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Thank you for keeping us on your mind. To show you our gratitude, we have decided to start offering a once a month wheel/tire/accessory giveaway! Winners will be announced the 1st day of each month and sometimes even more frequently.
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April 5th Prize
Rough Country Leveling Kit RC1307...
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Thank you for keeping us on your mind. To show you our gratitude, we have decided to start offering a once a month wheel/tire/accessory giveaway! Winners will be announced the 1st day of each month and sometimes even more frequently.
How to enter?
1. Visit our Facebook page and Like our page
2. Like and Share the post that shows the giveaway
That's it! We'll announce the winner the beginning of each month.
April 5th Prize
Rough Country Leveling Kit RC1307...
Read More
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Win Free Wheels^ Scroll to Top
Thank you for keeping us on your mind. To show you our gratitude, we have decided to start offering a once a month wheel/tire/accessory giveaway! Winners will be announced the 1st day of each month and sometimes even more frequently.
How to enter?
1. Visit our Facebook page and Like our page
2. Like and Share the post that shows the giveaway
That's it! We'll announce the winner the beginning of each month.
April 5th Prize
Rough Country Leveling Kit RC1307 for 2007+ Chevy.
April 1st Prize
Mickey Thompson Classic II 17x9
The winner is Jessica Knight. We hope you enjoy your wheels Jessica!
We hope you win too!
How to enter?
1. Visit our Facebook page and Like our page
2. Like and Share the post that shows the giveaway
That's it! We'll announce the winner the beginning of each month.
April 5th Prize
Rough Country Leveling Kit RC1307 for 2007+ Chevy.
April 1st Prize
Mickey Thompson Classic II 17x9
The winner is Jessica Knight. We hope you enjoy your wheels Jessica!
We hope you win too!
Falken Tire Launches The Azenis PT722 A/S, The Company's Premium Performance Touring Tire^ Scroll to Top
Falken Tire, known for its innovative product, competitive nature and technological developments, is setting the stage for a new category in ultra high performance tires. The introduction of the AZENIS PT722 A/S, premium performance touring tire is specifically targeted at consumers looking for a smooth, quiet UHP tire without sacrificing performance or tread life.
Falken believes the emphasis on tread life in the UHP category has been overlooked. The PT722 will provide the same outstanding performance level expected from every Falken product and still manages to maximize the value for the consumer.
The unmatched combination of features offered by the PT722, delivers one of the best warranties available in the ultra high performance category. This newly developed tread compound delivers a compelling 60,000 mile limited treadwear warranty in sizes featuring the 600-A-A UTQG rating and 40,000 miles for sizes with the 440-A-A UTQG rating.
Whether looking for an Original Equipment replacement or aftermarket plus-size fitment the PT722 is the right tire for almost every consumer, covering 44 sizes from 16 inch to 20 inch wheel fitments.
“To compliment the launch of the PT722, we have planned one of the most comprehensive and exciting promotional campaigns in the history of Falken Tire,” declared Andrew Hoit, Falken's Director of Marketing. “We will be giving away a 2011 Porsche Cayman to one lucky winner in a national sweepstakes, which will be promoted concurrently at events, print, online, and television.”
View Original Article
The unmatched combination of features offered by the PT722, delivers one of the best warranties available in the ultra high performance category. This newly developed tread compound delivers a compelling 60,000 mile limited treadwear warranty in sizes featuring the 600-A-A UTQG rating and 40,000 miles for sizes with the 440-A-A UTQG rating.
Whether looking for an Original Equipment replacement or aftermarket plus-size fitment the PT722 is the right tire for almost every consumer, covering 44 sizes from 16 inch to 20 inch wheel fitments.
“To compliment the launch of the PT722, we have planned one of the most comprehensive and exciting promotional campaigns in the history of Falken Tire,” declared Andrew Hoit, Falken's Director of Marketing. “We will be giving away a 2011 Porsche Cayman to one lucky winner in a national sweepstakes, which will be promoted concurrently at events, print, online, and television.”
View Original Article
Lofton Gets First Off Road Win On General Tires^ Scroll to Top
For some, the Henderson 250 was a race to the Best In The Desert (BITD) championship. For others, it was an opportunity to finish the 2012 BITD season with a bang. And that’s just what NASCAR standout Justin Lofton did. For the second year in a row, Lofton captured the Class 1500 win.
“It was an awesome weekend for all of us on the Lofton Racing Team,” said Lofton. “We were bummed that we missed the pole by two-tenths of a second. And I know exactly where that’s at, so it’s the most annoying thing in the world.
“We took the pre-runner out in the Sportsman’s Class and were able to get a quick peek at the track to make sure there were no holes out there.” Lofton continued, “So when we got into the 1500 buggy, it was comforting to know what to expect. Overall it was a great race.”
While 250 miles to an off-road racer seems like a trophy dash, it doesn't mean that the job at hand is any easier. The Nevada desert serves up a variety of challenges including sharp rocks and steep drop-offs. Lofton and his co-driver, Jorge Lameda, had a set-back early on in the race that put them behind by eight minutes but their determination was un-stoppable. They navigated their way through the rough terrain but were operating with only front brakes after their rear brake line broke. With strong equipment and smart pit strategy, the team charged to the front coming within one minute of the overall win.
“Our Grabbers held up really good,” commented Lofton. “We were really smart on our pit strategy and adjusted throughout the race to get us in front of different vehicles which was important because the dust was really bad out there. Overall, I’m really excited to defend our win at Henderson and finish the season on a high note.”
“On behalf of everyone at General Tire, I want to congratulate Justin on his back-to-back wins at Henderson,” said Travis Roffler, director of marketing for General Tire. “We’re proud to have Justin on General’s and it was impressive to watch him and Jorge come back to win Class 1500 and come within one minute of the overall after some early setbacks.
“I’d also like to congratulate all the Team GT members who garnered a podium at Henderson.” Roffler continued, “It was great to end 2012 on such a strong note and we’re looking forward to an even better 2013.”
General tires also helped Sean Backus to a win in Class 7200 while Macrae Glass took home the win in Class 8000. Kent Kroeker and Randy Merritt posted second-place finishes in Class 8000 and 7200 respectively, and General Tire Vegas to Reno winner, Garrick Freitas, marched to a third-place finish in Class 1500.
View Original Article
“It was an awesome weekend for all of us on the Lofton Racing Team,” said Lofton. “We were bummed that we missed the pole by two-tenths of a second. And I know exactly where that’s at, so it’s the most annoying thing in the world.
“We took the pre-runner out in the Sportsman’s Class and were able to get a quick peek at the track to make sure there were no holes out there.” Lofton continued, “So when we got into the 1500 buggy, it was comforting to know what to expect. Overall it was a great race.”
While 250 miles to an off-road racer seems like a trophy dash, it doesn't mean that the job at hand is any easier. The Nevada desert serves up a variety of challenges including sharp rocks and steep drop-offs. Lofton and his co-driver, Jorge Lameda, had a set-back early on in the race that put them behind by eight minutes but their determination was un-stoppable. They navigated their way through the rough terrain but were operating with only front brakes after their rear brake line broke. With strong equipment and smart pit strategy, the team charged to the front coming within one minute of the overall win.
“Our Grabbers held up really good,” commented Lofton. “We were really smart on our pit strategy and adjusted throughout the race to get us in front of different vehicles which was important because the dust was really bad out there. Overall, I’m really excited to defend our win at Henderson and finish the season on a high note.”
“On behalf of everyone at General Tire, I want to congratulate Justin on his back-to-back wins at Henderson,” said Travis Roffler, director of marketing for General Tire. “We’re proud to have Justin on General’s and it was impressive to watch him and Jorge come back to win Class 1500 and come within one minute of the overall after some early setbacks.
“I’d also like to congratulate all the Team GT members who garnered a podium at Henderson.” Roffler continued, “It was great to end 2012 on such a strong note and we’re looking forward to an even better 2013.”
General tires also helped Sean Backus to a win in Class 7200 while Macrae Glass took home the win in Class 8000. Kent Kroeker and Randy Merritt posted second-place finishes in Class 8000 and 7200 respectively, and General Tire Vegas to Reno winner, Garrick Freitas, marched to a third-place finish in Class 1500.
View Original Article
General Tire Announces 2013 Off Road Lineup^ Scroll to Top
General Tire debuted its 2013 Team GT driver lineup for the Best In The Desert (BITD) series in Parker, AZ at the “Parker 425”. Leading the team are four top-contending 1500 buggies with four young drivers behind the wheel that are all racing in championship form. Off-road whiz and NASCAR standout, Justin Lofton, joins Vegas to Reno winner, Garrick Freitas, along with CJ Hutchins and newcomers Ray Griffith and Harley Letner. Lofton is poised as a veteran of the group as he prepares to run the entire 2013 BITD schedule.
“It’s pretty cool to go from being the young one in the group to being the veteran,” said Justin Lofton, Team GT member. “I’m looking forward to going out and racing against all my Team GT team members.
“As for this year, the plan is to race the full 2013 BITD season and hopefully a few other off-road races.” Lofton continued, “I’m going to mix it up and scale back the NASCAR Truck program a little bit and see what other opportunities become available.”
Griffith, an up-and-comer, moves to General tires for the first time in 2013. After just a short amount of time he’s found his groove in his new shoes and is happy to be a part of the team. “So far it’s been great,” said Griffith. “The tires, so far, are better than anything I’ve ran on. Braking, and in and out of turns, is excellent. It’s a whole other ballgame. I’d definitely say it’s a step in the right direction.”
In addition to the 1500 Class, Team GT will sponsor two entries in the 6100 Class with Camburg Racing and Azunia Racing. Jim Riley and Rick L. Johnson will once again be behind the wheel of the Azunia machine while Camburg’s Jerry Whelchel is joined by desert expert, Mike Childress.
“This opens up a whole other opportunity in my racing career and I’m looking forward to it,” said Childress. “I get to drive with Jerry Whelchel and he’s pretty much the off-road racing icon so I get to learn some things. I’m going to be like a sponge and absorb it all.”
As for being a veteran member of Team GT, Childress said, “I drove on the very first tires that came off the back of the Penske truck in Las Vegas when we were testing.” Childress continued, “I’m going to continue to drive on Generals until I’m old and fat and can’t drive anymore.”
General Tire also added to their KC Hi-Lites-sponsored contingency of vehicles as Steve Alexander joins Macrae Glass and Randy Merritt in Class 5000, 8000, and 7200 respectively. Sean and Brett Backus emerge as new members to Team GT in Class 7200 to join Steve La Roza and his Ford EcoBoost machine in the same class.
As if this lineup wasn’t stout enough, Team GT also adds Banning Motorsports to their distinguished list of sponsored teams. General will also continue to sponsor Jeep Speed and TrophyLite. Overall, a diverse group of drivers who are bound to roll into victory lane many times before the 2013 season comes to a close. It’s a team that General Tire’s director of marketing believes in.
“This year’s Team GT lineup is strong,” said Travis Roffler, director of marketing for General Tire. “We have a lot of depth in this year’s team and their experience ranges from literally decades, to just a few short years. I think our Team GT lineup has a lot of history in the making and we’re proud to be represented by each and every one of our drivers and teams.”
View Original Article
“It’s pretty cool to go from being the young one in the group to being the veteran,” said Justin Lofton, Team GT member. “I’m looking forward to going out and racing against all my Team GT team members.
“As for this year, the plan is to race the full 2013 BITD season and hopefully a few other off-road races.” Lofton continued, “I’m going to mix it up and scale back the NASCAR Truck program a little bit and see what other opportunities become available.”
Griffith, an up-and-comer, moves to General tires for the first time in 2013. After just a short amount of time he’s found his groove in his new shoes and is happy to be a part of the team. “So far it’s been great,” said Griffith. “The tires, so far, are better than anything I’ve ran on. Braking, and in and out of turns, is excellent. It’s a whole other ballgame. I’d definitely say it’s a step in the right direction.”
In addition to the 1500 Class, Team GT will sponsor two entries in the 6100 Class with Camburg Racing and Azunia Racing. Jim Riley and Rick L. Johnson will once again be behind the wheel of the Azunia machine while Camburg’s Jerry Whelchel is joined by desert expert, Mike Childress.
“This opens up a whole other opportunity in my racing career and I’m looking forward to it,” said Childress. “I get to drive with Jerry Whelchel and he’s pretty much the off-road racing icon so I get to learn some things. I’m going to be like a sponge and absorb it all.”
As for being a veteran member of Team GT, Childress said, “I drove on the very first tires that came off the back of the Penske truck in Las Vegas when we were testing.” Childress continued, “I’m going to continue to drive on Generals until I’m old and fat and can’t drive anymore.”
General Tire also added to their KC Hi-Lites-sponsored contingency of vehicles as Steve Alexander joins Macrae Glass and Randy Merritt in Class 5000, 8000, and 7200 respectively. Sean and Brett Backus emerge as new members to Team GT in Class 7200 to join Steve La Roza and his Ford EcoBoost machine in the same class.
As if this lineup wasn’t stout enough, Team GT also adds Banning Motorsports to their distinguished list of sponsored teams. General will also continue to sponsor Jeep Speed and TrophyLite. Overall, a diverse group of drivers who are bound to roll into victory lane many times before the 2013 season comes to a close. It’s a team that General Tire’s director of marketing believes in.
“This year’s Team GT lineup is strong,” said Travis Roffler, director of marketing for General Tire. “We have a lot of depth in this year’s team and their experience ranges from literally decades, to just a few short years. I think our Team GT lineup has a lot of history in the making and we’re proud to be represented by each and every one of our drivers and teams.”
View Original Article
About Michelin^ Scroll to Top
Michelin North America, Inc.
Michelin North America operates in the United States, Canada and Mexico with headquarter operations and plants in each country. This demonstrates Michelin’s long-term strategy of being close to its customers.
U.S. Operations
Michelin North America is a $7.25 billion dollar a year company operating 18 plants in 16 locations and employs 22,270 people. It manufactures and sells tires for airplanes, automobiles, farm equipment, heavy duty trucks, motorcycles, bicycles and the space shuttle. Michelin manufactures tires in six states: Alabama, Indiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, North Carolina and South Carolina. In addition, there are three plants in Nova Scotia, Canada and one plant in Queretaro, Mexico. Two plants specialize in the manufacturing of semi-finished goods taking raw materials and turning them into components for the plants that produce tires and one plant strictly produces synthetic rubber. Finished goods are produced in sixteen plants, two sites produce retreads for the trucking and one site produces retreads for the aircraft industry. Michelin Maps and Guides also produce road atlases, road maps and travel guides for all the major cities in North America.
Where they've been
Michelin has been a part of the tire industry in the United States since 1907 when it purchased the International Rubber Company in Milltown, New Jersey. Tires and tubes were manufactured there up until 1930 when the Great Depression took its toll on what had become the fourth largest tire manufacturer in the country with 2,000 employees. The Michelin North America as we know it today took form In March of 1950. With three sizes and two different tread designs of truck tires made with metallic plies, five people started Michelin Tire Corporation in New York City. There was an executive vice president, a vice president of sales, a secretary, a warehouse supervisor and one newly hired sales representative. The tires cost anywhere from 40-50% more than the competition but their construction with metal plies bonded to rubber allowed Michelin salesmen to offer a tire solution to fleets operating under the most severe conditions. This included fleets dealing with extremely heavy loads and in the sanitation business. This strategy established a reputation of durability and quality still prevalent today in the modern trucking industry.
Growth in sales led to the need for a larger facility in 1954. Developed in 1953, Michelin began to import the all-steel one ply radial truck tire in 1956. This is the tire that revolutionized the world tire market. There was interest in the radial truck, but the bulk of Michelin’s sales were the older, metallic bias ply tires. Even with steady annual growth, the annual sales volume in 1959 were less than a week’s production in a modern truck tire plant.
While the radial passenger tire had been gaining acceptance in Europe with car manufacturers in the late 1950’s, it would be the mid1960’s before it was factor in the United States. Michelin’s world-wide growth in the 1960’s was phenomenal with the opening of twelve new plants and the announcement that a plant would be built in Nova Scotia, Canada by 1971.
Two major events happened in 1966 that drew Michelin into the largest passenger tire market in the world. Up until 1966, Michelin had only been importing small quantities of radial passenger tires to service consumers with European cars originally fitted with Michelin radial tires. That year Ford decided the 1968 Lincoln Continental Mark III would have radial tires as original equipment. Although domestic tire manufacturers had purchased the license to develop radial tires, none were successful in developing a satisfactory radial tire. Ford then selected Michelin to be the supplier. This was a major boost for both the acceptance of the radial tire and establishing Michelin in North America. The second major event that made Michelin a part of the U.S. tire market happened when SEARS went shopping for a radial tire. In an effort to get ahead of its competition and realizing the impending radialization of the tire industry, SEARS sought out a supplier and ultimately selected Michelin for their reputation of high quality and technical expertise in building radial tires. By the end of 1969 expansion necessitated another move to a larger headquarters and the work force had expanded to 250 people. The sales force was now up to 103 people in the field.
Michelin had led a revolution in the transportation industry with the introduction of the radial tire. As the global demand for radial tires accelerated, Michelin responded with an expansion plan that opened twenty-three new plants, all producing radial tires. Michelin made the decision in the early 70’s to produce only radial tires and eliminate production of the old-style bias ply tires. Two plants had been opened in Nova Scotiain 1971 and it was announced that construction would soon begin for two plants in western part of South Carolina. One plant, US2 in Anderson,SC, would build semi-finished products to supply the other plant that would produce tires. The plants were scheduled to open in 1975 and the very first radial passenger tire came off the line at US1,Greenville,South CarolinaonMarch 10, 1975. A third plant, US3, in Spartanburg, SC came on line in 1978, producing radial truck tires for the rapidly growing radial market in the trucking industry. Expansion in the 1970’s in the U.S. was completed with the opening of US4 in Dothan, Alabama. Along with the plants, a research and development was opened center in South Carolina because the corporation has always believed in developing products exclusively for a North American market where huge geographical distances demanded different tires than established European markets. In 1979, Michelin opened a new headquarters building in Lake Success,New York to accommodate a continuously growing work force. Michelin opened the decade with 250 employees and by 1979 the number was 7,000. Michelin had also expanded its tire lines dramatically from two types of tires that still required tubes to a full line of tubeless radial passenger tires to serve the growing demand for tires with greater fuel efficiency, longer life and better handling. In 1970 there were three types of truck tires offered and the 70’s ended with an expanded line of tires to meet multiple and various needs of fleet owners, from over the road long haul operations to fleets hauling rocks or coal. There were now radial tires for bread fleets and small package delivery fleets.
The 1980’s brought the challenges of consolidation and recession to the tire industry. Fully recovered from the effects of World War II, Japanese and European countries were competing toe to toe with American companies in a global economy. Many smaller tire companies were absorbed by larger ones because it was obvious that you had to get bigger in order to survive. Michelin had to invest heavily in the expansion of North America and it was not immune to the effects of the recession that hit the tire industry in 1980 and 1981. Serious losses were off-set by becoming more cost conscious and better planning. There was major competition to deal with now who were successfully manufacturing radial tires. Michelin has always been a resilient company and it came out of that period stronger and smarter. Two more plants, one in Lexington,SC and one Nova Scotia, were opened in the early 80’s. To consolidate headquarters operations and manufacturing, Michelin made the decision to relocate its North American headquarters from New York where it had been since 1950 to Greenville, South Carolina. The doors opened at its present location in September of 1988.
After a careful study of market trends and monitoring the actions of its two major global competitors, Michelin made the decision in 1989 to purchase the Uniroyal-Goodrich Tire Company. This acquisition would not only make Michelin the largest tire company in the world, but would provide the corporation with a portfolio of strong brands with a rich heritage in the American tire market. Uniroyal and BFGoodrich Tire formed a joint venture in 1986 to leverage each others’ strengths in the original equipment and replacement market. Michelin went into the 90’s in a position to offer the best products at the best price point in all virtually every consumer category.
View the original article
Michelin North America operates in the United States, Canada and Mexico with headquarter operations and plants in each country. This demonstrates Michelin’s long-term strategy of being close to its customers.
U.S. Operations
Michelin North America is a $7.25 billion dollar a year company operating 18 plants in 16 locations and employs 22,270 people. It manufactures and sells tires for airplanes, automobiles, farm equipment, heavy duty trucks, motorcycles, bicycles and the space shuttle. Michelin manufactures tires in six states: Alabama, Indiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, North Carolina and South Carolina. In addition, there are three plants in Nova Scotia, Canada and one plant in Queretaro, Mexico. Two plants specialize in the manufacturing of semi-finished goods taking raw materials and turning them into components for the plants that produce tires and one plant strictly produces synthetic rubber. Finished goods are produced in sixteen plants, two sites produce retreads for the trucking and one site produces retreads for the aircraft industry. Michelin Maps and Guides also produce road atlases, road maps and travel guides for all the major cities in North America.
Where they've been
Michelin has been a part of the tire industry in the United States since 1907 when it purchased the International Rubber Company in Milltown, New Jersey. Tires and tubes were manufactured there up until 1930 when the Great Depression took its toll on what had become the fourth largest tire manufacturer in the country with 2,000 employees. The Michelin North America as we know it today took form In March of 1950. With three sizes and two different tread designs of truck tires made with metallic plies, five people started Michelin Tire Corporation in New York City. There was an executive vice president, a vice president of sales, a secretary, a warehouse supervisor and one newly hired sales representative. The tires cost anywhere from 40-50% more than the competition but their construction with metal plies bonded to rubber allowed Michelin salesmen to offer a tire solution to fleets operating under the most severe conditions. This included fleets dealing with extremely heavy loads and in the sanitation business. This strategy established a reputation of durability and quality still prevalent today in the modern trucking industry.
Growth in sales led to the need for a larger facility in 1954. Developed in 1953, Michelin began to import the all-steel one ply radial truck tire in 1956. This is the tire that revolutionized the world tire market. There was interest in the radial truck, but the bulk of Michelin’s sales were the older, metallic bias ply tires. Even with steady annual growth, the annual sales volume in 1959 were less than a week’s production in a modern truck tire plant.
While the radial passenger tire had been gaining acceptance in Europe with car manufacturers in the late 1950’s, it would be the mid1960’s before it was factor in the United States. Michelin’s world-wide growth in the 1960’s was phenomenal with the opening of twelve new plants and the announcement that a plant would be built in Nova Scotia, Canada by 1971.
Two major events happened in 1966 that drew Michelin into the largest passenger tire market in the world. Up until 1966, Michelin had only been importing small quantities of radial passenger tires to service consumers with European cars originally fitted with Michelin radial tires. That year Ford decided the 1968 Lincoln Continental Mark III would have radial tires as original equipment. Although domestic tire manufacturers had purchased the license to develop radial tires, none were successful in developing a satisfactory radial tire. Ford then selected Michelin to be the supplier. This was a major boost for both the acceptance of the radial tire and establishing Michelin in North America. The second major event that made Michelin a part of the U.S. tire market happened when SEARS went shopping for a radial tire. In an effort to get ahead of its competition and realizing the impending radialization of the tire industry, SEARS sought out a supplier and ultimately selected Michelin for their reputation of high quality and technical expertise in building radial tires. By the end of 1969 expansion necessitated another move to a larger headquarters and the work force had expanded to 250 people. The sales force was now up to 103 people in the field.
Michelin had led a revolution in the transportation industry with the introduction of the radial tire. As the global demand for radial tires accelerated, Michelin responded with an expansion plan that opened twenty-three new plants, all producing radial tires. Michelin made the decision in the early 70’s to produce only radial tires and eliminate production of the old-style bias ply tires. Two plants had been opened in Nova Scotiain 1971 and it was announced that construction would soon begin for two plants in western part of South Carolina. One plant, US2 in Anderson,SC, would build semi-finished products to supply the other plant that would produce tires. The plants were scheduled to open in 1975 and the very first radial passenger tire came off the line at US1,Greenville,South CarolinaonMarch 10, 1975. A third plant, US3, in Spartanburg, SC came on line in 1978, producing radial truck tires for the rapidly growing radial market in the trucking industry. Expansion in the 1970’s in the U.S. was completed with the opening of US4 in Dothan, Alabama. Along with the plants, a research and development was opened center in South Carolina because the corporation has always believed in developing products exclusively for a North American market where huge geographical distances demanded different tires than established European markets. In 1979, Michelin opened a new headquarters building in Lake Success,New York to accommodate a continuously growing work force. Michelin opened the decade with 250 employees and by 1979 the number was 7,000. Michelin had also expanded its tire lines dramatically from two types of tires that still required tubes to a full line of tubeless radial passenger tires to serve the growing demand for tires with greater fuel efficiency, longer life and better handling. In 1970 there were three types of truck tires offered and the 70’s ended with an expanded line of tires to meet multiple and various needs of fleet owners, from over the road long haul operations to fleets hauling rocks or coal. There were now radial tires for bread fleets and small package delivery fleets.
The 1980’s brought the challenges of consolidation and recession to the tire industry. Fully recovered from the effects of World War II, Japanese and European countries were competing toe to toe with American companies in a global economy. Many smaller tire companies were absorbed by larger ones because it was obvious that you had to get bigger in order to survive. Michelin had to invest heavily in the expansion of North America and it was not immune to the effects of the recession that hit the tire industry in 1980 and 1981. Serious losses were off-set by becoming more cost conscious and better planning. There was major competition to deal with now who were successfully manufacturing radial tires. Michelin has always been a resilient company and it came out of that period stronger and smarter. Two more plants, one in Lexington,SC and one Nova Scotia, were opened in the early 80’s. To consolidate headquarters operations and manufacturing, Michelin made the decision to relocate its North American headquarters from New York where it had been since 1950 to Greenville, South Carolina. The doors opened at its present location in September of 1988.
After a careful study of market trends and monitoring the actions of its two major global competitors, Michelin made the decision in 1989 to purchase the Uniroyal-Goodrich Tire Company. This acquisition would not only make Michelin the largest tire company in the world, but would provide the corporation with a portfolio of strong brands with a rich heritage in the American tire market. Uniroyal and BFGoodrich Tire formed a joint venture in 1986 to leverage each others’ strengths in the original equipment and replacement market. Michelin went into the 90’s in a position to offer the best products at the best price point in all virtually every consumer category.
View the original article
Michelin Warranty^ Scroll to Top
Mileage Warranties & Limited Warranty
All Michelin tires4 (both Replacement & Original Equipment) come with a limited warranty for treadwear, as well as a limited warranty which covers defects in workmanship and materials for the life of the original usable tread, or for 6 years from date of purchase, whichever occurs first. Mileage treadwear warranties vary by tire line. For the specific mileage treadwear warranty for your MICHELIN tire
Register your MICHELIN Tires
Help us keep you safe throughout the life of your tires. Michelin cares about your safety. When you purchased your tires, First Choice Wheels and Tires has given you information about how to register your tires online. In the unlikely event of a safety recall, it is important to have your contact information so Michelin can contact you directly.
Register Now
Safety Tips
The Importance of Tires: The tire is the only contact between your vehicle and the ground. In order to ensure greater safety and to achieve longer tire life, it is essential to adhere to certain principles. The Michelin Owners Manual includes tips that prolong ownership and sustain driving performance because we believe that the right tire changes everything.
Download the Michelin Owner's Manual
Technical Bulletin Regarding Service Life Information for Passenger Car & Light Truck Tires: Michelin recommends having passenger car and light truck tires, including spare tires, inspected regularly by a qualified tire specialist who will assess the tire’s suitability for continued service. Tires which have been in use for 5 years or more should continue to be inspected by a specialist at least annually.
View the entire Technical Bulletin
All Michelin tires4 (both Replacement & Original Equipment) come with a limited warranty for treadwear, as well as a limited warranty which covers defects in workmanship and materials for the life of the original usable tread, or for 6 years from date of purchase, whichever occurs first. Mileage treadwear warranties vary by tire line. For the specific mileage treadwear warranty for your MICHELIN tire
Register your MICHELIN Tires
Help us keep you safe throughout the life of your tires. Michelin cares about your safety. When you purchased your tires, First Choice Wheels and Tires has given you information about how to register your tires online. In the unlikely event of a safety recall, it is important to have your contact information so Michelin can contact you directly.
Register Now
Safety Tips
The Importance of Tires: The tire is the only contact between your vehicle and the ground. In order to ensure greater safety and to achieve longer tire life, it is essential to adhere to certain principles. The Michelin Owners Manual includes tips that prolong ownership and sustain driving performance because we believe that the right tire changes everything.
Download the Michelin Owner's Manual
Technical Bulletin Regarding Service Life Information for Passenger Car & Light Truck Tires: Michelin recommends having passenger car and light truck tires, including spare tires, inspected regularly by a qualified tire specialist who will assess the tire’s suitability for continued service. Tires which have been in use for 5 years or more should continue to be inspected by a specialist at least annually.
View the entire Technical Bulletin
Mickey Thompson Performance Tires and Wheels Sponsors Lucas Oil Regional Off Road Racing Series^ Scroll to Top
In addition to its sponsorship of the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series (LOORRS), Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels (Mickey Thompson) has expanded its relationship to include the regional grass roots short course racing series, the Lucas Oil Regional Off Road Racing Series. Through this relationship, Mickey Thompson will support racers as a Mini Stock Class sponsor.
According to Lucas Oil, this sponsorship translates to real world support of racers who build and compete in small, production-based trucks. MiniStock Class racers rely primarily on stock components and with minor modifications, these production trucks are converted into competition vehicles. Mickey Thompson's support means support to racers who are passionate about the sport, but don't have a huge budget.
"As we celebrate 50 years, we want to remain true to the legacy of our company, and it's important for us to have an active and meaningful role in supporting racers on the ground," stated Ken Warner, VP Sales & Marketing, Mickey Thompson."This role offers us the perfect opportunity to support racers, and our off-road tires, like the Baja MTZ and Baja ATZ, are perfect for these high performance off-road applications."
The Mini Stock class is one of the fastest growing racing classes in the Lucas Oil Regional Off Road series both here in southern California as well as in Arizona, stated Lee Perfect, LOORRS Director. Because of the limited modifications and smaller budgets, the Mini Stock teams are always looking for every advantage, and Mickey Thompson's involvement is really going to make a big difference.
According to Lucas Oil, this sponsorship translates to real world support of racers who build and compete in small, production-based trucks. MiniStock Class racers rely primarily on stock components and with minor modifications, these production trucks are converted into competition vehicles. Mickey Thompson's support means support to racers who are passionate about the sport, but don't have a huge budget.
"As we celebrate 50 years, we want to remain true to the legacy of our company, and it's important for us to have an active and meaningful role in supporting racers on the ground," stated Ken Warner, VP Sales & Marketing, Mickey Thompson."This role offers us the perfect opportunity to support racers, and our off-road tires, like the Baja MTZ and Baja ATZ, are perfect for these high performance off-road applications."
The Mini Stock class is one of the fastest growing racing classes in the Lucas Oil Regional Off Road series both here in southern California as well as in Arizona, stated Lee Perfect, LOORRS Director. Because of the limited modifications and smaller budgets, the Mini Stock teams are always looking for every advantage, and Mickey Thompson's involvement is really going to make a big difference.
Mickey Thompson Performance Tires and Wheels Returns To NHRA Drag Racing As A Major Mello Yello Series Sponsor In 2013^ Scroll to Top
Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels returns to National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) drag racing as a major national event sponsor of the Mello Yello Drag Racing Series in 2013. Mickey Thompson Motorsports will support Sportsman racers as a contingency sponsor for all Sportsman racing classes including Pro Mod and Pro Stock Motorcycle, and will be on site at all 24 national events with the fully equipped Mickey Thompson trailer to provide track side support to racers throughout the season.
"Sportsman class racing is one of the cornerstones of the Mickey Thompson legacy," stated Tom Kundrik, Motorsports Manager, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels. "Mickey Thompson has supported NHRA racers for nearly 30 years, and as our company celebrates 50 years, we want to continue to provide outstanding support to Sportsman racers in a variety of ways."
The 24-event Mello Yello Drag Racing Series kicks off with the Winternationals February 14-17 at Auto Club Raceway in Pomona, Calif., followed by the Arizona Nationals February 22-24 at Firebird International Raceway in Phoenix, Arizona.
In addition to its return to national event sponsorship, Mickey Thompson will continue to serve as a divisional level associate contingency sponsor of the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series in all Sportsman classes including Stock Eliminator, Super Stock, Competition Eliminator, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street, Top Sportsman and Top Dragster.
"Sportsman class racing is one of the cornerstones of the Mickey Thompson legacy," stated Tom Kundrik, Motorsports Manager, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels. "Mickey Thompson has supported NHRA racers for nearly 30 years, and as our company celebrates 50 years, we want to continue to provide outstanding support to Sportsman racers in a variety of ways."
The 24-event Mello Yello Drag Racing Series kicks off with the Winternationals February 14-17 at Auto Club Raceway in Pomona, Calif., followed by the Arizona Nationals February 22-24 at Firebird International Raceway in Phoenix, Arizona.
In addition to its return to national event sponsorship, Mickey Thompson will continue to serve as a divisional level associate contingency sponsor of the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series in all Sportsman classes including Stock Eliminator, Super Stock, Competition Eliminator, Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street, Top Sportsman and Top Dragster.
Mickey Thompson Performance Tires and Wheels Returns As 2013 Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series Sponsor^ Scroll to Top
Following another incredible season in 2012, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels has returned to the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series (LOORRS) as a 2013 series sponsor. Through this program, Mickey Thompson will provide the legendary Baja Pro tires and track-side support to racers, and will continue to work collaboratively with teams in the Pro 2 Unlimited, Pro 4 Unlimited, Super-Lite, Pro Lite Unlimited and Pro Buggy Unlimited classes to test and prove off-road tire products."Lucas Oil puts on the best short course race in the industry today and we are thrilled to be a part of the program," stated Ken Warner, VP of Sales and Marketing for Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels. "We're coming into 2013 with a number of racers using Mickey Thompson tires including Mike Porter, Jeff Geiser, Dave Mason Jr., Curt DeLuc and Eric Barron. It's going to be a great season."
Mickey Thompson Performance Tires and Wheels Celebrates 50 Year^ Scroll to Top
Founded by the legendary Mickey Thompson and friend Gene McMannis in 1963, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels (Mickey Thompson) announced it is celebrating 50 years of innovation and product excellence in 2013. Thompson and McMannis started with a visionary way to design, manufacture and test high performance tires - a legacy that remains the backbone of the company today.
"This is an incredible milestone for our company," stated Ken Warner, VP Sales & Marketing, Mickey Thompson. "We want to celebrate this achievement and commemorate this anniversary by honoring both our history and the future of our company."
A Brief History of Innovation
In 1963, the company began with the development of a new open-wheel racing tire that had a softer compound and a lower profile giving racers a lower center of gravity and greater stability, and then offered a 12-inch wheel to complement the tire. The following year, a 15-inch tire and wheel combination was added and Mickey Thompson became the first tire company to offer 50-, 60- and 70-series "Indy Profile" tires.
In the '70s, the legendary ET Drag tires for the strip were introduced and the company expanded research and development efforts to include tires for the Thompson-founded SCORE off-roadand Mickey Thompson stadium short-course racing series. Thompson used the specially designed truck tires in 1982 to win the Baja 1000 and set a new record time for the event.
The company introduced the Sportsman tire in 1982, the widest high-performance street legal tire ever made, and in 1991, the Sportsman Pro tire was launched. With its specially designed tread, unique "hot and sticky" drag tire compound and flexible wrinkle wall construction, the Sportsman Pro provided Pro Street racers with a street legal tire that could be used for drag racing. The tire was inducted into the Hot Rod Magazine Speed Parts Hall of Fame in 2011.
In the early 2000s, product development continued with the introduction of a diverse group of truck and off-road radial tires, as well as a full range of wheels.In 2008, the company introduced the Pro-5 Drag wheel offering the lightest practical weight and the greatest strength available from any aluminum wheel today. In the past several years alone, Mickey Thompson has introduced numerous new tires and wheels for street, strip, truck, off-road and motorcycle including several award winners.
Mickey Thompson Today and in The Future
A recognized leader in high performance tires and wheels, Mickey Thompson has product distributors in more than 60 countries and thousands of dealer locations worldwide. The company also supports dozens of racing sanctioning bodies representing drag racing, short-course off-road racing, vintage funny car and motorcycle drag racing categories. The Mickey Thompson brand is known in every sportsman drag racing class for helping racers earn countless records and world championships. Cooper Tire & Rubber Company's purchase of the company in 2003 has enhanced product innovation and growth opportunities.
Today, Mickey Thompson innovation is reflected in products like the new Baja Pro short-course racing tire, as well as award-winning products like the new Street Comp ultra-high performance street tire and the all-terrain and off-road Baja ATZ P3 Radial. The company's vision for the future extends to the development of complete solutions like the new Enhanced Stance System (ESS), combining tires and wheels for specific applications.
"Our company continues to focus on product development to meet the changing needs of the vehicle and racing landscape," stated Ken Warner, VP Sales & Marketing, Mickey Thompson. "Today's drag racing vehicles are faster, higher horsepower and lighter weight than ever before, and short-course, off-road vehicles are custom built for unique track conditions and course demands. Every vehicle and racing application requires specialized tire and wheel designs, and we remain dedicated to providing excellent products to meet those needs."
About Mickey Thompson the Man
Mickey Thompson was born Dec. 7, 1928. He bought his first car at age 14, and rebuilt several cars before he was old enough to drive. Thompson's racing experience began on the streets, but he quickly took his love of racing to the dry lake beds nearby, and later to the Bonneville Salt Flats. In 1954, Thompson was the first to develop what is now known as a "sling-shot" dragster - a racing chassis that placed the driver behind the rear axle and coupled the engine and transmission directly to the differential of the vehicle.
In the 1960s, Thompson focused his racing and vehicle design on open-wheel racing. He also built the Challenger I Streamliner and was the first American to go over 400 miles per hour earning him a new nickname - The Speed King. In 1968, Thompson and a team of fabricators built the Challenger II with the goal of exceeding the existing land speed record.
Thompson devoted himself to building and racing funny cars and expanded to off-road racing in the 1970s.He later founded SCORE International and began building his own versions of off-road sprint cars for his indoor stadium off-road racing series.
Tragically, in 1988, Mickey Thompson and his wife Trudy were killed. An innovative race car driver, designer and promoter, Mickey Thompson held 485 national and international speed and endurance records at the time of his passing. Today, his son Danny Thompson is rebuilding the Challenger 2 to create the Challenger 2.5 in hopes of exceeding his father's existing land speed record. His family and the company he founded remain dedicated to his legacy.
"This is an incredible milestone for our company," stated Ken Warner, VP Sales & Marketing, Mickey Thompson. "We want to celebrate this achievement and commemorate this anniversary by honoring both our history and the future of our company."
A Brief History of Innovation
In 1963, the company began with the development of a new open-wheel racing tire that had a softer compound and a lower profile giving racers a lower center of gravity and greater stability, and then offered a 12-inch wheel to complement the tire. The following year, a 15-inch tire and wheel combination was added and Mickey Thompson became the first tire company to offer 50-, 60- and 70-series "Indy Profile" tires.
In the '70s, the legendary ET Drag tires for the strip were introduced and the company expanded research and development efforts to include tires for the Thompson-founded SCORE off-roadand Mickey Thompson stadium short-course racing series. Thompson used the specially designed truck tires in 1982 to win the Baja 1000 and set a new record time for the event.
The company introduced the Sportsman tire in 1982, the widest high-performance street legal tire ever made, and in 1991, the Sportsman Pro tire was launched. With its specially designed tread, unique "hot and sticky" drag tire compound and flexible wrinkle wall construction, the Sportsman Pro provided Pro Street racers with a street legal tire that could be used for drag racing. The tire was inducted into the Hot Rod Magazine Speed Parts Hall of Fame in 2011.
In the early 2000s, product development continued with the introduction of a diverse group of truck and off-road radial tires, as well as a full range of wheels.In 2008, the company introduced the Pro-5 Drag wheel offering the lightest practical weight and the greatest strength available from any aluminum wheel today. In the past several years alone, Mickey Thompson has introduced numerous new tires and wheels for street, strip, truck, off-road and motorcycle including several award winners.
Mickey Thompson Today and in The Future
A recognized leader in high performance tires and wheels, Mickey Thompson has product distributors in more than 60 countries and thousands of dealer locations worldwide. The company also supports dozens of racing sanctioning bodies representing drag racing, short-course off-road racing, vintage funny car and motorcycle drag racing categories. The Mickey Thompson brand is known in every sportsman drag racing class for helping racers earn countless records and world championships. Cooper Tire & Rubber Company's purchase of the company in 2003 has enhanced product innovation and growth opportunities.
Today, Mickey Thompson innovation is reflected in products like the new Baja Pro short-course racing tire, as well as award-winning products like the new Street Comp ultra-high performance street tire and the all-terrain and off-road Baja ATZ P3 Radial. The company's vision for the future extends to the development of complete solutions like the new Enhanced Stance System (ESS), combining tires and wheels for specific applications.
"Our company continues to focus on product development to meet the changing needs of the vehicle and racing landscape," stated Ken Warner, VP Sales & Marketing, Mickey Thompson. "Today's drag racing vehicles are faster, higher horsepower and lighter weight than ever before, and short-course, off-road vehicles are custom built for unique track conditions and course demands. Every vehicle and racing application requires specialized tire and wheel designs, and we remain dedicated to providing excellent products to meet those needs."
About Mickey Thompson the Man
Mickey Thompson was born Dec. 7, 1928. He bought his first car at age 14, and rebuilt several cars before he was old enough to drive. Thompson's racing experience began on the streets, but he quickly took his love of racing to the dry lake beds nearby, and later to the Bonneville Salt Flats. In 1954, Thompson was the first to develop what is now known as a "sling-shot" dragster - a racing chassis that placed the driver behind the rear axle and coupled the engine and transmission directly to the differential of the vehicle.
In the 1960s, Thompson focused his racing and vehicle design on open-wheel racing. He also built the Challenger I Streamliner and was the first American to go over 400 miles per hour earning him a new nickname - The Speed King. In 1968, Thompson and a team of fabricators built the Challenger II with the goal of exceeding the existing land speed record.
Thompson devoted himself to building and racing funny cars and expanded to off-road racing in the 1970s.He later founded SCORE International and began building his own versions of off-road sprint cars for his indoor stadium off-road racing series.
Tragically, in 1988, Mickey Thompson and his wife Trudy were killed. An innovative race car driver, designer and promoter, Mickey Thompson held 485 national and international speed and endurance records at the time of his passing. Today, his son Danny Thompson is rebuilding the Challenger 2 to create the Challenger 2.5 in hopes of exceeding his father's existing land speed record. His family and the company he founded remain dedicated to his legacy.
