Precision-Engineered for Extreme Performance
The Ford F-150 Raptor isn't your average pickup truck, and its tires are anything but ordinary. BFGoodrich worked in close collaboration with Ford's engineering team to develop a tire that could match the Raptor's exceptional capabilities. After 18 months of rigorous testing across 47 different prototypes, the final KO2 specification emerged as the perfect balance between brutal off-road traction and refined on-road manners.
Key Development Challenges Overcome:
- Weight distribution: Accommodating the Raptor's unique chassis dynamics
- Durability: Ensuring tire integrity during high-speed desert running
- Winter performance: Maintaining grip in snow/ice conditions despite aggressive tread
- Noise reduction: Minimizing cabin disturbance during highway driving
Breakthrough Tread Technology
The KO2's innovative tread design represents a significant evolution from previous generations. Using advanced computer modeling and real-world testing, engineers developed a pattern that:
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Rubber Contact Optimization
15% larger contact patch than conventional all-terrain tires, achieved through:
- Interlocking tread blocks for stability
- Serrated shoulder design for cornering grip
- Variable pitch sequencing to reduce noise
Core Strength Innovations
Revolutionary construction features include:
- Dual-compound tread (hard center/soft shoulders)
- Armor-Tek3 puncture-resistant belts
- Sidewall rubber that resists abrasion
Proven Competition Performance
The Foutz Motorsports team's domination in desert racing with their Raptor test vehicle demonstrated the KO2's capabilities beyond laboratory conditions. Their competition results revealed:
- 38% fewer tire changes than competitors
- Consistent traction across varied terrain types
- Zero sidewall failures during extreme impacts
- Maintained performance through temperature extremes
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Everyday Driving Benefits
While developed for extreme conditions, the KO2 delivers surprising refinements for daily use:
On-Road Advantages
- 30,000+ mile tread life warranty
- 20% quieter than previous generation
- Improved wet weather braking
Winter Capabilities
Despite not being a dedicated winter tire, the KO2 earned the Mountain Snowflake rating for severe snow service through:
- Biting edges molded into tread blocks
- Wide lateral grooves for snow evacuation
- Specialized rubber compound that stays flexible in cold
Technical Specifications
The Raptor-specific KO2 variant differs from retail versions in several key aspects:
| Specification | Raptor Version | Standard KO2 |
|---|---|---|
| Load Rating | 121Q | 119Q |
| Tread Depth | 18/32" | 15/32" |
| Sidewall Plies | 3 | 2 |
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Maintenance & Care Recommendations
To maximize the performance and lifespan of your Raptor's KO2 tires:
- Maintain 35-38 PSI for mixed use (adjust for heavy loads)
- Rotate every 5,000-7,000 miles
- Inspect sidewalls regularly for off-road damage
- Clean treads after mud/snow use to maintain grip
Upgrade Options for Enthusiasts
While the factory-equipped KO2s are exceptional, some owners pursue these popular upgrades:
Size Variations
- 315/70R17 for increased ground clearance
- 35x12.50R17 for wider footprint
Specialty Options
- KO2 "DuraTrac" for extreme mud conditions
- Racing compound versions for competition use
The Future of Raptor Tire Technology
With the success of the KO2 partnership, Ford and BFGoodrich are already developing next-generation tire solutions that promise:
- Smart tire technology with pressure/temperature monitoring
- Self-healing compounds for puncture resistance
- Adaptive tread patterns that change for conditions
- Further weight reduction without sacrificing durability
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