450-18 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 | 71370 |
|---|---|
| Weight | 18.000000 |
| Brand | Coker Classic |
| Product Size | 450-18 |
| Tube Type or Tubeless | Tube Type |
| Rim Diameter | 18 inch |
| Tire Construction | Bias Ply |
| Tire Series | Coker Classic Motorcycle |
| Sidewall Style | Blackwall |
| Motorcycle Sizes | 450-18 |
| Section Width (IN) | 4.5 |
| Rim Width (in) | 2.15 |
| Overall Diameter (IN) | 27 |
| Availability Date | 2027-02-26T00:00:00Z |
450-18 Coker Classic Bias Ply Blackwall Bias Ply Tire
Frequently Asked Questions
Fitment & Compatibility â–¼
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 is designed to fit motorcycles that originally used a 4.50-18 tire size, which was common across many vintage American, British, and European bikes. With a 27-inch overall diameter and 4.5-inch section width, it closely matches original factory specifications, helping maintain correct stance and geometry.
However, proper fitment depends on your specific motorcycle’s rim width and available clearance. This tire is intended for a 2.15-inch wide rim, so using it on a significantly different wheel can affect performance. Always check swingarm, fork clearance, and original tire sizing before installation to ensure compatibility.
Yes, the Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 is a tube-type tire and requires an inner tube for proper installation. This is consistent with vintage motorcycle design, where tube-type systems were standard across most applications.
Using the correct tube size is critical for safety and performance. An improperly sized or installed tube can lead to uneven inflation, heat buildup, or failure. Riders should also ensure the rim strip is in good condition to protect the tube from spoke damage during use.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 has a section width of 4.5 inches and a 27-inch overall diameter, which typically fits vintage motorcycles designed for this size. However, clearance must always be verified before installation.
Bias ply tires can flex and expand slightly under load, especially during cornering or suspension compression. This means static measurements may not reflect real-world conditions. Riders should check clearance at full compression and steering lock to avoid rubbing issues and ensure safe operation.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 is well suited for many classic European and British motorcycles that originally used similar sizing. Its bias ply construction and vintage tread pattern closely replicate period-correct designs.
Fitment depends on the specific model, as some European bikes used slightly different sizing conventions. Verifying original tire specifications ensures proper compatibility. This tire is especially popular among restorers seeking an authentic look while maintaining functional ride quality.
Tire Size Equivalents & Conversions â–¼
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 is roughly equivalent to a modern 120/90-18 radial tire. However, differences in construction and tread profile mean the two are not identical in performance or fit.
Radial tires typically have flatter contact patches and stiffer sidewalls, which can change handling characteristics. Riders switching between bias ply and radial should consider how these differences affect ride quality, clearance, and overall performance before making a change.
Switching to the Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 may affect speedometer accuracy if the current tire has a different overall diameter. Even small differences can result in noticeable speed variations.
Using a tire with the correct 27-inch diameter helps maintain accurate speed readings. Riders should compare current tire specifications to ensure compatibility and avoid unexpected changes in performance or instrumentation.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 can replace similar vintage sizes, but significant differences in width or diameter should be avoided. Larger tires may cause clearance issues, while smaller ones can alter ride height.
Maintaining original sizing ensures proper fitment and consistent performance. Riders should verify clearance and compatibility before making any size changes to avoid potential issues.
Performance & Use Case â–¼
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, consistent with vintage bias ply tire characteristics. Its flexible sidewall absorbs road imperfections effectively.
However, handling is less precise compared to modern radial tires. Riders should expect a traditional feel with moderate grip and stability, making it well suited for cruising rather than aggressive riding.
At higher speeds, the Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 provides stable but less responsive handling compared to radial tires. The bias ply construction contributes to this behavior.
Riders may notice slight tracking or wandering on grooved pavement. Maintaining proper inflation pressure helps improve stability and reduce these effects during highway riding.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 is an excellent choice for show and restoration projects due to its authentic design and period-correct appearance.
It provides both visual accuracy and functional performance, making it suitable for enthusiasts who want their motorcycles to look and ride as originally intended.
Construction, Durability & Load Capacity â–¼
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 uses bias ply construction, featuring layered cords arranged in a crisscross pattern. This design was standard for vintage motorcycles.
It provides strength and flexibility but results in less precise handling compared to radial tires. This construction supports a traditional riding experience.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 is built with modern materials, offering improved durability over original vintage tires while maintaining authentic construction.
However, bias ply tires still require proper care. Heat, pressure, and riding conditions can impact longevity. Regular maintenance helps extend tire life.
Installation & Maintenance â–¼
The correct tire pressure for the Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 depends on the motorcycle and riding conditions. Following manufacturer guidelines is essential.
Incorrect pressure can affect handling, wear, and heat buildup. Regular checks help maintain optimal performance.
The Coker Classic Motorcycle Diamond Tread 450-18 should be inspected regularly for wear, damage, and proper inflation. Frequent checks improve safety and performance.
Early detection of issues helps prevent more serious problems. Routine maintenance extends tire life.









