BFGoodrich launches All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre

In earlier years, the tyres fitted to pick-up trucks were more suited for off-road use as the vehicles were then used in such conditions more. However, since the 1990s, pick-up trucks have also become alternative vehicles for personal transport.

As a result, they are driven much more on highways and at higher speeds, which led to the fitment of ‘H/T’ tyres as standard. These tyres, designed for highway driving, are more comfortable and also less noisy but they are not suited for serious off-road driving. They’re fine if you are going into the jungle on hard tracks but not on really muddy and soft terrain.

Off-road driving experts will therefore advise you to switch to proper off-road tyres if you are planning an expedition off-road.

The latest is the All-Terrain KO3 T/A from BFGoodrich (BFG), launched in Malaysia today.

This tyre is the successor to the KO2 which BFG, one of the older names in the tyre industry, launched 10 years ago.

Baja-winning tyres
Over the past 10 years, the KO2 (KO stands for Key Offroad) has been a favourite of the off-roading community, especially in America. Many vehicles in off-road races like the Baja desert race in California have run on the KO2 and other BFG All-Terrain tyres,  strengthening the brand’s reputation as a leading off-road tyremaker.

The tough races have given BFG engineers lots of data, along with feedback from users, to enable them to develop the third generation that was launched this year.

With innovative technologies, the new KO3 is said to outperform its predecessor, especially in the areas of treadwear, toughness and traction.

Introducing the new tyre to the Malaysian media, Prichapakorn Dangrojana, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei (BFG is part of the Michelin Group), said the KO3 is an embodiment of the company’s pursuit of innovation to exceed the expectations of our customers who deserve the best for their vehicle needs wherever they go.

“Our commitment at BFGoodrich has always been to deliver products that meet the highest standards of performance and durability, and the All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre is no exception. Built by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, the tyre reflects our deep understanding of what passionate all-terrain explorers demand. Through continuous cutting-edge improvements in our world-class tyre technology, we are excited to bring the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 to the Malaysian market.”

Longer-lasting tread
At a glance, the KO3’s tread pattern may seem like the KO2’s but the new pattern has subtle differences to futher optimize the footprint. Traditional off-road tyres usually have chunky tread blocks with large spaces in between but the KO3 doesn’t take that approach.

There are full-depth 3D locking sipes which to evenly distribute stress, making wear more uniform. This improves wear performance and therefore extends mileage to give a longer service life.

Improved CoreGard Technology
One of the technologies developed by BFG is Coregard Technology and for the KO3, this has been improved to increase sidewall toughness. This technology extends split and bruise-resistant shoulder rubber down the sidewall to provide protection on the critical sidewall failure zone. Having a strong sidewall is vital when travelling in terrain where sharp rocks can cut deeply.

Along with the Advanced Deflection Design which helps prevent objects from snagging and splitting the sidewall, the toughness of the KO3 has earned the tyre the Baja Champion badge which you will find on the sidewall.

Strong grip in all conditions
With full depth 3D locking sipes, a serrated shoulder design and ‘Mud-Phobic’ bars, the KO3 will provide strong grip over all types of terrain. The grip capability is better than the KO2 and with the interlocking tread elements, handling is also maximised. Stopping distances are also better on wet surfaces, with a 4.2-metre improvement from the KO2.

The All-Terrain T/A K03 is produced at the Michelin Group factory in Thailand, where BFG also has a regional R&D centre.

It will be available in 39 sizes this year, with another 19 more sizes added in 2025. By 2026, the KO3 range should have a total of 62 sizes. Recommended retail pricing is between RM825 and RM2,946, depending on the size.

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