BFGoodrich, originally a part of the Goodrich Corporation, is a prominent American tire company. Acquired by Michelin in 1990, along with Uniroyal, it formed The Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company. Notable for being the first American manufacturer of radial tires, BFGoodrich has a storied history in the tire industry.
Historical Highlights:
- Founded in 1870 by Dr. Benjamin Franklin Goodrich in Akron, Ohio.
- Initially produced rubberized hoses and belts, later ventured into pneumatic bicycle and automobile tires in 1896.
- Competed with Goodyear, Firestone, General, and Uniroyal in the early tire industry.
- Ford Motor Company selected BFGoodrich tires for the Model A in 1903.
- Goodrich Corporation divested its tire business to Michelin in 1988.
Innovations and Contributions:
- First U.S. company to manufacture pneumatic automobile tires.
- Developed the rubber-wound golf ball, the first pressurized space suit, and synthetic rubber.
- Introduced the first tubeless tire in 1947 and the first U.S. radial tire in 1965.
- Pioneered early run-flat tire technology in 1967.
- Developed the PF flyer shoe in 1933.
Aeronautics and Space Exploration:
- Entered aviation by equipping a Curtiss airplane in 1909.
- Provided tires for Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis in 1927.
- Developed the first practical pressure suit in 1935, aiding Wiley Post’s high-altitude flights.
- Tires were used on the Space Shuttle Columbia.
Racing and Motorsports:
- Victorious at the Indianapolis 500 in 1914.
- Prominent in off-road racing, including victories in the Baja 1000 and Paris-Dakar Rally.
- Official Sponsor and tire partner of the Dakar Rally since 2002.
Off-road Tire Development:
- Known for All-Terrain T/A and Mud-Terrain T/A tires.
- Popular among off-roading enthusiasts for pickup trucks and body-on-frame SUVs.
Legacy and Impact: BFGoodrich’s legacy in tire manufacturing and innovation is significant. From equipping early automobiles and aircraft to pioneering developments in tire technology and aeronautics, the company has played a crucial role in the advancement of transportation. Its involvement in motorsports and off-road applications further cements its reputation as a leader in tire performance and durability.