripol. These improvements enabled more resilient materials that resisted wear and improved traction, culminating in products like the Radial Long Life T/A for passenger cars, which emphasized extended mileage through optimized compounding.[35][36] By 1973, these efforts led to the introduction of the Radial T/A, North America's first high-performance radial tire for light trucks and passenger vehicles, incorporating advanced tread blocks for balanced wet and dry grip.[37] A major breakthrough came in 1976 with the development of the All-Terrain T/A tire, the first radial light truck tire designed for both off-road and on-road use. BFGoodrich engineers tested prototypes in Baja California, Mexico, starting in 1975, refining the design for rugged durability while maintaining highway comfort.[38] This tire's three-ply polyester casing and aggressive tread pattern set new standards for versatility in light truck applications.[39] After Michelin acquired BFGoodrich's tire operations in 1990, innovations continued to integrate racing-derived technologies into consumer products. In 2009, the Advantage T/A series was introduced, featuring tread compounds and patterns adapted from BFGoodrich's motorsport experience to deliver extended tread life and superior wet traction for all-season use.[40] This line emphasized interlocking sipes and g-Grip technology for enhanced stability and longevity.[41] In 2020, BFGoodrich marked its 150th anniversary by highlighting key milestones, including its contributions to aerospace through tires that became the first to orbit Earth on the Columbia space shuttle's landing gear in 1981.[42][43] These 34-ply tires, developed in collaboration with NASA, demonstrated the company's expertise in high-stress rubber compounds.[43] As of 2025, under Michelin's ownership, BFGoodrich's tire lineup emphasizes performance radials like the g-Force COMP-2 A/S for ultra-high-performance handling and all-season options such as the Advantage Control and Radial T/A series, which prioritize confident traction, quiet rides, and durability across passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks.[44][45][37]

Racing Heritage

BFGoodrich established its racing legacy early in the 20th century with back-to-back victories at the Indianapolis 500 in 1915 and 1916, becoming the first tire manufacturer to achieve consecutive wins in the prestigious oval-track event and demonstrating the durability of its tires under high-speed conditions.[32] These successes highlighted BFGoodrich's innovative rubber compounds and construction techniques, which were tested rigorously in competitive environments to refine performance for broader applications. Building on this foundation, the company expanded into off-road motorsports, leveraging radial tire technology as a base for enhanced grip and stability in demanding terrains.[46] In off-road racing, BFGoodrich has maintained a dominant presence for over 50 years in the Baja 1000, with participation dating back to the 1970s and a record streak of 20 consecutive overall wins from 1986 to 2005, including victories in Class 1 and unlimited classes through partnerships with teams like the Herbst Racing and McMillin Racing families.[39][47][48] Similarly, since the 1970s, BFGoodrich has supported competitors in the Mint 400, the oldest U.S. off-road race, supplying tires for trucks, UTVs, and pre-runners to ensure superior traction across rocky and sandy courses.[49] Early partnerships, such as with Jim Busby Racing in 1984 for sportscar championships, further solidified BFGoodrich's reputation for developing tires that withstand extreme abuse, informing later off-road efforts.[50] BFGoodrich has engineered race-specific tires tailored to these events, including the Baja T/A KR2, optimized for high-speed desert racing with its aggressive tread blocks and reinforced sidewalls that provide exceptional stability and puncture resistance in Class 1 and unlimited vehicles. The KM3 Mud-Terrain T/A incorporates race-derived compounds for extreme traction in mud and loose surfaces, drawing from Baja testing to deliver aggressive biting edges and self-cleaning capabilities.[51] These innovations have directly influenced consumer products, transferring sidewall strength technologies like CoreGard—proven in Baja races—to street-legal tires such as the All-Terrain T/A KO2, enhancing everyday durability without compromising ride quality.[52] As of 2025, BFGoodrich continues its racing involvement through title sponsorships of events like the Mint 400, extended through 2027, ongoing support for Baja series competitors including a golden anniversary celebration at the 2025 Baja 1000, and Michelin-sustained endurance racing commitments in IMSA, ensuring the brand's tires evolve with cutting-edge performance data from professional circuits.[53][48][54]

Off-Road Specialization

BFGoodrich pioneered the all-terrain tire category with the launch of the All-Terrain T/A KO in 1976, designed to provide versatile performance across rock crawling, mud, and highway conditions for off-road enthusiasts.[38] This radial tire revolutionized the 4x4 market by combining durability with on-road comfort, marking a shift from bias-ply designs to more robust radial construction suited for rugged terrains.[38] The model evolved through generations, culminating in the All-Terrain T/A KO2 released in 2015, which features enhanced sidewall strength—20% tougher than its predecessor—for improved resistance to cuts and bruises during extreme off-road use, alongside extended tread life that lasts twice as long on gravel roads and 15% longer on asphalt.[55] The KO2 also offers 10% greater mud traction and 19% better snow performance, making it a staple for recreational off-roading.[55] The All-Terrain T/A KO2 is available in approximately 11 sizes for 17-inch rims, with key sizes and their approximate overall diameters (measured on specified rims) including:
  • LT225/65R17: 28.5 inches
  • LT245/65R17: 29.5 inches
  • LT265/70R17: 31.6 inches
  • LT285/70R17: 32.8 inches
  • LT305/65R17: 32.6 inches
  • LT315/70R17: 34.4 inches
  • 33x12.50R17LT: 32.5 inches
  • 34x10.50R17LT: 33.5 inches
  • 35x12.50R17LT: 34.5 inches
[56] The All-Terrain T/A KO3, introduced in 2024 as the direct successor to the KO2, is designed for SUVs, light trucks, Jeeps, and 4x4 vehicles, offering a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability while incorporating several advancements to address evolving off-road and on-road demands. Key differences include a revised tread pattern with tread blocks positioned closer together for improved on-road manners and longer tread life, larger water channels extending farther across the tread for superior water evacuation and reduced hydroplaning, more interlocking full-depth 3D sipes for enhanced biting edges, tread stability, and grip in snow/ice conditions, and the removal of the KO2's triangular stone-ejecting elements. The KO3 features a reformulated tread compound for improved cut, chip, and tear resistance and enhanced off-road durability, along with an optimized footprint shape for even stress distribution, delivering 15% better overall wear performance and 20% improved gravel road durability compared to the KO2; BFGoodrich also claims an approximate 6% improvement in rolling resistance over the KO2, contributing to better fuel efficiency. Independent tire tests (e.g., from tire-reviews.com) on the predecessor KO2 measured rolling resistance at 10.7 kg/t in comparable sizes, versus 9.3 kg/t for the General Grabber AT3, indicating a roughly 13% advantage for the General in that metric. No direct rolling resistance studies compare the current KO3 (e.g., in 285/70R18) against General Grabber models (e.g., 275/70R18), though the narrower and often lighter Grabber variants generally favor lower rolling resistance, while the KO3 prioritizes off-road durability with CoreGard sidewall technology, while preserving sidewall toughness via CoreGard technology—featuring 3-ply sidewall construction in many sizes for superior puncture resistance—and equivalent soft-soil traction through upgraded serrated shoulders and mud-phobic bars. On-road, the KO3 provides a smoother, quieter ride with reduced noise and vibrations, better wet traction, and improved braking. Off-road, it offers enhanced snow and ice performance (3PMSF rated in some sizes) alongside maintained mud and rock capabilities. It is available in both black sidewall and raised white lettering (RWL) variants, with minor weight differences noted between them. The KO3 launched in phases starting May 1, 2024, with over 100 sizes across rim diameters from 15 to 22 inches rolling out through 2026. It carries a 50,000-mile limited treadwear warranty and 60-day satisfaction guarantee while maintaining BFGoodrich's motorsport heritage with strong performance in off-road events such as the Baja races. Notable examples of 15-inch sizes (incoming or available in 2026) include:
  • 30x9.50R15/C 104R (MSPN 05788)
  • 31x10.50R15/C 109R (MSPN 49534, overall diameter ~30.5-31 inches)
  • 32x11.50R15/C 113R (MSPN 09184)
  • 33x10.50R15/C 114R (MSPN 73184)
  • 33x12.50R15/C 108R (MSPN 88627)
The 31x10.50R15 is a popular flotation size approximating 31 inches in diameter and serves as a functional equivalent to metric sizes such as 265/75R15. A key innovation in BFGoodrich's off-road lineup is the CoreGard technology, introduced in 2014 as part of the KO2 development, which employs race-derived sidewall rubber to protect against punctures, splits, and bruises in extreme terrains like rocky trails.[55] This technology increases rubber thickness and incorporates advanced deflection designs to deflect hazards, ensuring reliability during prolonged exposure to sharp obstacles.[55] Complementing this, the Mud-Terrain T/A series, starting with the KM2 in 2007 and advancing to the KM3 in 2018, focuses on deep mud and loose surfaces with aggressive, interlocking tread patterns that enhance grip and self-cleaning capabilities.[57] The KM3 incorporates upgraded Krawl-TEK compounds for better rock adhesion and CoreGard Max for superior sidewall reinforcement, optimized for vehicles tackling slick, uneven off-road environments without compromising traction.[51] Over more than 40 years, BFGoodrich has maintained off-road leadership through rigorous testing in Moab, Utah—renowned for its challenging red rock trails—and strategic partnerships with Jeep and truck manufacturers to co-develop tires for factory-equipped vehicles.[38] These collaborations ensure compatibility with popular off-road platforms, emphasizing real-world durability validated in events like the Easter Jeep Safari.[58] As of 2025, offerings like the Trail Terrain T/A provide balanced on- and off-road performance for crossovers, SUVs, and light-duty pickups, featuring full-depth 3D sipes for enhanced traction and a 60,000-mile limited warranty.[59] To address environmental concerns, BFGoodrich integrates low-rolling-resistance compounds in select all-terrain models, such as variants of the KO2, to improve fuel efficiency in off-road vehicles without sacrificing grip.[60]

Aerospace Division

Origins and Technological Evolution

BFGoodrich's entry into the aviation sector began in the early 1900s with the provision of rubber components, including tires and brakes, for early aircraft starting in 1909. This initial involvement expanded during World War I, when the company constructed eight nonrigid airships for the U.S. Navy in 1917, utilizing its expertise in rubber envelopes and fabrics for dirigibles capable of reaching 7,500 feet and speeds of 45 mph. By the 1920s, BFGoodrich had further developed specialized tires for airplanes, building on its rubber manufacturing capabilities to support the growing demands of commercial and military aviation.[9][61] A significant milestone came in 1934, when BFGoodrich collaborated with aviator Wiley Post to develop the world's first practical full-pressure suit for high-altitude flight. Engineered by Russell S. Colley at BFGoodrich, the suit featured a one-piece rubber design with flexible joints, a metal helmet, and liquid oxygen supply, addressing the challenges of low-pressure environments in unpressurized aircraft. This innovation enabled Post to achieve altitudes exceeding 40,000 feet on September 5, 1934, over Chicago, and up to 50,000 feet on December 7, 1934, where he discovered the jet stream, marking a breakthrough in stratospheric exploration.[62][63] During World War II, BFGoodrich played a critical role in aerospace advancements through its synthetic rubber production, operating the first such plant in Akron, Ohio, to supply tires for key aircraft like the B-17, B-24, B-29 bombers, and P-61 fighter. These tires, made from government-developed synthetic rubber to counter natural rubber shortages, supported over 50 aviation products, including the six tires on the B-29 Enola Gay. The company also produced de-icing systems, such as pneumatic boots for aircraft wings and propellers on models like the B-17 and Northrop P-61, enhancing operational safety in adverse weather conditions.[13] In the post-war era, BFGoodrich evolved its aviation efforts into a dedicated aerospace division, focusing on advanced rubber-based technologies amid the jet age and Cold War demands. By the 1950s and 1960s, the company advanced fuel tank sealants and self-sealing systems derived from wartime innovations, improving aircraft safety and efficiency for military and commercial jets. This period also saw contributions to propeller de-icing and related components, building on earlier expertise to support high-performance aircraft. The division's growth culminated in the 1972 collaboration with NASA and Cleveland Pneumatics on the Space Shuttle's landing gear, initiating development of specialized 34-ply tires that enabled runway landings for reusable spacecraft, first tested on the STS-1 Columbia mission in 1981.[64][43]

Key Products and Contributions

BFGoodrich, in collaboration with its subsidiary Cleveland Pneumatics, developed the landing gear system for NASA's Space Shuttle program between 1972 and 1981, marking a significant advancement in reusable spacecraft technology.[43] This system included specialized tires rated at 34 plies, which were first deployed on the STS-1 mission aboard the Columbia orbiter on April 12, 1981, becoming the first tires to orbit Earth after a 54-hour flight.[43] The design withstood extreme conditions, including reentry temperatures and high-impact landings, enabling the Shuttle's operational success over 135 missions.[43] Since 1946, BFGoodrich has produced aircraft wheels, brakes, and hydraulic systems at its Troy, Ohio facility, originally acquired from Waco Aircraft Company, supporting a wide range of commercial and military aircraft.[65] These components have been integral to iconic models, including the Boeing 747 jumbo jet, where the Troy plant manufactured wheels and carbon brakes for enhanced stopping power on long runways.[66] Similarly, the facility supplied wheel and brake assemblies for the Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon, contributing to its agility and performance in high-speed maneuvers.[67] In the 1990s, BFGoodrich expanded its aerostructures portfolio through the 1997 acquisition of Rohr Inc., gaining expertise in nacelle systems and engine pylons that integrate engines with aircraft fuselages.[68] This addition brought over 75 years of thrust reverser technology, originally pioneered by Rohr since the 1940s, which redirects engine exhaust to slow aircraft during landing and improve safety on short runways.[69] These systems have been deployed on numerous commercial and military platforms, enhancing fuel efficiency and noise reduction.[69] BFGoodrich pioneered de-icing boots in the late 1920s and early 1930s, with the first commercial pneumatic system installed on the Northrop Alpha in 1932 to prevent ice buildup on wings and control surfaces.[70] Evolving to electro-thermal systems, these technologies use embedded heating elements to melt ice, providing reliable protection for leading edges on fixed-wing aircraft and becoming standard equipment on many commercial jets for safe operations in icing conditions.[71] The systems reduce drag and maintain lift, critical for flight safety in adverse weather.[70] Following the 2012 acquisition by United Technologies Corporation, BFGoodrich's aerospace assets were integrated into what became Collins Aerospace, which operates under RTX following the 2020 merger.[72] As of 2025, Collins Aerospace continues contributions from this heritage, including development of high-voltage power distribution for hybrid-electric propulsion and support for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) through compatible fuel systems that enable up to 100% SAF blends to cut emissions.[73] Efforts also extend to hypersonic vehicle technologies, leveraging aerostructures expertise for thermal management in high-speed flight environments. These products have had lasting impacts on aerospace, enabling high-altitude commercial flights with reliable de-icing and braking, while the Space Shuttle innovations paved the way for sustained human space exploration and reusable launch systems.[43]

References

  1. BFGoodrich Tires History
  2. Michelin Heritage
  3. BFGoodrich® Tires Commemorates 40 Years of SCORE ...
  4. BF Goodrich Jeep Wrangler All-Terrain T/A KO3 Tire
  5. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 | Tire Rack
  6. BFG KO3 285/70R17 - why is there a 6lb difference in black vs white lettering? | Reddit
  7. Early Days of Akron Rubber Industry, p.1 - Tire Review Magazine
  8. Why Did Rubber Come To Akron? | WOSU Public Media
  9. BFGoodrich: Tradition and Transformation, 1870-1995 – EH.net
  10. B. F. Goodrich Tires - Heartland Science
  11. The First Tires to Go on an American Road Trip | BFGoodrich USA
  12. Charles A. Lindbergh's Ryan NYP, NX211, “Spirit of St. Louis”
  13. B.F. Goodrich in World War Two
  14. Goodrich Corporation Donates Vintage Aircraft to WACO Historical ...
  15. B.F. Goodrich Co. announces development of tubeless tire | HISTORY
  16. Goodrich, Uniroyal to Merge Tire Operations in New Joint Venture
  17. IN TIRE MARKET, A NEW FORCE - The New York Times
  18. Goodrich to leave tire business - UPI Archives
  19. Michelin Group to Buy Uniroyal Goodrich in a Deal Worth $1.5 Billion
  20. Michelin to Acquire Uniroyal Goodrich - The New York Times
  21. Opelika BFGoodrich plant to close - WSFA
  22. Goodrich Corporation | Encyclopedia.com
  23. B.F. GOODRICH CORPORATE RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT ...
  24. Joint Press Release, dated September 21, 2011 - SEC.gov
  25. Justice Department Requires Divestitures in Order for United ...
  26. Mega-Merger: What UTC-Rockwell Collins Means For Aerospace
  27. Michelin to Invest $50 Million to Upgrade, Expand BFGoodrich Tire ...
  28. United Technologies and Raytheon Complete Merger of Equals ...
  29. [PDF] 61-1 .. - . the economic effects of the proposed bfgoodrich/coltec ...
  30. BFGoodrich closing Alabama plant that employs 1000
  31. [PDF] AKRON, OHIO - Brookings Institution
  32. The History of BFGoodrich: Over a Century of Innovation
  33. 1965-1966 Corvette Tire BFG Silvertown 205/75R15 Gold Line Radial
  34. First American Car with Factory Radial Option? - AACA Forums
  35. The Bfgoodrich Company | Encyclopedia.com
  36. U.S. Synthetic Rubber Program - National Historic Chemical Landmark
  37. BFGoodrich Radial T/A | Performance Tires for Cars, SUVs & Light ...
  38. BFGoodrich® Tires Celebrates 40 Years of the Radial All-Terrain
  39. BFGoodrich® Tires Commemorates 35 Years of Winning Grip and ...
  40. BFGoodrich® Tires Brings Racing Heritage to Touring with the ...
  41. BFGoodrich Advantage T/A 215/60HR15 Tires - Mavis
  42. BFGoodrich Tires Celebrates 150th Anniversary
  43. The First Tires to Orbit Earth - A Historic Milestone | BFGoodrich USA
  44. Performance - Search by Vehicle type | BFGoodrich USA
  45. All-season - Search by Season | BFGoodrich USA
  46. History and Heritage | BFGoodrich Truck Tires
  47. Luke McMillin/Roeseler win BFGoodrich Tires 53rd SCORE Baja 1000
  48. https://racer.com/2025/11/10/bfgoodrich-to-celebrate-golden-anniversary-at-baja-1000
  49. BFGoodrich Tires aims for glory at 2025 Mint 400
  50. Jim Busby - From Product Testing to Racing Podiums - BFGoodrich
  51. BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3
  52. BFGoodrich's 'toughest' all-terrain tyre - Tyrepress
  53. BFGoodrich Tires announced as title sponsor of the Mint 400 ...
  54. IMSA and Michelin Finalize Long-Term Partnership Extension ...
  55. BFGoodrich® Tires Introduces Its Toughest All-Terrain Tire
  56. https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=All-Terrain%2BT%252FA%2BKO2
  57. BFGoodrich® Tires Launches Mud-Terrain T/A® KM3
  58. Moab Easter Jeep Safari with BFGoodrich Tires - Off-Road Trips
  59. BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A | All-Terrain Tires for Light Trucks ...
  60. https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=BFGoodrich&tireModel=All-Terrain%2BT%252FA%2BKO2&partnum=325R5KO2RWL
  61. Local history: 100 Years Ago, Goodrich Built Blimps Too
  62. The World's First Practical Flight Pressure Suit - AsMA
  63. Conserving Wiley Post's Helmet | National Air and Space Museum
  64. Advances in Self-Sealing Fuel Tank Technology - DSIAC
  65. B.F. Goodrich Company | Asbestos, Mesothelioma
  66. Goodrich gets Boeing 747-8 gear, wheels & brakes; first drawings ...
  67. BF Goodrich Company | Aviation Week Network
  68. BFGoodrich Will Buy Rohr for $1.3 Billion - Los Angeles Times
  69. Rohr/Goodrich Corporation: 75 Years of Aerospace History
  70. About | Goodrich De-icing Systems
  71. Electrothermal De-Icing | Goodrich De-icing Systems
  72. United Technologies gets Goodrich, which employs 750 in Foley ...
  73. [PDF] FUELING THE FUTURE OF AVIATION
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