TireTerrain

Comparisons

Toyo Open Country MT vs Nitto Trail Grappler MT

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Toyo Open Country M/T and Nitto Trail Grappler are mud-terrain tires that are built in the same factory. Even though they’re built for off-roading, people prefer to use them due to their aggressive appearances. In this article, I’ll classify their usage depending on the different customer expectations. Let’s move on!

Compare to Toyo, Nitto tires are generally less durable and more smooth tires
Nitto Trail Grappler MTToyo Open County M/T
Better forSmooth and quiet ride for a mud-terrain tire,
if you spend time on the highway		Beach driving and hunting
ProsLong-lasting rubber,
satisfying wet traction,
great winter traction		Long-lasting rubber,
wet and snow traction,
quick steering response,
fuel efficiency
ConsNoisy and stiff rideNoisy and stiff ride

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, both are trustworthy options for off-road. The difference between these two is the vest pocket. Nitto Trail Grappler MT has better off-road manners and winter capability. Moreover, it overcomes Toyo MT due to tread life. Although, Toyo Open Country MT has a more aggressive look and slightly wet grip.

Table of Contents

Durability

Mud-terrain tires are built to perform under the hardest conditions. Therefore, durability is the manufacturer’s priority.

Toyo Open Country MT has high turn-up 3-ply polyester sidewall construction. This feature increases impact resistance significantly. That’s the good part of Open Country MT. The bad side of it is weak compound. Soft compound tear-up and worn so easily. This tire is good for relatively small(Jeep, Rubicon) SUVs or light trucks. 

On the flipside, Nitto Trail Grappler has 3-ply sidewall construction too. In a word, you don’t have to be afraid of punctures. Trail Grappler’s compound is stiffer than Open Country MT’s. Yet, if you don’t follow the rotation time up, you might not get more than 30,000 miles with these dudes.

Tread Life

I’ve explained most of the things above. Let’s get them over.

Nitto Trail Grappler has a more durable compound than Open Country MT. Well, it has a relatively better tread life. In that case, I would like to separate their tread life due to application.

First of all, although these tires are mud-terrain, I don’t recommend you to use them on heavy-duty loaded applications unless you don’t care about tread life.

For unloaded heavy-duty applications, Nitto Trail Grappler is a better option.

For mild operation, if your vehicle’s weight is less than 3/4 tons you can go either way. If it’s higher, I recommend you to use Nitto Trail Grappler.

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:

https://tireterrain.com/how-to-make-tires-last-longer/

Road Noise

Road noise is what most customers complain about. Well, noise reduction is not what I’ve expected from mud terrains. Yet, market needs are changing. People want a more aggressive look on their tires. So, they slide all terrains into mud-terrains. Thus, manufacturers are trying to make mud-terrain tires with on-road manners. This change has positive and negative sides. Well, low road noise is a positive side.

Yes, yes, I am talking about Nitto Trail Grappler. This tire is mute compared to other mud terrains. Well, I will keep BFG KM3 out of the equation, it’s exceptional. Trail Grappler has smaller center blocks with narrower void areas. This design is perfect if you wanna reduce noise.

Our second competitor Open Country isn’t that successful in that case. The design is cool. Yet, the angle of the blocks increases its noise dramatically. Well, these blocks will improve the traction in further sections.

Nitto Trail Grappler is the winner in this section.

Riding Comfort

Riding comfort generally aligns with road noise. Yet, absorption on bumps and vibration should be taken into consideration.

In that case, I think Trail Grappler is one step ahead. Toyo has larger blocks. It’s a wider tire. So, absorption ability is a bit less than its competitor.  Moreover, while I was studying these two, I saw a couple of negative comments about vibration. Just for your information.

Most tire sizes begin with modifier letters(P, LT, etc.) that identify the type of vehicle or type of service for which they were designed. Here is a perfect guide for reading tire size –> https://tireterrain.com/how-to-read-tire-size/

Dry Performance

Dry performance is consists of 3 different dimensions. Dry traction, cornering stability, and steering response. Let’s value them one by one.

Dry Traction

Dry traction doesn’t have to be your concern if you are buying mud-terrain tires. Due to their aggressive tread pattern, both fellows have huge traction ability.

Cornering Stability

Open Country MT is one of the weightiest tires in its class. Well, strong internal construction always improves cornering stability. It’s trustworthy.

Trail Grappler is the other heaviest tire in the mud-terrain class. I’m not going to repeat myself, this one is also a very reliable option.

Steering Response

In my point of view, steering response is the crucial part of mud-terrain tires. These are heavy tires, when you fill them with too much air, steering might be challenging.

Luckily, both option has sensitive steering response. These are highly rigid tires and full-depth sipes on large blocks give it an ability to move together under horizontal forces.

Wet Performance

Toyo Open Country MT is a tough but a bit noisy guy

Mud-terrain tires don’t have too many sipes on them. Well, their contact patch is also very limited compared to all-terrains. These two attributions are fundamental to wet performance. Therefore, most mud-terrain tires fail on wet.

Fortunately, Trail Grappler and Open Country MT are decent tires in this case. They have softer compounds than regular mud-terrains. Hence, they have the superior wet capability.

I personally prefer Open Country MT on wet. It has narrower circumferential(kinda) grooves that can evacuate water better than Trail Grappler. Yet, both are reliable options.

Winter Performance

Deep snow and light snow traction aren’t a problem for mud terrains. Their tread depth is deep enough to grip deep snow. Moreover, Trail Grappler and Open Country MT have massive self-cleaning abilities. So, in that cases, let’s say they are equal.

Where they aren’t that successful are packed snow and ice. They suffer due to a lack of siping. Well, we are going back to the void area. Less void area always works better on compact surfaces.

Trail Grappler and Open Country MT are trustworthy tires in winter. Trail Grappler is the better option. Yet, I recommend not using them on ice.

Off-Road Performance

Off-road performance is where these two are shining. Except for sand…

Trail Grappler has more center block spacing. Well, that means better traction off the road. What I don’t like much about them is the sidewall tread pattern. It seems a bit soft in my opinion.

On the other hand, Open Country MT is a wider tire. So, the contact patch is bigger than Trail Grappler. This feature increases its grip ability. What I like most about them is the sidewall. They are maximumly aggressive and increase the traction on loose surfaces.

In summary, both are pretty trustworthy off-road options. I prefer Open Country MT due to the lovely sidewall design.

Here is the perfect comparison of these two. (BF Goodrich KM3 is included.)

Specs

Toyo Open Country MTNitto Trail Grappler
CategoryMud-Terrain TireMud-Terrain Tire
VehicleLight Truck, SUVLight Truck, SUV
Available Sizes (Rim)15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”, 24”, 26”15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”, 24”
Weight57 – 110 lbs59 – 111 lbs
Made InWhite, GA, USAWhite, GA, USA
Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)No (M+S)No (M+S)
Warranty (P-metric)N/AN/A
Warranty (LT Sizes)N/AN/A
PricesCheck price section to see best possible pricesCheck 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

Toyo Open Country MT: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/toyo-tire-open-country-m-t

Nitto Trail Grappler MT: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/nitto-trail-grappler-m-t

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

Toyo Open Country MT: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/toyo-open-country-m-t

Nitto Trail Grappler MT: Not available

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

Toyo Open Country MT: https://simpletire.com/brands/toyo-tires/open-country-m-t

Nitto Trail Grappler MT: https://simpletire.com/brands/nitto-tires/trail-grappler-m-t

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

Nitto Trail Grappler and Open Country MT are leading the market with the BF Goodrich KM3. They are both trustworthy options. Yet, Trail Grappler has better on-road manners.

Nitto Trail Grappler MTToyo Open County M/T
Better forSmooth and quiet ride for a mud-terrain tire,
if you spend time on the highway		Beach driving and hunting
ProsLong-lasting rubber,
satisfying wet traction,
great winter traction		Long-lasting rubber,
wet and snow traction,
quick steering response,
fuel efficiency
ConsNoisy and stiff rideNoisy and stiff ride

I hope this article will help you to decide. If you have any further questions, please leave them below. Have a safe ride!

Nitto NT01 vs Toyo R888

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NT01 and R888 are built in the same factory since Toyo bought Nitto in 1999. These racetrack tires are built to perform on dry ground. Though worth reminding, these are not streetable track tires. They have very limited wet performance. Hence, my main comparison points will be tread life and handling. Let’s move on!

Due to decrease response time, track tires have a low profile

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, Nitto NT01 can last a couple of races more. Moreover, its non-directional pattern is a huge advantage for rotation. Both are extremely smooth tires. Yet, Toyo R888 is my favorite. Plus, Toyo R888 offers a more reliable grip and cornering due to its stronger sidewalls. These sidewalls heathen up slower but provide better handling. It overperforms Nitto NT01 on wet grounds. A wide range of sizes is another advantage of the Toyo R888R.

Table of Contents

Tread Life

Both tires are rated 100tw. So, reaching 30,000 miles on them is what is expected. These are 100tw track day specials that deliver on par with today’s Super-200s for single-lap pace.

In that case, consistency is the key. You can take one lap and another 0,5 slower lap with these ones.

You should drive these tires on low inflation pressure to get a better grip(aim for 32-33 hot). Though, irregular wear is inevitable. Well, irregular wear is the enemy of tread life.

In that case, I will evaluate them due to tread design.

It appears that Nitto NT01 is asymmetric and Toyo R888R is directional. An asymmetrical tread pattern provides you with a rotation possibility(Left to right). On the other hand, you have kinda had no choice but replacement in case of irregular wear.

Nitto NT01 is the winner in this section.

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:

https://tireterrain.com/how-to-make-tires-last-longer/

Wet Performance

Wet performance is hard to reach for racetrack tires. Due to closed shoulders and flat patterns, these tires struggle to evacuate water.

Circumferential grooves are the key in this section. Though, Nitto NT01 has a big advantage. Full-depth sipes and two circumferential grooves make it stronger on wet grounds.

Nitto NT01 is the winner in this section.

Grip and Cornering

The grip is the most important feature of racetrack tires. Well, the difference between these two is sidewall construction.

R888R has a stiffer compound. Though, it quickly reaches operating temperature and provides high grip levels for maximum cornering performance.

On the other hand, NT01 has a softer compound. It takes time to get ready for the fight. Well, when it’s heated up, it can perform as well as R888R.

Both are trustworthy options, I prefer R888R for higher HP’s and NT01 for lower HP’s.

Road Noise

Decreasing vehicle's weight is a common action to improve performance. In this case, Nitto NT01 is a safe side pick

In my point of view, road noise isn’t an evaluation criterion for racetrack tires. Yet, it is important for some customers.

NT01 is a less vocal tire due to the softer compound. It is the winner in this section.

Specs

Nitto NT01Toyo Proxes R888R
CategoryRaceTrack & AutocrossRaceTrack & Autocross
VehicleRacing VehiclesRacing Vehicles
Available Sizes (Rim)14”, 15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”13”, 14”, 15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”
Weight19 – 35 lbs17 – 36 lbs
Made InWhite, GA, USAWhite, GA, USA
Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)N/AN/A
Warranty (P-metric)N/AN/A
Warranty (LT Sizes)N/AN/A
PricesCheck price section to see best possible pricesCheck 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

Nitto NT01: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/nitto-nt01

Toyo R888R (second-generation): https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/toyo-tire-proxes-r888r

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

Nitto NT01: https://simpletire.com/brands/nitto-tires/nt01

Toyo R888: https://simpletire.com/brands/toyo-tires/proxes-r888r

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

Nitto NT01: Not available

Toyo R888: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/toyo-proxes-r888r

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

Racetrack tires have variable performance depending on the vehicle. There are some take-home points.

  • Vehicle weight
  • Horsepower
  • Size

R888R can overwhelm NT01 on all the items above. It can handle heavier vehicles. It can overcome high horsepower and it’s available in various size ranges.

I hope this article was helpful. Have a safe ride, guys!

BF Goodrich KM3 Mud-Terrain vs KO2 All-Terrain

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Trail feedback, and technical insights — from a former Bridgestone test engineer

The BFGoodrich KO2 is one of the most versatile all-terrain tires on the market, capable of confident performance on highways, trails, and snow. If you want to see how it compares to its successor, check out my BFGoodrich KO3 vs KO2 comparison.

The BFGoodrich KM3, on the other hand, is a maximum-traction mud-terrain tire designed for serious off-road use — think deep mud, rock crawling, and aired-down adventures. While both are off-road focused, their personalities and priorities are very different.

Below, I’ll break down how they perform on dry pavement, in wet conditions, through snow, and in extreme off-road situations so you can choose the tire that best matches your driving needs.

BF Goodrich KM3 is bigger, wider and taller tire
BF Goodrich KM3 (Mud-Terrain)BF Goodrich KO2 (All-Terrain)
Better forOff-road adventure,
lifted vehicles owners who wanna put aggressive appearance,
people who are looking for a mud-terrain tire with the best on-road manners		Snowy and squishy regions,
smooth and quiet ride,
towing & hauling,
working trucks
ProsInsane off-road traction,
tough sidewalls,
long-lasting rubber for a mud-terrain tire		Insane winter traction,
unique handling
mild & severe off-road traction
ConsNoisy and stiff ride, poor winter and ice performanceA bit noisy

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, BF Goodrich KO2 has better on-road manners compared to KM3. It is quiet. Moreover, it has longer tread life than KM3. It overperforms BF Goodrich KM3 in wet and winter conditions. On the other hand, BF Goodrich KM3 has exceptional on-road manners compared to other mud-terrains. Moreover, off-road performance is phenomenal.

Table of Contents

Durability

BF Goodrich tires have a good reputation due to their exceptional durability. In that case, durability consists of sidewall strength and puncture resistance.

BF Goodrich uses ‘Traction-Armor Sidewall Sculpture’ technology to increase sidewall durability. Well, it works. This tire is highly resisted against punctures. Obviously, that’s what you should expect from a mud-terrain tire. 

On the other hand, BF Goodrich KO2 has a 15% stronger sidewall than the previous version. 3-ply sidewalls guarantee sidewall protection. Facing punctures is very unlikely with it.

Either BF Goodrich KO2 or KM3 is a very reliable preference. You can confidently put them on tough surfaces

Tread Life

Compering tread life of these two is not logical and also not fair. These tires were built with different intentions. So, expecting tread lives are also quite different from each other.

While mud-terrain tires generally last 40,000 miles, this number scales up to at least 60,000 miles at all-terrain tires. So, I will take these numbers into consideration.

Let’s start with BF Goodrich KM3.

BF Goodrich KM3 has a softer compound than most off mud-terrain tires. Well, that might horribly decrease its tread life depending on your operation. If you don’t be tough with it, you can use it for around 40,000-50,000 miles.

On the other hand, BF Goodrich KO2 has an average tread life. Well, this tire is focused on performance. So, expecting an impressive tread life is kinda unrealistic. It won’t last less than 60,000 miles.

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:

https://tireterrain.com/how-to-make-tires-last-longer/

Road Noise

Due to its building intent, BFG KO2 offers better on-road manners

This section is easy peasy.

BF Goodrich KM3 as a mud-terrain tire has a heavy block tread pattern. That feature increases road noise significantly. Well, it is a common feature of mud-terrain tires. Yet, BF Goodrich KM3 is exceptional comparing other mud-terrains. It is not quiet but the noise is not that annoying.

BF Goodrich KO2 produces less road noise than KM3. Well, it is what we all expected. But compared to its competitors, there are better options to go with. Here is the one them.

BF Goodrich KO2 is the winner in this section.

Comfort

These two are decent due to comfort. 

BF Goodrich KO2 has an aggressive design for an all-terrain. Well, it is built to perform on severe surfaces. Not highways. So, the comfort level is not as good as highway-focused all-terrain tires. Yet, it won’t disappoint you.

On the other hand, BF Goodrich KM3 has opposite features. It has not that aggressive tread design for a mud-terrain tire. Moreover, its compound is not hard as other mud-terrain tires. Well, comparing the mud-terrains, it is exceptional. 

In short, BF Goodrich KO2 is a smoother tire. Yet, if you need a mud-terrain tire that provides a smooth ride, BF Goodrich KM3 is your tire.

Dry Performance

I evaluate dry performance under 2 different dimensions. Dry traction and steering response. Let’s dig into them.

Dry Traction

Mud-terrain and all-terrain tires are built for maximum traction. If you buy a premium brand like BF Goodrich, it’s improbable to face poor dry traction.

Both have trustworthy traction on dry ground. You can go either way.

Steering Response

The steering response mainly decreases when the tire gets bigger. The reason behind it is tire weight. When the tire gets heavier, you need more force to give it a direction.

BF Goodrich KM3 is a heavier tire. Hence, steering response is not as quick as BF Goodrich KO2. Yet, compared to other mud-terrains, it is legendary.

BF Goodrich KO2 has a slightly better steering response. Yet, if you want an aggressive tread design, you can confidently go with BF Goodrich KM3.

Wet Performance

Wet ground is where most mud-terrain tires are failed. There are two reasons for this. The first stiff compound can’t produce enough grip. Second, wide gaps between lugs decrease contact patches and cause hydroplaning. 

I use BF Goodrich KM3 on wet ground. Well, it is way ahead of my expectations. They are not perfect but marginal. I never felt unsafe.

On the other hand, BF Goodrich KO2 is decent on wet surfaces. This tire has stiffer compounds than most all-terrain tires. So, it might lose its grip from time to time. 

In summary, BF Goodrich KO2 is a better tire on wet. Yet, BF Goodrich KM3 has exceptional wet performance for a mud-terrain tire.

Here are my favorite wet ground tires for the above 3/4 ton pickups and SUVs. This list is also dedicated to the best diesel truck tires –> https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/

Winter Performance

As expected, BF Goodrich KM3 doesn’t have severe snow labeling. On the other hand, BF Goodrich KO2 is rated for severe winter conditions.

BF Goodrich KO2 can handle light and deep snow easily. While aggressive sidewalls ensure deep snow traction, the well-siped tread can handle light snow grip easy as apple pie. About ice, it is better than BF Goodrich KM3. Yet, there are better options.

On the flipside, deep snow traction is BF Goodrich KM3’s expertise. Deep grooves can overcome the packed snow and provide tons of traction. Light snow is not where it shines. Yet, it has quite an impressive performance compared to the other mud-terrains. Ice… Don’t use mud-terrain tires on ice. That one also has very satisfying manners on ice.

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.

Off-Road Performance

Kinda in love with BFG KM3's appearance

Off-road performance is where these two come to the boil. They are head to head on almost every surface. Let’s classify them due to the surface.

Dirt and Gravel

This section will fulfill your need if you aren’t an overlander.

First of all, both are very trustworthy options. These tires are built to produce traction. Dirt and gravel are like shelling peas to them.

About dirt, nothing much to discuss. They are great! In that case, I would like to give some information about KM3. This tire has a phenomenal self-cleaning ability. Moreover, notched shoulder design has a significant effect on dirt grip.

About gravel, these two have powerful sidewalls. So, a puncture isn’t an issue. Moreover, BF Goodrich KO2 has a specific compound that prevents cut and chipping issues. On the other hand, BF Goodrich KM3 is performing flawlessly on gravel. Well, it can’t resist cutting and chipping as well as BF Goodrich KO2.

Mud Performance

Most all-terrains fail on mud. Yet, BF Goodrich KO2 is not one of them. It has really aggressive design that can handle muddy surfaces easily. 

On the other hand, BF Goodrich KM3 is a mud-terrain tire. Of course, it overcomes KO2 on mud. But, let me tell you something. These tires are unbeatable on mud. Spinning is not an issue. You have to worry about how to wheel these tires in the mud. They are sticky as hell!!!

Rock Performance

Rock traction is not a problem for mud-terrain tires. Well, KM3 performs yummy on the rock.

In that case, BF Goodrich KO2 is the exceptional one. In my point of view, it is the best all-terrain tire for rock driving. Its ability to crawl under air-down conditions is unique.

Both options are trustworthy.

Specs

BF Goodrich KO2BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain KM3
CategoryAll-Terrain TireMud-Terrain Tire
VehicleLight Truck, SUVLight Truck, SUV
Available Sizes (Rim)15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’, 22’’15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’, 22’’
Weight34-78 lbs37 – 89 lbs
Made InOpelika, AL, USAOpelika, AL, USA
Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)YesNo (Only M+S)
Warranty (P-metric)50,000 MilesN/A
Warranty (LT Sizes)50,000 MilesN/A
PricesCheck price section to see best possible pricesCheck price section to see best possible prices

🚨 Breaking News Alert! 🚨

Hold onto your seats because I’m thrilled to introduce the all-new BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 – the next evolution of the fan-favorite KO2! And the excitement doesn’t stop there – this beast is now available in two additional OEM sizes: LT285/70R17 and LT275/65R20. Get ready for the ultimate off-road experience with the KO3!

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,

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

BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/bfgoodrich-mud-terrain-t-a-km3

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

BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/bfgoodrich-mud-terrain-t-a-km3

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

BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3: https://simpletire.com/brands/bfgoodrich-tires/mud-terrain-t-a-km3

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

BF Goodrich KO2 and BF Goodrich KM3 are reliable options for off-road lovers. The right conditions to use them are detailly explained in the above sections.

BF Goodrich KM3 (Mud-Terrain)BF Goodrich KO2 (All-Terrain)
Better forOff-road adventure,
lifted vehicles owners who wanna put aggressive appearance,
people who are looking for a mud-terrain tire with the best on-road manners		Snowy and squishy regions,
smooth and quiet ride,
towing & hauling,
working trucks
ProsInsane off-road traction,
tough sidewalls,
long-lasting rubber for a mud-terrain tire		Insane winter traction,
unique handling
mild & severe off-road traction
ConsNoisy and stiff ride, poor winter and ice performanceA bit noisy

I hope this article was helpful for all of you fellows. If you have any further questions, please contact me in below comment section. Have a safe ride!

Cooper Discoverer AT3 vs Adventurer AT

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Adventurer and Discoverer are two different families in Cooper’s line-up. Both were released as on-road all-terrain tires. While Adventurer stays as a cheaper and lower quality one, Discoverer is the jammy one. Well, it is a bit more expensive. In this article, I will compare Cooper Adventurer AT and Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S.

Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S has a wide product range

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, both tires have a narrow application range that only includes mild applications. Luckily, both are great on mild surfaces. Both are reliable and quiet on the highway. Yet, Adventurer AT (discontinued) is not durable at all. I recommend Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S the whole day long!

Note: Cooper Discoverer AT3 is discontinued. So, I didn’t put it into this article. Yet, it has superior off-road and winter performance than Discoverer AT3 4S. Lucky you, some sizes are still available on SimpleTire. Check if your size is still there!

Table of Contents

Durability

Alright, most of you will decide what to pick after reading this section. But I would recommend you to go on if winter performance is your priority.

Adventurer AT has some major issues due to durability. This tire is a kinda flip coin. In my point of view, that’s a big problem. It isn’t designed to perform on severe applications. I see that. But if you release an all-terrain tire, it should bear to gravel at least. Most customers complain about cupping in 6 months. Moreover, tire performance is significantly decreasing over time.  I understand the price difference is big. Yet, 6 months of using won’t afford even this price.

On the other hand, Discoverer AT3 is a reliable option. It is wearing evenly and sidewall durability is way much ahead of its competitor. It’s worth reminding, if you need a tire for towing or heavy-duty applications, you should consider Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT or Cooper Discoverer XLT for harsher ones.

Tread Life

I made most of my comments on the durability section. This section is a summary.

Cooper Adventurer AT’s tread life is not bad if you only use it on highways. Yet, if you are riding off-road, it can barely make 30,000 miles. Rubbish!

On the other hand, Cooper Discoverer AT 4S’s tread life is aligned with its warranty. Depending on your application, you can get 60,000-100,000 miles with it easily.

Warranty

Cooper Adventurer AT has 60,000 miles tread wear warranty.

Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S has 65,000 miles tread wear warranty.

Road Noise

Customer comment regarding stone holding of Adventurer AT

Both tires perform very well due to noise reduction. Well, there is a take-home point in this section. Let’s continue below!

These tires have a less aggressive tread design compared to other all-terrains. So, both are very quiet on the road. Yet, Adventurer AT has a rock-holding problem. When it can throw the rock out, the tread starts to produce road noise.

The above comment explains everything clearly.

Comfort

Both are smooth tires. They can cross over the bumps smoothly. The reason behind this is soft compounds. Well, Adventurer AT’s is a bit softer than it should be… 

Dry Performance

Dry performance is where these two are shining. Soft compounds and well-placed sipes ensure you don’t have any traction problems on dry surfaces. Yet, Discoverer AT3 with a bit more siping superior this section.

Due to symmetrical and soft tread designs, both tires have great steering response and handling. These tires are lightweight compared to their competitors. Hence, losing handling is unlikely.

Wet Performance

Wet grip is not an issue for these two. They are built to perform perfectly. Yet, hydroplaning resistance is where these two are separated.

Hydroplaning resistance is all about the footprint. Adventurer AT has more gaps on the tread. Therefore, its footprint is less intense than Discoverer AT3. That feature causes a hydroplaning issue when it’s combined with a soft compound.

Cooper Discoverer AT3 is a way much better tire on wet ground.

Winter Performance

This section is kinda easy to compare. Cooper Discoverer AT3 has a 3-peak mountain snowflake labeling. It means it is severe snow-rated. You can confidently use it in harsh winter conditions. Yet, ice performance is not good enough for me. There are better tires on ice.

On the other hand, Cooper Adventurer AT is not winter rated. Yet, deep grooves and wide void areas ensure light snow 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.

Off-Road Performance

Before starting, I’d like to emphasize one point. These tires are not going to work on severe surfaces. With severe surfaces, I mean rock and mud especially. So, I don’t put these two into consideration.

Gravel and Dirt Performance

If you are stuck between these two this section is the only one you need.

Let’s start with dirt.

Cooper is using Adaptive-Traction Technology for Discoverer AT3. Moreover, they combine it with a silica-based compound which is a perfect selection for dirt. Thus, these features make this tire perfect on dirt.

On the other hand, Cooper Adventurer AT is also working very well on dirt. It has perfect center section design that clean itself perfectly.

 

Cooper Adventurer AT Center Section

Let’s continue with gravel.

Cooper Discoverer AT3 rip Adventurer AT apart on gravel. Adventurer AT doesn’t have a traction problem. Yet, it has poor durability. So, bubbles are inevitable.

Sand Performance

I’m going to keep this part very very short. Let’s start with a tip. What works the best on sand is less aggressive tires. So, Cooper Discoverer AT3 is our winner again and again.

Specs

Cooper Discoverer AT3Cooper Adventurer AT
CategoryAll-Terrain TireMud-Terrain Tire
VehicleLight Truck, SUVLight Truck, SUV
Available Sizes (Rim)15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’
Weight30 – 45 lbs30 – 71 lbs
Made InU.SU.S
Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)No (only M+S)No (only M+S)
Warranty (P-metric)65,000 Miles60,000 Miles
Warranty (LT Sizes)65,000 Miles60,000 Miles
PricesCheck price section to see best possible pricesCheck 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,

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

Cooper Line-Up: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/brand.jsp?brand=cooper

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

Cooper Line-Up: https://simpletire.com/brands/cooper-tires

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

Cooper Line-Up: https://www.discounttire.com/tires/brands/cooper

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

That was the easiest comparison I’ve ever made. Cooper Discoverer AT3 is the true and the only winner in all sections. If I were you, I would not waste my money with Adventurer AT.

I hope the article was helpful. I don’t think you will have but if you have any further questions, please leave them below 🙂

Have a safe ride!

BFGoodrich KO2 vs Nitto Ridge Grappler — Off-Road Performance Showdown 2025

Updated: by 3 Comments

BF Goodrich KO2's durability is insane

Real test data, off-road insights, and daily-driving impact — from a former Bridgestone engineer.

The BFGoodrich KO2 and Nitto Ridge Grappler represent two different branches of the all-terrain market. The KO2 is a classic Off-Road A/T tire, trusted on Wranglers, Tacomas, and ½-ton pickups for its bulletproof sidewalls, long tread life, and 3PMSF-rated winter traction — though it rides firmer and louder on pavement. If you’re curious about how it compares to its newer sibling, see our BFGoodrich KO3 vs KO2 guide.

The Ridge Grappler, on the other hand, sits in the Rugged-Terrain category — a hybrid between A/T and mud-terrain. Popular on Silverados, Rams, and Jeeps, it offers a blockier tread for stronger loose-surface bite, a more aggressive look, and surprising on-road manners for its class, though comfort and efficiency take a hit compared to KO2.

That’s the trade-off most buyers face — and in the sections ahead, we’ll break down how they compare across dry, wet, snow, and off-road testing. You can also line them up in our All-Terrain Tire Decision Tool for quick recommendations tailored by SUV, CUV, or truck class.

⚡ Quick Verdict – Who Wins What?

Nitto Ridge Grappler

Nitto Ridge Grappler tire
Tested Rating: 8.2/10

BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2

BFGoodrich KO2 tire
Tested Rating: 8.3/10

The Nitto Ridge Grappler bites harder on dry pavement (~130 ft, 0.75 g) and digs deeper off-road (9.0 dirt / 9.3 mud / 9.2 rock), but it runs noisier and feels less reliable in bad weather. The BFGoodrich KO2 is steadier under load, stops shorter in the rain (195 ft, 0.43 vs Ridge’s 203 ft, 0.47), and comes out ahead in snow (76-ft stop, 46-ft launch) and ice (51 ft vs 55.7 ft). On the highway, the KO2 rides smoother (~7.0 comfort vs Ridge’s ~6.8) and ages more evenly, while the Ridge demands more rotation to stay quiet. In short: KO2 is the safer, quieter long-haul tire; Ridge is the aggressive off-road performer with extra bite and style.

Let’s clear up a couple of common questions before starting

I often get asked about these — and Tire Rack has some great quick reads that explain them better than any post could:

Raw Test Data

Tire Test Data

Pick categories to show metrics, then open ☰ to pick tires. Optional chart is hidden by default.

Parentheses show the rank among the currently displayed tires (1 = best for that metric).
Note: Lower is better for Stopping & Acceleration; higher is better for g-force, comfort, traction & off-road ratings. Parentheses show the rank among the currently displayed tires (1 = best for that metric).
Sources worth checking
Tire Rack AT Tire Test Tire Rack On-Road A/T Ratings Tire Rack Off-Road A/T Ratings SimpleTire Reviews Amazon SUV/LT Tires

🔬 Construction & Tech Breakdown

KO2: Built Like a Tank

  • Dual steel belts + nylon wrap

  • CoreGard™ Sidewall Armor

  • 3PMSF Certified

  • Primarily LT sizes with E-load range

🧠 Why It Matters: KO2 is engineered for strength over comfort. That means it’s heavier and stiffer, but it won’t flinch when aired-down or bouncing off granite.

Ridge Grappler: Rugged-Hybrid DNA

  • Dynamic hybrid tread pattern for off-road bite and highway control

  • Staggered shoulder lugs and variable pitch blocks

  • Available in P-metric and LT with load ranges up to F

🧠 Why It Matters: Ridge Grappler delivers the rugged tread voids of an MT tire with a tread block layout that won’t drone on the highway.

Dry Performance — KO2 holds smoother grip, Ridge more bite in rugged use

Nitto Ridge Grappler's appearance is dopeeee!

KO2 stops in 142.0 ft with 0.71 g cornering, while Ridge Grappler is at 130.0 ft with 0.75 g. That means Ridge tends to bite quicker in aggressive driving, but KO2 holds steadier during long straight-line braking and highway braking.

On Reddit and F-150 forums, KO2 owners regularly say that even as they age, the KO2s retain grip and feel planted. Ridge owners praise their tires for sharper turn-in and more aggressive pavement behavior, especially when coming off trails.

From an engineering standpoint, Ridge’s more aggressive tread pattern and block structure give better lateral grip under rugged inputs. KO2’s build is more conservative — slightly softer blocks, more void fill between, which helps with ride stability and reduces harshness in everyday braking.

For SUVs & crossovers, Ridge gives more performance flavor, KO2 gives more confidence in comfort. For ½-tons, KO2 offers smoother feel on pavement, Ridge gives more feedback when pushed. For ¾-ton & 1-ton HD trucks, KO2’s steadier footprint under load helps with braking stability, while Ridge will be more responsive but harsher.

👉 Verdict: Ridge Grappler wins dry bite and responsiveness; KO2 wins smooth confidence under load.

Wet Performance — KO2 stops shorter, Ridge grapples with wet bite

In wet tests, KO2 does 195.0 ft with 0.43 wet traction, while Ridge Grappler registers 203.0 ft with 0.47. Both are a bit slow compared to wet-optimized designs, but KO2 tends to engage more consistently over wet pavement unless Ridge is aggressively driven.

Forum feedback: KO2 users often comment, “good in the rain, still safe,” while Ridge users frequently note needing more braking space when wet — especially on inclines or with heavy loads. On r/f150 people say Ridge is “more capable in off-dirt in wet” but less forgiving during sudden wet stops.

Technically, Ridge’s larger voids help move water but reduce contact patch initially; KO2’s more uniform tread blocks maintain more wet adhesion under braking. Under load, KO2’s contact pressure helps in wet braking; Ridge may flex and lose bite under heavy load.

On SUVs & ½-tons, KO2 gives a bit more confidence in wet braking. For ½-tons towing or loaded, KO2 still might feel safer in worst-case stops. For ¾-ton & 1-ton HD trucks, the difference in wet feel is magnified under load — Ridge’s flexibility works against it in emergency braking, whereas KO2 tends to resist squirm.

👉 Verdict: KO2 is the safer pick in wet conditions for everyday use; Ridge gives traction gains in trails but demands margin.

Note from the Expert: When it comes to rain, I always emphasize two things: compound grip and water evacuation. You can see the full details in my analysis, but if you take just one thing away, remember that an AT tire’s stiff nature makes achieving top-tier wet performance a constant battle. This is why the question, Are All-Terrain Tires Good in Rain?, requires a nuanced answer that balances tread design against rubber stiffness.

Winter & Snow — KO2 shines with 3PMSF traction, Ridge struggles more

In snow & winter stopping, KO2 posts a 76.0 ft stop and 46.0 ft snow acceleration, whereas Ridge stops in 78.0 ft and launches 47.7 ft. KO2’s edge in snow is slight but meaningful for drivers who face real winter weather.

Community voices: On Jeep/Truck forums many KO2 owners note they trust the tire in snow and mixed winter, applauding its consistency. Ridge owners often say they like the snow look and feel but admit Ridge isn’t as sure-footed in heavy snow or ice.

Engineer insight: KO2 is 3-PMSF rated, its tread & compound stay more pliable in cold, offering more mechanical interlock with snow. Ridge’s compound is tougher, and while its blocks dig better in some terrain, cold conditions reduce its bite.

For SUVs & ½-tons, KO2 gives more predictable snow behavior. For ½-tons hauling in winter, KO2’s reliability matters. For ¾-ton & 1-ton trucks, snow stops under load are where KO2 shines; Ridge may feel less secure.

👉 Verdict: KO2 is superior in snow situations; Ridge is less reliable in serious winter conditions.

Note from the Expert: Our discussions often boil down to the core tradeoff. On one hand, you must understand why all-terrain tires are truly effective in deep snow, but not on ice. On the other hand, you face the 3PMSF Paradox—the hidden cost of that badge. The short answer is: The 3PMSF badge certifies traction, but it costs you durability. Dive into our full analysis on the critical 3PMSF rating for severe winter and off-road service, and its hidden costs, before you risk your rig on the trail.

Ice — KO2 wins the margin, Ridge more abrupt slips

On glare ice KO2 stops in 51.0 ft, Ridge in 55.7 ft according to the dataset. That extra few feet can matter, especially in surprise icy patches.

Forum threads: KO2 folks say they get better control in ice, less sliding. Ridge users mention they slide sooner and need more careful throttle control.

From technical standpoint, KO2’s compound maintains bit more flexibility at low temps; Ridge’s aggressive tread and heavier block design increase risk of abrupt loss of grip.

For SUVs & ½-tons, KO2 is safer on ice. For ½-tons towing, KO2 again wins for stability. HD trucks will appreciate KO2’s more controlled behavior under ice, while Ridge can get loose under load.

👉 Verdict: KO2 is the safer choice on icy roads; Ridge is more style/off-road oriented but riskier here.

Off-Road — Ridge dominates mud & rock, KO2 more balanced under mixed terrain

Ridge scores 9.0 dirt / 8.5 sand / 9.3 mud / 9.2 rock, while KO2 has 9.3 dirt / 9.0 sand / 9.3 mud / 9.5 rock from your dataset. KO2 matches or beats Ridge in several off-road areas, though Ridge wins visible aggression and block design in technical conditions.

Owners often praise Ridge for its rocky terrain bite and mud climbing. KO2 users note KO2 handles everything decent but doesn’t give the dramatic block aggression Ridge does.

Engineer side: Ridge’s aggressive sidewall lugs, large voids, and block shape give more bite and traction when trail gets rough; KO2 still holds excellent capability but trades off some extreme grip for more uniform behavior and less fatigue.

For SUVs & ½-tons, Ridge provides off-road thrill. KO2 offers more balance for drivers doing both road and trail. For ¾-ton & 1-ton HD trucks, KO2’s ability to maintain grip while resisting deformation under load gives it advantage in long off-road runs.

👉 Verdict: Ridge excels in aggressive trail use; KO2 is more dependable for mixed terrain and heavy duty work.

Note from the Expert: Every successful day on the trail is about preparation and physics, because tire longevity is earned, not given. Before you even start, you must master the critical link between tire pressure and load range for every rig to maximize your contact patch. Once moving, remember your ultimate off-road armor is your sidewall protection against the inevitable pinch flat. And finally, your traction on the obstacle is dictated by choosing the right aggressive vs hybrid tread pattern for your terrain. Master those three steps, and your rig will be ready for anything.

Comfort & Noise — KO2 calms cabin; Ridge louder but showy

I love Ridge Grappler and Rubicon cooperation!

Comfort ratings: KO2 ~7.0, Ridge ~6.8. On highway, KO2s are quieter, smoother. Ridge starts strong, but road roar and vibrations become noticeable, especially as tread wears.

Forum input: On Bronco6G, one user said, “KO2 has a better pavement ride feel and control.” Ridge fans admire the look & off-road performance but admit trade-offs in noise. Bronco6G Forum

Engineer explanation: KO2 uses smaller tread blocks, less aggressive shoulder lugging, softer block transitions which reduce noise. Ridge’s large voids and aggressive shoulders contribute to more sound, especially at speed and under load.

For SUVs & ½-tons, KO2 will feel more civilized. For ½-tons towing/heavy load, KO2 reduces fatigue. In ¾-ton & 1-ton rigs, noise is more pronounced with Ridge Grappler; KO2 remains easier to live with.

Note from the Expert: For years, choosing all-terrain meant accepting noise—a true compromise for off-road grip. That’s why the question, Are All-Terrain Tires Louder than Highway Tires?, used to have a simple “yes” answer. Now, with the rise of on-road models, the core issue has shifted from noise to overall refinement. To fully understand which side of the comfort spectrum you’re buying into, you need to determine Are All-Terrain Tires Good for Daily Driving?—a question that depends entirely on the tire’s construction, not just the name.

Tread Life & Longevity — KO2 has proven life, Ridge dependent on use

After 63,000 KM (40,000 miles), KO2 still have most of its tread. You can see the minor chipping. Yet, it's totally fine at this wear level

KO2 has long track record for mileage; Ridge Grappler is built tough but folks report faster wear in certain conditions (lots of road miles, abrasive off-road).

On r/f150 a user said KO2 “got louder as they wore down,” Ridge users say they “wear down but chunks in harsh terrain show sooner.” Reddit

Technically, KO2’s block geometry and compound reduce chunking and resist shoulder damage; Ridge gives more aggressive block edges which bite but take more abuse.

For SUVs & ½-tons, KO2 likely lasts longer on road/trail mixes. For ¾-ton & 1-ton, KO2’s even wear under load gives more consistent performance; Ridge will need more rotation, more maintenance to stay balanced.

Where They Fit Best

If you want rugged trail flair, mud and rocky climbs, and don’t mind more road noise and trade-offs, Nitto Ridge Grappler is your passion tire. If you need long highway miles, good snow/ice reliability, lower noise, and less fuss in mixed use, BFGoodrich KO2 is the more dependable all-around choice.

  • For SUVs & Crossovers: KO2 for daily comfort and all-season steadiness; Ridge for style + weekend trail punch.

  • For ½-ton trucks: KO2 favors smoother highway runs and easier living; Ridge delivers aggression and feedback when pushed.

  • For ¾-ton & 1-ton HD duty: KO2 wins on predictable aging, quieter ride under load; Ridge shows off-road strength but with more compromise.

👉 Bottom line: KO2 is the safer, more balanced tire for heavy duty, long trips, snow, road mileage. Ridge is strong for off-road dramatics, rough terrain, and those who prioritize aggression.

Tire Size Selection: The Basics You Can’t Skip

Even the best tread design can’t rescue a tire that’s built too weak. Back when I was testing tires at Bridgestone, I saw all-terrain models that should’ve performed but fell short — simply because the basics (size, load strength, and speed rating) weren’t matched to the vehicle.

P-Metric vs. LT (Light Truck) Tires

The first step is knowing whether you need LT or passenger tires. LT (Light Truck) tires are built with extra reinforcement and stiff sidewalls, designed for towing, hauling, or off-road use. Passenger (P-metric) tires are lighter, smoother, and tuned for daily comfort and fuel efficiency — but they’ll flex more under load.

Understanding Tire Load Range: XL vs. E-Load

Then comes the tire load index and load range — essentially your tire’s strength rating. Here’s where things split between passenger XL and LT E:

  • XL (Extra Load) is a passenger tire with reinforced sidewalls. It can handle a bit more pressure (~41 PSI) than a standard SL tire and is perfect for SUVs, crossovers, or light trucks that carry extra gear, passengers, or small trailers. XL tires ride softer and quieter than LT options, making them ideal for daily use.

  • E Load Range is an LT tire class built with a much thicker casing. E-rated tires can handle far more pressure (up to ~80 PSI) and heavier loads, which makes them essential for ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks towing trailers or hauling close to max capacity. The trade-off is weight, stiffer ride, more road noise, and a small drop in fuel efficiency.

Put simply: XL is for “extra luggage and family,” while E is for “truck bed full of bricks or a car trailer.”

Why the Tire Speed Rating Matters for Safety

Finally, don’t overlook the tire speed rating. It’s not just about top speed — it measures how well a tire handles heat and stress at highway pace. Lower ratings (like S) tend to ride softer and last longer, while higher ratings (H, T) feel more stable and responsive under sharp maneuvers. Heat build-up is the silent killer of tires, and speed rating is your safeguard.

Bottom line: Match your tire’s construction (LT vs P-metric), load range (XL vs E), and speed rating to your vehicle’s demands. Get those right, and everything else — off-road grip, winter traction, comfort — will finally perform the way it was designed to.

🏁 Final Verdict: Which One Would I Actually Buy?

If you’re chasing rugged styling and weekend trail power, the Nitto Ridge Grappler delivers — it bites harder off-road, feels sportier on pavement, and looks the part. But if you want a tire that can handle daily commutes, towing, and winter weather with fewer compromises, the BFGoodrich KO2 is still the benchmark: predictable in snow and ice, quieter on the highway, and longer-lasting under load. Ridge = aggression and trail drama. KO2 = confidence and durability.

Nitto Ridge Grappler Related Articles

BF Goodrich KO2 Related Articles

Frequently Asked Questions: KO2 vs Ridge Grappler

  • Which tire has better dry grip?
    Ridge Grappler. It stops shorter (~130 ft vs KO2’s ~142 ft) and feels sportier in cornering. KO2 is steadier for highway and towing.

  • Which is safer in the rain?
    KO2. It stops around 195 ft (0.43), compared to Ridge at ~203 ft (0.47). KO2 feels more consistent in wet braking, especially under load.

  • How do they compare in snow and ice?
    KO2 wins both. Snow stop ~76 ft vs Ridge’s ~78 ft, and ice ~51 ft vs 55.7 ft. KO2 is 3PMSF rated, making it more reliable for winter driving.

  • Which is better off-road?
    Ridge Grappler. With 9.0 dirt, 9.3 mud, 9.2 rock, it excels in aggressive terrain. KO2 is strong but trades some bite for balance and load stability.

  • Which rides quieter and smoother?
    KO2. It scores ~7.0 comfort and keeps noise lower. Ridge is around ~6.8 and develops more hum as it wears.

  • Which lasts longer?
    Both average 45–50k miles, but KO2 wears more evenly and resists chunking better. Ridge can cup and get louder late in life.

  • Which is better for heavy-duty trucks?
    KO2. It feels steadier under load and holds line straighter when towing, while Ridge tends to wander more with heavy trailers.