- A side note here: As a former Bridgestone engineer, I strongly recommend checking DiscountTire - Treadwell out. This is a tool that DiscountTire dealers use in the store. You can get recommendations based on value, performance, and local favorites.
TRIED & TESTED!
Nitto Ridge Grappler is the hero product of the Nitto on/off-road tires line-up. It towers over Terra Grappler in every aspect. Hence, it’s called a rugged-terrain tire instead of an all-terrain tire. On the other hand, BF Goodrich KO2 has been leading the all-terrain tire market since it was released. It’s a solid and reliable tire. But could BFG KO2 stand the test of time?
At a Glance
| BF Goodrich KO2 | Nitto Ridge Grappler | |
|---|---|---|
| Better for | Snowy regions, overlanders, working trucks, 3/4 ton or above light-trucks | Highway driving, lifted trucks who wanna put some aggressive appearance |
| Pros | Insane wet and snow traction, long-lasting rubber, mild & severe off-road traction | Smooth and quiet ride, Insane wet and snow traction for 1/2-ton trucks, SUVs and CUVs, mild off-road traction, severe off-road traction for LT sizes, responsiveness |
| Cons | A bit noisy, slightly harsh ride if you’re not used to all-terrain tires | Not a good option for 3/4 ton or above trucks who wants more than an aggressive appearance, off-road capability is limited for passenger metric sizes |
| Available on | DiscountTire: Check Price TireRack: Check Price SimpleTire: Check Price Amazon: Check Price | DiscountTire: Check Price TireRack: Check Price SimpleTire: Check Price Amazon: Check Price |
As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, Nitto Ridge Grappler is a quieter tire out here. Yet, it offers relatively poor riding comfort compared to BFG KO2. Furthermore, it doesn’t last as long as BFG KO2. Both tires smash wet and dry surfaces. Nonetheless, BF Goodrich KO2 is the king of the off-road. Well, due to the fluffier compound, Ridge Grappler wears rapidly during off-road riding. One final word for northern folks, BFG KO2 is also superior regarding winter performance. Its 3-PMSF guarantees that.
All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet
Finding the most suitable one for you among thousands of tires is very difficult.
My team & I have analyzed 100 different tires and generated this ‘Quick Answer Sheet‘ for those who don’t wanna spend too much time during tire selection.
Before we start, here are the incredibly helpful articles I highly recommend to take a look at;
- How to keep tire noise down?
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise - How do all-terrain tires do in the snow?
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/all-terrain-mud-tires-in-snow - Correct tire inflation pressure improves fuel economy
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/air-pressure-fuel-economy - Tire Safety Practices
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-safety
Below the table, you can find my favorite tires that I have classified according to your needs.
If you’re in a hurry, here are the tires worth every penny;
- Toyo Open Country AT3 – Best All-Round & Longevity
- Falken Wildpeak AT3W – Best All-Round & Squishy Regions
- BF Goodrich KO2 – Best All-Round & Off-Road Adventure
- Falken Wildpeak AT Trail – Best All-Round for CUV/SUV & Severe Off-Road
- Nitto Recon Grappler – Best All-Round for CUV/SUV & Smooth and Quiet Ride
- General Grabber ATX – Best All-Round for 3/4-ton or above trucks
- Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac – Best On/Off Road tire for 3/4-ton or above trucks
- Cooper Discoverer 4S XLT – Best Commercial All-Terrain Tire & Hauling and Towing
If you’re looking for something at a bargain price;
- Vredestein Pinza AT – Best All-Round for CUV/SUV & Smooth and Quiet Ride
- Kenda Klever A/T2 – Best All-Round for Medium & Light Duty Usage
- Kenda Klever R/T – Best All-Round for Heavy-Duty Usage
Depending on your needs, also the below articles might help;
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-mud-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-rt-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-tires-for-snow-plowing/
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
Durability
Ridge Grappler and KO2 both have 3-ply sidewalls. Well, it is a good sign. Both have strong sidewalls that are going to prevent side impacts.
Premium tire brands generally don’t have any issues due to durability. Yet, this feature highly depends on your vehicle’s weight and your application (Loaded-unloaded).
In my point of view, a durable tire is a tire that can perform under high loads. BF Goodrich KO2 is the superior one in that case. While Nitto Ridge Grappler’s UTQG is 500, BF Goodrich KO2 rating with 600 UTQG depending on the size. That means BFG KO2 has a stiffer compound. That feature brings longer tread life on heavy-duty applications. On the other hand, Ridge Grappler’s compound is open to any cut or chipping.
Both tires have a strong and durable sidewall. Yet, BFG KO2 is the superior one due to its cut&chipping resistance.
If you’d like to see the best tires in this case –> https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/
Tread Life
Tread life is the main concern of on/off-road tire users. Tires can perform differently depending on how severe your application is.
I am going to separate this section into three dimensions. Mainly highway/pavement, towing, mainly off-road users.
Mainly Highway/Pavement Driving
Lugged tread design leads to uneven wearing from time to time. While the tire is wheeling around, the back part of either lug(opposite side of vehicle direction) hits the ground more than the front part. In industry, it is called heel and toe type irregular wearing.
This irregular wear type is more likely to see on multipartite tires. Well, it is BF Goodrich KO2 at this time. Ridge Grappler with the bigger lugs can absorb ground hit better than KO2.
However, this isn’t a game-changer on its own. Nitto Ridge Grappler may wear evenly on the pavement. Though, its compound is fluffy. I prefer BF Goodrich KO2 in this case.
Getting maximum wear life from a tire is related to you as well as your tire,
If you’d like to learn how to get maximum tread life:
Towing & Hauling
This part is completely related to durability. I’ve shared my thoughts above. BF Goodrich KO2 is the way much better tire for towing and hauling. Ridge Grappler can’t be more than a daily driving tire with this quick wearing.
Mainly Off-Road Driving
Tires need stiff compounds for off-road traction. It is well-known fact that softer compounds increase traction. Yet, it decreases tread life for off-road usages. Moreover, soft compounds tend to chunk more likely.
BF Goodrich KO2(review) should be your tire if you are spending most of your time on an adventure.
Warranty
BF Goodrich offers 60,000 miles and 6 years treadwear warranty for this product. Moreover, you’re free to try this product for 60 days. If you don’t like it, you can return it.
BFG KO2 Warranty Document: https://www.tirerack.com/images/pdf/warranty/BF0716.pdf
Nitto doesn’t offer a treadwear warranty for this product. Though, if you’ll have any issues with material or quality, you can easily replace your tire.
Road Noise
Ridge Grappler is an exceptional tire due to noise reduction. It is leading to competition among all other rugged-terrain tires.
Due to its narrowed void area in the center section, Nitto Ridge Grappler can reduce the noise with ease. Moreover, its fluffy compound absorbs the hit and decreases the sound level.
On the other hand, noise reduction is BF Goodrich KO2’s weakest part. In order to break up airflow, small hash marks are placed inside the grooves. Yet, the grooves are not straight enough. When you combine it with the stiff compound and wide gaps in the center section, it almost becomes impossible to achieve a quiet tire.
Ridge Grappler is the winner in this section.
A side note here: Even though some tires tend to make noise because of their tread patterns, it’s still possible to keep your tire noise down.
I’m leaving a perfect explanation below from DiscountTire for those who need it;
How to Keep Tire Noise Down? –>
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise
Riding Comfort
Ridin comfort sometimes becomes challenging for manufacturers. The tires that can perform off the road should procure tons of traction. In return, riding comfort decreases. So, remember that you can’t have the same comfort as you have with a touring tire. It is impossible.
So, riding comfort is related to the internal structure. Let me explain it with an example.
Let’s think about all-terrain and mud-terrain tires. While all-terrain tire users ask for solid on-road manners, mud-terrain tire users ask for durability.
For this reason, manufacturers use relatively stiff and thick material inside the mud-terrain tires. So, basically, mud-terrain tires have low riding quality.
In our case, Nitto Ridge Grappler has a mud-terrain tire internal structure. Hence, it has poor riding quality.
BFG KO2 has a better riding quality than Nitto Ridge Grappler.
For all-terrain tire newbies: All-terrain tires wear well. We all know this. Yet, compared to the all-season tires these tires offer a rough ride. If your interest in all-terrain tires is fresh, I highly recommend reading the linked article before making any purchase.
Dry Performance
Dry performance is consists of 3 different dimensions. Dry traction, cornering stability, and steering response. Let’s value them one by one.
Cornering Stability
I’ve tested both tires in the past. Both have great cornering stability. In that case, the game-changer is the sidewall stiffness.
Since Nitto Ridge Grappler has stiffer sidewalls and mostly higher speed index, it’s the superior option for this section. Yet, unlike most manufacturers, BF Goodrich wraps the bead wire couple of times until they get the necessary strength. Hence, BFG KO2 is also a unique tire in this case.
Both tires will meet your expectations for this section.
Dry Traction
Dry traction is dead-easy for off-road tires. Due to their lugged-type patterns, they have tons of biting edges which is sufficient for dry traction.
Nitto Ridge Grappler and BFG KO2 are beasts regarding dry traction.
Steering Response
Heavy steering response is mainly caused by low inflation pressure. Well, if you are at the right inflation pressure, let’s continue with the comparison.
In this case, the weight of the tire and the design of the center section are the deciders.
Regarding weight, Nitto Ridge Grappler is a heavyweight. Hence, it has a disadvantage. However, the continuity of its tread is better than BFG KO2.
So, my pick is BF Goodrich KO2. Yet, Ridge Grappler is head to head with it.
The below video explains a lot about this topic. I highly recommend you to watch it.
Wet Traction
Our racers are good options due to their wet traction performance. This claim is valid only for the first 15,000-20,000 miles for BF Goodrich KO2. On the other hand, Ridge Grappler can maintain its wet performance till the end of its tread life.
BF Goodrich KO2 has two different compound layers on its tread. The first layer is soft and smooth. But, when it’s run out and the second layer is shown up, a slight performance decrease is reported by most of the customers.
Well, it is caused by a stiff second layer. Stiff compound can’t grip the wet ground well enough and your wheel is starting to spin from time to time.
On the other hand, Nitto Ridge Grappler’s fluffy compound adheres to the wet surface perfectly. However, it has a lack of siping.
Regarding wet traction, I can’t separate them. Yet, Nitto Ridge Grappler is one step ahead due to its consistency.
Hydroplaning Resistance
Hydroplaning resistance is the water evacuation capability of the tire. Due to achieving solid hydroplaning resistance, tires need open shoulder blocks and circumferential grooves that throw the water out while the tire is wheeling.
Nitto Ridge Grappler meets both requirements. Its groove design and open shoulders provide unique hydroplaning resistance. On the other hand, BF Goodrich isn’t a master in this case. Yet, its water evacuation capability is high due to its open shoulders and the tread that directs water to shoulder blocks.
Both tires have high hydroplaning resistance. I prefer Nitto Ridge Grappler. Yet, BFG KO2 is also a reliable option.
Note: Hydroplaning is vital for a safe ride under the pouring rain. However, it might occur even with the best tire. Maybe you can’t prevent it but if you know what it is and how to deal with it, you can easily stay on the safe side.
Here is an extremely efficient guide about ‘How to Deal with Hydroplaning?‘ –> https://www.discounttire.com/learn/hydroplaning
Winter Performance
Even though Nitto Ridge Grappler is not rated for severe snow conditions, users are very happy with its winter performance. Well, it is not a surprise for me. It has a soft compound that can perform very well on snow. The only question point is ice performance. Sipe density is a bit low for an ice capability. I do recommend this tire isn’t severe but the mild winter applications.
On the other hand, there is nothing much to talk about BF Goodrich KO2. Whether severe or mild applications, KO2 ensures high-quality winter performance. It has a 3-peak mountain snowflake marking that is proof of its severe winter capability.
BF Goodrich KO2 is the winner of this section. Yet, Nitto Ridge Grappler could be a good option if you only face light snow.
This article consists of my best picks of durable and severe winter-rated tires!
Off-Road Performance
Ridge Grappler has a fluffy compound. However, due to its deep tread depth and soft compound, it has a massive gripping capability. It can perform mild to severe any off-road condition. Though worth reminding, its soft compound wears quickly in severe conditions. So, I don’t recommend using it for an adventure. It can handle occasional off-road conditions but it heats up so fast. I recommend keeping your off-road adventures as short as you can.
BF Goodrich KO2 is our Baja Race champion. It has proven performance on tough and mild surfaces. In that case, BFG KO2 is stepping up with durability. The insane durability prevents your tire from cutting and chipping. Moreover, it has a unique sidewall design that becomes a shield in case of lateral impact.
| BF Goodrich KO2 | Nitto Ridge Grappler | |
|---|---|---|
| Dirt | Excellent | Excellent |
| Gravel | Excellent | Average |
| Sand | Above Average | Average |
| Mud | Average | Average |
| Rock | Excellent | Average |
The above table will help you to pick the best one for your operation. BF Goodrich beat Ridge Grappler into a cocked hat almost in every application.
Specs
| BF Goodrich KO2 | Nitto Ridge Grappler | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | All-Terrain Tire | Rugged-Terrain Tire |
| Vehicle | Light Truck, SUV | Light Truck, SUV |
| Available Sizes (Rim) | 15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’, 22’’ | 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”, 24” |
| Weight | 34 – 78 lbs | 40 – 96 lbs |
| Made In | Opelika, AL, USA | White, GA, USA |
| Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF) | Yes (3PMSF) | No |
| Warranty (P-metric) | 50,000 Miles | N/A |
| Warranty (LT Sizes) | 50,000 Miles | N/A |
| Prices | Check price section to see best possible prices | Check price section to see best possible prices |
Price
The tire market has a dynamic price policy. Hence, in my point of view, sharing tire price is pointless.
Though, I’ve analyzed the top 10 brands of most popular tire brands.
Here are the dealers with a reasonable price range,
DiscountTire
- Biggest dealer in the US. Founded in 1960
- 1000 stores in 35 states. You most probably find one on your parallel street
- Free rotation and balancing
- 5% off for DiscountTire cardholders on online purchase
- Highest rated online tire dealer in Consumer Affairs
- Almost all brands are available
- Delivery takes 2-4 days (30% shorter average waiting time when you book online)
- Frequent discounts and promotions
BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/bfgoodrich-all-terrain-t-a-ko2
Nitto Ridge Grappler: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/nitto-ridge-grappler
SimpleTire
- Free shipping
- Delivered in 2 days
- Verified shops near you(for mount and balance)
- Mobile installation option
- 7 million customers since 2021
- 4.7/5 points on Google rate
- Top-notch customer service, you may even request a price match
BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: https://simpletire.com/brands/bfgoodrich-tires/all-terrain-t-a-ko2
Nitto Ridge Grappler: https://simpletire.com/brands/nitto-tires/ridge-grappler
TireRack
- Fast and Free shipping
- Usually delivered in 1 day
- Joint venture with DiscountTire(their installers and dealers are on your service)
- Tons of installer options, they also help you to choose the best one
- Mobile installers in many areas, your tires will be replaced while you’re working in the office
- Tire test results and comparisons can be found on the most product page
- 4.6/5 points on Google rate
BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/bfgoodrich-all-terrain-t-a-ko2
Nitto Ridge Grappler: Not available
While choosing dealers, I especially pay attention to reliability. All of the dealers on this list have 15-20 years of experience in the online tire business. Therefore, I can guarantee a smooth and fast tire buying process.
Conclusion
I hope this article is helpful for those who are stuck between these two.
| BF Goodrich KO2 | Nitto Ridge Grappler | |
|---|---|---|
| Better for | Snowy regions, overlanders, working trucks, 3/4 ton or above light-trucks | Highway driving, lifted trucks who wanna put some aggressive appearance |
| Pros | Insane wet and snow traction, long-lasting rubber, mild & severe off-road traction | Smooth and quiet ride, Insane wet and snow traction for 1/2-ton trucks, SUVs and CUVs, mild off-road traction, severe off-road traction for LT sizes, responsiveness |
| Cons | A bit noisy, slightly harsh ride if you’re not used to all-terrain tires | Not a good option for 3/4 ton or above trucks who wants more than an aggressive appearance, off-road capability is limited for passenger metric sizes |
| Available on | DiscountTire: Check Price TireRack: Check Price SimpleTire: Check Price Amazon: Check Price | DiscountTire: Check Price TireRack: Check Price SimpleTire: Check Price Amazon: Check Price |
Take-Home Points,
- LT sizes have stronger sidewalls. That feature makes them more durable. Yet, these tires offer a rougher ride. (LT vs P-Metric tires)
- XL sizes tend to carry more load and offer better handling. Hence, if you’ll go with p-metric sizes, they might be a better pick for hauling and towing( XL vs SL tires)
- Please pay attention to the load range and speed index. These metrics are essential if you expect decent tread life
- There isn’t a bad tire in the market right now, you should just know what to expect from tires
A side note here: If you’d like to get local advice and find the best fit for your driving habits, location, and road conditions DiscountTire – Treadwell Tire Guide can give you masterpiece recommendations.
In summary, Nitto Ridge Grappler has better on-road manners. On the other hand, BF Goodrich is good at off-road and especially durability.
If you have any further comments or questions, please leave them below!
Guide Me Bruh!
This section contains my research and top picks. Depending on your need, you may choose a category and easily find the best fit for yourself. Remember, nobody knows your driving conditions and requirements better than yourself. You’re in the charge out here.
Start Here:
Will the nitto ridge grappler fit my 2019 Chevy Blazer . My tire size is 235/55R20 105WXL. Blazer is Premier 3 LT all wheel drive ?
Hello David,
I suppose Nitto Ridge Grappler isn’t available for 235/55R20.
I made quick research for you, here is what I’ve found.
In my point of view, Falken Wildpeak AT Trail and Nitto Nomad Grappler may be the best choices for your vehicle.
I have a review about Falken and Nitto Nomad Grappler review will be shared next week. Check the below links out.
https://simpletire.com/brands/nitto-tires/nomad-grappler
https://tireterrain.com/falken-wildpeak-at-trail-review/
Don’t know where do you live but if you see snow regularly, I recommend you to go with Falken.
Let me know if you need any further help.
Will the nitto ridge grappler fit my 2019 Chevy Blazer . My tire size is 235/55R20 105WXL. Blazer is Premier 3 LT all wheel drive ?