BF Goodrich KO3 AT 265/65 R18 117/114R

Description

The BF Goodrich KO3 AT 265/65 R18 117/114R is the latest generation of BFGoodrich’s legendary All-Terrain (A/T) tire, succeeding the highly popular KO2. It’s engineered to deliver improved performance across key metrics while maintaining the toughness and off-road prowess the KO series is known for.

Understanding the Tire Specifications: BF Goodrich KO3 AT 265/65 R18 117/114R

• 265: The tire width is 265 millimeters.
• 65: The aspect ratio is 65, meaning the sidewall height is 65% of the width.
• R: Denotes Radial construction.
• 18: The rim diameter is 18 inches.
• 117/114: This is a dual Load Index, common for Light Truck (LT) tires.
  • 117 (Single): When used as a single tire, it has a maximum load capacity of 1285 kg (2833 lbs) per tire.
  • 114 (Dual): When used in a dual wheel configuration, it has a maximum load capacity of 1180 kg (2601 lbs) per tire.
• R: The Speed Rating is R, meaning the tire is safely rated for speeds up to 170 km/h (106 mph). (Note: Some listings for this size may show an ‘S’ speed rating, indicating up to 180 km/h; always confirm on the tire’s sidewall or product sheet.)
• LT: While your query doesn’t explicitly state “LT”, this size and load index for the KO3 almost always corresponds to a Light Truck (LT) construction, typically with a Load Range D (8-ply rating) or Load Range E (10-ply rating), indicating robust build for heavier vehicles and loads.
• AT: All-Terrain.

Key Features and Improvements over KO2: BF Goodrich KO3 AT 265/65 R18 117/114R

The KO3 builds upon the strengths of the KO2, aiming for enhanced performance in several critical areas:

• Improved Treadwear/Longevity:
  • New All-Terrain Tread Compound: Formulated for better durability and longevity on both paved roads and grueling off-road conditions, especially gravel.
  • Optimized Footprint Shape: Designed to evenly distribute stress across the tread, promoting more uniform and longer wear.
  • Full-Depth Locking 3-D Sipes: These sipes increase tread block stability, contributing to even wear over the tire’s lifespan.
• Enhanced Gravel Road Durability: The new tread pattern and compound are specifically engineered to provide better resistance to chipping and tearing on gravel, a common wear factor for AT tires.
• Improved Snow Traction:
  • Updated Serrated Shoulder Design & Mud Phobic Bars: These features are refined to improve both mud and snow traction.
  • Full-Depth 3D Locking Sipes & Snow/Mud Notches: Provide increased biting edges for significantly better grip in snow.
  • 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) Certified: The KO3 retains this severe snow rating, making it a reliable choice for winter driving conditions.
• Maintained CoreGard Technology Toughness: BFGoodrich’s race-proven CoreGard Technology is carried over, providing split and bruise-resistant sidewall rubber, an advanced deflection design to prevent snagging, and extended shoulder rubber for critical sidewall protection. This ensures the KO3 maintains the legendary toughness of the KO2.
• Optimized On-Road Performance:
  • While aggressive for off-road, the KO3 is designed to deliver a smooth and relatively quiet ride for an AT tire, with good handling and stability on pavement. Some early reviews even suggest it’s quieter than the KO2.
  • Improved wet weather performance is also a focus, with clearer paths for water evacuation to reduce hydroplaning.
• Better Manufacturing Consistency: New manufacturing techniques (e.g., ventless, CNC machined molds) aim for a more uniform product, potentially reducing issues like balancing difficulties occasionally found with previous generations.

Performance Characteristics: BF Goodrich KO3 AT 265/65 R18 117/114R

• Season: All-Season, with strong severe winter capabilities (3PMSF).
• On-Road: Good stability, precise steering, effective braking on dry and wet surfaces, and optimized for comfort and reduced noise for its category.
• Off-Road: Exceptional traction and durability across a wide range of challenging terrains, including rocks, dirt, gravel, mud, and snow.
• Durability: Among the toughest AT tires available, highly resistant to punctures, chips, and tears.
• Tread Life: Engineered for extended tread life, with a higher treadwear warranty (often 60,000 miles) than the KO2.