Overview
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a premier all-terrain (AT) tyre designed for drivers who demand serious off-road performance without sacrificing on-road comfort. Targeted at owners of pickup trucks, SUVs, and 4x4s, the KO2 is an all-season tyre engineered for adventure seekers, overlanders, contractors, and anyone who needs dependability across varied terrains. Whether you’re navigating rocky trails, muddy backroads, or simply need a robust tyre for daily highway driving, the KO2 stands out for its blend of toughness, traction, and longevity. It’s a favorite among US drivers who value versatility and reliability.
Key Specs
| Type | All-Terrain (All-Season) |
| Available Sizes Range | 15–22″ rim diameters; key examples: LT265/70R17, LT275/65R18 |
| Speed Rating Examples | R, S, T (varies by size) |
| Load Index Examples | 112–126 (varies by size) |
| Tread Pattern | Aggressive, interlocking tread blocks with serrated shoulder design |
| Technology Highlights | CoreGard™ sidewall tech, advanced rubber compound, stone ejectors, 3PMSF certified |
Performance: Dry
On dry pavement, the KO2 offers a reassuringly stable ride. The interlocking tread blocks and stiff sidewall construction provide solid handling and confident cornering for a tyre in this segment. Braking distances are competitive for an all-terrain, though, as expected, not at the level of dedicated highway tyres. Steering response is predictable, and the tyre’s enhanced shoulder design helps maintain grip even when transitioning from pavement to gravel. The robust construction means the KO2 resists excessive flex, offering a responsive feel for highway driving, towing, or hauling loads.
Performance: Wet
Wet weather performance is a standout area for the KO2 compared to many aggressive AT tyres. Wide lateral grooves and deep sipes quickly evacuate water, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. The advanced rubber compound maintains pliability in cooler temperatures, preserving traction on rain-soaked roads and muddy trails. While braking distances in the wet are marginally longer than a premium all-season highway tyre, the KO2 inspires confidence under both light and heavy rain. Muddy and loose surfaces are handled well, with the tread pattern designed to self-clean and maintain traction even as conditions deteriorate.
Performance: Snow & Ice
The KO2 carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating it meets the requirements for severe snow service. In light to moderate snow, the tyre bites effectively thanks to its serrated shoulders, dense siping, and deep tread blocks. Acceleration and braking are reliable, especially in fresh or packed snow. On icy surfaces, performance is respectable for an AT tyre—traction is enhanced by the siping, but drivers should still exercise caution, as it won’t match a true winter tyre’s grip on glare ice. For those who frequently encounter mixed winter conditions but don’t require a dedicated snow tyre, the KO2 is a strong all-rounder.
Comfort & Noise
For an aggressive all-terrain tyre, the KO2 is impressively composed on-road. Ride comfort is aided by the tyre’s robust but slightly flexible carcass, which absorbs small bumps and rough patches without feeling overly stiff. Noise levels are moderate: the tread pattern does generate a characteristic hum, especially at highway speeds, but it’s notably quieter than older-generation AT tyres or mud-terrain models. Most drivers will find the sound level acceptable for daily use, especially considering the tyre’s off-road capability.
Durability & Economy
Durability is one of the KO2’s strongest attributes. The CoreGard™ sidewall technology provides resistance to cuts and punctures, a major advantage for off-roaders encountering rocks and debris. The tread compound is engineered to resist chipping and tearing, even on abrasive terrain. Treadwear is typically slow and even, with many users reporting 40,000–60,000 miles depending on rotation and driving style. The KO2’s rolling resistance is higher than a pure highway tyre, which can mean a slight drop in fuel economy (1–2 mpg in some cases), but this is a fair trade-off for its off-road toughness. In the US, the KO2 typically carries a UTQG rating of 500 A B (P-metric sizes only; LT sizes are not UTQG rated). Overall, it offers excellent value for those prioritizing longevity and strength.
Sizes & Alternatives
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is available in a wide array of sizes to fit most popular US trucks and SUVs. Two of the most common sizes are LT265/70R17 and LT275/65R18, suitable for vehicles like the Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Silverado, Jeep Wrangler, and more.
Popular Sizes
- LT265/70R17
- LT275/65R18
- LT285/75R16
- LT245/75R16
- LT275/70R18
Top Alternatives
- Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar
- Falken Wildpeak A/T3W
- Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT
- General Grabber A/TX
- Toyo Open Country A/T III
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Outstanding off-road traction and durability
- Respectable on-road comfort and noise for an AT tyre
- 3PMSF certified for severe snow performance
- Excellent puncture and chip resistance
- Wide range of sizes for trucks and SUVs
Cons
- Higher rolling resistance than highway tyres (slight fuel economy penalty)
- Noticeable tread noise at highway speeds
- Higher initial cost compared to some competitors
- Performance on ice still trails dedicated winter tyres
- Steering response less sharp than highway or sport tyres
Verdict
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 remains a benchmark in the all-terrain segment for US drivers in 2025. Its ability to confidently transition from paved highways to rocky trails and snowy backroads makes it a versatile and dependable choice for truck and SUV owners who value off-road adventures without sacrificing daily usability. The KO2’s rugged durability, snow performance, and broad size selection are balanced by moderate on-road comfort and a slight fuel economy trade-off. If you need a tyre that can handle work, play, and winter weather—and are willing to tolerate a bit more noise and a higher up-front cost—the KO2 is easily one of the best all-rounders in the AT market. Those focused on maximum on-road silence or fuel savings may want to consider a less aggressive all-terrain or highway all-season, but for genuine go-anywhere confidence, the KO2 delivers.
Could you elaborate on how the KO2’s advanced rubber compound compares to previous versions, especially in terms of durability and tread life?
The KO2 uses a new rubber compound that’s tougher and more resistant to chips and tears compared to earlier models. This improvement helps the tire withstand rough terrain better and reduces tread wear, resulting in noticeably longer tread life and enhanced durability, especially for off-road and heavy-duty use.
Are there significant differences in ride comfort or performance between the LT265/70R17 and LT275/65R18 sizes mentioned, or does it mostly come down to fit?
Both tire sizes offer similar performance and ride comfort, as they’re the same model with slight dimensional differences. The main factors are fit and compatibility with your vehicle’s wheel size and clearance. Any ride or handling differences between these two sizes are typically minimal for most drivers.
Any issues with balancing these in the LT265/70R17 size, or do they mount up smooth from the start?
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 in LT265/70R17 is generally known for mounting smoothly and balancing well from the start. Most users and installers find no unusual issues with balancing. Occasionally, a tire may need a bit more weight, but that’s normal with all-terrain tires. Having them installed by an experienced shop helps ensure the best results.
Are there notable differences in road noise or comfort when switching from a standard highway tire to the KO2, especially at higher speeds? Daily driving comfort is a priority for me.
Switching from standard highway tires to the KO2 typically means you’ll notice increased road noise, especially at higher speeds, due to the aggressive tread pattern. Ride comfort may also be slightly firmer compared to highway tires. While the KO2 is well-mannered for an all-terrain tire, it’s not as quiet or smooth as a pure highway tire if daily driving comfort is your main concern.
Is there a significant road noise difference between the KO2 and a typical highway tire when used for mostly city commuting?
You will notice more road noise with the KO2 compared to a typical highway tire, especially at higher speeds. The aggressive tread pattern designed for off-roading creates a low hum or growl on pavement. For mostly city commuting, highway tires are generally much quieter and smoother.
Are these tires a good fit for year-round use, including winter driving in the Midwest, or would I still need to budget for a dedicated set of snow tires?
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires are designed for year-round use and perform well in most winter conditions, including snow, thanks to their Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating. However, if you regularly face severe winter weather or icy roads, a dedicated set of snow tires will offer better traction and safety.
Do the KO2s impact fuel economy much on trucks or SUVs? I’ve heard that some AT tires can lower MPG, so I’m wondering if that’s a trade-off with these.
KO2s can cause a slight drop in fuel economy compared to stock highway or touring tires. Their aggressive tread adds rolling resistance and weight, which may lower your MPG by 1–2 miles per gallon, depending on your vehicle and driving style. The trade-off is better traction and off-road capability, which many owners find worthwhile.
Is the aggressive tread pattern on the KO2 going to increase road noise enough to bother passengers on family trips?
The KO2’s aggressive tread does produce more road noise than standard highway tires, but it’s generally well controlled for an all-terrain tire. Most drivers find it noticeable at highway speeds, but not overwhelming. Unless your passengers are especially sensitive to noise, it shouldn’t be a major issue on family trips.
How do these KO2s perform for towing heavier loads, especially when driving between paved roads and construction sites? Any issues with excessive tread wear under heavy weight?
The KO2s are well-regarded for towing heavier loads, thanks to their reinforced sidewalls and load ratings. They handle transitions between pavement and construction sites smoothly. Under heavy weight, tread wear is generally even and not excessive if you maintain proper tire pressure; regular rotation will also help maximize their lifespan.
With the aggressive tread, is road noise on the highway an issue for families who frequently take longer drives?
The aggressive tread on the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 does produce a bit more road noise compared to standard highway tires, but most users find it manageable. It’s not overly loud for highway drives, so families can still enjoy long trips without discomfort, though you may notice a subtle hum at higher speeds.
Do you know how the tread life holds up for people who switch between off-road adventures and mostly highway commuting?
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is known for its excellent tread life, even for drivers who alternate between off-road use and highway commuting. Most users report the tires last 40,000 to 50,000 miles or more, provided they’re rotated regularly and kept at proper pressure. The tough tread compound helps resist wear from both terrains.
Do the aggressive tread blocks and stone ejectors lead to faster tread wear when used primarily on pavement, or is longevity comparable to less aggressive all-terrain tires?
Aggressive tread blocks and features like stone ejectors can result in slightly faster tread wear on pavement compared to less aggressive all-terrain tires. While the KO2 is designed for durability, its off-road-focused tread may not last quite as long as more street-oriented all-terrains if used mostly on-road. Regular rotation and maintaining proper tire pressure can help maximize longevity.
The aggressive tread sounds great for off-roading, but do the stone ejectors really help prevent small rocks from getting lodged and causing damage over time?
The stone ejectors built into the KO2’s tread are specifically designed to reduce the buildup of small rocks and debris. They help push out stones that might otherwise get stuck, which can lower the risk of damage to the tire over time, especially during frequent off-road use.
For someone on a budget, would choosing a smaller rim size (like 17 inch instead of 18) make much difference in price or performance with these KO2s?
Opting for a 17-inch rim instead of an 18-inch usually lowers the tire cost, as 17-inch KO2s tend to be less expensive. Performance differences are minimal for everyday use—ride comfort may even improve slightly with more sidewall. Just make sure the 17-inch size fits your vehicle and meets your load requirements.
Is the tread pattern on the KO2 likely to pick up small rocks and bring them onto driveways or into garages? Our driveway is gravel, so this is a concern for us.
The KO2’s aggressive tread pattern is designed to enhance off-road traction, which means it can sometimes pick up small rocks, especially when driving on gravel. While the stone ejector features help minimize this, you may still notice some gravel carried onto driveways or into garages. Regularly checking and cleaning the tread can help reduce this issue.
For drivers who spend most of their time on pavement but need off-road capability on weekends, does the KO2’s aggressive tread impact road noise or fuel efficiency noticeably?
The KO2’s aggressive tread does increase road noise slightly compared to standard highway tires, but most drivers find it acceptable for daily use. Fuel efficiency can dip a little due to added rolling resistance, but the effect is generally minor. You’ll gain substantial off-road grip while maintaining reasonable comfort and mileage on pavement.
I see the KO2 has the 3PMSF certification, but is it enough to get through mild winters in upstate New York, or should we consider true winter tires for safety?
The KO2’s 3PMSF rating means it performs better in winter than typical all-terrain tires, handling light snow and cold fairly well. However, for upstate New York’s harsher winter conditions, dedicated winter tires will provide even better traction and safety, especially on ice or during heavy snowfall.
You mention that the KO2 is 3PMSF certified. Does that mean it performs well in deep snow or is it just adequate for light winter conditions?
The KO2’s 3PMSF certification means it’s proven to perform better than standard all-season tires in winter, especially for light to moderate snow. However, in deep snow, while it does better than many all-terrains, it may not match the traction of a dedicated winter tire. For occasional deep snow, it will do well, but for frequent extreme winter conditions, a winter tire is still the best option.
I mostly drive on pavement but hit rough trails a few weekends a year. Would the aggressive tread wear down faster if used mostly on highways, or will they still last a decent amount of miles?
The KO2’s aggressive tread is designed to handle both off-road and highway driving, but it may wear a bit faster on pavement compared to a typical highway tire. However, many users report good tread life even with mostly road use, so you can still expect decent mileage as long as you maintain proper tire pressure and rotation.
Do the KO2s tend to wear out quickly if most of my driving is just suburban commute rather than off-road? I want something durable for everyday parenting errands.
The KO2s are actually known for their durability and long tread life, even when mostly used on pavement. Many drivers report that they handle regular suburban commutes well and don’t wear out faster than other all-terrain tires. They’re a solid choice for everyday parenting errands, offering both toughness and longevity.
If I wanted to buy these in LT275/65R18, do I need any special installation steps or hardware compared to regular highway tires?
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 in LT275/65R18 can usually be installed just like regular highway tires if your wheels are the correct size. However, all-terrain tires may be heavier and stiffer, so make sure your tire shop uses equipment suitable for tougher sidewalls. No special hardware is required, but double-check that your vehicle’s load and speed ratings match.
I noticed the KO2 is 3PMSF certified. Does that mean I don’t need to switch to dedicated winter tires if I’m in northern states with occasional snow, or is it still safer to swap them out?
The KO2’s 3PMSF certification means it performs better than typical all-terrains in snow and meets basic winter traction standards. However, if you regularly face harsh, icy, or deep snow conditions, dedicated winter tires are still safer and offer superior grip. For occasional light snow in the northern states, the KO2s could be sufficient if you drive cautiously.
For contractors who tow trailers or frequently carry heavy loads, do you recommend the LT265/70R17 or LT275/65R18 size, considering load index and ride quality?
Both sizes offer strong load-carrying capabilities, but the LT275/65R18 typically has a slightly higher load index, making it a better fit for frequent heavy towing or hauling. However, the LT265/70R17 can provide a more comfortable ride due to its taller sidewall. If maximum load capacity is your priority, go with the LT275/65R18. For a balance of comfort and capability, the LT265/70R17 is a solid choice.
Is there a significant price jump between the LT265/70R17 and LT275/65R18 sizes, or do they tend to be similarly priced?
The LT275/65R18 size usually costs a bit more than the LT265/70R17, mainly due to the larger rim diameter and slightly bigger tire dimensions. However, the price difference is often modest—typically around $20 to $40 more per tire, depending on the retailer and region.
With the KO2 being 3PMSF certified, would you say it’s reliable enough for regular use in snowy climates without swapping to actual winter tires?
The KO2’s 3PMSF certification means it performs better in snow than standard all-terrain tires, so it’s suitable for occasional or moderate winter conditions. However, if you face frequent heavy snow or icy roads, dedicated winter tires still provide better traction and safety during the coldest months.
Is there a significant difference in performance or load capacity between the LT265/70R17 and LT275/65R18 sizes, or are they mostly similar?
The LT275/65R18 is slightly wider and has a larger diameter than the LT265/70R17, which can offer a bit more load capacity and ground clearance. However, both sizes perform similarly in most off-road and on-road situations. If your vehicle can fit either size, the difference in everyday performance will be minor.
Do the KO2s impact fuel economy much because of their aggressive tread and heavier construction? I’m trying to balance off-road capability with gas mileage.
KO2 tires can slightly reduce fuel economy compared to standard highway tires. The aggressive tread and heavier build increase rolling resistance and weight, which can mean 1–2 mpg less, depending on your vehicle and driving habits. However, many drivers find the off-road performance and durability worth the trade-off if you need all-terrain capability.
Does the KO2’s tread pattern make it harder to balance or cause any road noise issues over time, especially when used for regular highway commutes?
The KO2’s aggressive tread pattern can create more road noise compared to standard highway tires, though most drivers find it manageable. As for balancing, the KO2 generally balances like other all-terrain tires, but regular rotation and alignment help maintain smooth performance, especially if you commute often on highways.
I like the idea of the CoreGard sidewall tech, but how does it actually perform in real-world construction site environments with sharp debris and rough terrain?
CoreGard sidewall technology is designed to add extra strength and puncture resistance to the tire’s sidewalls, which means it holds up well on construction sites. Users have found that it resists cuts, chips, and bruises from sharp rocks and debris commonly found on rough job sites, helping to reduce the chances of sidewall damage.
Does the KO2’s CoreGard sidewall tech actually make a noticeable difference in preventing sidewall damage during off-roading compared to other AT tires?
The KO2’s CoreGard sidewall technology is designed to add extra toughness by making the sidewalls thicker and more resistant to cuts and punctures. Many off-road users report fewer sidewall issues with KO2s versus other all-terrain tires, especially on rocky trails, so you’re likely to notice a real difference in durability during tough off-road conditions.
What kind of mileage or lifespan should I realistically expect from the KO2s if I regularly drive on gravel and city roads?
If you drive regularly on both gravel and city roads, you can typically expect around 40,000 to 50,000 miles from the KO2s. Gravel might wear them a bit faster than pure highway use, but their tough compound is designed to handle mixed conditions quite well. Regular rotation and maintaining proper tire pressure will help maximize their lifespan.
Are there major differences in ride comfort or noise levels between the LT265/70R17 and LT275/65R18 sizes? I’m trying to pick the best fit for our family SUV.
Between the LT265/70R17 and LT275/65R18 sizes of the KO2, any difference in ride comfort or noise is minor. Both sizes use the same tread design and technology. The 18-inch tire may feel slightly firmer due to the shorter sidewall, while the 17-inch might absorb bumps a bit better. For most families, either option will be comfortable and quiet for daily driving.
For someone mainly driving on highways with occasional light off-roading, would the KO2’s tread and compound lead to noticeably faster wear compared to a standard highway tire?
The KO2 is designed for durability, but its aggressive tread and tougher compound can wear somewhat faster on highways compared to standard highway tires, especially if most of your driving is on paved roads. You may notice a shorter tread life than with dedicated highway tires, but the KO2 still offers solid longevity for drivers who occasionally go off-road.
For someone who mainly drives on highways but occasionally does off-roading, would these tires have a much shorter tread life than highway-focused options?
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires generally wear faster on highways compared to highway-focused tires because of their more aggressive tread. However, if most of your driving is on pavement and you only do light off-roading occasionally, the tread life should still be reasonable, just not as long as purely highway tires. Regular rotation and proper inflation can help maximize their lifespan.