Trying to get a new set of ATs for cheaper

I am aware that the BFG KO2 is a polarizing tire, but I've gotten more positive opinions for it than negative ones. But man are they expensive, $282 a piece in the stock 265/70 R16 size.

I don't do crazy off-roading, but on the stock Goodyear Wranglers, I have gotten stuck in the mud: twice; I've also busted them twice, one not repairable and had to be replaced. So clearly, I want better tires. The level of off-roading I do can be described perhaps as Toroweap Point, White Pocket, although I'd like to do the Peekaboo canyon in Utah sometime soon. Obviously, 90% of my miles are highway miles.

I looked at the BFG Trail Terrains, $209/piece, but from reviews they don't seem to have quite the off-road capability that the KO2's boast of. However, I did discover that the BFG KO2s a bit smaller in size, 255/70R16, are a lot cheaper at $219/piece. I guess that'll reduce my running rim by 7mm and the footprint by 10mm? What impact is that going to have on my driving and TPMS? I understand the speedometer will be a tad bit off, 1.6% if I calculated right.

 

The smaller tires may actually cause you more issues on the trail. Being smaller, they have a heavier footprint. If you are getting stuck in mud, clay or sand, lessening the flotation of the tires isn’t a great idea. Not sure what you have gotten stuck in, but just something to think about.

 

You’re talking about saving $300 for tires you’ll have for 3-5 years or so. Spend the money and get what you want.

 

Late to this, but as others have said, going to a smaller size probably won't be worth the savings. Especially when you think about the cost long term. Using your math, you lose 1/4' of ground clearance (BFGs are undersized to begin with compared to others in the same size), you'll increase your RPMs at all speeds which will decrease fuel economy etc. Sticking with the stock size or even a different tire that costs less but offers similar performance also isn't a bad idea. Tire tech has improved a lot in 9 years

 

Don't overlook slightly less expensive brands like General Grabber and Cooper ATs

Great tires, from my experience they are similar in weight and on-pavement behavior as Toyo Open Country ATIII.

Lots of very good AT tires from many brands out there right now... it's pretty much the golden age of AT tires right now

With your V6 you could even run E rated tires for the extra thick sidewall and worry less about punctures.

 

Having had ko2’s, you won’t find me paying a premium for them. They’re ok, but there is better bang for the buck.


As for the size, check out the pizza cutter thread, a lot of people run 255s happily. Less weight, cheaper…there really are benefits.
Edit: oh I see you’re thinking about a shorter diameter. Not out of the question, but make sure you understand the consequences


we used to run 235/85/16 mud terrains on 3/4 ton work trucks. No issue unless you make poor choices.