Falken Wildpeak AT4W vs BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2: Introducing the all-new Falken Wildpeak AT4W, launched in 2024, ready to take on the legendary BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2! Both tires stand as giants in the off-road segment, with the AT4W debuting with fresh, cutting-edge features to challenge the KO2’s well-earned reputation for rugged performance. This battle promises to push the limits of traction, durability, and handling on the toughest terrains—let’s see who comes out on top!
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Results: Falken Wildpeak AT4W vs BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2
Results below were taken from Tyre Review’s The BEST All Terrain Tyre Test with a total of 5 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Falken Wildpeak AT4W vs BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 based on the relevant performance category. The Falken Wildpeak AT4W was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Since we are talking about the off road tires which has the converted 3 peak mountain logo, snow performances was tested. The tire size of interest is 35×12.5 R17. The testing vehicle is a 4×4 off road vehicle in the form of Ford- F150.
Dirt
In off-road segments, performance on dirt is crucial, determining how well a tire grips, maneuvers, and handles on rugged paths. The Falken Wildpeak AT4W completed the dirt handling course in 71.8 seconds, just a fraction behind the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 at 71.73 seconds—a mere 0.07-second difference. In subjective dirt handling, the Wildpeak AT4W edged out with a perfect 10-point score, slightly ahead of the KO2’s close 9.75 out of 10, signaling a marginal but notable advantage in driver confidence on dirt trails.
All Terrain TA KO2 :
- ~0% in dirt handling
- -1% in subjective dirt handling
Snow
Both the Falken Wildpeak AT4W and BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 carry the legal 3-peak mountain certification, guaranteeing baseline snow performance. However, the differences on snow were unexpectedly large. The KO2 outperformed the AT4W significantly in snow braking, stopping in 20.2 meters compared to the AT4W’s 26.12 meters, a gap of nearly 6 meters. In snow handling, the KO2 completed the course in 92.02 seconds, leaving the AT4W behind at 101.27 seconds—a surprising 9.25-second difference. Subjectively, drivers rated the KO2 higher, scoring it 9.5 out of 10, compared to the AT4W’s 8, marking the KO2 as a stronger choice on snowy terrain.
All Terrain TA KO2 :
- +29% in snow braking
- +10% in snow handling
- +8% in subjective snow handling
Wet
In wet conditions, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 showed a slight edge in braking, stopping in 68.28 meters compared to the Falken Wildpeak AT4W’s 69.4 meters, a difference of just over a meter. However, the AT4W was faster in wet handling, completing the course in 56.39 seconds, while the KO2 took 57.17 seconds, almost a full second longer. Subjectively, the AT4W scored a perfect 10 in wet handling, slightly ahead of the KO2’s 9.5 out of 10. In aquaplaning resistance, the KO2 held a small advantage, maintaining traction at 111.2 km/h compared to the AT4W’s 108.9 km/h, underscoring subtle but notable differences in wet performance between these two all-terrain contenders.
All Terrain TA KO2 :
- +2% in wet braking
- -1% in wet handling
- -3% in subjective wet handling
- +2% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
On dry pavement, the Falken Wildpeak AT4W stopped in 41.17 meters, significantly outbraking the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, which took 44.41 meters—a difference of over 3 meters. For dry handling, the AT4W also showed a slight edge, completing the course in 47.92 seconds, compared to the KO2’s 48.48 seconds, nearly half a second slower. Both tires received an identical score of 9.5 out of 10 in subjective dry handling, showing balanced driver satisfaction despite the AT4W’s marginally better performance.
All Terrain TA KO2 :
- -7% in dry braking
- -1% in dry handling
- ~0% in subjective dry handling
NVH
All-terrain tires, with their large voids and aggressive tread patterns, are naturally louder on the road, making it crucial to assess NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) performance carefully. In this area, the Falken Wildpeak AT4W achieved a perfect comfort score of 10, slightly surpassing the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2’s 9.5. For noise, the AT4W also led with a perfect 10, while the KO2 followed closely at 9.75. These small differences highlight that, despite their rugged designs, the AT4W provides a slightly smoother and quieter ride.
All Terrain TA KO2 :
- -2.5% in subj. comfort
- -1% in subj. noise
Price
For the 245/45R18 size, the Falken Wildpeak AT4W is priced at $342, while the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 costs €377, making the KO2 approximately 10% more expensive.
Tire size: 35×12.5 R17
- All Terrain TA KO2 : € 377
Difference: +10% more expensive for All Terrain TA KO2
Conclusion from a Tire Expert’s Perspective:
From an expert’s perspective, both the Falken Wildpeak AT4W and the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 offer impressive strengths, making them solid choices for off-road enthusiasts. The Wildpeak AT4W excels in dry braking, comfort, and noise control, providing a smoother, quieter ride without sacrificing off-road capability. Meanwhile, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 demonstrates strong performance in snow braking and wet aquaplaning resistance, making it a reliable option for harsher weather and slippery conditions. Ultimately, each tire brings unique advantages, so the best choice depends on specific driving needs and conditions.
Dr Edwin Pang