Upgraded to 255/65/17 KO3 tires on the Bronco Sport 🐎

[compass crusher]

I’ve run them recently through the Great Sand Dunes via Medano Pass, then continued south toward New Mexico over a couple technical 4-grade trails on OnX — Fan Dike and Steep Mountain. I had to turn to full lock a few times climbing off-camber rock and loose gravel, and still no rubbing or pinch-weld contact. Just that light liner brush in reverse, same as before.

In the sand, the traction control did its little “slip test” routine once or twice, but it quickly figured it out and kept momentum up the steep hills. The KO3s have been rock-solid — great bite without digging in too deep, and no clearance problems even when fully loaded.

So far, I’d say these tires are right at the upper edge of what fits comfortably, but with my 1.5″ lift they’ve been flawless for daily use and off-road weekends.

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[compass crusher]

Just sitting there the 255 looks like it's already rubbing.
I have 245/65/17's on my Badlands and they kiss the the front wheel well liners at full lock with the suspension compressed, I would imagine 255's would really rub enough to tear up the liners and even cause contact with the pinch weld which could potentially damage the tire. You may need to make a modification soon than later if you do much off roading.

@RSH — good eye and I appreciate the heads-up.

• Rubbing: only a light kiss at full lock in reverse. No pinch-weld contact, and nothing under normal forward steering, even with some suspension compression.
• Trail check: after a couple loaded runs (sand, ruts, mild articulation) I inspected the liners—just a shiny scuff, no tearing and zero sidewall damage.
• Plan: I’ll probably heat-mold the liner and do a tiny zip-tie tuck before snow/mud season. If I ever notice contact progressing, I’ll trim that inner lip, but it hasn’t been necessary yet.
• Why it’s manageable: KO3 shoulder isn’t as square as some ATs, and the lift plus stock offset keeps the arc neat. I daily at 34–35 psi, air down mid-20s off-road.

Totally agree that 255s are the limit on these without mods—just wanted to report that they’re very livable with my setup and driving.