I wont vouch for the BFG KO2's yet, as I don't even have 1000 km into my new set. I reserve the right to change my mind, but so far I'm happy. It's winter where I am despite a lack of snow, so cold road traction is really my only test so far.
That being said, I've already noticed that they are a lot quieter than I was expecting. I have yet to notice much difference from my pseudo off-road GTradial tires I just finished. They were absolutely awful off road despite their tread pattern, but on highway, silent. The KO2 doesn't seem very loud for its reputation as an incredible AT tire. Their reputation is lesser than others when you encounter mud though. It's more about knowing what you need the tires for and how to use what you have. you sound alot like my intentions of good highway manners, yet, won't be calling a friend saying "cmon out here, bring a truck" when you head down a trail to the lake because lets face it, nobody likes getting stuck, but we aren't going to drive 80,000 KM off road either.
My other choice was Wrangler duratrac's and I know how much they annoy me with sound. I admire them for their off road capabilities especially with mud, but I wont drive 80,000 KM with tires howling bloody murder. They were just too aggressive for my needs.
I went with with stock 09 z71 tire size 265/70/17 112c. They are the "6 ply" instead of the 10 that everybody seems to go for, as out trucks are pretty light. The 10 ply is enough for a half ton at max towing capacity, but our trucks only "require" a load rating of 113 even for max towing so I figured skip the 10 ply, get the comfort with an appropriate load rating, and not pretend that tires actually have 10 or even 6 ply's anymore. Comparably to the GTbadials they are a little stiffer, despite the 113 6 ply rating on the GTbad's but I was going for that.
