BF Goodrich KO3 Has a SECRET Nobody Caught

[@OutdoorAuto]

I get my tires from Tire Rack (also not sponsored)... Just because, somehow they get them to me in 1-2 Days with free shipping - geni.us/BFGKO3

[@NYCSanman]

Are they the same size. Mickey Thomson Baja boss comes in different versions depending upon a p-metric vs LT sizes. When I bought my 285/70r17 load range C, they don’t have the rim protection and have a less aggressive side wall. Duratracs open were also different from aftermarket. Oem no 3peak mountain rating or holes for studs. But I had both on the set I bought from Mavis.

[@GrantSR]

@@OutdoorAuto But, even the tires in that link have the old tread design. Do they just do this to try and force you into buying from the stores to get the design you really want?

[@douglasmorrow8004]

My favorite is still the original BFG. The oem version and the replacement version remind me of the tires on my vfr motorcycle. I bought it new and when it was due for a new set the we're not the same and didn't last. I did my research and it turns out there were like 20 versions. The stock tires were Bridgestone bto20BB. The standard replacement were A's. One tire, 20 flavors. I ended up getting fjr1300 tires that were a stiffer carcass but same compound. Which worked much better for a bike with passenger and bags. Most stock OEM tires just suck. It's a lot of trickery. Oems don't want the tires to last. They want to sell more tires. Just noticing my tires were marked BB when my buddies tires were marked FF made me do a lot of research. Good video!.

[@carlt8188]

How long was the ko2 on the market? Doesn't seem very long.

[@traumavfl6629]

When buying KO3, how do you know if you're getting the revised version or not?

[@uoobwatcher]

I retired from the company, after 43 years, that makes that tire line. You were 99.99% correct on everything you said. Kudos.

[@Verb130]

I keep saying this in the comments, and this is why I keep watching you. You are not afraid to ask the hard questions. To intelligently break something down, to hopefully build it back up. You're not afraid to go negative. Your content is amazing.

[@OutdoorAuto]

I really appreciate all you that have been watching my stuff for a while and keep coming back... the feedback and encouragement is huge...

[@frankbrennan8293]

I worked in a BFG plant for 28 years and can tell you there is way more to tire engineering, materials, components, building and curing than the general public can comprehend. Long story short, better tires cost more money. I could go on and on about this but afraid it would be long and boring. I do have a big gripe with tire installers. They are not well educated on mounting tires which leads to balancing problems. Tires are individually marked at the factory to indicate light/heavy portion of tire to indicate position on rim which is largely ignored. Heck, I even saw a Mercedes GT2 with big buck directional Michelins mounted backwards on the rims.

[@bobwilson758]

O dear ---

[@LSandL31]

🤦‍♂️🙄

[@swordedaffair]

Could you explain "light/heavy" and how that relates to "position on rim?"

[@mrmotofy]

How do you know if there's no painted dots?

[@MrMrsregor]

@@swordedaffair google red/ yellow tire dots. the red dot and yellow dot mean two different things but both are important for the installer to put them on the correct side of the wheel. there are sometimes a red dot, sometime a yellow dot, sometimes both, sometimes none. but unfortunately almost none of the underpaid, uneducated tires guys know anything about any of this...

[@DirtE30]

A tire nerd after my own heart… you sir are the best game going. I have to give you major props for not taking that design offer… takes a real man to know their limits and to recognize that monetary gain isn’t the only thing at stake. Good on you sir!

[@tyrereviews]

Always nice to see someone else geeking out about tires. In this case, it's important to remember OE tires and RT (aftermarket) versions of the tires often share only a name. Perhaps less so in offroad, but OE programs for premium vehicles often make extensive modifications to the tires to meet the needs of the vehicle manufacturer. I don't have any inside knowledge of this OE program, but it's likely dry performance, noise and rolling resistance dictated a slightly different pattern layout. This means BFG have't "improved" the tire between OE and RT, more they've designed the RT product to be a more rounded tire overall. If you didn't measure the tread depth you should, the OE will likely have less.

[@weedshoes5089]

The channel I thought of when he claimed to be doing the most in depth tire reviews.

[@leangrypoulet7523]

Good to see a competitor KZbin channel being so interested, complimentary and informative. Now can you please do a full, all season review of the KO3 RT please? 👍

[@MatthewC137]

OE are always cheaper/inferior. Same goes for ATV tires.

[@rp3t3rsn]

Love your honesty and transparency Nat. Thank you. Hopefully, next episode. “New” KO3 vs “New” Wildpeak’s.

[@sponsurd]

There’s a great video out of that already. Would like to see one compared.

[@Slking507]

This one is easy. Falken tires are garbage. Case closed.

[@mosthated8190]

@@Slking507I’ve had nothing but great experience with Falken Wildpeaks AT3 especially on wet and snowy roads

[@heismyrefuge1027]

Falken is heeaavvy

[@unwrangler11]

I had no idea the KO-3’s were being improved like this! Thanks for enlightening me. I have KO-2’s now and will go to KO-3’s next retire.

[@fscottgray9784]

You do the most research about tires of anyone on you tube. I worked in tires for 20 years and went to several factory school and tire plants but technology moves forward. Tire companies invest heavy in R and D.

[@kevinstarski1598]

But they don't talk about it. Be proud of how much rd went into it and shout it from the rooftops...not in a salesy, gimicky way, but just like this guy here...factual

[@jefferylorance7988]

I have being using BFG’s for over 30+ years..on small 4x4 to full size , now on a midsize 4x4 P/U.. BFG’s have never let me down…Driving on Hawaii roads, sand beaches, and the volcano lava roads! Can’t wait to put on the KO3s…

[@chadbinette3201]

I've had ko2s on 3 different trucks. I don't go off roading but live in the northeast, Maine and deal with snow, ice, dirt roads as in rough logging roads, job sites that are torn up from heavy equipment and paved roads that are better off being dirt haha. And I have zero complaints. Matter of fact I had them in my work truck first and snowmobiling one weekend my wife's Silverado got stuck and I was soo.pissed at not being able to get out even with a buddy pulling on it when we got back I had the ko2s put on that truck the next week. They wear very well, and have very good traction even after worn down. Can't count how many times I've pulled people out plowing or in the job site . Driving home from work in the snow I rarely need 4 wheel drive they're that good in my opinion.

[@costidisa]

On my second set of KO2s so have obviously been happy. Have done decent amount of snow, ice, and dirt/rock offroading, but not really mud. Got 70k miles out of the first set. I would buy them again, but I am happy to have an even better option from them.

[@Bennyboy46a]

right? ive had probably 7 sets and thy were my favorite tire on my work/plow trucks.

[@Longnlow.1991]

I have had 2 sets of the ko2s best tire I have ever bought.

[@nmgreg11]

As a retired Mechanical Engineer, this was awesome! Subscribed.

[@ragu4545]

I think the differences are probably due to the OE tire needing to hit certain specs for noise, fuel efficiency, price, and longevity. There are other OE tires that are different from the non-oe version.

[@ZboeC5]

This is it exactly, the OEM pays to have their tires "tuned" to their needs and they have to worry about things that most people don't when they go to replace them down the road.

[@Lukewilla]

This. My guess is that the “new” KO3 is actually the base tire that was developed first. The OE version was modified for Fords needs. This is pretty typical…. The Wildpeaks on Toyotas are different from the ones sold at tire shops. The Cup2s on a civic type r is different from the ones on a 911 and both are different from the ones ones sold ata tire store.

[@55YAMAHARACER55]

Nailed it, that's also where you can see TPC spec on OE tires. Built to the OEs criteria

[@workingcountry1776]

Yup. Most of tires will perform awful and ware out in a year or two max other than some on American luxury cars like Town Car.

[@jmackinjersey1]

All vehicle manufacturers do this with more than tires, shocks/suspension, brakes, etc.

[@leftcoastoverland8750]

I’ve always had BFG tires on all my rigs in the last 20 years. KO’s KO2’s KM2’s KM3’s. Never once have I had a puncture, blowout, or even a slow leak. When I get a vehicle that comes with non BGF tires: I’ve always had problems. Bulges in sidewalls, punctures, blowouts, and crazy fast tire wear. I’ll continue to gladly hand BFG my money, and rely on their product until proven otherwise. Your analysis of the 2nd iteration of the KO3’s improvements reinforces that for me.

[@LexusGX460-OFF-ROAD]

we currently have about 10 punctures/plugs on our KO2s... with that said, no tire is puncture-proof and the KO2 is a truly tough tire ❤

[@leftcoastoverland8750]

@@LexusGX460-OFF-ROAD must be some legit tough tracks!

[@shanesalmo1163]

Bollocks

[@ZboeC5]

BFG once made tires so bad they discontinued them outright after just a few years. So back in the early '00s BFG decided to get into the drag radial game and the tires were absolute trash. I had a set and no matter what they didn't make traction at the dragstrip or anywhere else for that matter, after installing a set of M/T radials my traction problems were solved. Just a few short years later and BFG pulled them from the market never to be seen again. I knew they were bad but word started getting around and I guess BFG decided it was better to get out of that game than try to make the tire better. Oddly enough BFG used to be known for making good performance tires, they were the tire of choice for the '00 Cobra R which was the first factory Mustang to pull 1g on the skid pad. Now it seems like BFG would be happy if everyone forgot they even make car tires.

[@connorfalb3534]

they get shredded unlike any other tire

[@jeremyneufeld6541]

KOs have always been for people like me who put one set of tires on their rig for all seasons and for at least 4 years. I've owned 5 brands on my 99 Ram and the KO2s are 7 years old and still have life. Will be getting KO3s for sure. Also, the ridges on the side are called scallops, and the shallow ridges between lugs are to kick rocks out.

[@afriquelesud]

Replace tyres after 5 years, even if they look new. Ask your insurance company.

[@jeremyneufeld6541]

@afriquelesud Wanna buy them for me? If not, I'll wear them out. And insurance has never cared about tires. They even allow recaps. I'm just fine.

[@Anthony-fd8mh]

I love my KO2's and will definitely get KO3's on my next car. I hardly do off road but I love how they preform in the rain. I had another brand which I can't remember now since its been so long and the tread compound was so had it was like I was driving on ice in the rain, so I switched to KO2's because I likes the look and it was a huge difference for me in the rain and I never looked back. These were on my last two 3 vehicles starting with my old truck, Ford Ranger, then GMC Yukon, then H3 Hummer and now my 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk. I will always get BFG's.

[@OmgHeDidntJustDoThat]

@@Anthony-fd8mh i hit a puddle and started to slide on my 3 month old KO3. I drive a dually. 265/60 r18. low key wanna go back to the ridge grapplers.

[@Anthony-fd8mh]

@@OmgHeDidntJustDoThat well hopefully they did not change the hardness of the rubber compound. I’ve never slipped in my KO’s that I could remember unless maybe going thru a hard turn and giving it the gas at same time but then pretty much any tire will slip like that. 🤷‍♂️

[@wheatgeek77]

Awesome, thank you! I’m in the market right now for new tires. I’m in ND and torn between the AT4 and KO3s. I’ve had the KO2s and was quite pleased, I tow in the summer months, and Costco is making it easy to get the KO3s, and I think this just sold me on them!👍

[@El_Jefe_Zamora]

I work for a tire distributor. In the last 5 years or so we’ve sold more Falken Wildpeak AT3W and now the newer AT4W.

[@cjaussienerfer8169]

I wish they started selling the AT4W in Australia. We need that 3ply sidewall on the falkens

[@El_Jefe_Zamora]

@@cjaussienerfer8169I’ve had the AT3W and I currently have the AT4W I absolutely love them.

[@rcsmith8162]

The falkens are a great value for the money. I have the AT3W on my gmc 2500hd. E LOAD rating. They've lasted well into the 45k miles range, had no issues with them. BUT they are definitely not too stable on a bigger truck. I think the AT4W will be a great improvement for my type of application.

[@El_Jefe_Zamora]

@@rcsmith8162I had them both in 285/70R17 so they’re not as big. But I love them and their price point is great compared to the BFG and Toyo.

[@bmurphy386]

Yeah I wouldn't take the masses choice... budget tires at best.

[@francowj]

I had the KO2 on my 4Runner and I had to rebalance them once a year. I'm glad they worked on fixing that issue. I had been thinking of moving on to the Toyo tires but I just had the kO3s installed today on my Tundra. After watching this video, I'm so glad I went back to BFG.

[@captainchill903]

You should rebalance your tyres once a year or every 10000kms. Youre wearing rubber down, the weight will change over time. Rebalancing can help you get even more life out of the tyre and prevent any vibrations from the tyre and rim. Even low profile tyres need rebalancing, it's not uncommon at all.

[@animal16365]

I have a 2018 4runner limited and have put 17in KO2s on it. I've been off road with them (nothing to extream). Never had any issues with them and they ride just fine

[@randyjones7001]

Some interesting things to consider. Reminds me of when I purchased a set of tires and the tire shop talked me into purchasing their store brand. They were definitely cheaper, but the rubber compound was much harder and stiffer. They just didn't perform well in comparison. Thanks for the great content!

[@John-ke2jm]

I've learned more about tires from your channel then I ever knew before in the 40 years I've lived combined.

[@OutdoorAuto]

Awesome, hopefully in the long run it is actually helpful in some way.

[@elrobo3568]

I was a police officer and because I raced and was also a master mechanic and aircraft mechanic I was tasked to test tires from numerous manufacturers used on police cars and motorcycles. I worked with a number of manufacturers and did some testing at Phoenix raceway NASCAR track. There are a lot of things that need to come together building tires. Your video is the best information I have seen about tires on line. The only thing I would ad is do research about Chinese tires before you buy tires. Keep up the good work.

[@debluetailfly]

I hauled a load of new Chinese big truck tires to a distributor. One of the first tires unloaded had a hole in the sidewall big enough to stick your thumb through; must be some great quality control in China.

[@goodcitizen64]

My KO2's on my 2015 Silverado 1500 currently have over 50,000 miles and over half the tread still remaining! I only run BF Goodrich A/T or M/T on my trucks. I usually run Michelin or BF Goodrich. Great video!

[@scotthaworth224]

I ran the KO2 on my 80 series Land Cruiser and would love to give the new KO3 a try but I am worry the same thing that took place with my KO2 will happen again. Not even 5 years into ownership of the KO2 I could not get them to balance properly. Prior to changing out the tires I swapped in all new bushings, tie rod ends, and replaced my shocks, checked the panhard mounts for cracks too as I was getting a really bad wobble. Once I replaced the tires the wobble was gone. So you can see my apprehension about going back to a BFG tire. I love the design of the KO3 and the KM3 too.

[@machinehead6892]

Run Magnum in your tires, they are always balanced, I run 37 12,5 17's impossible to balance with weights, 12 oz of Magnum in each tire and they are always perfect.

[@gunfreak1911]

Going on 5 years and you’re complaining they won’t balance! At 4-5 years a tire should be replaced regardless of tread depth. The rubber gets dry and hard. Not surprised they won’t balance

[@MrDan1509]

@@gunfreak1911 You get played often I bet! LMAO!

[@daleschofield6666]

I Loved my K02’s on my Tacoma. They were much quieter than the tires that I bought it with (used). The K02’s wore VERY WELL in the next couple of years that I owned that truck. My nephew is still doing well with them. I admittedly don’t go off-roading much, but Love the aggressive look, quiet ride, good traction for my year-round application and light towing. When I finally wear down the OEM tires on my new Tundra, the K03’s are definitely on my radar for replacements! Love your in depth analysis(es) of these and have enjoyed several of your videos!

[@jonball290]

I have been rocking BFG AT for years. Had originals, K0 / Ko2... anyway I have Ko2 on the tacoma and just put Ko3 on the 4runner. They seem the same to me on and off road. Long story short BFG is the dopest out I feel from my 20 plus years using them. tried true and trusted. BF - Best Friend on the road

[@carjax777]

Would love to see your take on the Nokian Outpost nAT. Its interesting to see the Finnish snow tire company entering the all terrain market, especially with them making them in the US.

[@somedude3423]

I happen to use Nokian Outposts on a Toyota Prado, and if I am watching this video it is because I am really looking for better tyres! The outposts are too slippery when braking on wet roads. I know this a common problem on AT tyres, but I slipped several times when braking moderately on wet roads, in a straight line and going less than 40 km/h...

[@dlansburg2673]

I owned the original bfg at in 1978,ran them on a 77 Chevy k 10 in size 12.50 X 15, they wore well and worked well, but eventually developed side wall bulges. Years later I was reading a review in an off-road magazine and they stated that there was a ten pound difference in four matching tires they were testing? Just some history,thanks for another interesting video

[@suprajet]

I just noticed something the other day parking my truck next to my SXS which both have BFG on them regarding the raised white lettering. The SxS has Ko2 and the truck is KO3. The lettering is larger on the KO3 than the KO2 by about 1/4". It looks bigger and more prominent than the KO2. Before I wasn't sure what looked different, but then it was apparent.

[@mrshort2379]

that was allot more information about tires than I thought I would ever need to know! however it was nice to see someone pointing out information we should all take the time to learn

[@Kjhgr01]

I like shopping for tires like some people like shopping for shoes! I wish mine would wear down faster to give me a reason to change them! I had BFG KO2 on my 2016 Tacoma and got some for my 2023 4Runner, can't see myself buying anything else. Even for $1400 now... 😬😒

[@mattl9704]

I found your content while researching ATs to replace my factory installed highway designed tires on my 2022 Tacoma. I had KO2s on my last Tacoma and loved them. Thanks for the very detailed information on both this and your related videos on the KO3s. Now I'm convinced to stick with BFG and pull the trigger on the new KO3.

[@brokenwrench404]

I jumped ship when my ko2’s wore out and went to ridge grapplers. They’re quieter and do better in the rain and snow. Absolutely love them!

[@Daniel-gs8xu]

I've ran different tires brands before but at the beginning of the year I went to the Kenda Light Truck Boot Camp in Arizona and was very impressed with the quality and pricing! Got to test different tire brands on my own and felt like Kenda was in a class of its own. I loved them so much I slapped on some Kenda R/T's on my truck when my tires still had 12/32 seconds lol didn't need new tires but wanted new tires lol P.s. 49ers owned the Jets (and that's from a Chiefs fan lol)

[@brucea822]

Just saying, BFG is my tire of choice. Thank you for a great review.

[@OutdoorAuto]

Thanks for watching

[@87mattjt]

Ive got KO2s on 3 vehicles, theyre great on the 2 large SUVs but on my wifes escape(yes we put KO2s on an escape, we live on rough gravel roads in colorado at 7k feet elevation we see some extreme road conditions) we have been having some really odd tread ware and I had chalked it up to the extreme camber that the escapes have on the rear tires, but what you were saying about the high torque causing odd ware would make sense with what I am seeing, the escape has the 2.0 ecoboost and is incredibly torquey. Congrats on getting 100k subscribers! Love the channel, keep it up!

[@ThebiggestBigAL]

I’m almost sold on the KO3s but my experience with the KO2s is making me apprehensive. I still think I’m going to try Falkens first.

[@RadDadisRad]

Hankook Dynapro is a great alternative to the KO2. I put 60k miles on 2 different sets of KO2 LT285/65r17

[@opinionshurt2905]

I just put Falken Wildpeak A/T4 285/55/r22 on my 5th gen ram. Had to do a 2” level cause they rubbed a bit. Awesome tires.

[@ross_rusher0243]

Been happy with both the at3 and mt01 from falken

[@jackbjack]

Had KO2s on my Runner. Decent tread life (70k) BUT horrible in the rain and had the occasional out of balance wobble. Switched to AT3s Spring of 2024 this go round and they check all the boxes… great tires. Faulken for the win.

[@carlosjaimes4141]

Falken at3 on my 04 Nissan Titan doing well for me

[@HoserHotrods]

Thank you so much for this video. I work at a tire shop and this gives me real insight on why a customer should be looking at the new tire vs the older one.

[@SmoothOperator150]

I was a BFG fan for years until I bought a used Bronco with brand new Goodyear Wrangler DuraTracs, the DuraTracs have been amazing! I live in northeastern IL and do pipeline work, so I run in every condition imaginable! I have an F350, Jeep Wrangler, Suburban and a Tahoe, I’m now running DuraTracs on all my 4X4’s. I do run Michelin’s on my sedans….

[@666dynomax]

Duratrac work better and wear longer. About 25-30% better. I've had 5-6 sets of duratrac. All delivered over 70000km of wear. Ko2 were done at 52000km.

[@vintagetintrader1062]

Love the side “biters” on the new KO3, you mentioned the outer edge of the tyre that creates the driving force in heavy mud, but the biggest is the sidewall. When breaking through the top layer of dirt/mud, the sidewall contacts the edge of the trench you created, bigger sidewall lugs will keep you going forward. Especially if you ‘saw’ at the steering wheel (rock it side to side)

[@mrmotofy]

Probably more howl

[@GrantSR]

The cynic in me has to ask: Are you sure that the K03 that comes, stock, on some vehicles is not simply a lesser tire (possibly less expensive to manufacture), by design, simply so auto manufacturers can say they are including a K03 when it is really a K03-lite? You know, like how printer manufacturers sell printers with ink cartridges only one-third full.

[@Buzzyfuzz]

Exactly my point with my comment...I've seen it in training first hand.

[@kevinstarski1598]

Falkens are known for that

[@RoadTraveler]

Sounds possible if not likely. And/or that there are different designs for different sizes, applications, etc.

[@artm6723]

Kind of like the "Walmart version" of a tire?

[@GrantSR]

@@artm6723 Exactly. Except, it seems as if all of the internet is Walmart. I did some looking around. I could only find the OE version with the 'S' lug instead of the new version with the caterpillar lug. here this guy got the new version is beyond me. Even the link he posted actually went to the old version.

[@stillkicking8693]

I just a week ago put the k03 on my Jeep rubicon , I didn’t go with falkins because my friends said they wear out fast . So far I’m extremely happy with the ko3 because I do Offroad trails and they done great so far.

[@Impala-qp9cb]

I find the exact opposite to be true and I love bfgs

[@AmericanSurvival001]

The biggest reason that the Ko2 was improved is because of the Goodyear Duratrac competition which is extremely popular tire extremely good in mud snow it’s an excellent all-around tire can haul serious weight and the best part that will last you 65,000 to 75,000 miles. the K2 was a two-your tire, the compound was much too soft. I was getting about 40,000 miles out of them on a Dodge three-quarter ton. My wranglers lasted twice as long and had much better traction and I got better gas mileage? The Goodyear Duratrac weigh a few pounds more and haul a lot more weight I have never gotten less than 70,000 miles out of these tires on the same vehicle that the KO twos would barely make 40

[@MCatwar]

i’ve never had a k02 go 40k lol

[@Jman-k4b]

Very intelligent response about not assisting with a tire development that could go wrong. I am happy to also see when people give credit where it is due.

[@motownXJdad9565]

i sold tires for a long time in the 90's, BFG all terrains have always been a great all round tire. BFG does make a KM3 Mud Terrain for people that like to play in the mud, A\T's are great on snow, wet pavement, dry pavement and dirt, they dont need to be great in mud

[@mrmotofy]

Old tech

[@hope2someday691]

I’m finding myself turned off by the tire howl of the last iteration. I can just see all those new straight edges and knobs sticking out into clean air, those tires are going to make a lot of racket. It’s nice being able to have a nice conversation without having to yell. Frankly, If I wanted mud tires I’d buy mud tires. It’ll be interesting to see h

[@mrmotofy]

My first thought when I seen the big lugs on side. I can sometimes here trucks howling coming up behind me...not what I wanna listen to rolling down the highway

[@shawntaylor1988]

Great stuff! Ran the K02 for 50K and only complaint was on the wet. 4k into the K03 and imo much improved. Appreciate your unpaid for thoughts!

[@freshcassette.]

Just ordered these tires, first one in the tire shop to order ko3s, im stoked for them! Im still running tires from the dealer, so this will be an awesome upgrade.

[@OutdoorAuto]

Yeah... it will be a HUGE upgrade. Congrats... tires are so expensive now days... big investment.

[@Jayzilla-jr4fr]

The KO2s cupped real bad on 4 different vehicles I've owned. hopefully they solved that known issue.

[@gunfreak1911]

That was the vehicle not the tire I’d bet

[@Jayzilla-jr4fr]

@@gunfreak1911 Nope. Like I said, it was 4 different vehicles. All were new and had alignment and shocks checked when cupping began.

[@mikesamson1930]

I didn't have problems with the the original KO cupping. In fact it was the only AT that did not do that and did not get noisy as it wore. I didn't like it in the snow, so I moved on.

[@scotthorn5792]

4 wheel independent suspension? How often did you rotate the tires?

[@JavierPadron]

Love BFGs. I run KO2s on two of my four vehicles. Right now, I’m trying the Falken AT4Ws and loving them. I’ll probably buy BF Goodrich again next time, though. I just wish these had been out when I got my tires.

[@BoiseG]

I just bought a set of KO3s last week for my 4Runner. 285/70R17 One issue I've noticed is that they develop a flat spot when sitting for only a day. It quickly rounds out though.

[@Yowie722]

My Maxxis Razr’s do that too.

[@macgyver03ga]

I put some on my wife’s sequoia a couple weeks ago. I noticed the same thing. The flat spot is noticeable for the first mile or so of driving then it goes away.

[@donbeary6394]

Thank you for your level headed insights into why you should look at more than just at a tire companies tread design when choosing a tire 🙂

[@gw5436]

Comment from Australia... we use BFG's on our cattle ranch vehicles for all the reasons one needs from tyres... and it is really appreciated your great explanations and knowledge to what we are looking forward to in our next sets of BFG's. Thanks.

[@trumpio]

It would be nice if tire manufacturers could figure out how to make tires that are actually ROUND. The amount of runout I see on every tire I've bought is completely unacceptable for the price paid.

[@uoobwatcher]

Very hard to do.

[@zanekubicek2186]

I'm really glad they brought the ko3 to the market with more size options. I have a 22 F350 tremor and was looking to get some ko2s when the stocks wore out. Only sizes that I could find wanted minimum 8.5" rim and I didn't feel like dealing with that since stock rims are only 8". Now in the ko3s they have 285/75R18 which is what comes on the truck stock so ill definitely getting a set for the next shoe purchase.

[@chrisrosenthal1210]

Hate to bust your bubble, but I worked at the Cooper Tire plant in E Texas. That location is where Cooper makes all the large "all terrain" We not only make Cooper Tires there, we make Faulken, Mickey Thompson, Maxis, Pro Comp and a LOT more. I forget now, but we made like 80 something brands I believe. The interesting part is.. I worked in the millroom where we make all the components. Sidewall, tread, liner ply, steel ply, bead wedge etc... All those parts go to the building part of the plant after the millroom. There tire builders but all those pieces together in what we call a Green Tire. A green tire has all the components, it just needs to go to curing and get formed in a mold. For lets say a large tire like a 35x10.50R16. There may be 8 different companies that make that same size tire.... They ALL use the exact same green tire lol If we build 20,000 AD-X1234 green tires, we may send 5k to the Pro Comp molds, 12k to the Mickey Thompson molds, 4k to the BFG molds and the rest to Cooper Discoverer molds. It doesn't matter what green tire goes to which one, all of them are the exact same. Same compounds, same assembly. The only difference is the mold and all that does is make the tire look different.

[@OutdoorAuto]

Weird… none of the tires we talked about in this video are made in East Texas… so I guess no bubble to burst…

[@chrisrosenthal1210]

@@OutdoorAuto LOL.... BFG does the exact same thing. All of them do. It's just like any other industry. TOYO, Mickey Thompson, Pro Comp etc don't have their own manufacturing plants. They contract the manufacturing out to Cooper Tire. To save money, they use Coopers development, compounds, testing, and QC. There are some that have their own compounds. Some with more silica for example to create a tougher tire. Cooper will make it however you want if you're willing to pay for it lol BFG does the same thing. I'm not familiar with all the brands they produce at their facility, but I assure you it's more than just BFG. I don't work there anymore. I do know Goodyear just bought out Cooper. Cooper was the 5th overall tire company in the US. And the #1 aftermarket tire producer. I'm not sure what all they are making there now.

[@MikesGarageBadDecisions]

@@chrisrosenthal1210 Thanks Chris. I worked at Pro Comp and worked directly with the guy who coined the term A/T and M/T back for Bridgestone in the early 80's. You truly hit the nail on the head. When at Pro Comp we had our tires "cast" or "molded" by Maxxis, this was prior to the Polaris buy out. Anyway, during that time we had a anti-dumping law put in place by the US government and we had to switch vendors from China to Thailand and Taiwan if my memory serves me correctly and Maxxis was making our tires. To your point there are only really a handful of vendors that actually make tires. I was surprised how many tires are made in the same plants around the world that I thought were all different brands. Most of the difference in tires are the obvious like design and compounds. Most of the jargon is marketing who-ha as we know. Some important facts were left out of the video for reasons I am not sure. The changes in the BFG's are to make the tire more round, like the increased sipping and shapes of the lugs which in turn gives you more tread wear, second is because most OE BFG's are being installed on Jeep Rubicon 4xe's which is a heavy beast and being part electric tends to chew up tires. So a slight engineering change was needed. This all being said tire mfg's create shapes in the design for a few reasons based upon the requirements of the said product. If an OE mfg has a set criteria they will find an MFG to build it for them accordingly. Did you ever notice how many vehicles being sold have a specific tire but, when you go to buy that replacement tire it is almost impossible to find an original match? This is especially true on high volume vehicles, Camry, Accords and the like. Thanks

[@chrisrosenthal1210]

@@MikesGarageBadDecisions Thank you for the reply. And again, I worked in the millroom right after mixing. We make huge rolls of dingle components, like a 4k pound roll of liner ply that may be used in 30 different tires. The final completed tire process are on the other end of the plant a world away lol Even though several tires from multiple manufacturers may use the same green tire, even the final mold, which forms the tread pattern and finished look of the tire matters. tread pattern from one tire to the next may affect things like road noise, mileage/wear, skid performance, ability to seep rain etc. Then some manufacturers may specify compounds or construction methods, tolerances etc unique to their specific tire. I'm sure Cooper charged them more for an out of the ordinary process, but they are out there. I can't remember which Cooper tire it was, but we had one with a super high silica content. even on the tread line, when you had to cut that particular rubber with a hot knife, the difference was night and day. it was a LOT tougher than other rubber we used on other tires. It was designed to resist puncture and tearing from rocks when off roading conditions. Where a tire like the Cooper 555R or Mickey Thompson ET Street or Sportsman were a super soft compound for added traction while racing. I wish I could remember exactly which tires shared the same components, but it's been about 15 years since I was there. There's a code on the finished tire that tells you the green tire it's made from. For instance, The Cooper STT Pro, Nitto Mud Grappler, Pro Comp Xtreme Mt2, Toyo Open Country and Mickey Thompson MTZ, along with a couple other lesser known brands might all use the exact same green tire. To those that don't know, look up green tire. You can take a cart full of that specific green tires and throw them in any of those molds. One mold makes it a Cooper, the next row of molds might make it a Toyo or a Mastercraft .... All the components like the bead, liner, sidewall, tread and all the same. Just which mold you put it in depends on how large of an order we're trying to fill for any of those companies.

[@deanabrozki286]

Watching from Australia. I’ve really enjoyed your last two videos on these ko3’s. You definitely educated me a lot more. Thanks mate. 🍺

[@Buzzyfuzz]

Coming from ATV SXS world all my life. Technician, manager, I had alot of good 8nsight into this exact thing. Manufacturers started coming out with "name brand" models of tires from the factory. PRICE POINT the Manufacturers wanted exact look alike tires from exact companies. Tire Manufacturers signed deals with top companies yami, Kawi, poo..etc. rubber compound and ply ratings were 2 in the "OEM" and the over the counter was always 6 and four. I wouldn't doubt some of that is also going on in fullsize also. Load range etc.

[@gtr1952]

When I took the OEM's off my 2012 2500HD 4X4 Silverado I put the BFG KO3's on it. I had used Bridgestone A/T's on my last few trucks. The change to the KO3's was a big improvement for my situation/use. It's like a "tank" in snow, on and off road! Great in gravel/loose stone. On dry pavement they are quiet, track straight and wear dead even if you pay attention to inflation. They are everything I could ask for in a tire and I'm very happy with them! This is just MHO, your mileage may vary. Peace --gary

[@zublacus]

Interesting. I actually worked at Michelin (who owns BFG) in 2007/8 and became friends with the father of KM2. The building is insanely secure to protect rubber formulas and designs. It was super interesting as a wheeler.

[@ronjacques4129]

When I bought my Jeep, I ditched the stock Duelers for K02s after only a few thousand miles, during the first winter. The difference in the snow was significant. In fact I now have almost 55,000 miles on this set, but over half the usable tread left. I'm going one more year, then replacing them with K03s. If K03s are really even better in snow and rain, I'm definitely going to be happy.

[@brycecrousore1985]

You are way, way too smart! And, a perfect explanation manner for even novices like me! Great video.

[@EMS191-EMS]

New to your channel, I've been running the KO2's since they first came out. I've had them on my wife's H3, which see got 107,000 kms before I changed them out due to AGE not tread wear. I've had them on all my trucks and this last set which I had put on just a few months ago, were apparently the last in the city. I average over 100,000 kms per set before I change them AND all sets have had at least 20% wear LEFT on them. Your information about these tires, both the KO2's and KO3's are spot on. I subscribed to the channel so I can get more info on all things regarding trucks. Thank you for being upfront and honest, it is a rarity in this day and age.

[@nick-trish]

If they've made Ko2's that handled bad in rain, snow and mud... Then they weren't any of the last 3 sets I bought! Just bought Ko3's yesterday!

[@justdanny3193]

I have the “OE” KO3 that I bought unreleased for my 03 Durango literally days before the KO3’s general release. It was one of 2 sizes available and so far I’ve absolutely loved them. Ran them for the summer season and did some good offroading in them. Never a slip, always grip. Quiet on the road especially for an all terrain. Quieter than any “all season” I’ve ever ran. Expensive as hell, twice the cost of the decently nice rims, but they’ve been well worth it. When I run these through I will certainly want more

[@tcellucci9999]

Interesting, that is exactly what a couple of my tire guys told me, when buying, installing and balancing BF Goodrich T/As on a couple of my Toyota Tundra 4x4s, they said "tough to balance"........

[@stevemazzara8178]

Hope this new KO3 iteration still remains lighter in weight compared to other ATs, most are very heavy. Great video! Thank you.

[@bradleyphillips204]

Great video. I would have never known the difference between the two ko3s if i didn't see this video. Seeing these advantages makes me want a set more. Never had the ko2 but had two sets of the All terrain T/A before it. They were good tires. These look like they will perform much better. Like watching all you're tire videos. 👍

[@velorider562]

I really appreciate your content. As a newbie off roader absorbing everything I can and your content is 1st class.

[@payoneer88]

From the side you can see that the previous KO3 has like a V shape sidewall lugs, whereas the new KO3 has like a U shaped sidewall lugs. That's basicly how you can differ from them. Greatly improved what they already improved. Good job BF G.

[@pumpkin1escobar]

I'm excited for the autumn and winter to see how these things really perform in the wet/snow. I'm super interested in them and they look/sound good but with all the mixed talk about the KO2s I need more reviews. Good video.

[@anthonylimjoco5958]

Interesting video. We use tire cutters to shape the lugs to allow better traction and more importantly, allow us to feel or have the tires talk to us. We would mix BFG in front and a different brand in the rear to allow better oversteering. BFG on all four corners used to create a big understeer. Haven't used BFG is over a decade now... gonna try them out and see if it's changed. Only issue they probably don't make 37" r16

[@chris68gto]

You’re absolutely right, get behind the weeds and commercial ads and find out what you’re actually buying. Bought the ko3s last month and so far so good(dry, wet, extreme wet, hot beach sand)

[@robertpatric6652]

First time viewer. I don’t need a truck tire but very soon will need to replace my original 2017 Rav-4 tires. (98,000km) Just learning about what you’ve discussed here will ensure I look carefully at treads. I live in BC Canada. Little snow but lots of rain and it’s rain performance that I need. The current tire was great in the rain but last year I noticed hydroplaning starting. Time for new tires before the autumn rains. Thanks for the great info you’ve taught me.

[@davidhenri2722]

I agree with the feathering of tires. I don't have a high horsepower diesel but I towed really heavy with some goodyear all terrains. When new they were feathering pretty bad with the torque required to pull the load. after I wore down the tires 15-20% the feathering stopped as the tread block wore down further to the casing. The tires now(still on my truck) really settled in and is wearing very nice with still over 50% tread remaining while having 35k miles on them. always maintained my tire pressures to spec and rotated regularly

[@Fr99763]

The nicest tyre threat I saw so far was from vehicles of the dutch coast guard driving in the sand. They wrote a 2 line text in the sand about the beauty of life AND they did not get stuck Cheers

[@mikerice8185]

I’ve been running BFG A/T tires since 1992. I regularly put 62-65k on my F350 4/wd dually. On my current F150 with the 2.0 275/70 18, I have 101k with on them with 4/32 left. I check my tires and psi often. 41lbs in the front and 38lbs in the rear.

[@kemgallione8170]

Excellent review. I was going to go with the Nitto Ridge Grapplers but now I am going with the BF KO3. Thanks!

[@turtlezixx]

So many people unfamiliar with OE tires not being the same spec or quality as the exact same tire they can go buy from a tire shop. Can put a bad name to a tire or manufacturer. Tire track is a good resource showing if a tire is OE Tread and from which manufacturers. Happens with motorcycle tires too which is terrifying haha.

[@cbeer9824]

If I could like your videos more than once I would! I love the super technical videos on tires. Thanks to you I was sold on the Baja Boss A/T, and really want to try them plus the Ko3 and At4w for snow wheeling

[@leshunter4409]

Excellent video with demonstration of objective information. Thank you for not being a brand fanboy and trying to sell a certain tire. I subscribed to your channel today. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@OutdoorAuto]

Thanks, testing tires is too fun to pick one brand… gotta test them all…

[@mepartyof1]

Threw a set of KO3s on my 4runner last week and this video made me say hell yea.

[@Orlando_Montanez_92]

You were right! They did change it. I immediately saw the more pronounced mud-phobic bars and sharper biting shoulder blocks. Again nice review! Thank you.

[@Fauncebrothers]

Last I checked the rugged trail tiers are discontinued- favorite tires came on my 2005 2500 Cummins new, 5 sets in 250,000 miles. That ko3 center tread pattern looks identical to the rugged trail. Great tire, quiet yet meaty and wears well for a 4x4 truck tire. My guess is simply that they discontinued the RT’s and melded the with the KO side tread. IMHO older KO’s kind of suck. They wear funny on every vehicle I have ever seen them on. I am an engineer and I have been working on trucks and equipment since I was a toddler😂. Good video geek on!

[@PalmSandsRanch]

I’ve ran 10 ply KO2’s for years, never had mud, snow or ice issues. They’ve always had great grip. However looking forward to using the new KO3’s.

[@alanlovins1887]

Thanks for another great tire review. I have the OE KO3 on a 4Runner and love them. When they wear out, I’ll probably get the latest version KO3s.

[@RoadTraveler]

Competition is important. Lack of improvements or innovation may cause consumers to buy a different brand. Never been a BFG fan, but understand they are likely good much of the time.

[@OutdoorAuto]

You are looking at it the right way… even if BFG isn’t your brand… we need a few of these brands to push the science forward, create competition and the consumer (people like us) win in the end.

[@robertpolkamp]

I have the new BFG KO3 in 295/70R18. It's earily quiet and rock solid wet weather performance. They're mounted on a RAM 2500 Cummins. I replaced the stock Firestone Transforce AT almost immediately.

[@victoroneill7924]

I just replaced the Toyo all terrain tires with a set of KO3 tires on my Dodge Ram 2500 4wd diesel and I'm very happy with them. The Toyo tires I had were very dangerous on wet pavement! If you need good mud tires buy mud tires, I have used BF Goodrich All terrain tires on my trucks and they were great on ice and snow. if I knew I was going to be driving off road I always carried tire chains.

[@EasternWashingtonOffRoad]

Great video. Thanks for the information. I have ran KO2s on my F350 and YJ for years and love them. They do well on the ice but not well in the mud. I will try a set of the KO3s on my next overland rig.

[@AlphaRomeoOneFive]

I've been running KO's for years now on several different vehicles. They've always been great tires but really lacked performance, and even I'd say safety in the rain. They weren't great in icy conditions, but what tire truly is? I finally switched it up last fall to the FALKEN A/T3W, and I absolutely love them! So much better in the rain, I feel like they're glued to the road, better on the ice as well. I said to myself after getting through winter and spring (snow/rain) these are my new forever tires! With these new upgrades however, I'll probably have to give them at least one go. Luckily there will be enough time to before I need to buy them that there will be plenty of reviews out on them. With all that said, this was an amazing video breaking down all the differences on the different generations of the KO's. Well done, and thank you!

[@P4X1279]

Great review. Really appreciate the close ups and feature to feature comparisons.

[@stanislawwitulski5895]

Z niecierpliwością czekam na test K03 w Polsce. Obecnie mam K02 - na mokrej drodze (deszcz) zachowują się tragicznie. Mam nadzieję że K03 są faktycznie lepsze. Dziękuję za to porównanie. Kawał dobrej roboty!

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

$415 a tire in my size vs $230 in the beloved Falken Wildpeak. Ill choose Falken!😊. Ive had then on my Taco for years and I love how quiet they are.

[@darrinstone49]

I Love my BFG ATs! Just put a new set on my daily driver. Grip in the winter is AMAZING & even the guys doing tractor pulling all were switch to these for several years! They just work & they cost less than Toyo beating them at every turn when I compare them. Have a set with 70k that I just retired...

[@xlillo6175]

The information you provided is very compelling, and may all be true. I would like to have seen actual test comparison in various conditions on like vehicle, even provided by others and linked. Tires seem to behave wildly different in real world conditions despite that they look alike. I value the content, but when shopping for tires it's the testing that matters.

[@hisaddle]

Great analysis. i am on my 6th set of BFG AT. Really like them. Currently on 35s on my lifted 2011 Jeep Rubicon. I live in CO.

[@tennispro602]

Nathan's asking the questions i've been asking not just about these tires, but in general.

[@TayschrennSedai]

I really need to pull the trigger on a set for my wife's F-250. This tire just looks perfect for mixed farm/towing uses

[@diywithbrad]

Just got a set of these in LT285/75R18 129S E1 on my ‘24 Super Duty. They look like the “New K03”. Loving them so far for family hauling duty.