Grabber AT2 Review: General Tire

My ‘98 Dodge 12-valve has been a great tow rig and daily driver, as well as an occasional off-road toy. For the last few years, it’s had a set of BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A‘s that now have just over 60,000 miles on the tread. Although the tread was not down to the wear bars, I didn’t want to drive on them another winter, so I decided to try a different tire this time. The Grabber AT2.

General Tire has been manufacturing tires for automobiles and trucks for 100 years, with truck tires being a major part of the company’s rich history since 1928.

When researching new tire designs, one of my sources was the Tire Rack website, which uses a rating system based on accumulation of consumer input. The scoring system rates “Excellent” in a range between 6.5 and 8.5 and “Superior” in a range between 8.6 and 10. After comparing the final scores, only a few tires emerged with ratings in all categories of “Excellent” or “Superior”. One of those tires was the General Grabber AT2.

General Tire has been manufacturing tires for automobiles and trucks for 100 years, with truck tires being a major part of the company’s rich history since 1928. In 1987, Continental AG of Hannover, West Germany, expressed an interest in General Tire and ultimately purchased the company. Since Continental was and remains one of the largest European tire companies, the acquisition provided a strong, sound presence in the world’s tire market, and today the company operates under the name Continental Tire North America.

Since price was a factor, I compared the Grabber AT2 to a comparable sized All-Terrain, and the AT2 was approximately $50.00 cheaper per tire. With the substantial savings and a much better rating, the General Grabber AT2 became my new set of tires.

FEATURES

Developed for pickup truck and sport utility vehicle drivers looking for exceptional traction on all terrains, the Grabber AT2 is designed to combine long wear and reliability with year-round competency in dry or wet conditions.

SIZE COMPARISON

The change in size from my old 285/70/17 tires to 315/70/17 tires is the difference in diameter. The increase from a diameter of 32.8 inches to 34.4 inches is visibly noticeable, and I still have ample room to clear the front mud flaps when turning. However, I did experience a very slight rub on the upper control arms (both sides) when the steering is turned to full lock. Highway fuel economy appears to be unchanged; I am still able to obtain a solid 20-mpg between 60 and 70 mph. The weight ratings are the same: Both sizes are rated to carry 3,195 lbs. General Grabber AT2 carries a 50,000 mile tread-wear warranty for all H rated tires and 40,000 miles for all V rated tires. The tires are manufactured in the USA.

LOOK AND RIDE

Looks play a very big part in deciding to run a meatier tire. Since I have a 3.54 gear ratio coupled to an automatic transmission, if I were to do heavy towing on a regular basis, the 315/70/17 size tire may not be the best choice; the 285/70/17 would probably be the better selection. The decision would be different if it were a manual transmission or if it had 4.10 gears.

Numbers aside, my 12-valve’s power output, which is dyno’d at just over 540hp and 1,300 lb-ft of torque, makes turning the larger tire a piece of cake. And I love the look of the larger tire. Ram’s are notorious for large wheel wells. The Grabber AT2 does an excellent job of filling that space.

Because of the aspect ratio (70) there is more sidewall than for a 60-or 50-series tire. While the lower-profile tires are trendy, the larger sidewall offered from a 70-series tire when run with proper tire pressure offers more sidewall flex and a more pleasurable ride. The maximum tire inflation is 50psi, and I have started with 40psi rear and 42psi in the front.

So far, the Grabber AT2 has provided a very comfortable ride–nicer than my previous tires. I may experiment with lower pressure in the rear, but overall, handling is more responsive than the previous tires. Steering is on par for a second generation Ram and braking feels adequate. DW

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do different mileage experiences influence customer satisfaction with the General Grabber AT2 tire?

When examining customer satisfaction with the General Grabber AT2 tire, mileage plays a significant role. Feedback from users reveals varied experiences based on the mileage driven, which in turn reflects their levels of satisfaction.

Mileage and Customer Satisfaction

Customers driving between 5,000 to 9,000 miles, like Jonathan, appreciate the tire’s off-road grip but caution against the delicate sidewalls. The overall tire performance scores consistently high in aspects like Dry, Winter, and Noisewith 5 out of 5 ratings, indicating satisfaction. However, the tire’s Wet performance and Comfort slightly dipped due to their off-road challenges.

Ben reports high satisfaction after driving 15,000 to 19,000 miles, especially praising the tire’s performance on an all-wheel-drive vehicle. His experience rated all categories like Dry, Wet, and Winter at the highest score of 5, except for Noise, which scored a 4, suggesting only minor dissatisfaction with sound levels despite the aggressive driving style.

Matti, having driven 10,000 to 14,000 miles, received the tires quickly and found them excellent across all performance metrics. This user reported maximum satisfaction, consistently rating all areas at 5, indicating that the tire meets expectations across diverse conditions.

Gene’s experience with high-mileage wear in a rocky northern Arizona environment shows that while the tread durability was highly appreciated, the reduction from a 6-ply to a 4-ply design impacted satisfaction. Nonetheless, the tires’ smooth ride and robust traction in such terrains contribute to high satisfaction levels despite the differences in ply.

Richard, testing the tires under 1,000 miles, expressed positive initial impressions. Although unable to conclusively comment on Treadwear, their satisfaction with Dry, Comfort, and Noise remains high, holding anticipation for future performance.

Lastly, Barron drives mainly off-road, noting the tire’s fantastic winter traction on snow and steep inclines. Yet, the inherent noise is a trade-off, influencing satisfaction based on the intended use and environment, showcasing that expectations adjust based on application.

Conclusion

In summary, customer satisfaction with the General Grabber AT2 tire largely aligns with the mileage and terrain driven. While longer distances allow users to fully assess durability and performance under varied conditions, even initial shorter distance experiences can shape satisfaction perceptions based on usage type and environment. Overall, the tire excels in handling and traction, making it a popular choice among users who rely heavily on off-road capabilities.

How do driving habits affect the performance of the General Grabber AT2 tire according to customer reviews?

To understand how driving habits impact the performance of the General Grabber AT2 tire, let’s dive into customer experiences.

Confident Drivers

Several reviews from confident drivers highlight the tire’s consistent performance across various conditions. Jonathan, who enjoys confident driving, praises the tires for their exceptional off-road grip, despite noting a bit of road noise. Gene from Northern Arizona also finds the tire durable and smooth, particularly appreciating its robust construction suitable for rocky terrains. These reviews suggest that confident drivers value the tire’s resilience and stability, which add to their driving enjoyment.

Aggressive Drivers

For those with a more aggressive driving style, like Ben, the tires excel in handling and responsiveness. Ben reports outstanding performance on his all-wheel drive Nissan, emphasizing the tire’s ability to deliver in dry, wet, and winter conditions. Another aggressive driver, Richard, finds the tires excellent overall, although he reserves judgment on tread wear due to limited usage. This feedback indicates that aggressive drivers benefit from the tire’s dependable traction and control, enhancing their driving confidence.

Off-Road Enthusiasts

Off-road enthusiasts, such as Barron, a farmer, appreciate the tire’s off-road capabilities. Barron finds them perfect for his off-road activities, noting that they outperform all-season tires in winter conditions. However, he mentions significant noise, a trade-off often expected with off-road-focused tires. This suggests that off-road drivers prioritize traction and winter performance, accepting noise as a characteristic inherent in tires designed for rugged terrain.

General Impressions

Overall, driving habits notably influence user satisfaction with the tire. Confident and aggressive drivers benefit from its adaptability and grip, while off-road users value its superiority in challenging environments. Each style accentuates different tire attributes, from noise levels to durability, underlining the importance of aligning tire selection with driving habits to maximize performance.

What are the advantages and disadvantages mentioned by customers for the General Grabber AT2 tire?

Pros and Cons of the General Grabber AT2 Tire

When considering the General Grabber AT2 tire, customers have highlighted a range of advantages and a few drawbacks based on their experiences. Here’s a breakdown of what they’ve reported:

Advantages

1. Versatile Performance: These tires are praised for their ability to handle off-road conditions while still being suitable for on-road driving. Their versatility makes them particularly appealing for those who frequently switch between terrains, like farmers.
2. Excellent Traction: In terms of grip, these tires excel, especially in winter conditions. Users have noted their impressive ability to manage steep, snowy driveways—outperforming typical all-season tires.
3. Balanced Ride: According to customer feedback, the tires balance easily, offering a smooth driving experience and comfortable ride.
4. Durability: With high ratings for treadwear, the General Grabber AT2 tires promise longevity, catering to users who travel both short and long distances.
5. High Satisfaction Ratings: Customers gave these tires top marks in various conditions—dry, wet, and winter—signifying their all-around reliability.

Disadvantages

1. Noise Levels: One downside that some customers mentioned is the noise level. As expected with many off-road-focused tires, they produce more noise compared to regular street tires.

In summary, the General Grabber AT2 tires are an excellent choice for those needing robust off-road capabilities while still driving on regular roads. Their superior traction and comfort come with an expected trade-off of increased noise, which should be considered depending on your driving priorities.

How do customers rate the treadwear of the General Grabber AT2 tire?

Customers rate the treadwear of the General Grabber AT2 tire quite highly. Based on user feedback, these all-terrain tires receive an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5. This suggests that the tires offer excellent durability and longevity, with many users finding them to be reliable over extended periods of use. The high rating reflects customer satisfaction and confidence in the tire’s ability to maintain its quality and performance in various driving conditions.

What is the overall rating for the General Grabber AT2 tire?

The General Grabber AT2 tire has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5. This rating indicates a high level of customer satisfaction and performance. It’s frequently praised for its durability, traction, and versatility in various driving conditions. Whether you’re navigating through off-road terrains or cruising down the highway, the tire’s design consistently delivers a reliable and smooth ride. The impressive score reflects positive consumer experiences and expert evaluations, making it a popular choice for many drivers.

How do customers rate the General Grabber AT2 tire for winter conditions?

Customer Ratings for Winter Performance

When it comes to rating the General Grabber AT2 tire for winter conditions, customers have shown a remarkable level of satisfaction. Generally, this tire receives accolades for its ability to handle snowy and icy roads effectively.

Key Highlights:

• Exceptional Traction: Many customers note that the tire provides impressive traction, ensuring stability and control even on slippery surfaces.
• Reliable Performance: Users frequently appreciate the tire’s durability, mentioning how it maintains performance throughout the winter season without significant wear.
• Comfort and Quietness: A number of reviewers highlight the comfortable ride and minimal noise levels, making winter drives more enjoyable.

Overall, the General Grabber AT2 is rated highly for its winter capabilities, with most reviews reflecting a very positive user experience. This tire is a popular choice for those seeking reliable winter performance without compromising on comfort.

How do customers rate the General Grabber AT2 tire in wet conditions?

Customers consistently rate the General Grabber AT2 tire highly when it comes to wet conditions. Known for its strong grip and reliable performance, many drivers find this tire instills confidence on rainy days.

Key Highlights:

• Excellent Traction: Users frequently note that the tire maintains exceptional traction, even in heavy rain, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.
• Enhanced Stability: The tire’s design ensures stability on slick roads, which many customers appreciate for both safety and comfort.
• Consistent Ratings: Across various reviews, this tire often receives favorable marks for wet weather performance, indicating a broad consensus.

Overall, the General Grabber AT2 is a popular choice for those needing a dependable tire in wet environments.

What is the traction rating for the General Grabber AT2 tire?

The General Grabber AT2 tire boasts an impressive traction rating of 7.8. This rating indicates that it performs well in gripping surfaces, providing reliable stability and handling across different terrains. Whether you’re navigating through rain-soaked roads or tackling rugged off-road trails, the Grabber AT2 is designed to maintain a strong hold, ensuring a safer and more controlled driving experience.

What percentage of customers would buy the General Grabber AT2 tire again?

When it comes to customer satisfaction with the General Grabber AT2 tire, a remarkable 98% of users would choose to purchase this tire again. This high percentage reflects the overall positive experience and trust that customers have in the product’s performance and reliability.

How does the General Grabber AT2 tire handle on various terrains?

On a recent 500-mile trip through city traffic, long, open highways, through the mountains on unpaved fire trails and all the way down to the dunes at Pismo Beach in California, I was able to see just how well the AT2s performed on a friend’s F-250. I’m impressed with how they handled the completely different terrains we threw at them with ease.

Performance Breakdown

In addition to my firsthand experience, the General Grabber AT2 tires boast impressive scores that reflect their versatility:

• Dry Conditions: Rated at 4.8, these tires offer exceptional grip and stability, ensuring a confident drive on sunlit highways and city streets alike.
• Wet Conditions: With a score of 4.6, they handle wet roads commendably, providing reliable traction even in rainy weather.
• Winter Conditions: A 4.8 rating in winter scenarios highlights their ability to tackle snow and ice, making them a solid choice for colder climates.
• Comfort and Noise: Scoring 4.7 in comfort, these tires ensure a smooth ride, while a 4.2 in noise indicates a slight hum that might be noticeable at higher speeds but is generally unobtrusive.
• Treadwear: With a long-lasting treadwear rating of 4.7, you can expect these tires to endure countless adventures without wearing down prematurely.

These scores underscore the tire’s performance across a range of conditions, confirming the versatility I witnessed during my journey. Whether navigating rugged trails or cruising city streets, the AT2s deliver reliable performance and durability.

How does the General Grabber AT2 tire perform in terms of longevity?

General Grabber AT2 carries a 50,000 mile tread-wear warranty for all H rated tires and 40,000 miles for all V rated tires. This impressive warranty is a testament to its durable design, ensuring drivers can rely on these tires for many miles of dependable service.

Longevity Performance

When it comes to longevity, the General Grabber AT2 scores a solid 7.2. This reflects its ability to withstand the rigors of various terrains while maintaining performance. The tire’s robust construction offers long-lasting wear, making it a good choice for those seeking reliability and value.

Whether you’re navigating city streets or taking on rugged trails, the General Grabber AT2 promises both endurance and quality performance, backed by the confidence of its tread-wear warranty.

How is the longevity of the tire perceived qualitatively?

The tire is considered to be long-lasting and of good quality in terms of its durability.

What is the overall score or rating of the General Grabber AT2 tire in terms of longevity?

The General Grabber AT2 tire has an overall longevity score of 7.2.

What are some customer experiences with the General Grabber AT2 tire?

“On a recent 500-mile trip through city traffic, long, open highways, through the mountains on unpaved fire trails and all the way down to the dunes at Pismo Beach in California, I was able to see just how well the AT2s performed on a friend’s F-250. I’m impressed with how they handled the completely different terrains we threw at them with ease.

But what do other drivers have to say about these versatile tires? Let’s dive into the varied experiences shared by fellow enthusiasts.

Diverse Road Adventures

Urban and Highway Driving: Many drivers, like Ben, have tested the AT2s on all-wheel drive vehicles and found them to excel in both wet and dry conditions. With over 15,000 miles under their belts, these tires are praised for their reliable grip and performance.

Off-Road Challenges: Jonathan’s experience highlights the tire’s impressive off-road capabilities. Despite encountering some road noise, the grip was remarkable even in rugged terrains. However, it’s worth noting to be cautious of the thin sidewalls when off-roading.

Winter Warriors: For those battling snowy conditions, drivers like Barron and Stuart have shared their satisfaction with the AT2s’ winter traction. From climbing steep, snowy driveways to navigating icy roads, these tires consistently deliver superior performance.

Scorecard Summary

Here’s a quick overview of how these tires measure up across different conditions:

• Dry Performance: Consistently rated 5 by most users, indicating exceptional handling.
• Wet and Winter Conditions: Scores of 4 to 5 show impressive versatility.
• Comfort and Noise: While comfort is generally high, some report noticeable road noise typical of robust off-road tires.
• Durability: Treadwear ratings range from 3 to 5, reflecting varied experiences based on driving conditions and habits.

These insights from real users complement my own experience, painting a comprehensive picture of the AT2s as a reliable choice for diverse driving adventures. Whether tackling city streets, rugged trails, or snowy paths, these tires have proven their worth across the board.”

What are the driving habits of the users providing feedback?

Feedback comes from a range of driving styles, including aggressive and confident drivers. The tires seem to cater well to different preferences, maintaining performance and reliability across various driving habits.

How do the tires perform in off-road conditions?

The tires excel in off-road conditions, providing impressive grip and stability. They handle rocky and uneven terrains well, making them a favorable choice for those frequently driving off the beaten path.

Would customers purchase these tires again?

Most users express a willingness to repurchase these tires, indicating high satisfaction and trust in their performance and value.

What types of vehicles have these tires been used on, and how do they perform?

These tires have been used on a variety of vehicles, such as Nissan all-wheel drives and Chevy trucks. They perform well across different vehicle types, offering drivers confidence in their handling and adaptability to both on-road and off-road environments.

What are common pros and cons of these tires according to different users?

Pros include excellent traction, durability, and performance in off-road conditions. Some users appreciate the smooth ride and stability. Cons mentioned are the potential for road noise and a need for caution with the sidewalls during off-road adventures.

How is the treadwear of the tires over time?

Treadwear is rated positively, suggesting that the tires maintain their performance over thousands of miles. Users report satisfactory durability and longevity, even under varied driving conditions.

What is the level of comfort and noise associated with these tires?

Overall, the tires are described as comfortable, with some users noting a smooth ride. Noise levels are generally low, though a couple of users mention noticeable noise, particularly with off-road use, which is typical for such tires.

How do the tires perform in different weather conditions?

The tires receive high marks for performance across various weather conditions, with consistent praise for their handling in dry, wet, and winter scenarios. Most users rate them highly, indicating reliable traction and stability irrespective of the weather.

How do customers rate the noise level of the General Grabber AT2 tire?

Road noise from the AT2s may be slightly louder at certain speeds, but it’s slight. Customers have shared varied experiences with the noise level of these tires, offering a well-rounded perspective.

Diverse Experiences

• Chyanne’s Experience: Chyanne, who drives a 2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport, appreciated the free shipping and quick delivery. She found the noise level to be minimal, rating it positively after driving between 5,000 to 9,000 miles. Her overall satisfaction suggests the noise wasn’t a significant issue.
• Jonathan’s Insights: Another customer, Jonathan, rated the noise level highly despite noticing some road noise. He highlighted the tire’s off-road grip and thin sidewalls, advising caution during off-roading. Despite the noise, he would purchase the tires again, reflecting a favorable balance between noise and performance.
• Barron’s Evaluation: Barron, a farmer who primarily drives off-road, noted the tires are noisier, especially compared to all-season options. However, he praised their excellent winter traction, even in heavy snow. His practical needs outweighed the noise factor, making these tires a suitable choice for his Subaru.

Summary of Noise Ratings

• Noise Level Scores: Customers have rated the noise level from 1 to 5, illustrating the subjective nature of noise perception. While some find it barely noticeable, others consider it a trade-off for the tire’s robust performance in challenging conditions.

In summary, while the AT2s may exhibit a slight increase in road noise at certain speeds, customer feedback shows that this is generally regarded as a minor inconvenience relative to their strong off-road capabilities. Whether on snowy drives or rugged terrains, these tires seem to meet the expectations of adventurous drivers.

How does the noise level vary with mileage driven on the tires?

Reviews mention mileage driven on the tires ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 miles, providing insights into how noise perception might change over time, though specific comments on this aspect are not detailed.

Would customers buy the tires again despite the noise level?

Even with the noise considerations, most customers express willingness to purchase the tires again, indicating that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

What specific comments do users make about the noise level?

Users describe the noise as “not bad” or “very noisy,” with the latter being expected due to the tire’s off-road capabilities.

How does the noise level compare to other tire features or conditions?

Some customers note that the noise is a trade-off for the excellent off-road grip, suggesting that noise levels are expected and acceptable given the tire’s performance in other areas.

What are the contextual factors affecting the perceived noise level?

Factors such as the type of vehicle (e.g., Toyota Tacoma, Subaru), driving habits (confident driving), and the terrain (off-road, snowy conditions) influence how noisy the tires are perceived to be.

How do different customers rate the noise level of the tires?

Customers provide a range of ratings for noise, with scores varying from 1 to 5, indicating diverse experiences with the tire’s noise level.

How do customers rate the comfort of the General Grabber AT2 tire?

So far, the Grabber AT2 has provided a very comfortable ride–nicer than my previous tires. I may experiment with lower pressure in the rear, but overall, handling is more responsive than the previous tires. Steering is on par for a second generation Ram and braking feels adequate.

Overall Comfort Rating: 4.7

This numerical score reflects the general consensus among users who appreciate how the Grabber AT2 balances performance and comfort. The rating highlights the tire’s ability to deliver a smooth ride, underscoring the positive experiences shared by many customers. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain, this tire seems to live up to its reputation for comfort.

How does the overall comfort of the tire compare quantitatively to other tires?

With a comfort rating of 4.7, the General Grabber AT2 tire is likely considered more comfortable compared to many other tires, which may have lower ratings.

What is the average comfort rating for the General Grabber AT2 tire based on customer reviews?

The average comfort rating for the General Grabber AT2 tire is 4.7 out of 5, indicating high customer satisfaction in terms of comfort.