500-16 Coker Classic Bias Ply Blackwall Tire
Coker Motorcycle tires are available in may popular sizes and styles and are backed by our life of the tread warranty. White Wall Motorcycle tires are available in 5.00-16 and other very popular sizes in this product line. Tread and sidewall designs vary by size and can be viewed individually in our web store. Please note that dimensions listed tread width, section width and overall diameter are non-scientific and based on an inflated tire, mounted on a wheel. Dimensions may vary due to rim width and inflation pressure.
Blackwall Tire
Since the introduction of carbon black rocked the tire industry, the original recipe for most tires has been a solid black sidewall. For classics and collector cars alike, it's hard to beat the no-nonsense appeal of a classic blackwall style tire. British sports car, classic truck and even hot rod enthusiasts love the way a nice period correct blackwall tire looks on their vehicles.
Bias Ply Construction
Bias ply tire construction is a method that was used from the 1900's through the 1970's on passenger cars and light trucks. Bias ply tires feature ply cords that run at a 45 degree angle to the bead, and overlap in a crisscross pattern, depending on how many ply layers are used. This creates a strong tire, but bias ply tires have a tendency to follow breaks or ruts in the pavement. Bias ply tires are the most authentic choice for classic car restorations and traditional hot rod builds. Coker Tire offers a huge variety of bias ply tires for many applications.
Coker Classic Bias Ply Tires
Coker Classic bias ply tires are designed for classic cars and trucks, as well as hot rods and customs. With many popular sizes, including 670-15, 600-16 and alphanumeric sizes like L78-15, this product line fits many classic makes and models.
Coker Classic Brand Collector Vehicle Tires
Coker Tire was founded in 1958, focused on supplying the collector vehicle market with authentic tires. The Coker Classic brand is a favorite among car restorers and enthusiasts around the world. Coker was the first to develop the wide whitewall radial, and it's still one of its most popular product lines to this day. Coker Classic tires are offered in both bias ply and radial construction, using modern materials to ensure proper fitment and handling for your collector vehicle.
Please Note
- Tire mounted on wheel for demonstration purposes only. Wheel and other accessories are not included. Please note that dimensions listed (tread width, section width and overall diameter) are non-scientific and based on an inflated tire, mounted to a wheel. Dimensions may vary due to rim width and inflation pressure.
| SKU | 63393 |
|---|---|
| Weight | 15.000000 |
| Brand | Coker Classic |
| Product Size | 500-16 |
| Tube Type or Tubeless | Tube Type |
| Rim Diameter | 16 inch |
| Tire Construction | Bias Ply |
| Tire Series | Coker Classic Motorcycle |
| Sidewall Style | Blackwall |
| Motorcycle Sizes | 500-16 |
| GTIN | 00842199102505 |
| Section Width (IN) | 5 |
| Rim Width (in) | 3 |
| Overall Diameter (IN) | 26.25 |
| Availability Date | 2026-11-30T00:00:00Z |
500-16 Coker Classic Bias Ply Blackwall Bias Ply Tire
500-16 Fitment Chart
1955-1958 Bristol 405 Standard
1953-1954 Ford Anglia,Prefect Standard
1955-1956 Maserati Sports 150S
1957-1958 Morgan Series II, Plus4 Standard
1952-1954 Porsche 356 Pre-A
1955 Porsche 356
1952-1955 Singer 1500 Roadster
1939 Willys Standard
Fits these models and others. Please refer to your owners manual for details on the correct tire fitment requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fitment & Compatibility â–¼
The Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire is intended for motorcycles originally designed for a 5.00-16 tire and a 16-inch rim. If your motorcycle retains factory geometry and uses a 3-inch rim width, installation is typically straightforward with the correct tube.
However, clearance must be verified at the fork, swingarm, and fender. The 5-inch section width and 26.25-inch diameter require checking under suspension compression and steering movement. Modified motorcycles or aftermarket components may reduce available clearance.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire is designed for a 3-inch rim width, which aligns with original equipment specifications for many vintage motorcycles. This ensures proper sidewall shape and even tread contact with the road.
Using a wider rim flattens the tread and alters handling characteristics. A narrower rim increases sidewall flex and can lead to instability. Maintaining the correct rim width is essential for preserving predictable handling and proper wear patterns.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire has a 5-inch section width that generally fits original applications but may be tight on some vintage frames. Clearance should be checked at both the fork and swingarm.
Bias ply tires flex more than radials, which can cause expansion under load. This makes it important to check clearance under suspension compression and steering movement. Modified bikes require extra attention to avoid interference.
Tire Size Equivalents & Conversions â–¼
The Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire does not have a direct modern equivalent. Its 5-inch section width and 26.25-inch diameter reflect vintage sizing standards.
When comparing alternatives, focus on matching diameter and width. Modern tires often differ in profile and construction, which can affect fitment and handling.
Yes, changing to this tire can affect speedometer accuracy. The 26.25-inch diameter changes how far the motorcycle travels per revolution.
A larger diameter results in a slower speedometer reading, while a smaller diameter increases it. This is important for vintage bikes with mechanical gauges.
Performance & Use Case â–¼
The Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire delivers a traditional riding experience consistent with vintage motorcycle design. It offers predictable behavior at moderate speeds and is well suited for cruising and relaxed riding conditions.
Bias ply construction creates more road feedback and requires more rider input compared to modern radial tires. The tire tends to follow pavement grooves, especially on uneven surfaces. This results in a more engaged riding experience that reflects original period-correct performance rather than modern refinement.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire can be used on highways at moderate speeds when properly inflated and maintained. It provides stable tracking in straight-line conditions and performs adequately for typical cruising use.
However, sustained high-speed riding increases heat buildup due to bias ply construction. Riders should avoid extended high-speed travel and monitor tire pressure regularly. This tire is best suited for moderate highway use rather than long-distance high-speed touring.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire is highly suitable for show-quality restorations due to its authentic blackwall styling and correct proportions. It closely matches original equipment appearance.
The period-correct construction and profile enhance the visual accuracy of restored motorcycles. This makes it an excellent choice for collectors and enthusiasts focused on maintaining historical authenticity in their builds.
Construction, Durability & Load Capacity â–¼
Bias ply construction uses overlapping cords laid at angles, creating a strong yet flexible structure. This design was standard in vintage motorcycle tires and defines their handling characteristics.
The construction allows more sidewall flex compared to radial tires, which affects ride feel and stability. It provides durability for moderate use while maintaining the authentic driving behavior expected from period-correct tires.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire is built with modern materials to improve durability while maintaining vintage construction. It performs well under normal cruising and moderate riding conditions.
However, it is not designed for aggressive riding or high-performance use. Proper maintenance, including correct inflation and regular inspection, is essential to maximize lifespan and ensure consistent performance.y is best achieved through moderate driving and regular maintenance.
Inflation pressure plays a critical role in performance, comfort, and durability. Proper pressure ensures correct contact patch and stable handling characteristics.
Underinflation increases heat buildup and wear, while overinflation reduces grip and ride comfort. Maintaining recommended pressure levels helps balance performance and extends tire life.
Installation & Maintenance â–¼
Yes, the Coker Classic Motorcycle 500-16 Bias Ply Blackwall Tire is a tube-type tire and requires an inner tube for proper operation. This is essential for maintaining air pressure.
Using the correct tube size ensures safe performance and prevents failure. Tubeless setups are not recommended with this tire due to its construction design.
The tire should be inspected regularly for wear, damage, and proper inflation. Frequent checks help maintain safety and performance during use.
Inspection intervals depend on riding frequency, but consistency is important. Early detection of issues such as uneven wear or damage helps prevent more serious problems.
The tire should be inflated according to manufacturer and motorcycle specifications. Proper pressure ensures optimal contact with the road.
Regular pressure checks are essential, as inflation directly affects handling, comfort, and durability. Maintaining correct levels improves overall performance and safety.








