On paper, the T/A KM2 looks like the perfect all-around tire. With Krawler-inspired good looks and a long, respected history in desert racing, you would think an industry mainstay like BFGoodrich would crush the competition. However, as things turned out, the lightest tire of the bunch may have been missing something from the traction equation. A reading of 66 on the Shore A durometer scale indicated that despite having a lightweight carcass, the supple compound is still able to maintain enough rigidity to forego the traditional sixth reinforcing ply of nylon that most others have. Manufactured in the U.S., the KM2 dominates a segment that demands performance, but what we discovered about the tread's mud prowess was not consistently impressive. While it did provide one of the most comfortable on-road rides of all the treads we tested, it tended to struggle when we subjected it to deep mud. On the first attempt up Truck Hill, the tires simply could not find traction. On the second attempt, we were able to generate enough momentum to crest the top. Unfortunately, the same did not hold true on our rutted off-camber hill climb. With anything less than 4,500 rpm in Second gear, low-range, and with both lockers engaged, the tires struggled to deliver consistent traction. We believe that the design of the sidewall may have played a part in the tire's lackluster performance. Everywhere else, the BFGs shined, which goes to show that a good mud tire has to balance many compromises to excel in the real world. KM2s are available in sizes ranging to from 27- to 42-inch diameters.
The Bottom Line
A very good all-around tire for most SUVs and pickups, the KM2 has excellent street manners and good looks to boot.
BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/AKM2
The Details
Tire: BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM2
Size: 37x12.50R17
Type: Radial
Load range: D
Max load rating (lb @ psi): 3,525 @ 50 psi
Sidewall: 3-ply polyester
Tread: 3-ply polyester, 2-ply steel
Approved rim width (in): 10
Tread depth (in): 20/32
Tread width (in): 12.5
Section width (in): 12.5
Overall diameter (in): 36.8
Static loaded radius (in): 16.2
Revolutions per mile: 566
Claimed weight (lb): 70.5
Weight as tested (lb): 68.4, 68.4,68.2, 67
Biting edges per square inch (in): 1.67
MSRP: $494.00
Info: www.bfgoodrich.com
