Introduce BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 Tires
When it comes to all-terrain tires that can tackle anything you throw at them, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is one of the most popular and capable options out there. Specifically, the R17 size offers great performance for midsize trucks, Jeeps, and SUVs. But what makes these tires so good? Let’s take a closer look at why the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 is considered one of the best all-terrain tires on the market.
All-Terrain Capability
First and foremost, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 is designed to handle a wide range of on- and off-road conditions. The aggressive tread pattern and sidewall provide excellent traction in mud, sand, gravel, and on rocky trails. At the same time, the tires perform well on the pavement, with responsive handling and low road noise.
The KO2 R17 has a tread life of up to 50,000 miles, meaning you can put some serious miles on these tires on and off-road. The durable sidewall rubber compound resists punctures, while the serrated shoulder design provides additional grip when aired down off-road. Overall, these are tires you can rely on mile after mile no matter where your adventures take you.
Performance and Comfort
Beyond off-road capability, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 also delivers responsive on-road manners and a comfortable ride. The tires are designed with interlocking tread blocks and wide, stable footprint to remain stiff and stable at highway speeds. This improves handling and steering response compared to more aggressive mud-terrain tires.
Additionally, the tires are remarkably quiet on the road thanks to the computer-optimized tread design. Road noise is kept to a minimum, while also minimizing irregular wear for long tread life. For a 17-inch all-terrain tire, the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 offers a great blend of off-road performance and on-road comfort.
Rugged Construction
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 features a rugged construction to withstand off-road punishment. The tires use CoreGard technology, which combines a tough crossover nylon reinforcement band with a split and bruise-resistant sidewall. This allows the tires to handle impacts from rocks and debris when aired down off-road.
Moreover, the tires are designed with extra tread rubber thickness and reinforced rubber compounds around the bead and sidewall area. The tires resist chipping, cutting, and punctures far better than comparable all-terrain tires. Simply put, the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 is built to last no matter how hard you push it.
Value for Midsize Vehicles
One reason the R17 size BFGoodrich KO2 is so popular is it offers great performance and value for midsize trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. The 17-inch wheel size fits a wide range of popular vehicles like the Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Jeep Wrangler, and Ford Explorer. You get a tire designed for larger 3/4-ton and 1-ton trucks, but in a size optimized for smaller 4x4s.
Compared to similarly capable mud-terrain tires, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 R17 offers better road manners and comfort. Yet it still provides extreme traction and grip off-road along with rugged durability. For midsize truck and SUV owners seeking one tire to do it all, on and off-road, the KO2 R17 is a top choice.
Long-Lasting Tread
As mentioned earlier, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is designed for long tread life. The computer-optimized non-directional tread pattern ensures even wear while reducing noise on the highway. Owners can expect to get 50,000 miles or more from a set, even with off-road use.
The serrated shoulder design helps increase tread life by providing additional biting edges as the tire wears. And the durable tread rubber compound resists chipping and tearing even when pushing the tires hard off-road. If you want an all-terrain tire to last season after season, the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 is a top performer.
Enhanced Traction Technology
BFGoodrich utilizes advanced technologies like CoreGard, power ditching and sidewall traction bars to enhance off-road traction and performance. CoreGard adds additional reinforcement between the upper sidewall and tread area, improving stability and handling when airing down off-road.
Power ditches around the shoulder tread area help evacuate mud and debris for constant grip on muddy trails. And the sidewall traction bars provide extra grip when leaning the vehicle into turns on uneven terrain. Features like these give the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 R17 an edge over other tires off-road.
Ideal for Snow and Ice
While categorized as an all-terrain tire, the BFGoodrich KO2 also excels in moderate winter conditions. The aggressive open tread pattern provides plenty of biting edges for traction on packed snow and ice. And the stiff tread blocks limit squirming on icy roads.
Of course, a dedicated winter tire is still better for deep snow and icy conditions. But the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 gives you sure-footed handling when encountering snow and ice out on the trails or occasionally in town during the winter months.
Made in the USA
BFGoodrich has a long history as an American tire brand. And the company still manufactures select tires domestically in the US. The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is proudly made in the USA at BFGoodrich’s Tuscaloosa, Alabama manufacturing plant.
So beyond getting a highly capable and durable all-terrain tire, you’re also supporting American workers and jobs by choosing the BFGoodrich KO2 R17. For many buyers, having these great tires built in the USA is an important factor.
The Verdict
When looking at the full package of off-road capability, on-road manners, comfort, durability and value, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 stands out as one of the best all-around options on the market. The tires offer extreme traction and grip in nearly any conditions, combined with impressive tread life and rugged construction.
Midsize truck and SUV owners looking to upgrade to a highly capable all-terrain tire will be thrilled with the performance of the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 both on and off the pavement. If you want one tire to handle all of your driving needs, this American-made tire should top your list. Discover for yourself why countless 4×4 enthusiasts rely on the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 R17 to take them anywhere they want to go, on any kind of terrain or conditions.
Highlight KO2’s Tough and Durable Sidewalls
One of the standout features of the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 tire is the extremely durable and rugged sidewall construction. This allows the tires to withstand punctures, impacts, and sidewall damage when venturing off-road. Let’s take a closer look at why the KO2 R17 sidewalls are so tough.
Advanced CoreGard Technology
BFGoodrich utilizes patented CoreGard technology to reinforce the sidewalls on the All-Terrain KO2. This features a dense crossover nylon band layered between the tread and sidewall areas. CoreGard significantly improves sidewall strength and durability compared to standard all-terrain tires.
The dense nylon band acts like an internal shield, protecting the sidewall from punctures and tears when aired down off-road. It also stiffens the sidewall, improving handling and stability on uneven terrain. Simply put, CoreGard technology allows the KO2 R17 to take hits that would damage lesser tires.
Split and Bruise Resistant Compound
In addition to CoreGard, BFGoodrich uses an exclusive rubber compound on the KO2 sidewalls. This specialized formula makes the sidewall extremely resistant to splitting and bruising from impacts with rocks, roots and other trail obstacles.
Repeated hits that would chunk and tear standard tire sidewalls barely faze the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 R17. The rubber withstands pinching and deformation as the tires traverse rocky trails and rugged terrain. You can air down with confidence knowing the sidewalls can handle abuse.
Stone Ejector Ribs
Another protective feature is the stone ejector ribs molded into the lower sidewall on the KO2. These help prevent rocks and debris from becoming embedded in the sidewall where they could cause damage.
As gravel, mud and rocks get kicked up into the wheel wells, the stone ejector ribs deflect them away from the sidewall. This maintains the integrity of the sidewall rubber even after repeated hard use in rocky conditions.
Sidewall Traction Bars
Additionally, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 has heavy traction bars along the sidewall shoulder. These dig in when you air down and lean the vehicle over to provide extra grip in off-camber situations.
The sidewall traction bars allow you to take corners harder and claw through lose dirt or mud. They act like added side lugs when you need them most. And the bars are molded from the same durable rubber compound as the rest of the sidewall to withstand abuse.
Serrated Shoulder Design
The aggressive serrated shoulder on the KO2 R17 also helps protect the sidewall. The saw-tooth pattern extends the tread area outward, providing additional biting edges for traction. This allows you to stay on the tread longer when cornering hard or navigating off-camber terrain.
The serrated shoulder basically gives you more usable tread to work with, reducing the chance of exposing the sidewall to hazards. It’s a clever design that enhances traction while also retaining the sidewall integrity.
Thick Sidewall Rubber
Compared to earlier generations, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 has a significantly thicker sidewall rubber. This provides increased puncture resistance from thorns, brush and other trail obstacles.
BFGoodrich uses an advanced molding process to add over 20% more rubber to the sidewall area without increasing overall tire size or weight. The thicker rubber can better absorb impacts and deformation, shrugging off abuse that would cripple standard all-terrain tires.
Reinforced Bead Area
Additionally, BFGoodrich fortifies the bead area on the KO2 R17 for greater durability. The bead features a double layer of high tensile steel cable wrapped in a thick, reinforced rubber compound.
This creates superior bead integrity and strength to prevent damage from low tire pressures off-road. Between the reinforced bead and durable sidewall, you can air down with total confidence in even the most punishing terrain.
Built for Off-Road Punishment
Between the CoreGard band, specialized rubber compounds, stone ejectors, traction bars and thick sidewall rubber, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 R17 is purpose-built to withstand brutal off-road conditions.
Repeated impacts, pinch flats, punctures and gouges are no match for these tires. While lesser all-terrains quickly get ripped to shreds on the trail, the KO2 R17 takes the abuse in stride thanks to its rugged sidewall construction. When heading off-road, durable sidewalls provide peace of mind.
Take On Tough Terrain
The next time your off-road adventures take you through rocky trails, overgrown hillsides or off-camber terrain, you can tackle them with confidence knowing the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 sidewalls can handle it. Between the advanced CoreGard band and thick, reinforced rubber compound, these tires are built for battle.
Midsize truck and SUV owners looking to upgrade to a more rugged all-terrain tire will appreciate how the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 is engineered to thrive in tough terrain. If torn up sidewalls have you avoiding more extreme trails, it’s time to try these modern tires designed specifically for intense off-road use. With the KO2 R17 wrapped around your wheels, you can finally conquer the challenging terrain you’ve been missing out on.
Discuss KO2’s Self-Cleaning Tread Design
One key feature that makes the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 perform so well off-road is the self-cleaning tread pattern. The intelligent design actively kicks out mud and debris to maintain traction in messy conditions. Let’s take a closer look at how the KO2 R17 tread stays clean.
Siped Interlocking Tread Blocks
The BFGoodrich KO2 uses an open, aggressive tread with plenty of voids and channels cut into the tread blocks. These sipes and gaps allow the tire to penetrate into loose mud or sand for traction, while also providing space to eject debris.
As the tires rotate, the action of the independent tread blocks flexing and splaying outward flings away rocks, mud, sand, snow and other debris trapped in the voids. This exposes fresh rubber to the terrain for constant grip.
Staggered Shoulder Blocks
Additionally, the R17 KO2 has an offset shoulder lug design that promotes self-cleaning. The tread blocks are staggered and splayed outward as they meet the shoulder area of the tire.
This allows material trapped between the blocks to be expelled as the tires rotate and flex. The staggered shoulder pattern is very effective at ejecting mud, snow, and debris, even when wheeled hard or weighted down.
Power Ditching
Around the shoulder area, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 utilizes power ditches molded into the tread grooves. These ditches help channel away debris and water to keep the critical shoulder lugs clear and ready to bite.
Without power ditches, mud and rocks can easily get compacted into the shoulder grooves, reducing performance. But the KO2’s design prevents buildup so traction stays razor sharp.
Mud-Phobic Bars
Spanning between the center tread blocks are raised mud cleaning bars. These provide structure to the grooves while also knocking away debris.
As mud or matted snow begin to clog the voids, the motion and vibration from the mud-phobic bars helps dislodge buildup before it can accumulate. This leaves the tread gaps open and functional in muck.
Angled Shoulder Grooves
The shoulder tread grooves are engineered at an angle along the sidewall instead of straight across the tire. This angled design helps push debris down and out of the voids rather than letting material get compacted into the grooves.
As you power through muddy terrain, the angled grooves combine with the flexing shoulder lugs to expel debris and maintain traction along the tire’s outer edge.
Ejecting Embedded Debris
Even when debris temporarily embeds in the KO2 R17 tread, the tire actively works to eject it. Small rocks and mud tend to get flung out within a rotation or two thanks to the block movement and tread void geometry.
Rather than compacting down and sticking, debris gets popped out quickly so it doesn’t accumulate. This reliable self-cleaning action allows the aggressive tread to keep biting run after run.
Computer Optimized Design
BFGoodrich utilizes advanced computer modeling and simulation to optimize the All-Terrain KO2 tread pattern specifically for self-cleaning performance. Years of testing and development allow them to engineer the ideal block sizes, shapes and orientation.
Every element of the tread works together to resist packing and shed debris faster and more efficiently than comparative all-terrain tires. The KO2 R17 simply has smarter DNA when it comes to staying clean.
Always Ready to Bite
With other all-terrain tires, mud and debris quickly clogs the tread until your tires are basically spinning on compacted junk with little traction. But the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 was engineered to avoid this fate.
No matter how much muck, sand and rocks get thrown at it, the self-cleaning tread actively works to clear away buildup. This leaves the aggressive lugs ready to penetrate and grip run after run.
Tackle the Toughest Terrain
When heading into muddy, sandy, snowy or loose terrain, you need tires that can keep biting no matter how messy it gets. That’s exactly what the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 is designed to do.
Thanks to smart engineering and computer-optimized tread geometry, these tires eject debris better than competitors. The self-cleaning action allows the KO2 to keep charging ahead with traction on demand. No matter how sticky and gnarly the terrain, you can rely on the superior self-cleaning abilities of BFGoodrich.
Review KO2’s Performance on Wet Roads
While designed primarily for off-road use, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 also performs surprisingly well on wet pavement. The tires are engineered to shed water and maintain grip even when the roads get slick. Let’s examine how the KO2 R17 tackles wet conditions on the highway.
Stable Interlocking Tread
The BFGoodrich KO2 has a computer-optimized tread design that interlocks together at highway speeds. This provides a stable, quiet footprint for responsive handling and traction on paved roads.
And when the roads get wet, the tread stiffness prevents hydroplaning while allowing the sipes and voids to channel away water. The stable tread blocks give you reliable grip even during heavy rainstorms.
Siped Tread Block Edges
The tread blocks on the KO2 R17 feature multiple sipes cut into the block edges. These sipes allow the tread to remain flexible for grip while also providing extra biting edges on wet pavement.
As water covers the road surface, the siped edges penetrate through the water layer to contact the pavement. This maintains wet weather traction and control.
Enhanced Water Evacuation
The All-Terrain KO2 utilizes circumferential center grooves to improve water evacuation from the tread footprint. This reduces hydroplaning potential while enhancing wet grip and steering responsiveness.
Combined with the inner tread sipes, the wide grooves give water plenty of channels to escape from under the tires. You get reliable traction even during heavy downpours.
Stiff Shoulder Blocks
The independent shoulder blocks on the R17 KO2 are designed to remain stiff and stable when driving at speed on wet roads. They resist squirming and deformation to keep you tracking straight.
The shoulder blocks also provide a rigid outer tread edge for responsive steering input and traction when merging or cornering in the rain. You can drive with confidence knowing the shoulders will hold strong.
Hydroplaning Resistance
Due to the advanced tread design and stiff rubber compounds used, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 is highly resistant to hydroplaning on wet roads.
The tread effectively channels away water while providing consistent contact with the road surface. Only during severe flooding would these tires begin to lose grip due to hydroplaning.
All-Season Versatility
While categorized as an all-terrain tire, the KO2 R17 performs admirably across all four seasons. The tread design balances off-road traction with reliable handling across a variety of conditions.
Owners can count on the tires year-round, even when the roads are slick with rain, light snow or frost. The BFGoodrich KO2 is a confident choice no matter the season.
Maneuvering Around Rain
Even when pushing the limits in wet conditions, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 17 maintains composure and grip. You can make quick maneuvers, emergency lane changes or hard braking with total control.
The hydroplaning resistance and siped tread edges allow you to drive aggressively when needed without fear of losing traction. These tires excel across all measures of wet weather performance.
Drive With Confidence in Rain
While specialized high-performance summer tires have an advantage on wet roads, the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 comes surprisingly close in terms of grip and handling in rainy conditions.
The computer-designed tread pattern channels water away efficiently while providing consistent contact with the road. Even during heavy downpours, you can count on the All-Terrain KO2 to maintain composure and control when you need it most.
Truck and SUV drivers looking for traction both on and off-road will be impressed with how well the KO2 R17 continues to perform when the pavement gets slick. Rain or shine, these rugged all-terrain tires have you covered year-round.
Evaluate KO2 Traction and Braking in Snow
In addition to conquering muddy and rocky terrain, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 also performs admirably in light to moderate snow. The tires provide plenty of traction and control when the weather turns wintry. Let’s examine how the KO2 R17 handles snow and ice.
Interlocking Tread Blocks
The BFGoodrich KO2 utilizes a tread pattern with interlocking blocks designed to remain stiff and stable in snow conditions. This prevents squirming and deformation, allowing the many tread edges to penetrate down to the road surface.
As the tires roll through snow, the independent blocks dig in and provide forward and braking traction. The tread edges also eject packed snow out of the voids.
Siped Shoulder Blocks
The shoulder blocks on the All-Terrain KO2 feature heavy siping to increase the number of biting edges. The multiple sipes improve traction when accelerating, braking and cornering on snow-covered roads.
As snow compacts into ice, the siped shoulder blocks maintain grip and control. The tires resist slipping and sliding in wintry conditions.
Powerful Braking Traction
Hard braking on snow-covered roads can send many all-terrain tires into an uncontrollable slide. But the KO2 R17 was engineered for serious snow braking traction thanks to the rugged tread rubber and block stiffness.
When you need to slow down in a hurry, the tires chomp down and supply ample stopping power. You can drive with confidence knowing your brakes and tires are up for the task.
Snow and Ice Rating
While not a dedicated winter tire, the R17 BFGoodrich KO2 earns the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake rating for moderate snow and ice traction. The tires exceed the industry standards for snow performance.
So while they aren’t a substitute for hardcore winter tires, they provide plenty of grip for light snow and icy conditions. You get true all-season versatility and security.
All-Weather Responsiveness
The tread design, rubber compounds and construction of the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 supply agile handling and traction across a wide range of conditions.
Spring rains, winter snows and fall leaves are no match for these tires. You get predictable handling and control on all road surfaces in every season.
Maneuvering in Slush and Snow
Even when making quick maneuvers in slick snow or heavy slush, the KO2 R17 maintains stability and traction. The tread blocks bite in and supply ample grip for handling wintry conditions with ease.
From sudden emergency lane changes to fast highway merges, you can drive with confidence knowing these tires won’t let you down when it matters. They chomp through snow and slush to give you control.
Winter Ready All-Terrain
Truck and SUV owners want tires that perform well year-round, not just off-road. The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 17 was designed to offer impressive snow and ice capabilities given its rugged all-terrain build.
Thanks to a computer-optimized tread pattern and durable winter-grade rubber, these tires supply ample traction across a variety of wintry conditions. While they aren’t a dedicated winter tire, they give you sure-footed grip when you need it.
Drivers wanting maximum performance on and off-road will appreciate the confidence and control the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 brings across every season. These are true all-weather, all-terrain tires ready for whatever the roads throw at you.
Analyze KO2’s All-Terrain Capabilities Off-Road
Where the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 really shines is off-road. The tires are purpose-built to handle a wide range of terrain, surfaces and conditions beyond the pavement. Let’s examine the impressive off-road capabilities of the KO2 R17.
Aggressive Tread Pattern
The BFGoodrich KO2 features an aggressively-designed tread pattern to supply traction in mud, dirt, gravel, sand and rock. The blocky, open tread with deep grooves penetrates and claws into loose terrain.
The independent tread blocks also splay outward to increase surface contact and extend tread life as the tires traverse rugged terrain. Overall, the tread pattern provides maximum grip for confident off-road travel.
Powerful Traction at All Corners
The All-Terrain KO2 R17 provides impressive traction not just going straight but during hard cornering and at all tire contact patches. This allows you to accelerate, turn and brake aggressively on loose surfaces without losing control.
optimized tread design, rubber compounding and tire construction supply traction exactly when and where you need it most for greater control off-road.
Mud and Sand Performance
In muddy, sandy and loose soil conditions, the KO2 R17 claws down and powers through terrain that bogs down lesser tires. The self-cleaning tread actively sheds debris to maintain traction.
And the aggressive open lugs penetrate and channel mud for constant forward momentum no matter how sticky the terrain. You won’t get stuck as long as you keep the skinny pedal down.
Rock and Gravel Traction
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 also excels on rocky, gravelly terrain. The blocky tread pattern provides plenty of rubber contact patches to find grip among loose rock. And the durable tread rubber resists chipping from rocky impacts.
You get the traction to pick your precise line through rugged rocky trails without abusing the tread thanks to specially formulated rubber compounds.
Excellent Grip at All Lean Angles
A key advantage of the R17 KO2 off-road is traction and grip at extreme sidewall lean angles. Advanced design features like sidewall traction bars allow you to hooks turns hard and take off-camber lines with control.
The tires
Here is a 1000+ word article introducing BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 tires:
Introduce BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 Tires
When it comes to all-terrain tires, one of the most trusted and capable options is the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2. Specifically, the R17 size offers an optimal balance of off-road performance and on-road comfort for midsize trucks and SUVs. Let’s take a closer look at why the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 stands out as one of the best all-terrain tires money can buy.
Legendary All-Terrain Performance
BFGoodrich is an iconic American tire brand that pioneered the all-terrain category. The BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 upholds this legacy with its rugged durability and off-road capabilities.
The aggressive tread pattern and sidewall resist punctures while providing tenacious traction in mud, sand, dirt and over rocks. Yet the tires still deliver responsive handling and a quiet, comfortable ride on the highway.
Computer-Optimized Design
BFGoodrich utilizes cutting-edge computer modeling and simulation to optimize every element of the KO2 R17 tread pattern. This allows them to balance off-road traction, on-road performance, wear life, and other attributes.
Years of testing refine the tread geometry, rubber compounds, and construction to create one of the most advanced all-terrain tires on the market. The BFGoodrich KO2 represents the pinnacle of modern tire engineering.
CoreGard Technology
The R17 KO2 features patented CoreGard technology to reinforce the sidewalls. An added band of dense, high-tensile nylon increases sidewall durability and stability when airing down off-road.
CoreGard allows the tires to run at low pressures over jagged rocks or rugged trails without damage. It’s a key innovation that sets BFGoodrich tires apart from the competition.
50,000 Mile Treadlife
Thanks to the computer-optimized tread design, owners can expect to get up to 50,000 miles out of a set of BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires. That’s an impressive treadlife for an aggressive all-terrain.
The KO2 incorporates features like offset shoulder blocks to promote even wear over time. You get thousands of miles of off-road enjoyment without giving up everyday highway performance.
All-Season Traction
While designed for off-road adventures, the KO2 R17 also performs admirably across all four seasons. The tread rubber compound provides grip year-round, from dry summer roads to winter snow.
Truck and SUV owners can count on sure-footed handling in any conditions. The tires even carry the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol for proven snow and ice traction.
Take Your Midsize Truck Further
Midsize truck owners looking to upgrade from the OE tires will find the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 R17 provides a night-and-day improvement in off-road performance.
The tires transform your vehicle’s capabilities and allow you to venture out to places you’ve only dreamed of reaching before. With rugged durability and traction for miles, the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 unlocks your midsize truck’s full potential.
Compare KO R17 Against KO2 for On and Off-Road Use
When considering new all-terrain tires, two of the top options from BFGoodrich are the All-Terrain KO2 and All-Terrain KO. Specifically in the 17-inch size, the KO2 R17 and KO R17 offer similar capabilities with some key differences. Let’s compare these BFGoodrich tires for both on- and off-road performance.
Off-Road Traction
In muddy, sandy, and rocky terrain, the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 provides a slight edge in performance thanks to its newer tread compound and more aggressive shoulder blocks.
The KO R17 still supplies ample off-road traction, just not to the same extreme level as the KO2. For deep mud and boulder crawling, the KO2 is the better choice.
Treadlife and Durability
While their off-road traction differs, both the KO2 and KO R17 offer excellent treadlife for an all-terrain tire. Owners can expect 40,000 to 50,000 miles from either model.
In terms of sidewall durability and puncture resistance, the tires are evenly matched. Both utilize a rugged construction and sidewall rubber compound.
On-Road Comfort
For a smooth and quiet highway ride, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO R17 has a slight advantage over the KO2. The KO tread pattern results in less road noise.
However, both tires handle well at speed and resist hydroplaning on wet roads. While not luxury car-quiet, they strike a good balance for an all-terrain.
Snow and Ice Traction
In icy, slushy, and snowy conditions, the two BFGoodrich options offer comparable traction and braking grip. Owners can’t go wrong with either for winter driving.
Both carry the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake rating as well, certifying their level of snow and ice performance.
Price and Availability
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO R17 is often a bit less expensive than the newer KO2 R17 model. However, both offer good value for their respective capabilities.
Availability between the two is fairly even as well. Drivers shouldn’t have an issue locating either tire from local dealers or online retailers.
Choosing What’s Best for You
When comparing the BFGoodrich KO R17 and KO2 R17, it comes down to your priorities. If extreme off-road traction is essential, the KO2 gets the edge. But for a balance of on-road comfort and off-road versatility, the KO is tough to beat.
Either model will serve midsize truck and SUV owners well in a variety of conditions. Evaluate your needs and driving style, then choose the BFGoodrich all-terrain that meets them best. With proper maintenance, both the KO and KO2 R17 will tackle miles of adventures wherever you roam.
Consider How BFGoodrich Tires Handle Under Heavy Loads
Truck and SUV owners frequently need tires that can handle heavy loads while towing or hauling. BFGoodrich all-terrain tires like the KO2 R17 and KO R17 are engineered to perform well even when carrying max payload or towing capacity.
Let’s look at some key reasons why BFGoodrich tires thrive under the stress and strain of heavy vehicle loads.
Reinforced Construction
BFGoodrich all-terrain tires feature a reinforced internal structure using thick layered steel cords and bands. This provides enhanced strength and durability under the weight of heavy cargo or trailers.
The robust casing prevents damage, flexing issues or blowouts that can occur when thinner, weaker tires are overloaded. BFGoodrich builds their tires tough for hard use.
Firm Sidewall Compounds
The firm, rugged rubber compounds used in the sidewalls of tires like the KO2 R17 and KO R17 resist squirming and deformation under load.
Many tires will bulge outward and flex excessively when overloaded. But BFGoodrich sidewalls maintain their composure and stability even with hundreds of extra pounds on board.
Advanced Tread Stiffness
In addition to robust sidewalls, BFGoodrich also engineers precise tread stiffness into their all-terrain tires. The tread rubber and blocks are tuned to remain stable and resist squirming, even when maxed out.
This prevents uneven wear and maintains responsive handling when hauling or towing near capacity. The tires stay under control no matter the load.
LT Versions Available
BFGoodrich offers select all-terrain tires like the KO2 and KO in specialized LT versions. The LT models feature a heavier duty construction and higher load range than standard sizes.
Truck owners needing to frequently haul or tow heavy should choose the LT option. They offer enhanced durability and load capacity for intense use.
Thick Tread Depth
The aggressive all-terrain tread on tires like the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 also gives them an advantage when loaded down. The deep tread depth provides a large rubber contact patch for stability.
As the tires wear over thousands of heavy miles, they maintain a thicker tread depth than most to handle loads with control
Here is a 1000+ word article to help readers decide between BFGoodrich KO2 vs KO R17 tires:
Help Readers Decide Between KO2 vs KO R17 Tires
When it’s time to upgrade the tires on your midsize truck or SUV, two of the top options are the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 and BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO R17. Both offer impressive performance, but which one is right for you? Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose.
Off-Road Performance
For extreme off-road use on muddy trails, over rocks, and through sand, the BFGoodrich KO2 R17 has the edge. Its tread pattern is optimized for rugged performance with extra grip on rocky terrain.
While the KO R17 performs well off-road, the KO2 is better suited for the harshest trails. Go with the KO2 if your adventures regularly take you over rough terrain.
On-Road Manners
When it comes to a smooth, quiet highway ride, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO R17 is the winner. The tread produces less road noise compared to the more aggressive KO2.
Both handle well at speed, but the KO offers a more comfortable, luxury feel during daily driving. Choose the KO if you value on-road refinement.
All-Season Traction
The two BFGoodrich tires are evenly matched when it comes to traction on wet, snowy and icy roads. They both supply reliable grip year-round.
So whether you’re driving in a rainstorm or light snow, you can expect solid control and stability from either model. It’s a tie for all-season security.
Treadlife
Drivers can expect around 50,000 miles or more from both the KO2 and KO R17 tires under typical driving conditions. The tread rubber and patterns resist wear incredibly well.
When it comes to longevity, these two BFGoodrich tires are closely matched. Plan on getting multiple long-running seasons before needing replacements.
The Right Tire for Your Driving
For midsize truck owners who demand ultimate off-road traction, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 R17 is the clear choice. It chomps through mud and claws over rocky terrain better than the KO.
But for those who value a quiet, comfortable highway ride in addition to off-road versatility, the BFGoodrich KO R17 strikes the best balance. It excels both on and off the pavement.
With this detailed comparison, you can confidently choose the BFGoodrich all-terrain tire that fits your driving needs and priorities the closest. Any avid truck or SUV owner will be well served by the KO2 or KO R17 for miles to come.