BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W are two off-road all-terrain tire options that really stand out for someone like me who seeks year-round tire performance. These tires are versatile and suitable for various vehicles, including pickup trucks, vans, full-sized SUVs, and Jeeps. But there’s a significant difference to note – the BF Goodrich KO2 comes exclusively in LT sizes, while the Falken Wildpeak AT3W offers a more diverse range of sizes, as long as they match my vehicle’s requirements. This makes the Falken Wildpeak AT3W an attractive choice for me, especially if I prioritize on-road comfort and ensuring compatibility with my vehicle.
On the other hand, the BF Goodrich KO2 has a legendary reputation, firmly holding its ground against competitors. In this article, I’m eager to delve deep into a detailed comparison between the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W. By the end of our exploration, I hope to have a clearer idea of which tire suits my specific needs and preferences best. Let’s continue this journey of discovery!
| BF Goodrich KO2 | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | |
|---|---|---|
| Better for | Dry regions, Off-road focused drivers, 3/4 ton or above pickup trucks | Squishy and snowy regions, On-road focused drivers, 1/2 ton pickup trucks or SUVs |
| Pros | Responsiveness, Strong sidewalls, Towing & Hauling capability | Insane wet and snow traction, Great on-road manners, Towing & Hauling capability |
| Cons | Wet and winter traction is questionable, doesn’t last long as its competitors, a bit noisy | Not a tire for Baja Race |
As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my point of view, BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W tires, both offer stability, but the Falken AT3W stands out with superior wet traction and a smoother ride. While the KO2 initially exhibits responsiveness, it may lose this advantage over time. Opt for the Falken AT3W for reliable light snow traction, and turn to the KO2 for more challenging terrains. Neither tire excels in fuel efficiency, and the KO2 is better suited for rock-crawling enthusiasts. Your choice should align with your specific driving needs and conditions, ensuring you get the most out of your tires.
All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet
Finding the ideal all-terrain tire among the plethora of options available can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, my team and I have taken on this challenge head-on. Besides our hands-on experiences with these tires, we also analyze thousands of customer reviews and test reports.
We also analyzed ‘What customer complains more about all-terrain tires?’. Even though some of these complains are coming from the nature of all-terrain tires, there is still way to prevent yourself from these issues. Below, you can see articles about, hydroplaning, tire noise
- How to reduce tire noise?
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise - Tire Vibration
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-vibration - Tire Air Pressure – How to Decide?
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-air-pressure-info
Please note that: Light-Duty is 1500 series, Medium-Duty is 2500 series and Heavy-Duty is 3500 series. If you do towing or hauling, I recommend considering at least Medium-Duty tires.
Mobile users can scroll the table to the left to see the whole data.
For those who prefer a more textual representation and dislike sifting through tables of data:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires-for-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-1-2-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-rt-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-tires-for-snow-plowing/
A couple of popular size analyses:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-35×12-50r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-285-70r17-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-55r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-65r18-all-terrain-tires/
Want to learn more about all-terrain tires:
- https://tireterrain.com/highway-tires-vs-all-terrain-vs-mud-terrain/
- https://tireterrain.com/all-season-vs-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/tire-load-index-and-load-range/
- https://tireterrain.com/lt-tires-vs-passenger-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-loud/
- https://tireterrain.com/how-long-do-all-terrain-tires-last/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-rain/
- https://tireterrain.com/off-road-tire-pressure-load-range-for-every-rig/
I highly recommend checking the below pages out before making any purchase:
- DiscountTire Deals:
https://www.discounttire.com/promotions - TireRack Deals:
https://www.tirerack.com/specialoffers - SimpleTire Deals:
https://simpletire.com/tire-deals
Table of Contents
Dry Performance
The dry performance of all-terrain tires primarily hinges on factors like responsiveness and cornering stability, rather than just dry traction. But why is this the case?
The reason lies in the design philosophy of all-terrain tires. These tires are engineered to deliver ample traction across a wide range of terrains and conditions. Dry traction, being relatively straightforward to achieve, is typically a strength for most, if not all, all-terrain tires.
This holds true for both the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W. A close inspection of their tread patterns reveals a multitude of biting edges, enhancing their grip and traction capabilities substantially. As a result, dry traction isn’t a significant concern for these two tire options. However, when it comes to cornering stability and responsiveness, there are distinctions worth noting.
Let’s delve into a detailed evaluation of these aspects one by one.
Cornering Stability
When I consider cornering stability and steering responsiveness, I understand that these two aspects are interconnected. I’d like to start by discussing cornering stability since it plays a significant role in influencing responsiveness.
Cornering stability, to me, is closely tied to the choice of tire size. For instance, if I were to opt for E-rated tires, I’d expect better stability, even though it might come at the cost of a slightly rougher ride. It’s all about striking the right balance to suit my preferences.
Now, turning to our comparison, I know that the BF Goodrich KO2 is renowned for its legendary status, partly due to its robust construction featuring a 3-ply polyester cord sidewall ply. When it comes to cornering stability, the strength of the inner structure and those sturdy sidewalls really make a difference.
On the other hand, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W impresses with an extra polyamide reinforcement that helps the tire maintain its shape and withstand high lateral forces.
In my view, both the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W offer dependable cornering stability, thanks to their robust sidewalls. If I were to go for an E or D-rated load range, it would further enhance this stability. However, if I were more inclined towards a smoother ride, the P-metric Falken Wildpeak AT3W could still provide a satisfactory level of cornering stability.
Steering Response
When it comes to the responsiveness of all-terrain tires, I’ve learned that it hinges on both the tread pattern and the internal structure.
Regarding the internal structure, both the Falken Wildpeak AT3W and the BF Goodrich KO2 are quite similar. So, the real game-changer in this context is the tread pattern.
Typically, I’m on the lookout for a continuous center rib in a tire to ensure better steering response. However, it’s not a very common feature among all-terrain tires, and that holds true for both the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W.
Upon closely inspecting both tread patterns, I’ve noticed that the Falken Wildpeak AT3W appears a bit more compact and has a narrower tread width. This compactness works in its favor when it comes to responsiveness. Additionally, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W boasts a smaller void area, further enhancing its responsiveness. On the downside, it’s worth noting that the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is a heavier tire, which can occasionally lead to some lag.
In the grand scheme of things, I understand that all-terrain tires might not provide lightning-quick steering responses like all-season tires. However, in our comparison, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a slight edge due to its compact tread pattern. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that the BF Goodrich KO2 exhibits excellent responsiveness when it’s new. However, as it wears down, the void area in its tread increases, which can reduce its responsiveness over time.
Wet Performance
The wet performance of all-terrain tires generally stays short because of their stiff compound. Since BF Goodrich KO2 is only available in LT sizes, I make this comparison on LT sizes and that makes me approach with caution.
In our comparison, even though online ratings are shown above 9/10 rating, this isn’t possible in my point of view. Let me explain why.
First of all, wet performance is complicated. If the tire tends to hydroplane there is no way that you can get a decent level of traction. So, I’m going to explain hydroplaning resistance first. After that, I’ll evaluate wet traction capability which is related to compound and tread appearance.
Hydroplaning Resistance
Hydroplaning, that unsettling sensation when your vehicle seems to float while traversing puddles, occurs when a tire loses contact with the road surface, resulting in a lack of traction. But why is hydroplaning relatively common with all-terrain tires?
One key factor is the wide tread pattern of all-terrain tires. This width, while advantageous for off-road performance on loose terrain, can decrease their effectiveness on wet surfaces. Manufacturers employ strategies to address this issue, such as incorporating circumferential grooves and open shoulder blocks. However, the width of the tire’s tread remains a crucial factor.
In a detailed comparison, I’ve observed that the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is a narrower tire, which improves its resistance to hydroplaning. Additionally, upon close inspection of its tread, I’ve noticed the presence of two circumferential grooves and full-depth sipes (a feature lacking in the BFG KO2). These characteristics contribute to excellent hydroplaning resistance in the Falken Wildpeak AT3W.
Conversely, the BF Goodrich KO2 isn’t necessarily poor in this regard, but it can be prone to hydroplaning, often attributed to the specific tread pattern.
In summary, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W offers superior resistance to hydroplaning, making it a strong choice in wet conditions. However, the BF Goodrich KO2 can still perform adequately, especially for experienced drivers who are mindful of its potential for hydroplaning.
Note: Hydroplaning is a critical consideration for safe driving in heavy rain. Even with the best tires, it can still occur. While you may not always prevent it, understanding what it is and how to respond can help you stay safe on the road.
For an in-depth guide on “How to Deal with Hydroplaning,” you can refer to this resource: How to Deal with Hydroplaning?.
This guide provides valuable information on how to handle hydroplaning situations and ensure a safer driving experience in wet conditions.
Wet Traction
As I’ve mentioned earlier, there’s often skepticism about the wet traction of all-terrain tires, particularly when it comes to LT-metric tires.
Wet traction is closely linked to the amount of compound on the tire’s rubber and the presence of biting edges. All-terrain tires usually feature a stiffer compound, but they compensate for this with siping, which enhances wet traction.
In comparison between the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, it’s apparent that the Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a softer compound. How can I tell? Well, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W boasts a deeper tread pattern, and both tires exhibit similar treadwear. This deeper tread offers another advantage, contributing to improved resistance against hydroplaning. The deeper the tread, the better it can resist hydroplaning.
Furthermore, a close examination of both tread patterns reveals that the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is heavily siped, especially when compared to the BF Goodrich KO2. Moreover, these sipes are full-depth, which adds to their wet traction capabilities.
In summary, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W shines in regions with wet terrain and offers notably better wet traction.
Winter/Snow Performance
The idea of using all-terrain tires year-round is common due to their aggressive tread patterns, but whether it’s acceptable depends on various factors.
All-terrain tires tend to excel in providing grip on loose terrain, including snow, but this capability is often tied to a specific marking – 3PMSF.
3PMSF is a rating that indicates the tire’s compound can perform effectively at or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Tires lacking the 3PMSF mark may lose grip below this temperature threshold. So, if an all-terrain tire carries the 3PMSF marking, it can generally handle snowy conditions. But what type of snow are we talking about?
I’m referring to packed snow, particularly the softer variety often termed “deep snow.” Thanks to their deep and siped tread patterns, both the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W can navigate through deep snow effectively. However, where the distinction arises is in ice and light snow traction.
In this regard, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, with its siped pattern and softer compound, provides reliable traction on light snow. The BF Goodrich KO2 offers a similar performance in light snow but falls behind when it comes to ice traction.
A side note here: Understanding the snow performance of all-terrain tires can be quite challenging. For those who find it perplexing, I’d like to direct your attention to a helpful resource: “6 Best All-Terrain Tires for Snow by AT Tire Category“ This article is specifically designed to assist you in making informed decisions regarding all-terrain tires in snowy conditions.
Ride Quality
When it comes to evaluating ride quality and road noise, I usually consider them together. However, this time, I’d like to separate them, especially since towing and hauling quality are significant factors.
As mentioned earlier, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is available in P-metric sizes. If these sizes are compatible with your vehicle in terms of load index, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is certainly going to provide a smoother ride compared to the BF Goodrich KO2.
Now, when we compare the LT sizes, the difference isn’t substantial, but it’s still noticeable. The Falken Wildpeak AT3W, with its reduced void area, offers a more comfortable ride. Additionally, the step-down feature on its tread blocks enhances ride comfort, especially on uneven terrain.
These step-down lugs function like springs, reducing road force and contributing to a smoother ride. Furthermore, they prove beneficial for hauling and towing, particularly with high-torque vehicles, which I’ll discuss further in the tread life section.
In summary, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W stands out in providing a smoother ride. While the difference might not be as pronounced in 3/4 ton or larger trucks, for other vehicle types, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W emerges as the superior choice.
Noise
Road noise is a common concern with all-terrain tires, and it’s largely attributed to their aggressive shoulders and intricate tread patterns.
This noise is primarily generated by the air trapped within the tread, but there are ways to mitigate it.
In our comparison between the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, both tires prioritize traction on loose terrain over noise reduction, leading to highly aggressive tread patterns with ample void areas.
Looking closely at the BF Goodrich KO2, it features a higher void area than the Falken Wildpeak AT3W. Additionally, if you observe the shoulder section of the KO2, you’ll notice significant space between the lugs. This spacing tends to increase as the tire wears, resulting in a noisier experience over time.
On the other hand, while I wouldn’t describe the Falken Wildpeak AT3W as completely silent, its design is more consistent in terms of noise. The presence of 3D and full-depth sipes helps maintain the same pattern even as the tire wears down. Some tires exhibit different patterns as they wear because their sipes aren’t full-depth, requiring extra biting edges to compensate. This isn’t an issue with the Falken Wildpeak AT3W.
In summary, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W delivers a quieter ride compared to the BF Goodrich KO2. I strongly recommend it, especially if on-road manners and a quieter driving experience are your top priorities.
A side note to consider: While certain tires may generate noise due to their tread patterns, there are ways to minimize tire noise.
For those seeking guidance on “How to Keep Tire Noise Down,” you can find a comprehensive explanation in this resource: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise
This guide offers insights and tips on reducing tire noise, helping you enjoy a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.
Treadwear
Treadwear assessment for tires is often misunderstood by many consumers, and some common practices can be misleading.
For instance, I’ve noticed reviews that attempt to compare the UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grading) ratings of these two tires. However, it’s essential to clarify that the BF Goodrich KO2 doesn’t carry a UTQG rating because it’s exclusively available in LT metric sizes.
Additionally, relying on online reviews that claim “Tire X lasts longer than Tire Y” for different vehicles can be deceptive. The longevity of a tire depends on various factors, including the type of vehicle it’s mounted on and the terrain it encounters. Some tires excel on heavy vehicles and rugged terrains, while others have a longer lifespan on softer terrains and during highway usage.
When comparing the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, several factors come into play.
Firstly, even though the Falken Wildpeak AT3W boasts a greater tread depth, its compound is softer. So, what becomes the deciding factor? It’s the even wearing capability.
The BF Goodrich KO2, with its more aggressive tread pattern that provides extra grip, tends to wear down more quickly. Furthermore, its lugs aren’t full-depth like those of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, which means that more forces are exerted on the KO2’s lugs.
What does this imply? The BF Goodrich KO2 has a higher rolling resistance. Why is that relevant? Because the step-down lugs of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W reduce the forces on the lugs, helping to prevent rapid wear.
In conclusion, when it comes to treadwear on softer terrain, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a slight edge. For more challenging terrains, I would recommend the BF Goodrich KO2. It’s important to match your tire choice to your specific driving conditions and requirements.
Achieving maximum wear life from your tires is not only about the tires themselves but also your driving habits and maintenance.
For those interested in learning how to extend the tread life of their tires, you can find valuable tips and insights in this resource: How to Make Tires Last Longer.
This guide provides practical advice on how to ensure your tires last longer, ultimately saving you money and ensuring a safer driving experience.
Warranty
| BF Goodrich KO2 | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | All-Terrain Tire | All-Terrain Tire |
| Vehicle | Light Truck, SUV | Light Truck, SUV |
| Available Sizes (Rim) | 15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’, 22’’ | 15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’ |
| Weight | 34 – 78 lbs | 35 – 82 lbs |
| Made In | Opelika, AL, USA | Thailand or China |
| Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF) | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty (P-metric) | Not available | 65,000 Miles |
| Warranty (LT Sizes) | 50,000 Miles | 50,000 Miles |
As observed in the table above, there are differences in treadwear warranties between the BF Goodrich KO2 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W:
- BF Goodrich KO2 offers a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty.
- The LT sizes of Falken Wildpeak AT3W also provide a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty.
- In contrast, the P-metric sizes of Falken Wildpeak AT3W offer a more extended 65,000-mile treadwear warranty.
These warranty distinctions can be a factor to consider when evaluating the longevity and value of these tires for your specific needs.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is indeed closely linked to rolling resistance, which we’ve discussed earlier with the BF Goodrich KO2 having a somewhat higher rolling resistance. However, it’s important to consider tire weight as well, which I hadn’t factored in earlier.
The Falken Wildpeak AT3W tends to be heavier, with variations in weight depending on the size (ranging from 3 lbs to 10 lbs heavier). Additionally, its deeper tread can pose a disadvantage when it comes to rolling resistance.
When I look at both tires in a head-to-head comparison, it’s clear that neither of them is the best option for optimal fuel efficiency. If fuel efficiency is your top priority, I’d recommend considering on-road all-terrain tires rather than off-road all-terrain tires.
For those seeking more information on selecting off-road tires, you can refer to this resource: Off-Road Tire Buyer’s Guide.
Off-Road Performance
When it comes to evaluating off-road performance, there are two distinct approaches.
The first approach involves classifying the severity of off-road conditions. This categorization ranges from mild off-road conditions like dirt and gravel to more severe conditions like rock and mud crawling.
The second approach, which I find particularly useful for comparing two off-road all-terrain tires, involves classifying terrains based on their characteristics. Specifically, we can categorize terrains into rocky terrain and muddy terrain.
For the purpose of this comparison, I’ll adopt the second approach and evaluate these tires based on their performance in rocky terrain and muddy terrain. Let’s dive into this assessment.
Rock Terrain
When it comes to rocky terrains, it’s hard to find a better tire than the BF Goodrich KO2, especially in the category of off-road all-terrain tires.
The BF Goodrich KO2 stands out due to its exceptionally strong sidewalls and a stiff compound. These features make it highly resistant to cuts and chips, and it’s known for its durability, with a track record of seldom experiencing sidewall failures.
On the other hand, when it comes to traction in rocky terrains, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W performs admirably. Its compound is also cut and chip-resistant, although it leans slightly toward a softer side. Importantly, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W doesn’t compromise on sidewall strength either.
In summary, if you’re seeking a tire for adventurous rock crawling, my recommendation leans toward the BF Goodrich KO2. However, if you’re primarily a daily driver who occasionally encounters gravel or rocky terrain, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W has everything you need.
Mud Terrain
Mud-terrain performance is often a challenging aspect for all-terrain tires because mud is one of the most demanding terrains.
One of the key factors for mud traction is self-cleaning, where more void area in the tread allows for better expulsion of mud and debris.
In this regard, the BF Goodrich KO2 has a slight edge, but the deeper tread of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W also performs admirably.
Overall, both tires excel in dirt and moderate off-road conditions. However, when faced with more severe terrains like deep mud, the BF Goodrich KO2 holds a slight advantage.
Specification Comparison for Popular Sizes
Falken Wildpeak AT3W and BF Goodrich KO2 offer a wide range of tire sizes, but when it comes to all-terrain tires, a few common sizes dominate the market:
- 35×12.5R20
- 285/70R17
- 275/60R20
- 265/70R17
When selecting the right tire for your needs, key specifications such as tread depth, tread width, and tire weight provide essential information. Let’s delve into the specifics using the specifications of BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W tires.
35×12.5R20
| Falken Wildpeak AT3W | BF Goodrich KO2 |
|---|---|
| Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire |
| F | E |
| 77 lbs | 67 lbs |
| 19/32″ | 15/32″ |
| 10.9″ | 11.1″ |
| Thailand | United States |
For this specific size, the choice between BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W depends on your priorities. BF Goodrich KO2, available in E load range, is a preferable option if you value a smoother driving experience and better fuel efficiency. It’s also lighter than the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, which can contribute to improved mileage.
On the other hand, if you have off-road adventures in mind and require a stiffer sidewall, the F load range Falken Wildpeak AT3W might be a better fit for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific driving style and terrain preferences.
285/70R17
| Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | BF Goodrich KO2 | BF Goodrich KO2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire |
| C | E | SL | E | C |
| 63 lbs | 58 lbs | 50 lbs | 58 lbs | 51 lbs |
| 18/32″ | 18/32″ | 13/32″ | 15/32″ | 15/32″ |
| 9.6″ | 9.6″ | 9.6″ | 9.2″ | 9.3″ |
| Thailand | China | Thailand | United States | United States |
SL Load Range: Falken Wildpeak AT3W offers an SL load range, which is well-suited for on-road use, especially if you don’t frequently carry heavy loads. It provides a good balance of performance and comfort for everyday driving.
C Load Range: Both BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W are available in a C load range. In this category, BF Goodrich KO2 stands out due to its lower weight and tread design. This makes it a solid choice, offering a good blend of performance and an aggressive appearance. However, if you prioritize a more aggressive look without sacrificing too much comfort, the C load range Falken Wildpeak AT3W could be a better option.
E Load Range: When it comes to E load range, BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W appear quite similar. Both are suitable for towing or hauling due to their sturdier construction. BF Goodrich KO2’s narrower pattern and lower tread depth make it a better choice for stability when carrying heavy loads. On the other hand, Falken Wildpeak AT3W, with its wider pattern and deeper tread, might offer superior traction, making it a good option for situations where traction is essential.
275/60R20
| Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | BF Goodrich KO2 |
|---|---|---|
| Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire |
| D | SL | D |
| 58 lbs | 50 lbs | 55 lbs |
| 18/32″ | 13/32″ | 15/32″ |
| 9.2″ | 9.6″ | 9″ |
| Thailand | Thailand | United States |
For this tire size, it’s clear that on-road performance and comfort are significant factors. Here’s a breakdown based on load range:
SL Load Range: Falken Wildpeak AT3W with an SL load range is a solid choice for on-road-oriented drivers who don’t engage in towing or hauling activities. It offers a good balance of performance and comfort for everyday driving.
D Load Range: When it comes to D load range tires, it’s essential to consider your specific needs. In this size, BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W are available with D load range. While Falken Wildpeak AT3W may excel in wet and snowy conditions, you raise a valid point about its tread life compared to BF Goodrich KO2. If tread life and longevity are priorities, BF Goodrich KO2 might be the better option. Deep-tread tires like the D load range Falken Wildpeak AT3W may not provide the same tread life, and it’s crucial to evaluate if the potential performance gains in wet and snow conditions outweigh the trade-offs in tread life.
265/70R17
| Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | BF Goodrich KO2 | BF Goodrich KO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire |
| E | SL | C | E |
| 51 lbs | 45 lbs | 46 lbs | 53 lbs |
| 17/32″ | 13/32″ | 15/32″ | 15/32″ |
| 8.9″ | 9″ | 8.8″ | 8.7″ |
| Japan | United States | Canada | United States |
For this size, it’s evident that Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a strong presence. Here’s a concise breakdown:
SL Load Range: Falken Wildpeak AT3W with an SL load range is a top choice for those primarily focused on on-road driving. It provides a comfortable and stable driving experience, making it ideal for daily commuting and general use.
C Load Range: BF Goodrich KO2 in a C load range is a reliable option for drivers who want versatility. It strikes a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability, making it suitable for various adventures.
E Load Range: Falken Wildpeak AT3W stands out as the preferred choice if off-road traction isn’t your primary concern in this load range. It offers a compelling option for drivers looking for a well-rounded tire.
Conclusion
BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W are both exceptional tires, each with its own strengths. The Falken Wildpeak AT3W excels in on-road manners, offering a smoother ride. On the other hand, the BF Goodrich KO2 shines with its off-road traction capabilities.
| BF Goodrich KO2 | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | |
|---|---|---|
| Better for | Dry regions, Off-road focused drivers, 3/4 ton or above pickup trucks | Squishy and snowy regions, On-road focused drivers, 1/2 ton pickup trucks or SUVs |
| Pros | Responsiveness, Strong sidewalls, Towing & Hauling capability | Insane wet and snow traction, Great on-road manners, Towing & Hauling capability |
| Cons | Wet and winter traction is questionable, doesn’t last long as its competitors, a bit noisy | Not a tire for Baja Race |
Take-Home Points:
- LT sizes feature stronger sidewalls, enhancing durability, but they often provide a rougher ride compared to P-metric tires. (LT vs P-Metric tires)
- XL sizes are designed to carry more load and offer improved handling. If you’re considering P-metric sizes, XL tires may be a better choice for hauling and towing. ( XL vs SL tires)
- Pay close attention to the load range and speed index ratings as they are crucial factors in determining tread life and performance.
- There are no inherently “bad” tires in the market; the key is knowing what to expect from the tires based on your specific needs.
These insights should help you make informed decisions when selecting the right tires for your vehicle and driving requirements.
Your choice between these two tires will depend on your specific needs and priorities.
I hope this article has provided you with valuable insights. If you require further assistance or have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable ride, folks!
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