BFGoodrich
| Company type | Brand |
|---|---|
| Industry | Tire manufacturing |
| Founded | 1870 |
| Founder | Dr. Benjamin Franklin Goodrich |
| Fate | Acquired by Michelin in 1990 |
| Headquarters | Akron , United States |
Area served | United States, global markets |
| Products | Tires, including radial tires, tubeless tires, run-flat tires, All-Terrain T/A and Mud-Terrain T/A tires |
| Owner | Michelin |
| Parent | Michelin |
BFGoodrich is a tire brand originating from the United States, initially part of the industrial giant Goodrich Corporation. In 1990, the French tire manufacturer Michelin acquired it, along with Uniroyal (then operating as The Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company). BFGoodrich holds the distinction of being the first American company to manufacture radial tires and was a supplier of tires for the early Winton automobiles.
Significant vehicles fitted with BFGoodrich tires include:
- The pioneering automobile that completed the first transcontinental journey across the United States in 1903
- Charles Lindbergh’s 1927 aircraft, the "Spirit of St. Louis", which made the historic nonstop transatlantic flight
- The landing gear of the Space Shuttle Columbia
BFGoodrich has established a formidable reputation in motorsports, boasting 28 overall victories at the Baja 1000 and securing 13 wins in the Paris–Dakar Rally.
History
The B.F. Goodrich Company was founded in 1870 by Dr. Benjamin Franklin Goodrich and was among the earliest producers of rubber tires west of the Appalachian range. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, it initially manufactured rubber hoses and belts before advancing to pneumatic bicycle tires and, by 1896, becoming the first U.S. producer of pneumatic automobile tires.
At the dawn of the 20th century, BFGoodrich competed with major tire manufacturers such as Goodyear, Firestone, General, and Uniroyal. Its emphasis on research and durability testing helped secure its leadership position in the market. Notably, in 1903, Ford Motor Company selected BFGoodrich tires for its Model A Ford—the vehicle that achieved the first coast-to-coast U.S. journey—significantly enhancing brand visibility.
The Goodrich Corporation exited tire production in 1988 by selling its tire operations and brand to Michelin. Michelin preserved many BFGoodrich manufacturing plants within the United States and continued producing tires under the BFGoodrich name. As of 2023, two BFGoodrich tire manufacturing facilities remain active in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and Woodburn, Indiana.
Innovation
As a trailblazer in the American tire industry, BFGoodrich introduced several groundbreaking products including a rubber-wound golf ball, America’s first pressurized space suit, and synthetic rubber materials. In 1947, it launched the nation’s inaugural tubeless tire, improving both safety and ride comfort for vehicles. The company further advanced tire technology by producing the first radial tires in the U.S. in 1965, which provided enhanced tread durability and superior shock absorption. In 1967, BFGoodrich patented an early version of run-flat tires that allowed continued driving despite tire punctures. Additionally, BFGoodrich expanded its product range with the creation of PF flyer shoes in 1933.
Aeronautics
BFGoodrich ventured into aviation tires in 1909 when its products were fitted on a Curtiss aircraft that set a speed record during an international air competition. The company’s tires also equipped Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis for his groundbreaking solo nonstop transatlantic flight. In 1934, BFGoodrich developed a prototype pressure suit for high-altitude aviator Wiley Post; by 1935 this evolved into America’s first functional pressure suit. This breakthrough served as a foundation for modern pressurized space suits and contributed significantly to advancements in aviation safety and technology.
In 1946, BFGoodrich expanded its aerospace footprint by acquiring Hayes Industries’ airplane wheel and brake division, reinforcing its role as a key manufacturer of aviation components.
Racing Heritage
BFGoodrich's tradition of high performance began in 1914 when its tires were fitted on the victorious vehicle at the Indianapolis 500. Since then, the brand has achieved triumphs in prestigious events including the Baja 1000, Paris-Dakar Rally, and World Rally Championships. Serving as the Official Sponsor and sole tire supplier for the Rallye du Dakar since 2002, BFGoodrich delivers top-tier tires and comprehensive racing support during the competition, strengthening its leadership position in off-road motorsport markets.
Offroad
The All-Terrain T/A and Mud-Terrain T/A tires represent BFGoodrich’s core offerings, distinguished by their unique tread patterns and bold white lettering, which have earned a dedicated following among off-road aficionados. Designed mainly for pickup trucks and body-on-frame SUVs, these tires have become prominent in UTV racing as well as desert car categories such as Class 1, Class 10, and Unlimited Spec. Their performance has contributed to an impressive streak of over 30 consecutive race victories, highlighting BFGoodrich’s dominance in niche tire segments.