Avon Completes Cobra Chrome Redevelopment and Transfers Production to Montluçon

Avon Tyres has completed the full redevelopment of its Cobra Chrome range, including the return of whitewall variants, four years after the brand was integrated into Goodyear’s motorcycle portfolio alongside Dunlop.

Cobra Chrome remains positioned as Avon’s flagship tyre for cruiser and custom motorcycles. The updated range comprises 77 SKUs, including 14 sizes featuring the white sidewall design associated with Avon’s heritage in the custom and classic segments.

The redevelopment forms part of a wider industrial upgrade across Avon’s motorcycle business. Production of Avon’s premium motorcycle tyres has transitioned to Goodyear’s motorcycle Centre of Excellence in Montluçon, France. The site currently manufactures Dunlop’s premium road tyres and championship-winning racing products.

Introducing Cobra Chrome to Montluçon required tailored manufacturing processes, as many sizes were new to the facility. Avon states that the range underwent extensive re-engineering to meet Goodyear’s global standards for quality, performance and consistency. Reported outcomes include improved tyre uniformity, higher production yields and manufacturing quality aligned with Goodyear processes.

Dmitri Talboom, Motorcycle Product Manager at Goodyear, said:

“To bring Avon production in line with Goodyear’s standards for quality and performance, the Cobra Chrome range has been extensively re-engineered. Montluçon’s role in this revival has been crucial.”

The return of whitewall SKUs required additional technical adjustments. The white rubber compound has been reformulated to improve resistance to discolouration. The sidewall assembly process has moved from a largely manual operation to a more automated system, with computer-assisted quality checks introduced to support finish consistency.

Talboom added:

“Whitewall tires are a defining element of Avon’s heritage and remain a distinctive choice for riders of custom and cruiser-style motorcycles. We are proud to see this iconic design resume in full production.”

Cobra Chrome now sits within a streamlined Avon motorcycle portfolio that also includes 3D Supersport, Spirit ST, Roadrider MKII, Trailrider, Trekrider, Safety Mileage MKII and Speedmaster MKII. The Avon range is positioned as complementary to Dunlop’s wider motorcycle offering.

Avon Cobra Chrome is available in 2026 in 77 front and rear sizes covering 15–23-inch fitments, including 14 whitewall options. The majority of sizes are currently on sale, with remaining fitments scheduled for release during 2026.

Top image courtesy of Avon Tyres