Avon Cobra Chrome whitewall tyres are back
Avon’s most recognisable cruiser tyre has been rebuilt under Goodyear ownership, with Cobra Chrome whitewalls returning as production moves to France.
Avon has completed a full redevelopment of its Cobra Chrome cruiser tyre, bringing its most recognisable product back into full production – including the return of retro whitewall options.
The Cobra Chrome sits at the centre of Avon’s cruiser and custom line-up and has now been completely re-engineered following the brand’s move into Goodyear’s motorcycle portfolio four years ago. While the tyre never disappeared entirely, this marks the first ground-up overhaul under Goodyear ownership.
For riders, the headline news is the whitewalls, which land in the updated Cobra Chrome range that includes 77 front and rear sizes - although, only 14 of them feature the traditional white sidewall that made the tyre a familiar sight on on the road.
Less visible, but arguably more important, is where the tyres are now made.
Production of Avon’s hoops has moved to Goodyear’s motorcycle manufacturing centre in Montluçon, France – a facility already well known for producing Dunlop’s premium road tyres and race-winning rubber.
Many Cobra Chrome sizes had never been produced at Montluçon before, requiring extensive re-engineering to meet Goodyear’s quality and consistency standards. According to Goodyear, the changes have improved tyre uniformity, production efficiency and overall build consistency.
Whitewall tyres brought their own challenges. The white rubber compound has been reformulated to better resist discolouration, while the sidewall construction process has shifted from largely manual assembly to a more automated system. Computer-assisted quality checks have also been introduced to improve finish and consistency – important when a tyre’s looks are half the point.
The revamped Cobra Chrome now sits within a slimmed-down Avon range that also includes the Roadrider MKII, Spirit ST, 3D Supersport, Trailrider, Trekrider, and classic Safety Mileage and Speedmaster tyres. Avon is now positioned as a complementary brand to Dunlop within the Goodyear group, rather than trying to cover every market segment itself.
The Avon Cobra Chrome range will be available throughout 2026 in 77 sizes, covering 15–23 inch fitments. Most sizes are on sale now, with the remainder rolling out during the year.
You can find out more information on the official website.
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!