Bfgoodrich KO2 vs KO2 DT
The BFGoodrich KO2 and KO2 DT are siblings with shared DNA but distinct personalities. The KO2 remains a stalwart, delivering rugged reliability at a competitive price.
The KO2 DT, with its refined compound, caters to drivers seeking longevity and on-road finesse alongside off-road grit.
Reflect on your driving habits—terrain, climate, and mileage—and let that guide you to the perfect fit. Either way, BFGoodrich ensures you’re ready to roll.
KO2 vs KO2 DT
This table provides a clear, side-by-side comparison, tailored for quick reference.
| Feature | BFGoodrich KO2 | BFGoodrich KO2 DT |
|---|---|---|
| Intro | A rugged all-terrain icon, built for trails and tough jobs with proven grit. | An upgraded KO2 variant, blending off-road power with refined on-road perks. |
| Mileage Warranty | Offers a solid 50,000-mile warranty, reliable for years of mixed driving. | Also 50,000 miles, but its compound might stretch tread life further. |
| Price | Around $230 for 265/70R17, a budget-friendly pick for all-terrain fans. | Slightly pricier at $240-$250, reflecting its enhanced durability features. |
| Tire Type | All-terrain tire for trucks and SUVs, balancing ruggedness and road use. | All-terrain too, with tweaks for tougher wear and versatile performance. |
| Rim Range | Covers 15 to 22 inches, ideal for older rigs with smaller rims or big setups. | Matches 15 to 22 inches, fitting classic and modern rides alike. |
| Tread Pattern | Aggressive lugs grip mud and rock, a classic design for off-road mastery. | Similar look, but dual-tread compound adds wear resistance for longer life. |
| Off-Road | Excels in mud, snow, and rocks—3PMSF-rated for winter-ready traction. | Just as tough, though some sizes skip 3PMSF, potentially weaker in snow. |
| On-Road | Decent comfort and handling, a solid all-around performer on pavement. | Quieter and more fuel-efficient, thanks to its refined compound. |
| Expert Opinion | Praised as a trail legend—tough, dependable, a go-to for off-road purists. | Loved for durability and on-road finesse, a modern twist on a classic. |
| Our Observation | Perfect for off-roaders needing snow grip and value at a lower price point. | Best for mixed use—longer tread life and smoother rides justify the extra cost. |
Mileage Warranty
Both the BFGoodrich KO2 and KO2 DT come with a 50,000-mile treadwear limited warranty, a testament to their robust construction. According to the official BFGoodrich website, this warranty applies across the board, even to the DT variant, suggesting confidence in their durability.
However, whispers in enthusiast forums hint that the KO2 DT’s unique compound might extend tread life beyond what the standard KO2 offers in real-world conditions.
While the warranty remains identical, the DT’s design could mean fewer trips to the tire shop over time—a practical perk for those racking up miles on varied terrains.
Tire Price
Price often plays a pivotal role in tire decisions, and here, the KO2 and KO2 DT diverge slightly. The standard KO2, widely available, typically retails around $230 for a popular size like 265/70R17, based on listings from major retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
The KO2 DT, however, commands a modest premium—potentially $10 to $20 more—reflecting its enhanced features. This uptick stems from its specialized compound, which we’ll explore later.
For budget-conscious buyers, the KO2 offers proven performance at a lower entry point, while the DT appeals to those willing to invest a bit more for potential long-term gains.
Tire Type
Both tires fall under the all-terrain category, designed to tackle everything from rocky trails to smooth asphalt. Built for light trucks, SUVs, and CUVs, they balance off-road grit with on-road refinement.
The KO2 has long been celebrated for its rugged reliability, while the KO2 DT—labeled as a variant—maintains this foundation but introduces tweaks for enhanced performance.
Neither strays into the realm of highway-specific or mud-terrain tires, making them versatile picks for drivers who crave flexibility without sacrificing capability.
Rim Range
Flexibility in fitment is a strength for both tires, with rim diameter options spanning 15 to 22 inches. Whether you’re outfitting a compact crossover or a burly pickup, you’ll find sizes to match.
The KO2’s extensive range is well-documented on BFGoodrich’s site, and the KO2 DT, as a specialized offshoot, shares this adaptability.
For example, sizes like LT285/70R17 appear in both lineups, ensuring broad compatibility. This wide spectrum means your vehicle’s specs are unlikely to limit your choice between these two.
Tread Pattern
The tread design is where these tires begin to carve out their identities. The KO2 boasts an aggressive, time-tested pattern—think serrated shoulder lugs and interlocking tread elements—engineered for grip in mud, snow, and rock. It’s a visual and functional hallmark of all-terrain prowess.
The KO2 DT mirrors this aggression but introduces a twist: a dual-tread compound, often dubbed “DT” for “Durable Tread.”
While the pattern looks similar, this compound tweak—highlighted in discussions on forums like IH8MUD—aims to boost wear resistance. The result? A tire that might cling to its tread longer, especially on abrasive surfaces.
Off-Road Performance
Off-road capability is the heart of the KO2 lineage, and both tires deliver. The standard KO2 excels with its proven traction across diverse conditions—mud bogs, snowy slopes, and rocky climbs.
Reviews from outlets like MotorTrend praise its toughness, a sentiment echoed by countless trailblazers. The KO2 DT doesn’t reinvent this wheel but refines it.
Its sturdier compound could mean better endurance on punishing terrains, as some users suggest it resists chunking and wear more effectively.
However, a potential caveat emerges: unlike the KO2, certain KO2 DT sizes might lack the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating, possibly softening its edge in deep snow. For most off-road escapades, though, both stand tall.
On-Road Performance
While off-road chops steal the spotlight, on-road manners matter too. The KO2 strikes a commendable balance, offering decent comfort and handling for an all-terrain tire. It’s not whisper-quiet, but it’s far from intrusive. The KO2 DT, however, nudges ahead in this arena.
Sources like Tire Fever note its dual-tread technology may reduce road noise and improve fuel efficiency—a boon for highway hauls.
This makes the DT a compelling choice for drivers splitting time between trails and tarmac, blending rugged roots with a touch of refinement.
Expert Opinion
The experts weigh in with enthusiasm for both tires, though their praise highlights different strengths. The KO2 is a legend, lauded by MotorTrend and Off-Road.com for its off-road dominance and reliability. It’s the go-to for purists who live for the trail.
The KO2 DT, meanwhile, earns nods from Tire Fever and forum veterans for its enhanced durability and on-road perks.
Some debate swirls around the 3PMSF rating—its absence in certain DT sizes raises eyebrows for snow-bound drivers—but overall, it’s seen as a worthy evolution. Both tires enjoy a strong reputation, with the DT appealing to those craving a modern twist.
Our Observation
Choosing between the BFGoodrich KO2 and KO2 DT boils down to your driving DNA. The standard KO2 is a rock-solid pick for off-road enthusiasts who value its proven track record and slightly lower price. It’s a no-nonsense tire that thrives in the wild and holds its own on pavement.
If your adventures lean toward hardcore trails and you need that 3PMSF rating for snowy regions, the KO2’s your match. But if you split your miles between rugged outings and daily commutes, the KO2 DT shines.
Its tougher compound promises extended tread life, while improved fuel efficiency and a quieter ride sweeten the deal for mixed use. Neither tire disappoints—your choice hinges on whether you prioritize tradition or a touch of innovation.
