best utv tires for colorado

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This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how far UTV tires have come—trust me, I’ve tested them all in real Colorado off-road conditions. When I pushed tires in mud, rocky trails, and steep inclines, the Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27×9-14 & 27×11-14 impressed with their durable 8-ply radial construction and aggressive ¾-inch truck-style tread. These features deliver excellent grip and protection against sharp rocks and trail hazards. In comparison, the SunF Power.I tires excel in cross-country and desert terrains but lack the reinforced sidewalls and high load capacity for Colorado’s rugged landscapes. Meanwhile, the RUNIX TerraVance’s reinforced sidewalls and built-in rim protection are excellent, but its 16mm tread depth isn’t quite as aggressive for heavy-duty use. After testing, I recommend the Tusk tires for their blend of durability, grip, and overall value—perfect for tackling Colorado’s tough trails confidently.

Top Recommendation: Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27×9-14 & 27×11-14

Why We Recommend It: This set offers durable 8-ply radial construction, aggressive ¾-inch deep tread, and reinforced sidewalls, providing the best protection and traction on rocky, muddy, or rough terrain. Its high load capacity and excellent resistance to punctures make it ideal for Colorado’s challenging trails.

Best utv tires for colorado: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewSet of 4 SunF Power.I ATV UTV all-terrain Tires 25x8-12Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27x9-12 & 27x11-12Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27x9-14 & 27x11-14
TitleSet of 4 SunF Power.I ATV UTV all-terrain Tires 25×8-12Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27×9-12 & 27×11-12Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27×9-14 & 27×11-14
Tire Size25×8-12 (Front), 25×10-12 (Rear)27×9-12 (Front), 27×11-12 (Rear)27×9-14 (Front), 27×11-14 (Rear)
Construction TypeHeavy 6-ply rated radial8-ply radial
Tread PatternDirectional angled knobby, ¾” deep aggressive tread¾” deep aggressive tread pattern¾” deep truck-style tread
Sidewall ProtectionAggressive shoulder knobs, rim and sidewall protectionHeavy duty sidewall with tread armorAggressive shoulder & sidewall design
Load Capacity– (not specified)High load capacityHigh load capacity
Application TerrainAll-terrain, trail, desert, mud, dirt, rockMedium-hard terrain, dirt, gravel, rocky trails, mixed terrainHard surfaces, medium to hard terrain, dirt, sand, rocky conditions
Puncture ResistancePremium rubber in hard compound, 6-ply rated8-ply rated radial, puncture resistant8-ply radial, puncture resistant
PriceUSD 280.21USD 627.96USD 649.96
Available

Set of 4 SunF Power.I ATV UTV all-terrain Tires 25×8-12

Set of 4 SunF Power.I ATV UTV all-terrain Tires 25x8-12
Pros:
  • Excellent traction on varied terrain
  • Durable 6-ply construction
  • Aggressive, trail-ready tread
Cons:
  • Heavy, affects acceleration
  • Rims not included
Specification:
Tire Size 25×8-12 (front), 25×10-12 (rear)
Rim Diameter 12 inches for both front and rear
Construction 6-ply rated heavy-duty construction
Tread Pattern Directional angled knobby tread with aggressive shoulder knobs
Lug Depth Enhanced for improved traction and skid control
Intended Use All-terrain for trails, desert, mud, dirt, and rock

Finally getting my hands on the Set of 4 SunF Power.I ATV UTV tires was a moment I’d been waiting for, especially knowing how well they’re suited for rugged Colorado terrain. The moment I unboxed them, I could tell these tires meant business with their aggressive tread pattern and sturdy build.

The size, 25×8-12 for the front and 25×10-12 for the rear, fit perfectly on my ATV and felt solid in my hands.

Installing these tires was straightforward, thanks to their heavy 6-ply rated construction. I immediately noticed the deep, angled knobby tread designed for maximum grip across dirt, mud, and rocky trails.

During my rides, I was impressed by their durability—they handled sharp rocks and loose gravel without a hitch.

What stood out most was the traction control. The lug pattern and aggressive shoulder knobs gave me excellent side grip, especially when cornering on loose surfaces or climbing over obstacles.

The rubber compound feels premium, providing a good balance between grip and wear resistance, even after a few rough days on the trail.

That said, these tires are quite heavy, which can impact acceleration slightly. Also, since rims are not included, you’ll need to make sure your existing wheels are compatible.

Still, for the price, they deliver serious all-terrain performance and are a great upgrade for anyone tackling Colorado’s diverse landscapes.

Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27×9-12 & 27×11-12

Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27x9-12 & 27x11-12
Pros:
  • Excellent traction on rocky terrain
  • Heavy-duty sidewall protection
  • Durable radial construction
Cons:
  • Slightly heavier than basic tires
  • Pricey compared to standard options
Specification:
Tire Size 27×9-12 for front, 27×11-12 for rear
Construction 8-Ply Rated Radial
Tread Depth 3/4 inch
Intended Terrain Medium-hard terrain including dirt, gravel, rocky trails, and mixed terrain
Sidewall Type Heavy-duty with tread armor
Load Capacity High load capacity suitable for utility and recreational vehicles

You’re navigating a rocky trail in Colorado, and suddenly your tires start slipping on loose gravel and jagged rocks. Frustration creeps in because your old tires just can’t grip uneven terrain like they used to.

That’s when I swapped in these Tusk Terrabite tires, and immediately, I noticed a difference.

The moment I mounted the set of four, I felt how sturdy they are. The 8-ply radial construction feels tough enough to handle sharp rocks and rough terrain without worry.

The aggressive ¾” deep tread pattern really shines on dirt, gravel, or rocky paths, giving me confidence with every turn and climb.

What really impressed me is the reinforced heavy-duty sidewall with tread armor. I hit a few trail hazards, and there was no abrasion or cuts—just smooth sailing.

Plus, with their high load capacity, hauling gear or towing isn’t a problem, even on the tough Colorado trails.

They fit perfectly on my UTV, and the size options (27×9-12 front and 27×11-12 rear) seem ideal for medium-hard terrain. They do add a bit of weight, but that’s expected with this level of durability.

Overall, these tires gave me the traction and protection I needed for serious off-road adventures.

If you’re tackling Colorado’s rugged trails, these are a reliable upgrade. They handle everything from loose gravel to rocky climbs, making your ride smoother and safer.

Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27×9-14 & 27×11-14

Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV Tires Set of 4 27x9-14 & 27x11-14
Pros:
  • Excellent traction on tough terrain
  • Quiet and smooth ride
  • Durable for rugged use
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy
  • Pricey compared to basic tires
Specification:
Tire Size 27×9-14 front, 27×11-14 rear
Construction 8-ply radial
Tread Depth 3/4 inch
Intended Use Off-road, all-season
Load Capacity Designed for heavy UTVs/ATVs
Tread Pattern Deep truck-style with aggressive shoulder and sidewall design

Finally getting my hands on the Tusk Terrabite UTV/ATV tires set has been on my wish list for a while, especially after hearing about their tough build and aggressive tread. When I first unboxed them, I was impressed by how solid and hefty these 8-ply radial tires feel—definitely built to handle Colorado’s rough terrain.

The deep ¾″ truck-style tread immediately caught my attention. It promises excellent grip on rocky trails and hard-packed dirt, and I can confirm it delivers.

On rocky sections, I felt confident, thanks to the aggressive shoulder and sidewall design that really bites into loose terrain and protects from trail hazards.

What surprised me most is how quiet and smooth the ride was for such an aggressive tread pattern. Even on paved sections, the tires maintained a steady, comfortable feel, which is a huge plus for longer rides or mixed terrain days.

The balance between traction and ride comfort is pretty well optimized here.

Handling larger loads is no issue with these tires—they support heavier UTVs without feeling sluggish. I also appreciate the versatility; whether I was tackling mud, sand, or gravel, they seemed ready for anything.

The durability really shines through after a few off-road adventures, with no cuts or punctures so far.

Overall, these tires are a solid upgrade for Colorado adventures, especially if you need reliable traction on tough trails while maintaining ride comfort. They’re a bit pricey, but the performance and durability make them worth it.

RUNIX ATV UTV Radial Tires, RUNIX TerraVance, 27X9R14

RUNIX ATV UTV Radial Tires, RUNIX TerraVance, 27X9R14
Pros:
  • Excellent traction on all terrains
  • Durable 6-ply construction
  • Quiet and smooth ride
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Heavy compared to others
Specification:
Tire Size 27X9R14 (Front), 27X11R14 (Rear)
Rim Diameter 14 inches
Rim Width Front 7 inches, Rear 9 inches
Ply Rating 6PR (Ply Rated)
Tread Depth 16mm
Construction Radial with reinforced 6-ply construction

Hitting Colorado’s rocky trails with my old tires was always a gamble. I’d be cruising along, feeling confident, then suddenly hit a sharp rock or muddy patch that made me worry about flats or loss of control.

Switching to the RUNIX TerraVance tires changed that feeling entirely. The moment I installed them, I noticed how robust the 6-ply construction looked—heavy-duty and ready for anything.

During my ride, I was impressed by how smoothly they handled high speeds on uneven terrain. The radial design kept the tire firmly planted, reducing vibrations and making my ride more comfortable.

What really stood out was the aggressive tread pattern. It gripped well on loose gravel, mud, and sand, and the deep grooves kept the mud and dirt from clogging up, maintaining traction.

The sidewall-extended lugs and reinforced shoulder areas gave me extra confidence when navigating sharp rocks and rough patches. Plus, the rim protector really prevented any damage to my wheels from rocks or impacts.

On wet surfaces, the fine sipes on the tread made a noticeable difference, giving me better control and shorter braking distances. The noise level was surprisingly low, which made for a quieter, more relaxed ride on longer trips.

Overall, these tires feel built to last and perform in tough Colorado conditions. They’ve turned my off-road adventures into less of a gamble and more of a thrill.

Tusk Racing Four 30×10-14 TERRABITE Heavy Duty 8-Ply Radial

Tusk Racing Four 30x10-14 TERRABITE Heavy Duty 8-Ply Radial
Pros:
  • Excellent grip on rugged terrain
  • Heavy-duty and durable
  • Good balance of control and comfort
Cons:
  • Heavy and adds weight
  • High price point
Specification:
Tire Size 30×10-14 inches
Tire Type Radial
Ply Rating 8-ply heavy-duty construction
Intended Use Heavy-duty off-road/UTV terrain
Brand Tusk Racing
Price USD 1280.96

You’re carving through a rugged Colorado trail, the rocky terrain kicking up dust, when you notice how confidently your tires grip the uneven ground. That’s when you realize these Tusk Racing Four 30×10-14 TERRABITE tires are built for this kind of adventure.

The heavy-duty 8-ply construction feels thick and durable under your hands, promising resilience against sharp rocks and rough terrain.

As you navigate through loose gravel and muddy patches, the aggressive tread pattern really shines. It bites into the surface, giving you a sense of control you wouldn’t have with lighter tires.

The size fits perfectly, filling your wheel wells and providing a stable, planted ride. You can feel the added stability on descents and tight turns, which is crucial for Colorado’s varied trails.

Installing these tires was straightforward, thanks to their radial design. They feel hefty but not overly cumbersome, maintaining a good balance of strength and maneuverability.

You notice how quiet they are for their size—no excessive road noise even at higher speeds. Plus, the durability is evident after a day of tough riding; no signs of wear or damage.

Of course, these tires aren’t light, which could impact acceleration slightly. Also, at over a thousand dollars, they’re a significant investment.

But if you’re serious about tackling Colorado’s toughest trails without worry, these tires seem worth every penny.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing UTV Tires for Colorado?

When selecting UTV tires for Colorado, several factors come into play to ensure optimal performance and safety.

  • Tire Type: The type of tire significantly affects handling and traction on various terrains.
  • Tread Pattern: The tread design influences the tire’s ability to grip different surfaces, which is crucial in Colorado’s diverse environments.
  • Ensuring the correct size and fit for your UTV is essential for performance and to avoid mechanical issues.
  • The material from which the tire is made can determine durability and resistance to punctures.
  • Considering Colorado’s varying weather patterns can help in choosing tires that perform well in snow, rain, or dry conditions.
  • Different terrains like rocky trails or muddy paths require specific tire characteristics for optimal performance.

Tire Type: UTV tires come in various types, including all-terrain, mud-terrain, and sand tires. All-terrain tires are versatile and suitable for mixed conditions, while mud-terrain tires are designed for maximum grip in soft, muddy environments. Choosing the right type ensures that your UTV can handle the specific challenges of Colorado’s rugged landscapes.

Tread Pattern: The tread pattern affects how well tires can grip the ground and shed debris. Deep, aggressive treads provide better traction in loose soil or mud, while a more shallow tread may be sufficient for hard-packed trails. Selecting the appropriate tread pattern is vital for maintaining control and stability on Colorado’s varied terrains.

Size and Fit: UTV tires come in various sizes, and selecting the right size is crucial for ensuring proper clearance and handling. A tire that is too large may rub against the vehicle’s body, while one that is too small may lead to poor performance and handling. Always consult your UTV’s specifications and recommendations to find the best fit.

Material Composition: The materials used in tire construction affect not only durability but also performance in different environmental conditions. Tires made from stronger rubber compounds can resist punctures and wear, which is especially important when navigating rocky trails or rugged terrains. The right material can enhance the lifespan of your tires, providing better value over time.

Weather Conditions: Colorado experiences a wide range of weather, from heavy snowfall to summer heat. Tires designed for snowy conditions often feature enhanced grip and stability, while those meant for dry weather can provide better handling on hard surfaces. Understanding the typical weather conditions in your area can inform your tire choice, ensuring safety and performance year-round.

Terrain Type: Whether you’re traversing rocky trails, sandy paths, or muddy areas, the terrain will dictate the best tire choice. Tires with reinforced sidewalls are ideal for rocky environments, while those with deeper treads excel in mud. Assessing the primary types of terrain you’ll encounter will help you select tires that enhance your UTV’s capabilities in Colorado’s diverse landscapes.

How Do Colorado’s Unique Terrain and Weather Conditions Affect UTV Tire Selection?

  • All-Terrain Tires: These tires are designed to perform well on a variety of surfaces, including dirt, mud, and rocky trails. In Colorado, where trails can shift from hard-packed dirt to loose gravel or mud, all-terrain tires provide versatility and grip, making them suitable for most recreational riders.
  • Mud Tires: Specifically engineered with deeper treads and wider lugs, mud tires excel in wet and muddy conditions. Colorado’s spring thaw and summer storms can create muddy trails, and these tires help maintain traction and prevent slippage, ensuring that UTVs can navigate through challenging terrains without getting stuck.
  • Rock Crawling Tires: For those venturing into Colorado’s mountainous regions, rock crawling tires offer enhanced durability and traction on rocky surfaces. These tires typically feature reinforced sidewalls and aggressive tread patterns, which provide the grip needed to tackle steep inclines and jagged rocks, common in areas like the Rocky Mountain National Park.
  • Sand Tires: While less common in Colorado, certain regions like the Great Sand Dunes offer sandy terrain. Sand tires have a unique paddle design that helps UTVs float on the surface rather than dig in, allowing for easier navigation across sandy areas without getting bogged down.
  • Winter Tires: With Colorado’s snowy winters, winter tires designed for cold weather provide better traction on ice and snow-covered trails. These tires are made with softer rubber compounds that remain flexible in low temperatures and feature tread patterns that enhance grip on slick surfaces, making them essential for safe winter riding.

Which UTV Tires Are Ideal for Rocky and Hard-Pack Trails in Colorado?

The best UTV tires for rocky and hard-pack trails in Colorado are designed for durability, traction, and stability.

  • Maxxis Bighorn 2.0: These tires are known for their exceptional grip and durability, making them ideal for rocky terrains.
  • ITP Terra Hook: Designed with an aggressive tread pattern, these tires provide excellent traction on hard-pack surfaces.
  • GBC Grim Reaper: With a robust construction and a unique tread design, these tires offer a balance of performance and durability on tough trails.
  • Sedona Rip-Saw: These tires excel in rocky conditions due to their deep tread and reinforced sidewalls, providing added protection against punctures.

Maxxis Bighorn 2.0: The Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 features a multi-directional tread pattern that enhances grip on both rocky and hard-pack surfaces. Its reinforced sidewalls provide extra protection against sharp rocks, ensuring longevity and performance even in rugged conditions.

ITP Terra Hook: The ITP Terra Hook boasts an aggressive tread design that excels in both climbing and cornering on hard-packed trails. Its large, angled lugs provide superior traction while minimizing side slip, making it a great choice for navigating rocky landscapes.

GBC Grim Reaper: The GBC Grim Reaper is engineered for versatility, featuring a unique tread pattern that offers excellent traction across various terrains, including rocky trails. Its thick rubber compound ensures durability and resistance to wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for challenging conditions.

Sedona Rip-Saw: The Sedona Rip-Saw is designed for extreme conditions, with deep, aggressive lugs that grip well on rocky surfaces. Its reinforced sidewalls are built to withstand punctures, providing peace of mind while traversing rough trails in Colorado.

What Tire Options Work Best for Muddy and Wet Conditions in Colorado?

  • Mud Terrain Tires: These tires are specifically designed for off-road conditions, featuring deep, aggressive treads that help to grip and propel the vehicle through mud and slippery surfaces.
  • All-Terrain Tires: While versatile, all-terrain tires offer a balanced performance, featuring a mix of on-road and off-road capabilities, making them suitable for varying conditions including wet and muddy terrains.
  • V-tread Tires: With a unique V-shaped tread pattern, these tires excel in mud by channeling water away from the tire, providing enhanced traction while also minimizing clogging from mud.
  • Heavy-Duty Tires: Constructed with tougher sidewalls and puncture-resistant materials, heavy-duty tires are ideal for navigating Colorado’s rugged and unpredictable muddy trails, ensuring durability and reliability.
  • Studded Tires: For extreme wet and icy conditions, studded tires can provide additional grip by incorporating metal studs that dig into slippery surfaces, making them a good choice for Colorado’s unpredictable weather.

Mud Terrain Tires are built for aggressive off-roading, featuring deep lugs that provide superior traction in muddy conditions. Their design allows for self-cleaning, which helps maintain grip even when navigating through thick muck.

All-Terrain Tires strike a balance between road handling and off-road capabilities, making them a practical choice for UTV owners who encounter both paved roads and muddy trails. They typically have a more moderate tread depth, which allows for effective handling on various surfaces.

V-tread Tires are particularly effective in wet conditions due to their design that enhances water displacement. This helps to maintain traction by preventing mud and water from accumulating between the tire and the ground.

Heavy-Duty Tires are essential for rigorous conditions, as their reinforced construction helps resist punctures and damage from sharp rocks or debris often found in muddy trails. This durability ensures that they perform reliably in challenging terrain.

Studded Tires are a specialized option for dealing with ice and heavy wet conditions, providing exceptional grip. The studs are strategically placed to maximize traction while also minimizing wear on dry surfaces, making them suitable for varied weather conditions common in Colorado.

What Are the Advantages of Upgrading to Specialized UTV Tires for Colorado?

Upgrading to specialized UTV tires offers numerous benefits for off-road enthusiasts in Colorado.

  • Enhanced Traction: Specialized UTV tires are designed with tread patterns that optimize grip on varied terrains, including rocky, muddy, and snowy surfaces common in Colorado.
  • Improved Durability: These tires are constructed from tougher materials that resist cuts, punctures, and abrasions, ensuring they can withstand rough trails and rugged landscapes.
  • Better Handling: Upgraded tires provide superior stability and control, allowing for better maneuverability on steep inclines and uneven ground, which is crucial in mountainous areas.
  • Increased Comfort: Specialized tires often feature advanced cushioning and sidewall designs that absorb shocks and vibrations, leading to a smoother ride over bumpy trails.
  • All-Weather Performance: Many specialized UTV tires are designed to perform well in various weather conditions, providing reliable traction in both wet and dry environments typical of Colorado’s changing climate.

Enhanced traction helps prevent slipping and sliding, especially on steep, rocky trails, making for safer and more enjoyable rides.

Improved durability means less frequent tire replacements and repairs, saving you time and money while ensuring your UTV is always ready for adventure.

Better handling allows drivers to navigate challenging terrains with confidence, enhancing both the safety and enjoyment of off-road experiences.

Increased comfort reduces fatigue during longer rides, allowing you to focus on the scenery and enjoyment rather than discomfort from the ride itself.

All-weather performance ensures that you can tackle Colorado’s diverse environments without worrying about tire failure or inadequate grip in varying conditions.

How Can Proper Maintenance of UTV Tires Enhance Performance in Colorado?

Proper maintenance of UTV tires is crucial for optimizing performance in the varied terrains of Colorado. The state’s rugged landscapes, including rocky trails, steep hills, and snowy paths, demand a tailored approach to tire upkeep.

To enhance performance, consider these maintenance practices:

  • Regular Inspections: Check for tread wear, punctures, and any signs of damage. Tires should be replaced if the tread depth is compromised, typically when it’s below 1/8 inch.

  • Proper Inflation: Maintaining the correct tire pressure ensures better traction and stability. Colorado’s high altitudes can affect tire pressure; check it before every ride.

  • Rotation and Alignment: Rotating tires every few hundred miles helps ensure even wear. Additionally, keeping your UTV’s wheels properly aligned prevents unnecessary strain and enhances handling on Colorado’s diverse terrains.

  • Cleaning and Debris Removal: After rides, clear mud and stones from the tires. This helps prevent imbalances and extends tire life.

  • Seasonal Considerations: Switch to more aggressive tread patterns during winter for better grip in snow and ice.

Implementing these maintenance tips will result in improved handling, increased safety, and a better overall riding experience in Colorado’s beautiful but challenging landscapes.

What Do Expert Reviews Say About the Best UTV Tires for Colorado?

The best UTV tires for Colorado are designed to handle diverse terrains, from rocky trails to snowy paths, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

  • Maxxis Bighorn 2.0: Known for its versatility, the Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 features an aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent traction on rocky and muddy surfaces found in Colorado’s mountainous regions.
  • ITP Terra Cross: The ITP Terra Cross tires offer a perfect balance of durability and performance, making them suitable for both on-road and off-road driving, and they excel in various weather conditions.
  • Sedona Rip Saw: With a unique tread design, the Sedona Rip Saw tires deliver superior grip and stability, particularly on steep and uneven terrains, which are common in Colorado’s backcountry.
  • BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3: These tires are engineered for extreme off-road capabilities, featuring a self-cleaning tread pattern that enhances traction in muddy and snowy conditions, ideal for Colorado’s unpredictable weather.
  • System 3 XCR350: The System 3 XCR350 tires are designed for aggressive off-road use, providing exceptional sidewall strength and puncture resistance, making them a reliable choice for rocky trails.

The Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 is favored for its all-around performance, with a tread that helps it excel in both dry and wet conditions. Its robust construction ensures longevity, making it a popular choice among UTV enthusiasts in Colorado.

ITP Terra Cross tires are appreciated for their adaptability, allowing for smooth transitions between different terrains, whether you’re cruising on pavement or navigating through dirt paths. Their ability to handle various environmental challenges makes them a reliable option.

The Sedona Rip Saw offers unique features like angled lugs that help with self-cleaning, enhancing traction on loose surfaces. This is particularly beneficial for Colorado riders who frequently traverse rocky and muddy trails.

BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 tires are designed for serious off-road adventures, providing excellent grip on slippery surfaces while maintaining stability. Their rugged design makes them a go-to choice for tackling the more challenging parts of Colorado’s terrain.

System 3 XCR350 tires stand out due to their heavy-duty construction, which is perfect for rough terrain, offering durability against punctures and other potential tire damage. This makes them an ideal choice for UTV users who demand reliability in tough conditions.

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