400-18 Firestone Classic Motorcycle Blackwall Motorcycle Tire
Like many of the tires we offer, Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle tires serve two purposes. It's an authentic tire for American motorcycle restorations from the 1930s and '40s, and it also appeals to custom motorcycle builders seeking the vintage look. The deep tread and smooth sidewall with raised black Firestone lettering is perfect for many styles of motorcycles, from stock Harley Davidsons to modified Honda, BSA, Triumph and many more! Restored classics, choppers, bobbers, cafe racers and much more. This tire covers it all and is available in seven sizes to fit 16-, 18- and 19-inch wheels. Sometimes called Firestone Champion Deluxe in other parts of the world, these tires are becoming insanely popular with custom bike builders everywhere.
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.
Firestone Classic Bias Ply Tires
Firestone Classic bias ply tires feature dozens of sizes and styles, making it one of the most popular authentic tire options for antique and classic cars, as well as hot rods and customs. You’ll find the Deluxe Champion and other models in this iconic product line.
Firestone Tires for Collector Vehicles
The vintage line of Firestone tires fits a wide range of cars, trucks and motorcycles built from the 1900's through the 1970's. Firestone Non Skid tires, Firestone Deluxe Champion tires, Firestone Wide Oval tires and many more famous styles and sizes are available to fit military vehicles, motorcycles and classic commercial trucks. With whitewalls, redlines, raised white letters and other classic sidewall styles, this product line is one of the most extensive and popular brands for classic cars.
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 | 72222 |
|---|---|
| Weight | 18.000000 |
| Brand | Firestone |
| Product Size | 400-18 |
| Tube Type or Tubeless | Tube Type |
| Rim Diameter | 18 inch |
| Tire Construction | Bias Ply |
| Tire Series | Deluxe Champion |
| Sidewall Style | Blackwall |
| Motorcycle Sizes | 400-18 |
| Section Width (IN) | 4.25 |
| Rim Width (in) | 2.15 |
| Overall Diameter (IN) | 26.57 |
| Availability Date | 2026-09-30T00:00:00Z |
400-18 Firestone Classic Motorcycle Blackwall Bias Ply Motorcycle Tire
Frequently Asked Questions
Fitment & Compatibility â–¼
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 is designed for motorcycles running an 18-inch rim with a tube-type configuration. The recommended rim width of 2.15 inches aligns well with many vintage Harley-Davidson, Triumph, BSA, and custom builds. Compatibility starts with matching the rim diameter and ensuring the wheel supports tube-type installation.
Fitment also depends on physical clearance. The 4.25-inch section width and 26.57-inch overall diameter must be checked against fork spacing, swingarm clearance, and fender height. Differences from the current tire can affect turning clearance and chain alignment. Verifying measurements before installation prevents interference issues under real riding conditions.
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 is widely used on bobber and chopper builds due to the tall sidewall and vintage tread design. The 18-inch bead diameter must match the wheel exactly, and the 2.15-inch measuring rim width provides a solid baseline for compatibility on many custom builds.
Custom frames often reduce available space, especially on hardtails or modified rear sections. The 26.57-inch diameter can influence stance and ride height, while the 4.25-inch width may sit close to chains or belt drives. Builders should mock up the wheel and tire combination to confirm clearance before final mounting.
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 can be used on either front or rear positions depending on motorcycle design and size requirements. Many vintage motorcycles used similar tire profiles across both ends, especially in inch-based sizing systems.
Front placement affects steering feel and tracking, while rear placement influences traction and ride height. Matching proportions between front and rear tires is important for maintaining proper stance and balanced handling. Riders should compare existing sizes before deciding placement.
Tire Size Equivalents & Conversions â–¼
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 corresponds loosely to certain metric sizes, but no exact modern equivalent exists. The key reference points are the 4.25-inch section width and 26.57-inch overall diameter.
Metric alternatives may match width but differ in sidewall height, which changes ride feel and stance. Buyers should compare actual measurements rather than relying on conversion charts alone to ensure compatibility.
The 26.57-inch diameter of the Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 can change speedometer readings if it differs from the current tire. Larger diameters reduce revolutions per mile.
Mechanical speedometers on vintage motorcycles are especially sensitive to size changes. Riders should compare current and new diameters to estimate potential variation in readings.
Actual dimensions such as width and diameter determine fitment and performance. The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 provides these measurements for accurate planning.
Relying only on size labels can lead to clearance issues or unexpected stance changes. Comparing real dimensions ensures a better fit and predictable results.
Performance & Use Case â–¼
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 is a bias ply tire, which delivers a traditional ride feel with noticeable road feedback. At highway speeds, bias construction may follow pavement grooves more than modern radial tires.
The tall sidewall helps absorb road imperfections, contributing to comfort. Heat buildup should be monitored on long rides, especially at sustained speeds, as bias ply tires can retain more heat than radial designs.
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 can be used for long-distance riding if properly inflated and maintained. Bias ply construction requires attention to pressure and load conditions.
Heat buildup should be monitored during extended highway use. Regular checks help maintain performance and longevity.
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 balances both, but prioritizes period-correct appearance. The vintage tread and blackwall styling are key design elements.
Performance reflects traditional bias ply characteristics rather than modern high-performance expectations. Buyers should value authenticity alongside usability.
Construction, Durability & Load Capacity â–¼
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 uses bias ply construction, where cords run diagonally across the tire.
This structure provides strength and durability but results in more sidewall flex compared to radial designs.
The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 is built for durability in vintage and custom applications. Bias ply construction offers strong sidewalls and resistance to impacts.
Durability depends on proper inflation and usage. Regular inspection helps maintain performance over time.
Bias ply construction can retain more heat during extended riding. The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 should be monitored during long highway use.
Maintaining proper pressure helps manage heat and extends tire life.
Installation & Maintenance â–¼
Regular inspection is important for maintaining performance. The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 should be checked for pressure and wear frequently.
Routine checks help prevent issues and extend tire life.
Proper storage extends tire life. The Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18 should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Avoid exposure to chemicals or extreme temperatures.
Regular pressure checks, inspections, and proper storage help maintain the Firestone Deluxe Champion Motorcycle 400-18.
Consistent care ensures reliable performance and longevity.







