BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Review: Is It Worth It?
When it comes to all-terrain tires, few names carry as much weight as the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2. Known for its rugged design and off-road credibility, the KO2 has become a popular choice among SUV, truck, and Jeep owners who want a tire that can handle everything from highway driving to rocky trails.
But is the BFGoodrich KO2 truly the best all-terrain tire for everyday use? Or is it overkill for most drivers?
In this in-depth BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 review, we’ll break down real-world performance, strengths, weaknesses, and who this tire actually makes sense for—so you can decide if it’s worth your money.
Overview: BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 at a Glance
The KO2 is the successor to the original KO, redesigned to improve durability, traction, and longevity without sacrificing too much on-road comfort.
Key Specifications
- Tire Type: All-Terrain (A/T)
- Vehicle Fitment: SUVs, light trucks, Jeeps
- Snow Rating: 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF)
- Sidewall: TriGard™ reinforced sidewall
- Expected Tread Life: 50,000–60,000 miles (depending on driving style)
This tire is designed for drivers who split their time between pavement and off-road terrain and need a dependable option in all seasons.
On-Road Performance: What It’s Like to Drive Every Day
Imagine starting your day with a normal drive to work. You pull out of your driveway, turn onto city streets, and eventually merge onto the highway. This is where many people wonder if an all-terrain tire like the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 will feel rough or uncomfortable.
The good news is that the KO2 feels stable and controlled on paved roads. At city speeds, the steering feels solid, and the vehicle doesn’t feel loose or wobbly. When you turn corners or change lanes, the tires respond smoothly without feeling slow or heavy.
On the highway, the KO2 feels confident. The vehicle stays planted, even at higher speeds. You don’t feel like the tires are struggling to keep contact with the road. This makes long drives feel safer and less tiring.
That said, the KO2 does feel firmer than regular highway tires. You may notice bumps in the road a bit more, especially on rough pavement. This is normal for an all-terrain tire built to handle dirt, rocks, and uneven surfaces. It’s not uncomfortable, but it’s not as soft as a tire made only for city driving.
Road noise is present, but it’s not overwhelming. At lower speeds, the tire is fairly quiet. On the highway, you may hear a light hum, especially on older or rough roads. Most drivers find it easy to get used to, and it usually blends into the background after a few days.
For daily driving, the BFGoodrich KO2 strikes a good balance. It may not feel like a luxury tire, but it delivers a steady, predictable ride that works well for commuting, errands, and road trips.
In simple terms:
If you drive on pavement most of the time but want a tire that can handle more than just smooth roads, the KO2 performs well without making everyday driving feel difficult or uncomfortable.
Off-Road Performance: When the Road Disappears
Picture this. You’re driving toward a campsite or a quiet trail. The smooth pavement ends, and suddenly you’re on dirt and gravel. The road looks uneven, with loose stones, small ruts, and patches of mud. This is where tire choice starts to matter.
With the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, the vehicle feels steady and controlled as soon as you leave the pavement. The tires grip the dirt instead of spinning, which helps you move forward without stress. You don’t have to press the gas hard or worry about losing control.
On gravel roads, the KO2 feels planted. The tires don’t slide around as much as regular road tires. When you turn or brake, the vehicle stays predictable. This makes off-road driving feel less intimidating, especially for beginners.
When the surface gets rough — small rocks, uneven ground, or shallow mud — the KO2 continues to hold on. You feel more confident driving slowly over obstacles because the tires don’t feel weak or fragile. They are built to handle rough ground, and that confidence shows in how the vehicle responds.
In muddy areas, the tires push through instead of getting stuck easily. While this tire is not meant for deep mud racing, it performs well for normal off-road situations like trail driving, forest roads, and camping trips.
What stands out most is peace of mind. The KO2 makes off-road driving feel manageable, even if you’re new to it. You spend less time worrying about getting stuck and more time enjoying the drive.
In simple terms:
If you drive on dirt roads, trails, or uneven ground — even just occasionally — the BFGoodrich KO2 gives you confidence, control, and durability without needing off-road experience.
Snow & Wet Weather Performance: Staying Safe When Roads Get Slippery
Imagine waking up to a winter morning. Snow has covered the streets, and the roads are slick. Most people worry about sliding or losing control. With the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, you immediately notice the difference.
The KO2 grips the road better than a regular tire in snow. You can drive over packed snow or small drifts without your wheels spinning out. Even when the streets are icy in spots, the tires hold on longer than standard all-season tires, giving you extra confidence.
Rainy days bring their own challenges — puddles, wet leaves, and slick asphalt. On wet roads, the KO2 feels steady. You don’t have to brake early or turn cautiously as much as you would with older or worn tires. The tire moves water out from under the wheels, helping the car stay in control.
While no tire can make slippery roads completely safe, the KO2 does a good job of reducing the stress and fear of driving in bad weather. You feel more in control and less anxious, whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or going on a winter adventure.
Comfort, Noise & Ride Quality: What It Feels Like Behind the Wheel
Imagine heading out for a long drive on a mix of city streets and highways. You’re wondering if the rugged BFGoodrich KO2 tires might make the ride rough or noisy. Here’s what you’ll notice.
The KO2 feels firm but controlled. On smooth roads, you can tell the tires are tougher than typical highway tires. You might feel small bumps a little more than you would with a soft, all-season tire. It’s not uncomfortable, just different — more like a sturdy, dependable ride rather than a soft, cushy one.
Noise is another thing people ask about. At slower city speeds, the tires are fairly quiet. On the highway, you’ll hear a low hum — nothing extreme, but noticeable compared to standard road tires. Many drivers say you get used to it quickly, and it fades into the background after a few miles.
The real advantage is predictable handling. Even with the firmer ride and light road noise, the vehicle feels steady and safe. You can take turns, brake, or accelerate without worrying about slipping or the car bouncing unexpectedly. For daily driving, this balance of comfort and control works well for most drivers.
Tread Life & Durability: How Long Will These Tires Last?
Think about the tires on your vehicle. You want them to last for years without causing surprise trips to the tire shop. That’s where the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 stands out.
These tires are made to be tough and long-lasting. Many drivers report getting 30,000 to 50,000 miles before needing replacement, depending on how and where they drive. For daily city and highway driving, that’s often 3–4 years of use. If you spend more time off-road on rough trails, the tires may wear a bit faster, but they are still more durable than many softer all-season tires.
Over time, you’ll notice the tread slowly getting shallower. That’s normal — tires gradually lose their grip as they wear. But the KO2 is built to handle this and still perform well for a long time. The strong sidewalls also help prevent cuts or punctures, which can be common on rocky trails.
To get the most out of your tires:
- Rotate them regularly (every 5,000–7,000 miles) to make wear even
- Check tire pressure often — proper inflation reduces wear and keeps the ride comfortable
- Keep your alignment in check — misaligned wheels can cause uneven tread wear
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Outstanding off-road capability
- Strong snow and all-weather performance
- Extremely durable sidewalls
- Long tread life
- Aggressive, rugged appearance
Cons
- Higher price than many competitors
- Firmer ride than highway tires
- Slight road noise over time
- Reduced fuel economy
KO2 vs Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?
Imagine you’re in a tire shop or browsing online, trying to figure out which all-terrain tire to buy. There are lots of options, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Let’s look at how the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 compares to some popular alternatives.
KO2 vs Falken Wildpeak AT3W
If you spend a lot of time on trails, both tires do well off-road. The KO2 feels slightly tougher and more durable, which can be comforting on rocky paths. The Wildpeak may feel a little smoother and quieter on highways, so it might appeal more to drivers who do mostly city and highway driving.
KO2 vs Goodyear Duratrac
The Duratrac is very good in mud and snow, but it can be a bit louder than the KO2 on paved roads. The KO2 offers a balanced ride, giving good off-road grip without being too noisy on the highway.
KO2 vs Toyo Open Country AT3
The Toyo tires often feel quieter and softer on smooth roads, but some drivers say they aren’t as rugged off-road as the KO2. If your adventures involve rough trails or rocky terrain, the KO2 may give you more confidence.
Who Should Buy the BFGoodrich KO2?
Picture this: You’re planning a weekend camping trip, but you also drive to work every day on paved roads. You want a tire that can handle both. The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 fits this situation perfectly.
If you drive mostly on highways and city streets but occasionally go on dirt roads or trails, the KO2 gives you a comfortable, stable ride while still being ready for adventure. You won’t need to switch tires when the pavement ends — they’re built to handle both worlds.
For those living in areas with snowy winters or rainy seasons, the KO2 is also a great choice. The tires grip better in snow and wet conditions than standard road tires, giving you extra confidence during slippery drives.
Finally, if you’re an off-road enthusiast or enjoy weekend trips on rough trails, the KO2 is durable enough to handle rocks, gravel, and light mud without worrying about damaging your tires.
Final verdict & recommendation
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 remains a benchmark A/T for drivers who demand off-road capability without giving up solid on-road performance and winter traction. It’s not the quietest or softest ride you’ll get, but it offers rugged durability, proven design features, and broad owner satisfaction — making it an excellent choice for trucks and SUVs used for daily driving plus trails and winter weather. If you want one tire that does nearly everything well, KO2 should be near the top of your shortlist.
FAQs – BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 Review
What kind of driver should choose the KO2?
If you drive on pavement most days but also want to tackle dirt roads, trails, or snowy winters, the KO2 is a great all-around choice. It’s for people who want one tire that can do daily driving and weekend adventures.
How comfortable is the ride with KO2 tires?
The KO2 feels firmer than a soft highway tire. You’ll notice small bumps more, but the ride stays steady and predictable. Most drivers find it comfortable enough for daily use.
Are KO2 tires noisy on the highway?
You may hear a low hum at highway speeds. It’s not very loud, and most people get used to it after a few drives. Proper balancing and alignment help reduce noise.
Do KO2 tires work well in snow and rain?
Yes. KO2s grip better in snow and wet conditions than many standard road tires. They give extra confidence in slippery weather, though very icy roads may still need a dedicated winter tire.
How long do KO2 tires usually last?
Many drivers see 30,000–50,000 miles depending on driving style, vehicle weight, and care. Regular rotation, correct tire pressure, and proper alignment help reach the higher end of that range.
Are KO2 tires good off-road?
Yes. They handle dirt, gravel, and light rock well. They’re not a specialized mud or extreme rock tire, but they’re tough and reliable for most trail and overland use.
Will KO2 tires hurt my gas mileage?
All-terrain tires like the KO2 can slightly reduce fuel economy compared with low-rolling-resistance highway tires. The difference is usually small, but expect a small fuel penalty for the extra capability.
Can I mix KO2 tires with other tire types on my vehicle?
It’s best to use the same tire model on all four wheels. Mixing very different tires can affect handling and, on some all-wheel-drive systems, may cause drivetrain issues. Ask a tire shop if you’re unsure.
Can the KO2 be repaired if it gets a puncture?
Small punctures in the tread area can often be repaired. Sidewall cuts are harder to fix and may mean replacing the tire. Have a tire shop inspect any damage.
Are KO2 tires a good value?
They cost more than basic all-season tires, but many buyers find the extra durability, winter capability, and off-road performance worth the price. Think of it as paying for versatility and ruggedness.
How do I pick the right KO2 size for my vehicle?
Start with the size recommended in your vehicle owner’s manual or on the driver’s door sticker. If you want a different size for off-road use, talk to a tire professional to ensure compatibility with wheels, brakes, and the vehicle’s systems.
