BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Review: Among the Best in its Class

Drivers today want to have everything in one package. For those reasons, SUVs are becoming hugely popular. In modern versions of those cars, you can have safe handling on the street, paired with excellent off-road characteristics. Only two decades ago, these things weren’t possible.

It’s the same with tires. In the past, you either chose on-road tires or off-road tires. For instance, if you chose on-road tires, your SUV would’ve suffered during off-roading. With off-road tires, you would’ve gotten much worse everyday drivability, with very low levels of traction.

Today, though, things are different. All-terrain tires offer the best of both worlds, and one of the best examples of that is the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2. This tire not only shows what can be achieved in an all-terrain model, but it also sets some benchmarks in its category.

Besides, this is one of the most beloved SUV and truck tires in North America, especially among amateur off-roaders. If you ask some off-roader on what tire you should get, you will probably receive the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 as the answer. On top of that, owners of this tire are extremely satisfied with the performance it gets.

The thing is, regular drivers aren’t always the best benchmark for tires. I’ve seen too many positive reviews on super-cheap tires, yet they are as bad as it gets. The thing is, with normal daily driving, you might never reach the limits of the tires. Consequently, you will probably be satisfied with them.

Fortunately, there are tire reviews for those that want a product that will perform at the highest level. Like this BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 review, where I’ll uncover how the tire works in various categories.

Moreover, I’ll answer the question of whether owners are right when they say those positive things about the tire. Okay, okay, I’ll cut the chase – the tire is simply amazing. But I still suggest reading the whole review, as it contains some important information about the KO2.

BFGoodrich offers its all-terrain tire in the most popular sizes, ranging from 15-inch wheel diameter to 20-inch wheel diameter. You can also find the KO2 in 31-inch, 33-inch, and 35-inch sizes, which work best for off-roading. In terms of availability, this is one of the best tires on the market right now.

Furthermore, most of the sizes are LT-metric. This means that the tire will fit the largest and heaviest SUVs and trucks out there. Also, the KO2 will work fine for hauling very heavy cargo or towing large trailers.

With that said, let’s dig into the features of the KO2, and then jump onto our review.

What are the features of the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2?

According to BFGoodrich, the KO2 is an all-season all-terrain tire with severe snow rating. The company designed this tire with technology borrowed from its champion Baja tires. Moreover, the company states that the KO2 offers aggressive all-terrain traction, which will “confidently get where you want to go.”

To achieve all those things, BFGoodrich utilized a racing-delivered cut-, chip- and tear-resistant tread compound, designed for longer life. The rubber compound is molded into one of the most aggressive tread patterns in the all-terrain category.

The tread design features a computer-optimized high-void all-terrain pattern with interlocking tread blocks. BFGoodrich also utilized innovative 3D sipes, which increase the tread block stability. These sipes make the tread more durable but also help with stability while driving.

Furthermore, the all-terrain tread pattern features loose object ejection, excellent off-road durability, and good on-road traction, and acceptable noise. Also, the advanced tire footprint shape distributes the forces evenly, which further helps with stability and durability.

As for off-road traction, the pattern features serrated shoulder design, which increases traction in mud and snow, and also over rocky terrains. Meanwhile, the interlocking tread elements maximize traction both on the street and for off-roading by stabilizing the tread center.

For added strength, the KO2 features the CoreGuard Technology, which includes a split & bruise resistant sidewall rubber. Moreover, BFGoodrich increased the thickness of the rubber and utilized an Advanced Deflection Design to deflect protruding objects.

The KO2 is also 3PMSF-rated (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake). This rating signifies that the tire exceeds the Rubber Manufacturer Association (RMA) severe snow traction requirements.

The internal construction of the KO2 consists of twin steel belts reinforced with spirally-wrapped nylon, on top of the TriGard 3-ply polyester cord. This design adds strength and durability to the casing, which also increases high-speed stability.

Ultimately, BFGoodrich offers “DT” models for more powerful SUVs and trucks, but also for serious off-roading. These utilize a different tread compound designed to improve wear in high-torque applications and improved chip and tear resistance in gravel or dirt.

What are the maintenance indicators?

The KO2 features the industry-standard tread wear indicators, or TWI’s. These indicators help the driver monitor the tread depth of the tires. The tread depth is very important for safety as well. Without sufficient tread depth, the tire won’t be able to channel water out of the tread, which hurts traction in rainy conditions.

The minimum tread depth on the KO2 is 2/32-inch. When your tires reach this point, you should immediately replace them. Otherwise, you risk severely worsened rain and snow traction. On top of that, you will also lose off-road traction long before that. For that reason, it’s always best to replace your tires earlier.

The TWI’s are narrow rubber inserts, built into the widest grooves of the KO2. The bars are recessed when the tire is new, but they become more visible as the tread wears down. The wear indicators will be flush with the rest of the tread when the tire reaches 2/32-inch.

Fortunately, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 is among the most durable all-terrain tires on the market. BFGoodrich provides a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty on all sizes, which is excellent for the category.

Moreover, the tire is outstandingly tough – you won’t be able to puncture it easily or damage it when driving on hardpacked surfaces.

How does it behave on a dry tarmac?

All-terrain tires suffer when compared to highway tires on the street. However, with the KO2, BFGoodrich managed to close the gap. This is one of the best all-terrain tires on paved roads, both in terms of handling and braking. Moreover, high-speed directional stability is also excellent. You really shouldn’t have any issues with this tire for daily driving.

How is it over wet and slippery roads?

The All-Terrain T/A KO2 continues to impress on wet roads. Predictably, thanks to the large grooves, the hydroplaning resistance is outstanding. However, the tire also impresses in terms of traction – it feels safe during cornering. The braking distances are also very short for an all-terrain tire. Overall, a very safe and predictable driving experience.

With that being said, how is it on snowy roads?

Snow traction is another strong area of the All-Terrain T/A KO2. You will probably never get stuck with this tire in snow, even when deeper. Also, the handling on snow is good for the category, and the braking distances sufficiently short. That said, be careful of ice – the KO2 lacks enough traction there and might surprise you.

Is it suitable for off-road driving?

It’s not only suitable – it’s among the best all-terrain tires for off-road driving. Traction on hardpacked surfaces, such as dirt and gravel, is simply outstanding.

Larger rocks also aren’t an issue for this tire, especially because of the tough and durable construction.

The KO2 continues to impress in the mud. Sure, you will get better performance from a mud-terrain or a maximum-traction tire here. However, as far as all-terrain tires go, the KO2 is on top.

Overall, the KO2 might be the only tire you need for off-road driving – it’s extremely capable.

Is it comfortable and refined?

In terms of ride quality, I don’t have too many complaints. The ride isn’t overly firm, but it’s not soft either. However, that’s the case with most all-terrain tires.

What I noticed is that noise is still an issue at higher speeds, even though the company utilized several techniques to reduce it. Still, this issue is present on most tires in this category.

You can see more BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Review here: videos created by 4x4ventures

BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Review – Should I buy

Well, if you want to have the best possible driving experience from an all-terrain tire, then yes, you should buy the All-Terrain T/A KO2. This is one of the few tires that offer a balanced set of qualities. It works very well on the road, and it’s a beast for off-roading. If money isn’t an object, I strongly suggest purchasing a set of four – it’s that good.