There are plenty of off-road tires out there that offer reliability and customer satisfaction.
Among these are the Goodyear MTR Kevlar and BFGoodrich KM2. Both Goodyear and BFGoodrich have a decent reputation in the tire industry, so these two models are surely good options for many drivers.
For more information, read along here as we compare the Goodyear MTR Kevlar vs BFG KM2 in terms of their features, performance, warranty policy, pros and cons, and price.
Here are the brief differences between Goodyear MTR vs BFG KM2 regarding their tire attributes.
| Attributes | MTR Kevlar | KM2 |
| Manufacturer | Goodyear | BFGoodrich |
| Width (in.) | 9.3-14.7 | 8.5-14.7 |
| Diameter (in.) | 30.6-41.8 | 27.9-41.8 |
| Rim Range (in.) | 6 – 12 | 5.5 – 12 |
| Measured Rim (in.) | 6.5-12 | 6-12 |
| Tread Depth (in.) | 18/32; 19/32; 21/32 | 17/32; 18/32; 19/32; 20/32 |
| Load Range | C-E | C-E |
| Max Load (lbs) | Up to 4080 | Up to 3860 |
| Weight (lbs) | 47-91 | 35.5-92 |
| Revs Per Mile | 498-686 | 497-746 |
Table of Contents
What is It?
1. Goodyear MTR Kevlar
Goodyear Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar is an improved version of its older model. This innovation is mainly due to the incorporation of tough DuPont Kevlar sidewalls that are associated with puncture and cut resistance technology.
There are plenty of features that have been also redesigned for this tire. One is the additional wrap-around tread on its sidewall shoulder blocks that is responsible for why this tire can withstand harsh off-road elements such as rocks, sand, and especially deep muds.
Next is its asymmetric tread design, which delivers superior on-road handling and impressive traction off-roads, thanks to its sipes that provide enhanced biting edges.
Lastly, the Silica Rubber compound allows better grip capabilities for safe rides in wet conditions.
2. BFGoodrich KM2
To be clear, the acronym BFG in BFG KM2 means BFGoodrich (not Goodyear KM2). BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain TA KM2 is engineered with numerous advanced features.
First, it is built with exclusive Krawler-inspired tread substance that allows superior grip performance while off-road. It also consists of great linear flex portions and tread blocks that make it adaptive to rocks, debris, and other obstacles.
It also comes with a self-cleaning technology, thanks to its bigger tread voids that eject water and snow for stability.
And for hard rock crawling, this tire is constructed with tough and bruise-resistant sidewalls. Plus, its internal compounds are armed with polyester tread carcasses that contribute to tread life longevity and rough handling capabilities.
Differences
Let’s examine how these tires perform and their warranty policies to better understand their distinction from one another.
1. Performance
In the performance category, both tires have distinct benefits and drawbacks.
When talking about off-road properties, Goodyear MTR Kevlar has high mud traction, handling, and responsiveness, along with high traction and lateral stability on rocky roads and slopes. It also comes with remarkable cornering capabilities at higher speeds.
Similarly, BFG’s KM2 has decent off-road performance too. It can withstand off-road elements such as stumps, boulders, gravel, sand, and mud without compromising its steering responsiveness, stability, and durability.
If we compare the two, BFGoodrich’s KM2 performs a little less well in mud but is easier to balance.
When used on-road, Goodyear MTR Kevlar is slightly lacking in grip and handling performance, plus it comes with moderate noise reduction and limited on-road comfort. Contrary, BFG KM2 provides comfortable on-road performance and low noise levels.
On wet and snowy roads, Goodyear MTR Kevlar has a short wet braking distance and fast handling speed with high hydroplaning resistance. It also comes with slight snow and ice traction.
Meanwhile, enhanced deep snow traction is the edge of BFG KM2 compared to its counterpart. But it falls short in terms of wet and ice handling properties.
2. Warranty
As off-road tires, both the Goodyear MTR Kevlar and BFGoodrich KM2 consist of tough compounds that make them durable enough to last for many years.
Neither tire has a mileage warranty, but BFG’s KM2 comes with 6 years of workmanship and material coverage while Goodyear MTR Kevlar offers a uniformity warranty of up to 2/32 inch plus the same six-year policy as BFGoodrich.
3. Pros and Cons
Knowing the list of advantages and disadvantages of a certain tire model is a great help in assessing the perceived value of that product.
So take a look here in order to be aware of the strengths and drawbacks of Goodyear MTR Kevlar vs BFG KM2.
- Reinforced with tough sidewalls
- Comes with puncture and gravel resistance technology
- High mud traction, handling, and responsiveness
- High traction and lateral stability on rocky roads and slopes
- Good traction performance on slight snow and ice
- Impressive cornering at high-speeds
- Without treadwear mileage warranty
- Comes at a more expensive price
- Moderate noise reduction and limited on-road comfort
- Low to moderate ratings for grip and handling in on-road performance
- Reinforced with tough sidewalls
- With self-cleaning technology
- Can withstand different off-road elements
- Smooth on-road performance
- Has low noise levels
- Enhanced deep snow traction
- Responsive steering properties
- Comes at a cheaper cost
- Easy to balance
- Less impressive on mud
- No mileage warranty
- Weak wet and icy road handling
4. Cost
The price for Goodyear MTR Kevlar falls between $217.96 to $469.99. Meanwhile, BFGoodrich KM2 comes with a price range of $177.98 to $332.99.
Take note that the variety of price range is strongly determined by the size you want to purchase. A larger size increases the initial price of a certain model.
For example, you can have an MTR Kevlar 37×12 5×17 tire for $405, while it is $247.62 for KM2 35×12.5×15.
We can conclude that by default, BFGoodrich KM2 comes at a cheaper price compared with Goodyear MTR Kevlar.
Which is Better?
The term “better” is not a one-size-fits-all idea. In fact, this is the reason why debates all start, due to the difference of our perception and preference.
In short, Goodyear MTR Kevlar is better for those who value slight snow and ice traction and high-speed cornering.
On the other hand, BFGoodrich KM2 is better for those who prioritize deep snow traction and smooth and quiet rides.
Whichever you perceive as better depends on your preference, for both of these are good picks to be fair.
Other options for your adventure:
Tips in Choosing a Suitable Tire for Your Car
Still undecided and afraid of buying a mismatched off-road tire for your vehicle? Below are the list of useful considerations that you should take into consideration to ensure you choose the perfect off-road tire model for your car.
- Determine your tire size
- Identify the type of off-road conditions you’ll be driving in
- Look for a tire with a durable tread pattern
- Check the tire’s load range
- Prioritize a tire with good puncture protection
- Consider purchasing from a reputable tire manufacturer
- Consult a tire professional
Conclusion
We know it’s still hard to pick only one tire model, as both of these two off-road tires under the Goodyear and BFGoodrich brands perform well.
So take your time to fully understand what your driving needs and priorities are as of now. By doing so, your final decision will follow.
That’s about it for today’s comparison between Goodyear MTR Kevlar vs BFG KM2. Have safe travels!
