The Enthusiast's Guide to BFGoodrich's Racing Legacy
Posted by WheelSetGo on 5th Feb 2024
The Enthusiast's Guide to BFGoodrich's Racing Legacy
For 150 years, BFGoodrich Tires has not just been a participant in the automotive world; it has been a trailblazer, racing down the corridors of innovation and performance. This journey through time highlights the vehicles, engineers, and drivers that crafted the wins, wows, and world-firsts of BFGoodrich's rich racing legacy.
The Dawn of Radial Performance
In the late '60s, the automotive world was evolving rapidly, with pony cars introducing high horsepower engines that demanded more from tires than ever before. BFGoodrich responded in 1969 with the development of a low-profile radial performance tire, showcasing its capabilities in the most demanding arenas: the racetracks. By 1970, a Pontiac Trans Am equipped with BFGoodrich Radial T/A 60-series tires clinched a class win at the Watkins Glen SCCA National, marking the beginning of a 50-year tradition of racing the tires sold for performance driving.
Conquering Le Mans
1972 saw BFGoodrich making waves internationally, partnering with John Greenwood to create the "Stars and Stripes Corvette" for Le Mans. Equipped with the world's first 50-series radial performance tire, the team secured the GT class pole position, solidifying BFGoodrich as a serious performance tire brand on both sides of the Atlantic.
Innovation Off-Road
The mid-'70s brought a new challenge: creating a radial, off-road, light-truck tire that could endure the rigors of off-road terrain while still performing on pavement. In 1977, after convincing and collaboration with off-road racer Frank “Scoop” Vessels, BFGoodrich celebrated a Class 8 win at both the SCORE Baja 500 and Baja 1000 with the world’s first radial all-terrain tires, the All-Terrain T/A.
A New Chapter in Baja
1979 was a pivotal year as BFGoodrich acquired the "BFG Blazers" to compete in Baja, leading to the development of the Mud-Terrain T/A, the world's first radial mud-terrain tire. This innovation underscored BFGoodrich's commitment to enhancing off-road traction and toughness.
Victory at Le Mans with American Street Tires
By 1982, BFGoodrich had developed the Comp T/A®, the first American V-Speed Rated tire, and tested its mettle in the crucible of Le Mans, securing a class win with a Porsche 924 Carrera GT. This victory paved the way for OE tires development with Porsche, setting a new standard for high-performance street tires.
Redefining Street Tire Performance
In the mid-80s, BFGoodrich challenged the status quo with its Comp T/A® street tires, competing in the IMSA and World Sportscar Championships. The partnership with Jim Busby Racing and the Mazda-powered Lola chassis cars showcased the potential of street tires in professional racing, culminating in class wins at Le Mans.
A Tradition of Winning
The narrative of BFGoodrich's racing success continued through the decades, with significant milestones like the first overall win at the SCORE Baja 1000 in 1986, kicking off 20 consecutive years of victories in one of the most grueling off-road races in the world.
Innovation Meets High-Speed Demand
The '90s heralded the era of Trophy Trucks, requiring a new breed of tire. The BFGoodrich Baja T/A® was the answer, designed to meet the demands of high-speed desert racing, and securing numerous victories with icons like Ivan “Ironman” Stewart.
Looking Ahead
As BFGoodrich celebrates its racing heritage, the focus remains on the future, pushing the envelope of motorsports tire technology. The legacy of innovation, from the track to the street, continues to drive the brand forward, promising even greater achievements in the years to come.
Final Thoughts
BFGoodrich's journey through motorsport is not just a story of past glory; it's a continual quest for excellence and innovation. As we look to the future, the legacy of BFGoodrich Tires racing success serves as a foundation for the next generation of tire technology, ensuring that whether on the track or the street, BFGoodrich remains at the forefront of performance.
Whether you're gearing up for your next off-road adventure, looking to enhance your daily drive with unmatched performance, or seeking tires that embody the spirit of racing excellence, BFGoodrich has you covered. At WheelSetGo, we're proud to partner with a brand that drives the future of tire technology with each mile conquered on the track and every turn taken on the street. Ready to experience the difference BFGoodrich tires can make for your vehicle? Call us today at 320-247-6160 to speak with our tire experts and find the perfect fit for your driving needs. Let's hit the road with confidence, backed by a legacy of performance and innovation.