BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 Review
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is one of the most popular all-terrain tires for trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. You’ll see it recommended by off-road drivers, overlanders, and everyday drivers who want a tire that can handle more than just paved roads. But with its higher price, many buyers ask the same questions: Is it really worth the money? And can it handle daily driving as well as off-road use?
This BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 Review answers those questions with real-world experience, not just marketing claims. Instead of repeating basic specs, we look at how the KO2 performs over time—on highways, city streets, snow-covered roads, and off-road trails. You’ll get an honest breakdown of the pros and cons, long-term durability, comfort, noise levels, and how it compares to other popular all-terrain tires.
If you’re trying to decide whether the BFGoodrich KO2 is the right tire for your driving needs, this review is designed to give you clear, practical answers so you can make a confident buying decision.
Who Is the BFGoodrich KO2 Tire For?
The BFGoodrich KO2 is a good fit for drivers who need a tire that can handle more than just smooth roads. It works best on SUVs, trucks, and Jeeps that are used for a mix of everyday driving and outdoor activities. If you drive on highways during the week but head off-road on weekends, the KO2 gives you the strength and grip to handle both situations.
This tire is also a smart choice for people who live in areas with regular snow or winter weather. It provides better traction on snowy roads than standard all-season tires, making it safer for winter driving without switching tires every season.
However, the KO2 may not be the best option for everyone. If you only drive in the city and never go off-road, this tire may feel firmer and louder than necessary. It’s also not ideal for drivers who want the best fuel economy or an ultra-quiet ride, as its rugged design focuses more on durability than comfort.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Key Features
- CoreGard™ Sidewall Technology – The tire’s sidewalls are extra strong to resist cuts, punctures, and damage when driving off-road or over rough terrain. This means your tires are less likely to get damaged on rocks or sharp objects.
- 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) Rating – This tire is officially tested for winter conditions. It can handle snow and icy roads better than regular all-season tires, making it safer in winter weather.
- Aggressive All-Terrain Tread Design – The tread pattern has deep grooves and blocks that grip dirt, mud, rocks, and snow. This design helps the tire perform well both on the road and off-road.
- Reinforced Sidewalls for Off-Road Durability – In addition to being strong, the sidewalls are built to withstand bumps, scrapes, and heavy loads when you’re off-road. This makes the tire tougher and longer-lasting.
- Wide Range of SUV and Truck Sizes – The KO2 comes in many sizes to fit different vehicles, from small SUVs to full-size trucks. This means most off-road or adventure vehicles can use this tire.

On-Road Performance Review
Ride Comfort & Handling
The BFGoodrich KO2 rides smoothly on highways and city streets for an all-terrain tire. On the highway, the tire feels stable and doesn’t make your vehicle wobble or feel unsettled at higher speeds.
Steering is responsive, meaning your car or truck reacts well when you turn the wheel, giving you confidence while driving. In urban settings, the tire handles bumps and uneven roads reasonably well, though you might notice a slightly firmer feel compared to a regular road tire.
Overall, it balances off-road toughness with comfortable on-road driving.
Road Noise Levels
Like many all-terrain tires, the KO2 makes some noise, especially when new. You’ll hear a low hum on the highway, but it’s generally not loud enough to be distracting.
After 20,000 to 40,000 miles, the noise may increase slightly as the tread wears down, though it usually remains manageable.
Compared to other all-terrain tires, the KO2 is about average for noise, quieter than some aggressive off-road tires but louder than typical highway tires.
Fuel Economy Impact
The KO2 is heavier and has a more aggressive tread than standard tires, which can slightly reduce fuel efficiency. Most drivers notice a small drop in miles per gallon compared to their stock tires, usually a difference of one to two MPG.
The extra weight and rolling resistance are normal for all-terrain tires, so while it’s not a major issue, it’s something to keep in mind if fuel economy is a top priority.
Off-Road Performance Breakdown
Dirt & Gravel Trails
The KO2 performs very well on dirt and gravel roads. It grips the surface firmly, helping you stay in control even on loose or uneven terrain. The sidewalls are strong, which protects the tire from getting damaged by sharp rocks or sticks that you might encounter on trails.
Mud Performance
On muddy trails, the KO2’s tread is designed to push mud out of the grooves as you drive, which helps the tire maintain traction. This “self-cleaning” ability prevents the tire from getting clogged. However, in very deep or thick mud, the tire can still struggle, so you may need to drive carefully or avoid extremely soft areas.
Rock Crawling & Rough Terrain
The KO2 is built to handle rough and rocky terrain. Its sidewalls are tough enough to resist cuts or scratches when driving over rocks, and the overall design helps prevent punctures. This makes it a reliable option for off-road adventures where rocks and uneven surfaces are common.
Sand Driving
The KO2 works well on sandy surfaces, especially when you reduce the tire pressure slightly (“air down”). Lowering the air pressure increases the tire’s contact with the sand, helping your vehicle stay on top instead of sinking. The tire’s design also helps it float over loose sand, giving better traction and control.
Snow & Winter Performance
The BFGoodrich KO2 has a 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating, which means it has been tested and approved for winter driving. This rating shows that the tire can handle snow better than standard all-season tires, giving you more confidence on slippery roads.
On packed snow, the KO2 performs well. The tread grips the surface, helping your vehicle start, stop, and turn safely. You can drive on snow-covered streets without feeling like you’re sliding uncontrollably.
In deep snow, the KO2 still does a decent job, but it may not perform as well as a dedicated winter tire. You’ll need to drive more carefully in heavy snow or powder, especially if your vehicle is heavily loaded.
On ice, the KO2 provides some traction, but it has its limits. It’s better than a summer or regular all-season tire, but it won’t match the grip of a tire specifically made for icy conditions. Driving slowly and cautiously is important in these situations.
Compared to dedicated winter tires, the KO2 offers a good balance between snow performance and off-road capability. While it’s not as specialized for ice or deep snow as a winter tire, it allows you to handle snowy roads reasonably well while still being tough enough for off-road adventures.
Tread Life & Durability (Long-Term Review)
The BFGoodrich KO2 is built to last a long time. Most drivers can expect to get 50,000 miles or more from these tires under normal driving conditions.
The tire wears down evenly, which means it doesn’t develop bald spots or uneven patches if you rotate it regularly. This helps maintain grip and safety over time.
As the tire wears, it still performs well on both the road and off-road. You might notice a small increase in road noise or a slight change in handling after tens of thousands of miles, but overall, it continues to provide reliable traction.
The KO2 also handles heat well, so it can endure long highway drives without overheating. For drivers who tow trailers or carry heavy loads, the tire maintains stability and durability, making it a good choice for trucks and SUVs used for work or adventure.
BFGoodrich KO2 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent all-terrain traction and capability
- Durable sidewalls and tread compound
- Snow-rated (3PMSF) for year-round performance
- Good balance of off-road ability and road comfort
- Long tread life with warranty backing
Cons
- Slight reduction in fuel economy due to rolling resistance
- Not as quiet as highway-focused tires
- Wet braking and ice performance can lag dedicated alternatives
- Some owner reports of sidewall cracking (rare but notable)
BFGoodrich KO2 vs Top Competitors
When choosing all‑terrain tires, many people compare the KO2 to other popular options. Below is a simple look at how the KO2 stacks up against three common rivals in key areas most drivers care about: ride comfort, noise, off‑road ability, and overall value.
KO2 vs Falken Wildpeak AT3W
When it comes to ride comfort, the KO2 feels slightly firmer on the road compared to the Falken Wildpeak AT3W. The Wildpeak tends to feel a little smoother on highways and city streets. In terms of noise, both tires make more sound than a regular street tire, but the Wildpeak is often a bit quieter overall.
Off‑road, both tires do very well, but the KO2 tends to hold an edge in rough terrain and mud, thanks to its aggressive tread design. For the price, the Wildpeak may be cheaper up front, but many drivers feel the KO2’s durability and long life make it a better value over time.
KO2 vs Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac
Compared with the Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac, the KO2 usually offers a more comfortable on‑road ride. The Duratrac can feel a little bouncier on pavement. Noise levels are similar between the two, with both being louder than standard highway tires but acceptable for all‑terrain use.
The Duratrac has strong off‑road capability, especially in mud, but the KO2 pulls ahead on rocky trails and snowy conditions for many drivers. In terms of price and value, both tires are similarly priced, though you might find better discounts on the Duratrac. Still, the KO2’s long tread life often means better value in the long run.
KO2 vs Toyo Open Country AT3
Compared to the Toyo Open Country AT3, the KO2 and Open Country feel close in comfort on paved roads, with the Toyo sometimes feeling slightly softer. Noise levels are also very similar, with both tires producing a noticeable tread sound at highway speeds.
Off‑road, the Toyo AT3 performs well, especially in mixed dirt and light mud, but many drivers prefer the KO2 for heavier trails and tougher conditions. When thinking about price versus value, the Toyo AT3 is often priced competitively, but like the others, the KO2’s durability and long‑lasting tread give it an advantage for drivers who put a lot of miles on their tires.
Comparison Table
| Feature / Tire | BFGoodrich KO2 | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac | Toyo Open Country AT3 |
| Ride Comfort | Firm but comfortable on road | Slightly smoother on pavement | A bit bouncy on pavement | Comfortable, slightly softer than KO2 |
| Noise | Noticeable on highway | Slightly quieter than KO2 | Similar to KO2 | Similar to KO2 |
| Off-Road Capability | Excellent on rocks, mud, and snow | Very good, slightly less aggressive | Very good, strong in mud | Good, especially on dirt and light mud |
| Price-to-Value | Higher upfront, long-lasting | Lower upfront, slightly less durable | Similar price, good value | Competitive price, durable but slightly less tough than KO2 |
Real-World Ownership Experience
After driving the BFGoodrich KO2 for tens of thousands of miles, it’s clear that these tires are built to last. On both highways and off-road trails, the KO2 continues to provide good grip and stability, even as the tread slowly wears. Long-term, the tires remain reliable, and you don’t have to worry about sudden performance drops.
To keep the tires in the best shape, it’s important to follow simple maintenance steps. Rotating the tires every 5,000–7,000 miles helps them wear evenly. Checking wheel alignment regularly ensures the vehicle drives straight and prevents uneven tread wear. These small steps can make a big difference in how long the tires last and how well they perform.
Over time, you might notice a small increase in road noise and a slight change in handling, but these changes are minor and expected with normal wear. The KO2 still performs well in mud, snow, and rough trails, even after thousands of miles.
What surprised many drivers is how well the tires hold up under heavy use. Even after off-road adventures and long highway drives, the tread remains strong, and the sidewalls continue to protect against cuts and punctures. This durability is one of the reasons the KO2 is so popular among off-road enthusiasts.
Is the BFGoodrich All‑Terrain T/A KO2 Worth It?
When you weigh the price against the value you get, the KO2 is a good choice for many drivers. It isn’t the cheapest all‑terrain tire on the market, but it’s built to last and performs well in a wide range of conditions. Because it wears evenly and stands up to rough roads and trails, many people feel they get their money’s worth over time.
The people who benefit the most from the KO2 are drivers who do more than just city or highway driving. If you take your vehicle off‑road, go camping, drive in snow, or carry heavy loads or trailers, the KO2 gives you strength and reliability you might not get from standard tires. It’s also a solid choice if you want one set of tires that can handle both everyday driving and adventures without switching tires for different seasons.
There are times when choosing a different tire might make more sense. If you only drive on paved roads and never go off‑road, a highway or all‑season tire might be quieter, smoother, and cheaper. If you live somewhere with harsh winter weather every year, a dedicated winter tire can offer even better grip on ice and deep snow. And if you’re focused on getting the absolute lowest price upfront, some other all‑terrain options may cost less at the time of purchase.
In short, the KO2 is worth it for drivers who want strong all‑around performance and long life from their tires. But if you have very specific needs—like only highway driving or extreme winter conditions—there may be tires that fit those situations better.
Final Verdict – Should You Buy the KO2?
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a strong, durable tire that performs well on both highways and off-road trails. It’s built to last, handles snow and mud better than most all-terrain tires, and gives drivers confidence in a wide range of conditions.
This tire is best for SUV, truck, and Jeep owners who do a mix of daily driving and off-road adventures, including camping, towing, or driving in snow or rough terrain. It’s also a good choice for drivers who want a single tire that can handle all seasons and still last for many miles.
FAQ – BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 Review
Is the BFGoodrich KO2 good for daily driving?
Yes, the KO2 is suitable for daily driving. It feels stable on highways and handles city roads well. While it’s slightly firmer than regular road tires, most drivers find it comfortable enough for everyday use.
How long do KO2 tires really last?
Most drivers get 50,000 miles or more from KO2 tires when they are properly maintained. Regular tire rotation and proper alignment help the tires wear evenly and last longer.
Are KO2 tires loud on the highway?
The KO2 does make more noise than standard highway tires, but the sound is usually a low hum that most drivers get used to quickly. As the tire wears, noise may increase slightly, but it stays reasonable compared to other all-terrain tires.
Do KO2 tires perform well in snow?
Yes, the KO2 performs well in snow. It has a winter rating that shows it’s tested for snowy conditions. It grips packed snow well and handles light to moderate winter driving safely. However, it is not as effective on ice as a dedicated winter tire.
Is the KO2 better than the Wildpeak AT3W?
Neither tire is better for everyone—it depends on your needs. The KO2 is known for durability, off-road strength, and long tread life. The Wildpeak AT3W often offers a smoother ride and slightly less road noise. Drivers who prioritize tough off-road use often choose the KO2, while those focused on comfort may prefer the Wildpeak.

