Submitted by
zul
a Downhiller
from Sedona, AZ Date Reviewed: October 21, 2009
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$15.00
Strengths:
Cornering, off-camber, climbs well in loose dirt and gravel. All around great tire for the $money$.
Weaknesses:
Wears quickly.
Similar Products Used:
Rampage, nevegal, minion.
Bike Setup:
Titus Supermoto
Bottom Line:
This is a review of the 26 x 2.6 which weighs just over 1000 grams. The Kenda Kinetics has been a great tire for all-mountain/freeride (desert terrain). I've run 5 sets over 2 years and have no complaints other than it wears quickly, but for $15, there is no complaining.
Sets up well for tubeless. No problems with hard landings at 25 lbs. For the price, it's the best tire on the market.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
storm11
a Cross Country Rider
from Durango, CO, USA Date Reviewed: October 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Raiders Ridge, Phil's World, Skull Rock
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good loose traction
Weaknesses:
Everything else....
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegal, Maxxis Minion
Bike Setup:
05 RM Slayer
Bottom Line:
Worst tire I've ever ridden. Had the 2.35 Stick-E Kevlar bead on the rear. Had more pinch flats with this tire than all my other tires combined.
Whenever I was on anything off-camber, the entire tire seemed to roll to the side (even at 45 psi) ...not a good feeling. Once the tread started to wear slightly it would wash out through hard corners as well.
After a summer of average use (20-30 miles a week), the tread was fairly worn and the sidewall blew out. Avoid this tire
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Amd1507
a Cross Country Rider
from Abitibi,Quebec,Canada Date Reviewed: July 25, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Muck mine
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Canadian tire
Strengths:
Sticky ,Comfy,Really good grip !
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Wtb Weirwolf Dna
Bike Setup:
Cameleon 2004,Xt and X7 setup .Avid BB7
Bottom Line:
I purchase 2 of them (26X2,3) at Canadian tire ,price each was 17.99$,I said to myself for this price i have anything to lose,But i was very surprise !! of the good traction ,in the wet like in the mud ,On road these tire Stick too ! For what i do mostly Xc ridind i prefer these tire by far at my Wtb Weirwolf Dna purchase for twice de price .Best Bang for the buck !! so far .I want these in 2,6 but i found no store who sell it in this size .Remember these tire was each 18$ Canadian ,At Canadian Tire .Last year purchase a Wtb Weirwolf 26X2.6 for 55$ u.s These tire do better for half the price ! CHeers !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
norcorider95
a Weekend Warrior
from London, ukited kingdom Date Reviewed: July 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
the lookout
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
came stock
Strengths:
have had no punctures yet because of the tyre. wide and square cut. light, grip lasts. won't need upgrading if bought stock. cheap
Weaknesses:
little shaky round corners when going fast down trails tbh.
Similar Products Used:
maxxis ignitor, maxxis high roller, halo knobbler
Bike Setup:
norco wolverine, marzochhi forks, truvative crank, hayes disc brake, kenda kinetics, sun rim x25.
Bottom Line:
good tyre for something like shore or anything tbh but if its a fast tight cornered trail it will only work if there a berms. well i like it, it came stock and im not planning o upgrading any time soon tbh. i like the way it handles and ive been dwelling on the corners a lot but i meen like going flat out on a harepin, leaning stupidly low.if its through tecchy sections or berms or wide coners it will work well if your just pinning it down or through a tech hill or even a flat hill and working your way round stuff this is a perfect tyre, and most of you are probably thinking why am i going on a bout a tyre so much but im bored, and it is a good tyre as well. i recomend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
StabMasta
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix Date Reviewed: June 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Anything S. Mtn
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$12.00
Purchased At:
Kenda's site (weekly
Strengths:
It was cheap and dealing with Kenda directly was a pleasure. The tire seems to be well made.
Weaknesses:
It's heavy and it constantly washes out on desert and gravel terrain.
Similar Products Used:
Wtb velociraptor and Panaracer Dart front.
Bike Setup:
Sette Reken hardtail. Rockshox SID '08, Hone cranks, X9 components, and XT wheels with Mavic 519's.
Bottom Line:
This was a cheap tire that I bought hoping it would perform well in the Az desert. I crashed once going downhill and nearly a 2nd time 5 minutes later from the front tire washing out. I can't complain though, I only paid $12 for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zadey1234
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: April 29, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Canadian tire. heh.
Strengths:
For my type of riding, grabs through everything. Dirt, mud, rocks, and it grabs pretty good on roads.
Weaknesses:
Loud.
Bottom Line:
This tire is pretty good depending on your riding style. I need to get a front one now, either 1.95 or another 2.35
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dorcrycrystal
a Cross Country Rider
from las vegas ,nv, usa Date Reviewed: October 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
The one I'm on at the time
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Shop at las
Strengths:
The strengths are that its a really good climbing tire over rocks, roots, and hard packed dirt, actually very durable and aggressive on downhill runs..
Weaknesses:
weakness is that on turns or switchbacks the front tire tends to be loosey goosey, you tend to lose confidence when your tire is washing out.
Similar Products Used:
bontrager, wtb velocaraptor, maxxis, panaracer fire xc,
Bike Setup:
Trek full suspension, fuel 70 with toura 311 front forks and mc3.3 rock shocks rear
Bottom Line:
the tire is a good tire for cross country and hard packed climbs and pretty straight downhills, through turns the tire tends to washout as there are not much of a knobby pattern on the sidewall, haven't gotten any pinch flats, so it is durable , but its decent for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bgodkin
a Weekend Warrior
from APO,AE Date Reviewed: September 14, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Cheap, OK on road, hold air
Weaknesses:
no traction off of pavement.
Similar Products Used:
you name it
Bike Setup:
2001 Schwinn mesa, XT/XTR, Race Face cranks, stem, post.
Bottom Line:
This is for the 2.1 wire bead. Not impressed. Front end washed out on a short downhill section with a hard right at the base. Stacked it into a medium size tree. These seem alright on dry hard pack but they are coming off as soon as I get something better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nitro Stark
a Downhiller
from Baxter Springs, Kansas, US Date Reviewed: August 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Rampart Resvoir
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
jensonusa.com
Strengths:
Great tire for downhill. Nice soft landings for jumps.
Weaknesses:
I have the 26 x 2.6 and sometimes on trails and turns they get loose.
Bike Setup:
06 Haro Shift.
Bottom Line:
I really enjoy this tire for the type of riding i do. They are not good trail tires due to the weight. Would recommend buying for downhill riding, especially for the price i found them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
aaron98433
a Cross Country Rider
from tacoma, wa usa Date Reviewed: July 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
any single track with variety
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Very good price for what you get; large, fairly aggressive knobs make this tire grip mud and loose rock as good as can be expected while keeping rolling resistance and road noise to a minimum
Weaknesses:
none found so far
Similar Products Used:
Mythos XC F/R tires (the older ones)
Bike Setup:
Iron Horse Sinister with upgrades to deraillers/shifters and drivetrain
Bottom Line:
Using the Kenda Kinetics Stick-E in 26x2.35" on the rear (WTB Wierwolf on the front); no pinch flats or missing chunks/excessive wear (I weigh 200lbs and like to slide around every corner as hard as possible) The psi range is marked at 40-65, I generally keep them around 40-ish with good results. A great tire for a mix of X-Country and FreeRide.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Icemonkey
a Cross Country Rider
from NY Date Reviewed: May 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Pyg Track, Snowdon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Cheap, Lightish
Weaknesses:
Can washout a bit and the edging isnt great.
Similar Products Used:
Where do I start? Lots
Bike Setup:
These tires are on my singletrack ridin' (very) old steel Kona Lavadome. All XTR and XT with Marz. XC600
Bottom Line:
Great value tubeless design, big and comfy (2.2) on a hardtail, but they can washout and are a pain to seat. So far so good, but Ive only ridden on medium soft sring soil, they feel and look like they may be better in more solid dry conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a
from Denver Date Reviewed: April 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Anything steep and rough
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
2.6" wide. Great traction in all conditions because of stick E compound. Folding tire that is fairly light for the size. Tread lasts forever if you stay off the road and on the dirt. Cheaper than any other tire this big.
Weaknesses:
None so far. Haven't even got a flat yet.
Similar Products Used:
Nevegal 2.5, Trail Bear 2.5, Fire 2.4, Motoraptor 2.4, Mutanoraptor 2.4, Kujo DH, many others.
Bike Setup:
Bullit, 66 rc, Doublewides with Hugi hubs, Hayes 9 carbon, Raceface, Shimano, Easton, WTB, Thomson.
Bottom Line:
I love these tires because of the stick E compound and huge size, yet they are folding and relatively light. I keep them at 40-50 psi and get excellent traction with no flats in over 30 rides. Obviously a 2.6" tire is not for weight weenies but I haven't noticed a difference on the climbs. I'm sure that a pure downhiller would rather have something even wider with a wire bead making them much heavier, but definitely try them if you like climbing before flying down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dude
a
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: March 23, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Not sure yet, pretty unhappy with them so far.
Weaknesses:
They don't grip well on corners, or on climbs, or going downhill. They basically don't grip at all except when going straight on flat stuff.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Pro Enduro 2.35
Bike Setup:
Enduro, standard with King Hubs and headset, Fox suspension, and Hayes 9.
Bottom Line:
After reading these reviews maybe my problem with these tires is air pressure. I'll play around with 35 PSI and below and see if I get better traction. At 40 PSI the traction blows. The tires are sketchy and don't grip with a darn. Very disappointed in these so far but I am going to give them a shot at lower pressures.
They were cheap so at least not much money wasted.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt mc taggart
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia, melbourne Date Reviewed: December 28, 2007
Favorite Trail:
my place
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
croydon
Strengths:
great in the wet not so good on the concrete tho they make heaps of noise and seem to wear out really on concrete and dont get any flats
Weaknesses:
seem to wear real easy
Similar Products Used:
kenda
Bike Setup:
norco katmandu 08
Bottom Line:
great tire if you ride bush trails great in all weather conditions
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat
a
from SLO Date Reviewed: October 20, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
I have the stick-e version. They grip really well on the street, and the rear tire grips like crazy.
Weaknesses:
The front tire even at 2.6" doesn't grip very well at all
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
VP Free
Bottom Line:
These would be great for hardpacked dirt
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant
a Downhiller
from NorCal Date Reviewed: October 15, 2007
Good rear tire for light FR not good for DH. I ran them at close to 40psi and would still pinch and I weight 110... Excellent for trail riding and light FR. But no for DH
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbia, MO USA Date Reviewed: October 12, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Lots of traction on everything Last longer than I expected
Weaknesses:
Heavy (2.35" weigh 785 grams)
Bottom Line:
I bought the Stick-E version of these tires over two years ago because I was tired of spinning out on slick rocks, mud and loose conditions. I weigh 150lbs and run these at 27psi(r) and 30psi(f) and they're awesome. At higher PSI, I'm not entirely impressed, but at lower pressures, they provide the best grip of any tires I've used. Never pinch flatted at low PSI, but I run them with thick tubes so maybe that's why. At 785 grams each, they're extremely heavy for cross country, but worth it if you need the extra grip.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Intenserider2
a Weekend Warrior
from Broomfield, CO Date Reviewed: September 18, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$9.00
Purchased At:
Jensen
Strengths:
Traction, price
Weaknesses:
REALLY Tough to get on my wheels - Sun Rhyno Lites.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Mutano Raptop 2.4 Stick-E
Bike Setup:
KHS FR2000 w/ Jr T
Bottom Line:
I needed a bigger tire and these were at the right price. You can't beat $9 each. I had a lot of trouble getting these on. Normally I can put a tire on a wheel with my hands but these required my tire levers and about 15 minute each. They do grip very well and and I have not had any issue with pinch flats as mentioned in many of the other reviews. I do notice that the sidewall is quite thin, but, they hold up going downhill at Keystone and it is pretty rocky there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Downhiller
from Bozeman, MT Date Reviewed: July 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Big Sky
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$9.00
Purchased At:
jensonUSA
Strengths:
Skicky. Easy to get off and on rim.
Weaknesses:
WAAAAAAYYYY to weak for any type of rocky trail.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis High Rollers. Maxxis Mobsters.
Bike Setup:
RM7 Wade Simmons
Bottom Line:
3 PINCH FLATS IN ONE DAY!!!! WITH DOWNHILL TUBES!! Unless you ride a groomed trail...watch out! Scrub alot of speed also and a bit tougher to peddle downtown. The good side would possible be that they seem to stick to moist trails pretty good, but I'll have to shelf 'em for emergency purposes only.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom C
a Weekend Warrior
from Danbury, Essex, UK Date Reviewed: June 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Danbury Common
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$29.00
Purchased At:
M8
Strengths:
Good grip especially round those tight corners, look good
Weaknesses:
Puncture VERY easily and crack after 3 months if left in garage.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis high roller, Minions DH, Swamp thing, Tioga crap heaps!!
Bike Setup:
Identiti exorcist, vannila r shock, 04 Junior T's, RaceFace diabolus cranks, Swampthings, Fire eye stem bar combo, sunn mtx's, M525 deor brakes. etc
Bottom Line:
I used these tires for just under 3 months and take it from me, do not leave home without a puncture repair kit because these tires puncture so easily, GET HIGH ROLLERS for maximum puncture resistance, although its not all bad these tires are quite grippy while going around those wet muddy corners at high speed, NOT TO FAST MIND! Buy these Tires if you are a XC rider because these are NOT suitable for DH.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent
a
from Bobcaygeon, Ontario Date Reviewed: June 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Martin's Sugar Bush
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Long-lasting tread, grips really well. Large air volume.
Weaknesses:
Doesn't grab loose rocks very well.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Notos, Continental Escape
Bike Setup:
Marin Pine Mountain.
Bottom Line:
Heavier tire, not great for competition, not big enough for downhilling. But excellent for trailriding. The price is right, the tread life is great. Hooks up on soil, hardpack and mud. No pinch flats, but watch out for thorns.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant
a Downhiller
from Castro Valley Ca Date Reviewed: May 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Friend
Strengths:
Light, good for easy AM and XC. Long wear time.
Weaknesses:
You can feel the tire coming out from under you at speed. (its not ment for DH)
Similar Products Used:
none of the AM/Xc tires
Bike Setup:
06 7point Super T, RS pearl 3.1 etc.
Bottom Line:
These tires are light and good for agressive AM and XC. But for FR and DH no way. The back tire is great. I run it on my DH rig. But the front tire is a waste! Get the rear and get a beeffy front tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason carpenter
a Cross Country Rider
from britton, mi USA Date Reviewed: May 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
heritage park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
long wearing, great at climbing, no flats yet.
Weaknesses:
haven't really found any.
Similar Products Used:
onza, richey, wtb
Bike Setup:
full suspension, avid, shimano, truvative, wtb, rst.
Bottom Line:
I gotta say, at first I was skeptical, but after going clipless, and playing with the air pressure a bit, I was pleasantly surprised at how well these tires hook up. On climbs they really shine. I weigh around 160lbs, min/max iflation on these tires is 35/65 psi, and at 35 psi, I haven't had any flats, and these tires don't slip at all on climbs. I haven't really climbed too much loose stuff, but on semi loose dirt they really do well. As far as cornering, they seem a little on the hard compound side, but seem to hold okay, I'm not pushing any hard lean angles though, so I can't say for sure how well they would hook up for really hard cornering, but for cross country riding they are really pretty good. You could probably run lower pressure in these, but why would you, if there doing well at 35 psi. I don't know about the last guys reveiw about this tire being so bad, cause it does some things pretty darn well, maybe not the greatest tire out there, but if you can get it for under 20 bucks, i don't see a problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason carpenter
a Cross Country Rider
from britton, mi USA Date Reviewed: May 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
heritage park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
long wearing, great at climbing, no flats yet.
Weaknesses:
haven't really found any.
Similar Products Used:
onza, richey, wtb
Bike Setup:
full suspension, avid, shimano, truvative, wtb, rst.
Bottom Line:
I gotta say, at first I was skeptical, but after going clipless, and playing with the air pressure a bit, I was pleasantly surprised at how well these tires hook up. On climbs they really shine. I weigh around 160lbs, min/max iflation on these tires is 35/65 psi, and at 35 psi, I haven't had any flats, and these tires don't slip at all on climbs. I haven't really climbed too much loose stuff, but on semi loose dirt they really do well. As far as cornering, they seem a little on the hard compound side, but seem to hold okay, I'm not pushing any hard lean angles though, so I can't say for sure how well they would hook up for really hard cornering, but for cross country riding they are really pretty good. You could probably run lower pressure in these, but why would you, if there doing well at 35 psi. I don't know about the last guys reveiw about this tire being so bad, cause it does some things pretty darn well, maybe not the greatest tire out there, but if you can get it for uder 20 bucks, i don't see a problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Price
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs, CO, USA Date Reviewed: May 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
biketiresdirect.com
Strengths:
Good price, Great traction on dry and muddy conditions, does not throw alot back up at you. Large side lugs really grip in turns, won't slip from under you.
Weaknesses:
None I've found yet.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Weirwolf 2.35
Bike Setup:
Iron Horse Warrior SE
Bottom Line:
Nice tire that looks great for a nice low price. A good all around single track tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Poh Soon Teng
a Downhiller
from San Pablo, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Chaparal, Cinderella, Hitler, Ho Chi Minh
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
Light, great climber, low roll resistance
Weaknesses:
Mediocre braking traction. Side knobs wont grip at all...
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Minions DHF/DHR 60TPi, Supertacky Maxxis Highroller Supertacky WTB Velociraptors Panaracer Fire XC Pro
Bike Setup:
Ibex Zone FR-1
Bottom Line:
Unless you're in a drifting competition, these are not the tyres you want... Dont buy them no matter how cheap they are... not worth the money... They dont even grip on pavement...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott
a Downhiller
from canada Date Reviewed: December 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
look cool,good grip on dry and wet,
Weaknesses:
they cost alot,wear fastlogo gets dirts and hard to clean
Bike Setup:
2006 norco wolverine doubble wide rims deore hubs hussefelt crank ,stem snafa dj seat,drop off comp howitser bottom bracket dmr lock on grips
Bottom Line:
these tires are good go and buy them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryder stemper
a Downhiller
from new delhi india Date Reviewed: October 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
through the delvils eye
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
chain reaction cycles
Strengths:
the knobs are rock hard an they don't falter, i haven't had any punctures yet and they are holding up well. i will write a more detailed review soon so watch out.
Weaknesses:
the side walls are paper thin and the tire is hard to fit on.
Similar Products Used:
maxxis mini dhr
Bike Setup:
kenda kenetics 26/2.35 kevlar bead
Bottom Line:
these tires are great for light freeriders but i would not recomend them for hard butts. they are terrible on the road but they are not made for the road so that does not matter. these tires are great and look hot too so get out there and buy some before it is too late.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Hulsey
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington Date Reviewed: September 21, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Jenson's
Strengths:
Great traction stick E, light weight, great price. Easy to put on rim.
Weaknesses:
Sidewalls are thin.
Bike Setup:
Freeride/all mountain
Bottom Line:
I rode this tire at Whistler on the rear. I weigh 220 and had many runs down the slopes jumping, dropping and downhilling. No flats. I did put a thorn resistant tube in it and kept it aired up to 40lbs.
I ran the Nevegal stick E 2.5 wire bead(heavy) on the front. Traction and braking were excellent with both tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from prospect nova scotia Date Reviewed: September 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
nichols lake
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came on bike
Strengths:
wide,tall enough tred for trail
Weaknesses:
loud on road, a little to hard for me
Similar Products Used:
tioga factory dh
Bike Setup:
KHS DJ50,
Bottom Line:
great for the woods or the park
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
colin badiuk
a Cross Country Rider
from chatham, ontario Date Reviewed: August 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
black bridge trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
smith's cycle
Strengths:
good grip in all condition's, nice and big, agressive tread pattern, no flats's yet (running 50 psi) corners good, rolls very well, awsome tire for the value
Weaknesses:
noise(while on the road) that's it
Bottom Line:
this is a well designed tire great for off road use i would definatley buy another pair
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario Date Reviewed: August 6, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Price, looks, grip offroad, nice and beefy
Weaknesses:
High resistance on the pavement, haevy
Similar Products Used:
Weirwolf
Bike Setup:
2006 Norco Wolverine
Bottom Line:
Good for the price tire
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a
from Sydney Date Reviewed: May 28, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with my bike
Strengths:
Great grip for any offroad use.
Weaknesses:
Next to no grip on concrete.
Bike Setup:
Stock GT chuker 1 (06)
Bottom Line:
These tyres are ok for hardpack dirt, but are hopeless on footpath/road. Always sliding out from underneath you.dont buy these tyres if you plan on riding anywhere but offroad.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Coulombe
a Cross Country Rider
from Quebec City, QC, CANADA Date Reviewed: May 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Fournel Bicycles
Strengths:
Durability
Weaknesses:
High rolling resistance, weight
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC Pro 26 X 2.10'
Bike Setup:
Norco Sasquatch 2004
Bottom Line:
Used tires for two intense years of cross country and urban assault riding.
Good grip on all conditions, but too much on the road.
One pinchflat with regular tube, none with DH tubes.
Torn rear tires on a hard XC ride, but after 2 years and almost no grip remaining, that was OK.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd Williams
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, AB, Canada Date Reviewed: May 6, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
None that are immediately apparent.
Weaknesses:
Paperthin sidewalls, pinch-flat galore. Poor traction on loose soil.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Mobster, IRC Kujo
Bike Setup:
Weyless 67, Specialized Enduro Expert
Bottom Line:
Go buy and IRC trailbear, or Kujo or any Maxxis tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
phillip ronjuree
a Downhiller
from paris, france Date Reviewed: April 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
devils backbone
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
jensonusa
Strengths:
great cornering, hook up really well in all conditions, inexpensive, look good, good knobs.
Foes Fly with curnutt xtd shock, fox 40rc, mavic dee max wheels, king headset, sram x.o drive train, e-13 chain guide, thomson cockpit, easton dh bar, lizard skin lockons.
Bottom Line:
affordable tires that have lasted the 1 year duration test time. Thanks kenda!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mistermoto
a Cross Country Rider
from arizona Date Reviewed: March 14, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
good grip, corner well, solid traction while climbing,
Weaknesses:
I wore out the rear tire after overa year of hard riding :(
Similar Products Used:
Tioga Facotry DH, they wash out.... HUtchinson UST, Maxxis Minion DH (used on my Heckler, Panaracer Mythos...etc, etc etc. LOTS OF TIREs
Bike Setup:
Fetish Fixation SS with Marz XFly, Handbuilt Sun Rhino Lites and Paul Word SS hubs
Bottom Line:
These tires have on my last 2 SS bikes, and they hook up great. 2.35 size is good for the SS application. They have lots of climbing and braking bite. I wore out the last rear Kinetic I had, so I bought another one
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cory johnston
a Racer
from thunder bay, ontario, canada Date Reviewed: January 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
my backyard
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$50000.00
Purchased At:
rollin thunder
Strengths:
its a tire
Weaknesses:
its a tire................ pinch flats happen all the time retard
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz v10.... rocky mountain rmx...
Bike Setup:
specialized demo 9 pro
Bottom Line:
these tires are tires if u dont like them save up your money and buy a tire thats 2 times the price of this one. i am also gay add me to msn if u wanna get dirty ;)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank
a Weekend Warrior
from Huntington Beach CA Date Reviewed: November 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
SuperGo
Strengths:
This is for the 2.35 StickE version. The best tire so far for SoCal, my opinion. Absolutely unbelievable traction, up and down, Railing corners is just so much easier now.
Weaknesses:
Heavy at around 750g, very slow on pavement (gotta get to the trailhead somehow) but this can be eased by pumping to 60 lbs and letting air out at the start
Similar Products Used:
Last was Mutano 2.24 (good), EnduroRaptor, VelociRaptor, Spec Enduro 2.2 (good), Panaracer XC and Fire Pro and so on
Bike Setup:
Turner Burner w/TALAS & PUSHed Float AVA and VooDoo ti DJab w/TALAS (don't laugh, killer bike)
Bottom Line:
At the price, you are foolish not to try them. When they wear out, and they do as soft as the rubber is, i'm popping for the NEVEGAL version, hoping to get them to roll easier. My only complaint.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim
a Weekend Warrior
from virginia Date Reviewed: November 21, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Cheap, easy to get on rim
Weaknesses:
Weak sidewalls, traction in wet is poor
Similar Products Used:
too many
Bike Setup:
SC Bullit
Bottom Line:
This review is for the 2.35 Stick-E rubber folding bead Kenetics. Maybe I should have gone with a larger, DH version,as the 2.35 was much smaller than I expected. I was not impressed when I was constantly worrying about flats. The rear was finally sent to the trash when I found the tube pushing through the sidewall (?!!). I will say however, that the tire hooked up well at Ray's indoor MTB park on the dry wood and concrete floor.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kiki Bimasakti
a Weekend Warrior
from Bandung, West Java, Indonesia Date Reviewed: November 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Anything dirt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
Kurnia Bike Bandung
Strengths:
Reasonable price, Nice tread design, Awesome look
Weaknesses:
At this moment, the most remarkable weaknesses is the rolling resistance pretty high.
Similar Products Used:
maxxis,fat albert,irc...
Bike Setup:
jbc pro FDH framesets,BOAR Hydraulic disc brakes,LX cranks,mavics,funns blablabla...strange huh?
Bottom Line:
This is great all-round performer tires!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pierre bourgon
a Cross Country Rider
from cornwall, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: November 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any trail I find
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
bicycle world
Strengths:
good traction all around. can be dialed into almost any trail by adjusting the air preasure. in the trail use high presssure at high speed or for very rough use. lower preasure for loose terrain in the absence of sharp rocks.
Univega 6080 XC 24spd. hardtail, no shock. Doere LX components
Bottom Line:
great tire for a reasonable price
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Noel
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney Date Reviewed: October 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Good grip, rolls well.
Weaknesses:
None found yet.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Mosquito, Tioga Psycho.
Bike Setup:
Felt with Deore components, wheels and other stuff.
Bottom Line:
I found the grip on this tyre to be quite good; when going uphills, as long as you pedal right and your weight is correct then you should have no problems with losing rip. The knobs hold on quite well to rocky and loose terrain. I felt confident on all types of terrain i've ridden so far. Haven't had a flat yet even after one recent occassion when I was certain i'd gotten one after a particularly rough hit on some rocks going down hill; I even felt the rim through the handlebars but still no flat. The ride home on tarmac wasn't too much of an issue either; rolled okay for what it is, albeit noisy due to knobs. Overall, am happy with the tyre and would use again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean
a Weekend Warrior
from Quispamsis, NB, Canada Date Reviewed: October 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
There's a bad one?
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Local
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
Flat EVERY time I ride. Front and back pinchflats and I run the pressure high 55lbs. (recommended is up to 60). No grip in the wet OR loose sand. Size says 2.1 but looks more like a 1.95. I won't even give these away, put 'em right in the garbage.
Similar Products Used:
Moto Raptor, Weirwolf.
Bike Setup:
Norco Fluid stock. IronHorse Warrior Comp Disc with upgrades.
Bottom Line:
I have upgraded to Panaracer Fire XC Pro, I went XC to lighten up the bike a little, lots of very steep long hills to climb before I decend. The Kinetics are the worst tire I have ever ridden. Anything wet and I know I'm taking a header. Can't climb without spinning out until I stall. I can't wait to get the Panaracers on! I would recommend riding on your rims before riding this tire, you'd probably et more traction (and you KNOW you won't get a flat!).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ofer nahshon
a Weekend Warrior
from israel Date Reviewed: September 19, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
shim'oni brothers
Strengths:
very good price for 2.35 tier
Similar Products Used:
maxxis ignitor
Bike Setup:
haro x2 2.35 front & rear (no tube) no problem
Bottom Line:
shut up and ride
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sebastian Vopat
a Downhiller
from Zurich, Germany Date Reviewed: August 24, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Sledge Hammar
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
In Germany
Strengths:
Very good tire for riding downhill, has good tread patterns, also very good for dirt jumping. They last very long.
Weaknesses:
They could be a bit wider.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Kolossal DH, Kenda K-rad.
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
Very good tire, good price, and holds up very well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Novak
a Cross Country Rider
from Syracuse, NY Date Reviewed: August 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Shindaigin Hollow
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Alley
Strengths:
Fast rolling, knobby/aggressive tread pattern, PRICE, handles corners like a champ
Weaknesses:
None that I have seen yet
Similar Products Used:
hutchinson 'skeeters, maxxis mobsters
Bike Setup:
04 Jamis Komodo FX frame, Truvativ Five D crank, Deore ft/rear der., Noleen Mega Air fork, Rocket V saddle
Bottom Line:
At $20 a pop, these are a great tire for the money. My friend rides on Panny XCs and those tires are always throwing rocks and mud up and into his face. I ride some rocky terrain (the quarry) and have not had a single pinch flat, puncture, or knob break off yet. Overall these are a great tire for the money and I am very happy to ride these dead and then buy another pair.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric W.
a Weekend Warrior
from Henderson Nv. Date Reviewed: August 3, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Dirt
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Sport Chalet
Strengths:
Price for a folding tire. Traction in all types of terrain is good to excellent ( wet clay not included ).
Weaknesses:
I think its wearing a little quick, for being advertised as the " Long wearing standard compound ". They are also a tight fit on Sun Rhyno Lite rims. Most folding tires go on by hand, onto these rims.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis 2.35s , Geax's large volume tires, Continental Gravity Pro 2.35 and Michelin Hot S 2.2 .
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar XLT.
Bottom Line:
I usually try a tire then end up going back to some version of Maxxis'single ply 2.35 tires. I finally found something that rolls faster than the Maxxis tires, without giving up sustantial traction and/or wear. The Kenda Kinectics in the standard compound, wear almost as good as the Maxxis tires in the 60 compound, while giving up only a VERY small amount of Hard cornering traction. Some below have complained about them being "slow rolling" but I have used several high air volume tires and the Kinetics roll extremely well, especialy compared to other tires, in the 2.35 tire size that I use. I might also add that the rolling resistence is low for a tire with a full and aggresive knob pattern. They seem to be resistent to puntures as well and don't shed knobs or parts of knobs. Which is why I chose not to buy anymore of the Gravity Pros from Continetal. These tires have been exposed to some pretty knarly riding around Bootleg Canyon in 110F/45C temps, sharp rocks and cacti, plus my large 220 ld body, so they are the first tires, since I discovered Maxxis 2.35s, to get the "Eric W. desert torture test, seal of approval". An honorable mention, goes to the Geax Sturdys in the 2.1 and 2.25 sizes. As an added bonus; these things don't throw a whole lot of rocks and other debris at you like other high traction tires do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake
a
from Fredericton Date Reviewed: June 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Odell
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Off a buddy
Strengths:
Grips great on most terrain, at 55psi does not go flat. Fits size well 2.35. Not very expensive.
Weaknesses:
It blew up.. Had a little bubble in it for 3 days then exploded. Rolls slow
Bike Setup:
04 p2, 03 JuniorT
Bottom Line:
I really did like the tire, since 3 months havnt got a flat, gripped nicely, and treads lasted longer than I expected. I dont know why it blew up, probly a factory defect but it definatly sucks that it did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dude
a Downhiller
from buttgrabber, fl Date Reviewed: May 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
blowme
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
eat me cycles
Strengths:
The grip on any terrain and although they are slow moving the have great control.
Weaknesses:
Slow rolling on the pavement but heck they are not for the pavement.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Mutano raptor race 2.4, WTB Weirwolf.
Bike Setup:
Cove playmate with Marzocchi Shiver DC, X0 kit, Diabolus crankset, deemax wheels etc.
Bottom Line:
Good tires and cheap too. Got mine at Jenson usa.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom
a Weekend Warrior
from perth Date Reviewed: April 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
grips on anything, great for loose dirt, can run at low psi
Weaknesses:
heaps of flats i am bloody sick of them
Bottom Line:
this is a good tire but i find that when street riding they pinches flat heaps and attract prickles like nothing on earth (im getting at least a flat a week). great grip though
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cam
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: April 6, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Came With My Bike
Strengths:
Very gripy in the wet mud. Handles good on the pavement. The wear on them isn't as good as some other tires I have tried.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Maxis, Blue Groove 2.5
Bike Setup:
Stock Sasquatch
Bottom Line:
This tire is great for dirtjumpin for the entire time i have had them i have only had to fill them up with air once!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Reilly
a Cross Country Rider
from colorado springs, colorado Date Reviewed: February 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
lost creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
performance bike shop
Strengths:
really strong kevlar beaded tire. deep tread, large nubbs, very sticky on wet rocks and logs. exceptionally performing in muddy, wet trails. for 2.35's, weight isnt bad. ive had the tires for just over 3 months and theres no obvious wear. grips wet pavement very well. kicks in dry conditions too. value is great, 50 for both. i love this tire
Weaknesses:
it kinda goes for all tires, but it isnt too good on icy trails, although its not much of a problem. other than that, no weaknesses.
Similar Products Used:
WTB wierwolf 2.1 mtb tires
Bike Setup:
giant warp ds2 W/ upgrades
Bottom Line:
sweet all around tire. very strong, very versital. havent had a flat yet. i would recommend this tire to any cross country, or xc rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan strang
a
from Newbury Park,california Date Reviewed: February 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
los rodles
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
great traction in moist dirt, and still good in dry stuff,pretty beffy but not to beefy. Dosn't pinch flat easy. pretty cheap
Weaknesses:
seems to wear down a little faster than other tires ive used
Similar Products Used:
maxxis high roller,wtb weirwolf, irc trailbear
Bike Setup:
cove stiffee freeride with marzocchi z1 freeride 1(eta-qr20). raceface cranks, xt stuff, sun mammoth rims
Bottom Line:
I ride some crooss-country stuff and freeride stuff. Pretty much every style of riding. Do alot of pedeling and fat rock sections with 6 foot drops......ect. These tires are perfect for the all around rider who does a little of everything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Curtis
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: February 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Skull Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike and i bought the bike at Oak Bay Bikes
Strengths:
Fatness (i have the 2.35), good tread, traction, grips dirt well.
Weaknesses:
Not so good for riding on the street because you go really slow because they are so fat.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first bike with Kenda's
Bike Setup:
Norco Wolverine.
Bottom Line:
They are great for mountain biking and for those downhill racers and riders get the 2.50, and for road/mountain but mostly road then get the 1.95. Great tires!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from Regina, Sask, CAN Date Reviewed: December 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
anywhere I can ride (and some that I shouldn't)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Chunky tread, large volume, grips ok
Weaknesses:
big, heavy and slow on pavement (duh). Hard as hell to get on a rhynolite! (snapped a couple of tire levers!!!)
Similar Products Used:
other kendas, no-name crap,
Bike Setup:
Trek 4500 beefed up
Bottom Line:
Not bad. Probably not for DH (I don't ride DH), and not for XC racing (don't do that either). I needed a tire, and thoght I'd try a larger (2.35) on the rear. It smoothes out the ride, and seems to grip pretty good for what I do (some urban and aggressive trail, some drops (3-5 footers). I havn't had problem yet. I just keep a pump in my backpack (harder for street/urban, and softer for dirt). I run around 30-35 psi as an average, and adjust from there. I'm waiting for a nice day to see how they hold up in the snow now that its winter, but seeing as I can't justify $50+ per tire, I'll probably get another set...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Y
a Cross Country Rider
from Ottawa, Canada Date Reviewed: October 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Kanata Lakes
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
Amazing grip wet or dry even at high pressure, corners very well, light, excellent feedback (i.e. predictable). Best tire I've ever tried
Weaknesses:
Pinch flats alot esp. on jumps and drops.
Similar Products Used:
Fire XC Pro, High Rollers 2.35", Hutchison Pythons, WTB Motoraptor, Roller Pros, Tioga DH
Bike Setup:
Heckler
Bottom Line:
I ride technical XC and light freeride (3' drops max). Was pinch flatting almost once per ride until a friend suggested I bump up the pressure to 40. No flats since. However this is too high for my liking. This tire rides best around 30. If Kenda beefs up the sidewalls this tire would be perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Walter
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington, DC Date Reviewed: September 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Avalon @ Patasco
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Supergo - Seattle
Strengths:
Great grip on Wet surface - Rocks, roots, etc. Good sidewall strength, large enough volume to keep away snake-bites
Weaknesses:
a little slow rolling; Terrible performing if run at reccomended tire pressure. Kenda claims it's a 2.35" tire, actually about a 2.1-2.2 width.
I picked these tires up while browsing the Seattle Supergo for $24 each. I was looking for some larger volume tires because I have been getting pinch-flats (aka "snake bites") about every other ride. These appeared to be the best compromise of good volume, tubed, good tread pattern (not too much or too little drag), and the price was right.
After a couple weeks and several rides I am extremly happy with these tires. On my first ride I thought I had made a major mistake. Before I hit the trail I inflated them to the minimum reccomended pressure, 45psi. Within about 1 mile into the trail, I had to lower the tire pressure before my kidneys fell out!! These things performed HORRIBLY (for me, a 155lb rider) @ 45psi. When you pump these things up rock hard, the "Stick-E" compound acts like a superball, they bounce you around like crazy. This also elicits some of the behavoir mentioned in previous posts, not gripping in loose soil, washing out on corners, etc.
Once I lowered the pressure to 35psi, they performed flawlessly. I have been riding a a trail filled with jagged rocks and roots, and have had excellent performance. Better yet, no "snake bites". Today I rode in pouring down rain, and these things lived up to the "Stick-E" label. They held excellent grip to wet rocks and roots.
I'm giving these things 4 out of 5 because of the false advertizing on the width. This is not limited to Kenda, I have seen Hutch's that clam to be 2.1's that are actually 1.75's... Also, the tire pressure reccomendations are stupid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terence Lam
a Downhiller
from Sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: September 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Local stuff
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Cheap and light, really nice on concrete and stairs.
Weaknesses:
For some reason, i find that they lock in a position on the front tire. ( like, on 0° they lock there and on around 50°. ) Which just pisses me off when i'm riding with no hands and leaning your weight doesn't seem to turn the wheel.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Navagal
Bike Setup:
Diamond back BSX sport, stock exept for bashguard and a new hanger.
Bottom Line:
These tires are fat, and dont pinch flat. ( A good thing ) They offer humungo grip and roll amazingly quick for a 2.35. I advise one of these down the back and a softer compounded tire for the front ( Maxxis BlingBling Duals 40a :P ).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
devin smith
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario Date Reviewed: August 10, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Local subdivision ditchlol
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
sportwheels
Strengths:
Good tire 4 the money good tread 26 2.10 and they grip good on on dirt and sand and they look cool and they make a cool buzzing noise on pavement
Weaknesses:
kinda worn down abit even tho ive had them for two years. but the front 1 is still going strong!
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Stock 2002 Norco Bushpilot
Bottom Line:
good 4 a spare, but get Micelins they have better wear
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: August 9, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
Cheap and light. Pretty good on wet, muddy trails
Weaknesses:
Useless on sandy, dry, or rocky terrain. At low pressures, the tire seems to fold over unpredictably.
Similar Products Used:
Michelin, Continental, WTB, blah blah blah
Bike Setup:
ti hardtail
Bottom Line:
This tire is pretty useless for the dry riding that we do in Colorado. My worn out 2.1 Michelins were much better in hardpack and sandy terrain than the "2.35" Kendas. After 3 rides and a fair amount of experimentation with tire pressures, I'm done with these. If you ride in damp conditions, they still could be worth considering if you're looking for a tire that is cheap and light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dylan mc
a Downhiller
from ontario Date Reviewed: July 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
urban
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
the are good for mud, stick to alot of things
Weaknesses:
side walls too flexable, pinch tubes like hell, treads wear down pretty easy
Similar Products Used:
maxxis highroller
Bike Setup:
04 bigfoot hussefelt cranks and dirt jumpers
Bottom Line:
these tires are cheap, but now i know why
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cam
a Downhiller
from Toronto Date Reviewed: July 11, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Cycle Solutions
Strengths:
Grips on almost everything very well, even the city streets.
Weaknesses:
Isn't really a 2.35. They really suck on roots too.
Similar Products Used:
a very large number...
Bike Setup:
2004 Norco Bigfoot, Kooka Crankcase bashring
Bottom Line:
These came stock on my bike and I havent had a problem with them. They work well in all conditions, but for some reason they just dont grip roots very well, but it grips everything else just fine. Doesnt shed mud very well, when i leave the trails they are caked with mud and i have to pry it out of the grooves, a 7 stair gap doesnt even shake the mud free. I havent had a pinch flat yet with these tires. I would reccomend them
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Amigo
a Weekend Warrior
from Vanc, Canada Date Reviewed: July 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
north shore mtns
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
sport junkies
Strengths:
inexpensive price, good tread pattern/traction
Weaknesses:
not a true 2.35, weak tires for the heavier more aggressive riders
Similar Products Used:
Hutchison Mosquito Light
Bike Setup:
All mountain Kona Bear Dee-lux w/ Fox racing suspension front/rear and XT groupos & Hayes hydraulics
Bottom Line:
for xc riders this is a decent inexpensive spare tire for the occasional free ride. I believe the red wall version of this tire is stronger against pinch flats. My black wall version held up well with 35psi (150 lbs rider).
Reading the other reviews, it makes sense that the hardcore, downhill, free riders may not find this tire adequate.
Front & rear tires are not labelled... check out the treads, the front has an extra triagular knob in the middle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Downhiller
from Russia Date Reviewed: July 1, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
CHEAP and light!
Weaknesses:
Well imagine the worst tire possible: HERE IT IS! IT does NOT work in the city at all. I made a flat on it, on my FRONT wheel, with a SHIVER DC FORK!!! btw, I am talking about 2.6 edition. I bought it very cheap, but now I understand, that I have to pay twice (at least for a new dh tube) If you are not riding light XC, DO NOT BUY IT!
Similar Products Used:
maxxis, irc, nokian, continental.
Bike Setup:
hardcorehardtail
Bottom Line:
Do not buy it, it even does not worth 20 bux. IT doesn't even look like a 2.6 tire! It works like a 2.1 continental! If you are thinking about this tire: FORGET IT! buy another brand!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
max olo
a Weekend Warrior
from toronto Date Reviewed: June 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
single track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$22.00
Purchased At:
canadian tire
Strengths:
okay for one i have the 1.95 version. these times are great in anything plus u get alot of torque and can accelerate fast and they can take some hard hits. Cornoring is amazing.
Weaknesses:
Difficult to install and i already got one pinch flat.
Similar Products Used:
kenda thingamabob
Bike Setup:
03 norco mountaineer with rockshox indy and kenda kinetics 1.95.
Bottom Line:
its a good tire but dont go to big on it cause its still realitively small. My version is pretty much good for beginners.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from USA Date Reviewed: June 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
I've only had these tires on for a few days, but so far, i've not been able to loose grip with them. I've went on some wet muddy and deep trails and also road driving even on the dry stuff, it seems to still corner great.
Weaknesses:
week sidewalls, some of my friends have blown this tire, but only after doing 6-7 foot drops. Solution, put a much heavier tube in, because it already weighs alot being it is 26 x 2.35"
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
borrowed Friends bike, softail with Judy C front fork
Bottom Line:
A great tire for most riders, but if you are into big drops (+5 feet) make sure you are running a strong tube, like the Kenda 26" Heavy Duty XC Tubes with a 1.2mm wall thickness for $8
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rok
a Weekend Warrior
from Slovenia Date Reviewed: June 13, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
cheap, doesn't wear out quickly
Weaknesses:
insufficient grip and traction, especially in wet, weak sidewalls, difficult to mount
Similar Products Used:
Tioga, Ritchey, Michelin
Bike Setup:
Elan Slyer 2003, Manitou Sherman,
Bottom Line:
I'm a freerider and i've ridden on these for a year now. I bought them for my previous bike, a Scott Octane fx1,as a cheap replacement for tiogas, and they came installed on my recent Elan. i ride various conditions like urban, uphill, singletrack, downhill parks. I kind of liked them before but i guess I now ride a much more aggressive bike with more travel and they just don't perform well. The compound is too hard, and consequently they don't grip on sand, not to mention the rocks and roots. not good traction even uphill. they slip awfully in wet. and i've had two rear flats in 5 rides (it was rocky but wasn't riding very hard, i guess flatted due to weak sidewalls, very long snakebites). i really cannot agree with some other reviewers that these tires stick like glue. they just don't. at least not in freeriding and i'm going to try out intense or michelins.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DLH
a
from Pacific N.W. Date Reviewed: May 27, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
I use the Kenda Sticky Compound tires approximately 700grms. Great traction - in all conditions - stick like fly paper on wet roots and rocks - good volume - smooth trouble free ride - Modest drop (3-4 feet) and xc capable.
Weaknesses:
Sidewalls can be punctured at low pressure with somewhat relative ease. Pinch flats are no problem with air pressure as low as 30# -- I weigh 190lbs.
Similar Products Used:
EVERYTHING!!!
Bike Setup:
Blur and Bullit -- with wheels and other components.
Bottom Line:
These tires out perform everything in their class (Intense, Continental, Michelins) in P.N.W. wettish technical XC conditions. Conty Survival Pro is an excellent mud tire, but good for little else(and it's a death tire on the front) - Conty Vertical Pro with endless edge and "protechtion" is a good wet weather XC tire, but an excellent summer tire for this part of the country AND superior to the Kenda Sticky's for sidewall strength (I change to the Conty's for the summer). The Kenda's are an excellent winter-spring tire -- they wear a little quickly like the Intense tire(s) but are very good for 1 to 1.5 seasons (winter and spring) depending on your mileage. If you are looking for a reliable, sure footed traction animal - get the Kenda Kinetics with sticky compound.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan jonowee Wee
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth, WA, Australia Date Reviewed: April 22, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with the bike, Avanti Ventura FX
Strengths:
Review for Wire bead, 2.1 - Thicker sidewalls than my current Continentals. - Easy to install compared to my 2" width Conti's.
Weaknesses:
- Square knobs not as good as Continental's Endless Edge. - Cornering grip not great, not good, okay for smooth hard-packed limestone trails. - Casing and knobs gave way after approx. 80 hours off-road. - Average rolling resistance not as great as Continentals.
Similar Products Used:
Continental Escape Pro and Traction Pro
Bike Setup:
Hardtail.
Bottom Line:
- Average almost below average tyre. - Casing brittle over time. Maxxis offer off-road wire tyres at a good value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Genital Apparatus
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Natural Trials
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
Cheap, sufficiently wide, stick to most urban obstacles (ledges, etc).
Weaknesses:
Very, very heavy, sidewalls are not very tough and do not prevent pinchflats AT ALL.
I've been riding on this tire for one month. I bought it cheap, as a quick fix from riding trials on really light XC tires. It sticks to ledges and other urban stuff pretty well, but doesn't do well at all on smooth rocks. This tire probably weighs more than I do, and does not provide me with as much spring-effect as I'd like to have. Satisfactory, for now, but I know there are far better tires out there. (Michelin, here I come!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
namaSSte
a Cross Country Rider
from NE Ohio Date Reviewed: April 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Laurel Mtn.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Spin Bike Shop
Strengths:
Weight, durability, good tread pattern, decent mud shedding
Weaknesses:
Not as big as advertised (2.35 version)
Similar Products Used:
You gotta be kidding? Ummmm, just about everything I think.
Bike Setup:
Steel HT singlespeed with 100mm sussy up front.
Bottom Line:
Got these looking for a bigger tire for the SS and have had great luck so far. This tire can get a little sketchy in hard, fast corners at times but nothing too bad. Brakes well and hooks up in most conditions very well. Good all around tire which sheds mud pretty well. I have had no issues at all with flats (pinch or otherwise) and have generally run these in rooty, rocky terrain. The weight is great for a 2.35 but I don't think they are truly that big a tire. Id say 5 for value, 3.5 for performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrei Lena
a Cross Country Rider
from Canberra, Australia Date Reviewed: March 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
hardcore cross
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Canberra bike store
Strengths:
Cheap - I got both for 25 US dollars. Good grip on hard and dry surfaces. Really good for rocky trails - they grip and handle well.
Weaknesses:
These tyres suck on wet bitumen. I was riding on wet bitumen and they just slid out from under me after I braked. I broke two bones. Basically they really do not grip well on the wet. If you do a lot of riding on bitumen - do not get these. Also I got heaps of flats on these, never had as many flats on any other tyre.
These are tyres you get if you have a cash flow problem and want some half decent tryes. As soon as you get some cash buy better ones - because after about 6 months of riding these tryes will enventually let you down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Khag
a Cross Country Rider
from Corvallis Oregon Date Reviewed: February 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
dirt ones
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Reasonable Weight, inexpensive, great on hard pack
Weaknesses:
NO adhesion on any surface but hard pack
Similar Products Used:
Many - IRC mythos are my all around faves so far
Bike Setup:
4 inch double boing trail bike
Bottom Line:
These tire are like Dr. Jekle and Mr. Hyde. When I first got them (mid summer)I thought they were great. They stuck like glue. After the trails got dry and loose, things started to get a bit sketchy. When the rains came riding on these tires got really scary = NO traction on any thing wet. Currently looking for something to replace them. If you only ride hard pack get em, if you ride any other conditions look else where
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
reno
a Cross Country Rider
from campbell river,british columbia Date Reviewed: February 17, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
cambodian tire & one at lbs at double the price
Strengths:
very good traction,nice looking graphics,I paid 18$ can at c.t.,and 35$ for another at a lbs . at 18$, it seems it can't be beat
Weaknesses:
a little heavy,very weak sidewalls.
Similar Products Used:
panaraers,etc.,
Bike Setup:
brodie zig zag,hayes 6" disc
Bottom Line:
These came stock,I had a blowout and foolishly bought the same for a replacement,well,after 800km I had another blowout.reading the other reviews,and seeing that some reviewers figure these tires are just to die for makes me wonder if they actually ride or read tire catalogs all day . some people ride a little harder than others, but these are, simply put,low end junk. when you are 1-2hrs away from your truck in the dark and you find yourself walking your bike out,that 10-30$ you (saved?)won't seem like much.From experiece,I know that saving on brakes or tires is just a false economy,and when you are laid up,or your ride is damaged,what's 10-30$?. you get what you pay for!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Medina, OH USA Date Reviewed: February 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Snow Shoe WV
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
HWB Outside Products
Strengths:
Overall, these tires rock. Extremely good traction on just about every surface. Take some extra time to dial in the pressure that works best for you and your bike.
Weaknesses:
None that I've experienced. I noticed alot of people talking about sidewalls blowouts and flats, but I've ridden through everything with these tires, briars, glass, sharp edged rock, etc and have not had a problem.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Mosquito, Nokian
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Heckler
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is I paid $40 total for the set and they have not let me down! They also seem to be wearing fairly well considering they are a pretty soft tire. I would/will buy them again. I guess my biggest beef would be that they are on the heavy side.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Douglas
a
from Palmdale, CA Date Reviewed: January 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Weaknesses:
I agree with the guy below - these were harder than any of my other tires to install and remove.
Bottom Line:
Man, these reviews are all over the map!
This review is for the Stick-E version.
Who measures tires for the tire companies? These 2.35's measured 1.964" sidewall-to-sidewall and my Fat Albert 2.35's measured 2.190". Somebody has there head you know where.
Anyway, these replaced my Wife's rear Schwalbe King Jims that she did not like. The Kenda Kinetics are more aggressive and she liked the traction better.
She now has Schwalbe Fat Alberts up front (750 gms) and the Kinetics (704 gms) in the back. She is really happy with the setup. She is very sensitive to climbing traction and braking traction and this is the first setup on her new Ventana El Saltamontes that she is very happy with.
I'll post again when she has more miles on it, and another rider in our group is going to be puting some miles on a front and rear Stick-E version.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RICHIE O
a Weekend Warrior
from Bogotá D.C. (Colombia) Date Reviewed: January 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
The Fall
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4.00
Purchased At:
Local Shop
Strengths:
Awesome grip on cornering. The best front tire I've ever used for lost/hardpack. The confidence it gives is great.
Weaknesses:
To hard to put into the rim.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Jones, Phyton, Maxxia WormDrive
Bike Setup:
JAMIS DURANGO SX, R/S DUKE100, LX SHIFTERS, XT/DEORE DERAILEURS, SUN RHINO LITE, DISK BRAKES (AVID 185 mm FRONT, HAYES 160 REAR), RITCHEY COCKPIT.
Bottom Line:
I'VE MADE 40 KMS DOWNHILL ALL THROW OVER EVERY KIND OF SURFACES AND THE GRIP WAS INCREDIBLE. I DIDN'T HAVE ANY KIND OF FEARS IN THAT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Weekend Warrior
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: January 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any downhill/freeride
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
FOLLOW UP FROM LAST TIME wide, grip ok
Weaknesses:
where are the sidewalls? about 10 pinch flats i even did in a maxxis DH tube(best tube u can get)
Similar Products Used:
cheap tyres
Bike Setup:
Haro Escape, mavis d321 rim 8" rotor, hope to go tubeless with wtb warewolf 2.5
Bottom Line:
too many pinch flats, not to bad for trail but crap for rock gardens and everything else apart from XC.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Lopes
a Weekend Warrior
from South Kingston, RI, USA Date Reviewed: December 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Acadia - Breakheart
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Jensonusa.com
Strengths:
Looks cool and cheap! Has an agressive tread pattern that works well.
Weaknesses:
Constant flat's, weight (considering how unreliable they are this is especially a problem). The sidewalls are too weak for such an agressive tread pattern.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Kahrisma & Intense
Bike Setup:
Red Foes FXR w/ Ti Curnutt, Mavic Crossmax ust, Race face cranks & Stem, Fox TALAS RLC, THompson post..
Bottom Line:
These tires really stink. If your riding over lots of rocks/roots, stumps, I really don't recommend these tires. I'm tired of all the flats (I'm running about 45lbs of air). Once I put on my Intense tires I've been problem free....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from Mount Olive Date Reviewed: December 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
jensonusa
Strengths:
sticks to anything, not too heavy for a big tire, cheap
Weaknesses:
none at all
Similar Products Used:
hutchinson pythons (great for hard pack), maxxis high roller exception 2.1(too skinny, no hook up), panaracer fire xc pros(okay but not up to the hype) bontrager jones(really good hookup)
Bike Setup:
Cannondale SuperV 1000sl upgraded to XTR all around
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up to a review that I did a couple of months ago. These tires have got to be among the best out. They stick like glue to any surface that you can ride on. If you run lower pressures like 35-45psi you can make climbs and hook up in places that it would be hard to walk. I have never had the confidence while riding that I do now. Kenda has made dramatic improvements in their rubber compounds that have to be ridden to be believed. I think alot of the low ratings on Kenda products are because of all the entry level bikes that come with crappy old Kenda wire bead tires. But try the new Kendas. They are like night and day. They are so much better than anything else I have tried and for the price they cannot be beat by anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Graham
a Weekend Warrior
from La Verne, Ca. U.S.A. Date Reviewed: October 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
too many to mention
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Jenson U.S.A.
Strengths:
None, complete junk!! Purchased because someone recommended these tires for the savings. No longer do I take this persons advice.
Weaknesses:
Worst tire I have ever used. I ride in a lot of different conditions and these tires suck. I have had countless flats (not due to low tire pressure, both pinch and thorn).
I wouldn't give these to my worst enemy, I ended up tossing them out! They may have their purposes (very, very light cross country, or even pavement) but they are definitely not the tire for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eddie Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from Mt Olive Date Reviewed: October 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
jensonusa
Strengths:
Big tire, lots of volume. Will grip on just about any surface, cheaper than any other big tire
Weaknesses:
none that come to mind
Similar Products Used:
Never used a really big tire like this. But I have used Maxxis Highrollers 2.1. Too skinny for me. Hutchinson Pythons-damn good hardpack tire-Panaracer Fire XC Pros-rubber too hard, front wheel slips
Bike Setup:
1999 Cannondale Super V 1000SL with upgrade to xtr all around-bontrager race rims-race face crank-grip shift, etc...
Bottom Line:
This tire is an outstanding tire for someone my size XXXL. The sticky rubber compound grips so much better than anything else that I have tried. Even in gravel, sand, or extremely loose dirt, as long as your legs hold out this tire will not slip. I think the guys that have given so-so reviews were using the standard non sticky tire. Tire clearance is pretty good. And this tire looks killer. If you want a good heavy lugged soft tire that will grip go buy it now. You may find some availability problems on the rear tire. But it is worth it to find a place that has them. You won't be sorry
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Texas Date Reviewed: October 1, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
None. These tires are worthless.
Weaknesses:
Bead separating from the tire.
Similar Products Used:
Various name brands and not name brands.
Bike Setup:
Fuji mountain bike.
Bottom Line:
I emailed and snail mailed their customer support - no response. Only after a two months, the bead started to break down, separating from the tire, on both front and rear! I couldn't believe it. What a piece of junk. I will never buy Kenda crap tires again in my life.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
derek
a Downhiller
from California Date Reviewed: September 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Toad's
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
- Great Value - Good braking traction - Large volume allows low tire pressures - Decent weight for Freeride/Downhill tire - Resists pinch flats well, even at low pressures (25 psi)
Weaknesses:
- Unstable when transitioning into turns in loose gravel or sandy terrain - Not so great climbing traction considering tire size - On the small side for a 2.6
Similar Products Used:
IRC Kujo DH 2.35
Bike Setup:
Kona Sinky 6
Bottom Line:
** This review is on the Kenda Kinetics 26x2.6 size **
I've only ridden on these for 1 weekend, but I pet them through their paces on several downhill runs in varying terrain in Downieville, Ca last weekend. I've used Kujo DH's for a couple years now and wanted to go with something bigger that didn't break the bank, so these seemed like a good choice.
I broke my rating down in a few different categories I thought were important. I ran the tires at about 25-28 psi, what I consider reasonably soft so they'd hook up and help absorb some of the hits.
Braking - Good to excellent braking power. They rarely slid, especially the front, during heavy braking on most terrain. The only exception was braking on wet granite/rocky surfaces, but I think that's asking a little much from a tire. They brake great in hard packed, loose, gravel, big chunky baby-head rocks and large granite slab terrain.
Climbing - They're okay for climbing. I did break the rear loose a few times on steep technical climbs in hard packed terrain, which surprised me considering the low pressure I was running and the size of the tire. I'd say they are sub par in this category compared to my old Kujo DH 2.35's.
Turning - Good to excellent turning traction on hard to medium packed. The tire has a fairly round profile, so I think it performs well in condition that have a lot of grip such as hard packed where you can lean the bike over a bit and use the side knobs. However, in loose terrain where traction is lower, such as loose gravel or sandy areas, I found that there's a big of sketchy transition when entering turns or trying to change your line, steering around rocks, etc. where the tire slips a bit until the side knobs grip. This behavior does not instill a lot of confidence, so this is my biggest grip about the tire.
Bump absorption - What can I say, it's a big friggin' tire with a lot of volume. Run the pressure nice and low and these babies feel like they're giving you another 1" of travel. They definitely soaked up a lot more chunky rocky sections than a tire of a smaller size.
Bottom Line - Excellent tire for the value. I don't think you can beat this (right now) for $25-30 each. They're big, the stick pretty good in most conditions with the exception of the sketchy transition when turning in loose terrain. If you don't want to spend $40+ per tire for some Nokian's, you can't lose with these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kapusta
a Weekend Warrior
from Lakeville, CT Date Reviewed: September 7, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
Bike Shop
Strengths:
Cheap.
Weaknesses:
-I don't think these are really 2.35's, but they are tall. -I think the traction stinks. -Heavy
Similar Products Used:
Front: Velociraptor, Panaracer Fire XC, Vertical Pro, Survival Pro, Specialized Team Control.
Back: Fire XC, Survival Pro, Vertical Pro, Velociraptor
I bought these because a friend at a bike shop recomended them and they are pretty cheap. I think these are pretty lousy tires, overall. They are over 150g a piece heavier than what I usually run (Conti survival pro front, and Fire XC or survival pro back) but have far worse traction. The profile is almost V shaped, especially on the front, which defeats much of the purpose of running a larger tire to begin with. They deflect sideways off of rocks and roots more easily than something with a flatter profile. I may as well be running a skinnier tire. The knobs are big (and therefore heavy) but don't don't seem to hook up all that well.
The other benefit or a larger tire should be a smoth ride, but I find myself needing to run these tires at a significantly lower air pressure than my Conti's or Fire XC's to get a similar ride.
Regarding size: These are the same width as me Conti 2.3's, and I think it is prett well established that the conti's run a little on the small size.
I wish I could say something positive other than the price. They have the weight of a large, knobby tire (785g), but none of the advantages (smooth ride, traction, stability).
It's hard to even call then a good value for the money, because there are better alternatives in that price range.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ATBScott
a Cross Country Rider
from Castro Valley, CA Date Reviewed: July 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Can you have only one?
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
Volume, overall even traction, wear is reasonable, so is the weight
Weaknesses:
No real weaknesses found
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Ritchey, Maxxis, Contis, IRC, Panaracer, you name it...
Bike Setup:
'03 Enduro Pro with a few mods
Bottom Line:
The tires work well in most of the conditions that I have found in the Bay Area terrain. They hook up when wet or dry, seem to grip in corners as much as I'm willing to lean them in the dry scrabbly conditions that we have had this summer, and they roll reasonably well. Slower than the Enduro S-Works or Roll-X tires, but these have a bit more traction and it is very easy to modulate. If I don't replace these with another set, it will be because I want to try the Intense System 4. These tires are showing some wear with about 600 miles on them, but there is still some left, and about 15 - 20% of my miles are climbing on pavement to get to the trailhead. I am very satisfied with these tires. The Stick-e rubber will likely wear faster, but have even better grip.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim who cares
a Downhiller
from g.p., alta, canada Date Reviewed: July 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
north shore
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
ernies sports experts
Strengths:
great for soft dirt
Weaknesses:
grass, nobs are too big
Similar Products Used:
maxxis mobster
Bike Setup:
phat freeride bike
Bottom Line:
definetely worth the money. super sticky in dirt.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryce
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary Date Reviewed: July 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
dirt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
canadian tire
Strengths:
sweet price nice treads
Weaknesses:
hasnt happened yet, but sidewalls are a lil weak, could pinch flat
Similar Products Used:
high roller
Bike Setup:
santa cruz hardtail
Bottom Line:
I can buy 5 of these tires for the price of one high roller, and its a pretty decent tire! i highly recommend it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Downhiller
from new york Date Reviewed: July 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
great all around. i have the kinetics 2.6 tire. i have new pinched a flat and i run about 30-35 psi
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
wtf wierwolf 2.5
Bottom Line:
great tire for going fast and having to brake often. never seems to wash out only in the thick mud. its great for going into rock sections. the tires isnt heavy like you would think. i need 50 words i need 50 words 50 cent is the greatest. 50 cent is still great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dennisd
a Cross Country Rider
from Eastern Ontario Date Reviewed: June 22, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Canadian Tire (sacrilege!)
Strengths:
-price for a 2.3 is un-freaking-believable! -good agressive tread pattern -blackwall (thanks Kenda for not treating us all like a bunch of idiots)
Weaknesses:
-HEAVY.
Bike Setup:
'03 Santa Cruz Bullit
Bottom Line:
Motoring around these things on the dirt, you think: these are great! Until you hit that first grinder of a hill. Problem with these tires is that to avoid pinchflatting, you've got to pump them up hard!! More air: more weight.
But then, we can b!tch all day long about the "weight". Thing is, if you're a trail biker a little extra weight really won't kill ya.
A decent tire at a very good pice. Great traction, relatively low rolling resistance, good mud shedding ability, corners well...what more can you ask for 15 bucks?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Moncton, New Brunswick Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
many and counting
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Canadian Tire
Strengths:
great traction, mud shedding, control in all conditions including snow, mud, gravel, dirt etc., price
Kona ManoMano with BETD suspensions extension. RS Judy, Fox Float R
Bottom Line:
Definitely worth it. For 20 bucks getting a wide tire with excellent traction in all conditions. Only compromise is the weight, but that is not a signifacnt factor for me. I have not had any pinch flats as some have mentioned.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Downhiller
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: May 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Ted Williams
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
NORBA Nationals
Strengths:
Very tacky (Stick-E compound), fairly wide, good looks, seems to hold up quite well (no pinches as of yet).
Weaknesses:
I have a feeling that it'll wear fast, but it is tacky compound.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Mobster, High Roller, WTB MotoRaptor, etc
Bike Setup:
Norco Team DH
Bottom Line:
Similar tread as the Intense DH. I paid only $20 each at the Kenda booth at Nats, so for the price, they're working very nicely. The soft compound bites well and the tread isn't too bad about rolling, either. I'd definitely give this tire a shot.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Weekend Warrior
from manitoba Date Reviewed: May 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Canadian Shield territory
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
- great grip for climbing, even on rock when wet - reasonable weight (less than 800 g for 2.35) - corners well on hardpack - good price, compared to many other FR/XC tires out there -
Weaknesses:
- not a true 2.35 (actually 2.2) - pinch flats way too easily (necessitating a DH tube in back)
Similar Products Used:
Tioga DH 2.1, Motoraptor 2.1
Bike Setup:
a decent FS FR/XC bike
Bottom Line:
This is my first report on these tires:
My initial impression was not great - in each of the three times I have gone on urban sessions, I have had a pinch flat in the rear tire. I suspect this is most likely due to stair climbs at higher speeds. Perhaps I could get smoother, but I think I had 2 pinch flats last year on my Tiogas, and that was over the course of 5 months (and some of that time they were in use on a hardtail).
However, all is not lost. There are redeeming qualities. The price is reasonable. I have ridden in conditions that would have had the Tiogas spinning out instantly. The Kendas have a reasonable ride, and they corner well on hardpack. The sideknobs have decent reinforcement, unlike some other tires. They look cool (thank you for NOT having a red stripe on the kevlar bead tires).
I'll write up another review in a few months.
4 chilis for value - due mainly to the price 4 chilis for overall rating - would have been five if not for the pinch flat issue
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
free ride guy
a Cross Country Rider
from Whitehorse, Yukon Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with Norco bike
Strengths:
(2.1 kevlar bead with Stick-e rubber version) Very sticky Front and rear specific Cheap
Weaknesses:
Much smaller other 2.1 tires Not very stable at high speed cornering in soft conditions Not particularely light for the size
Similar Products Used:
Conti vertical Conti traction Pro WTB Velociraptor
Bike Setup:
Norco Fluid 1.0
Bottom Line:
Would probably be a much better tire if the size was right. The 2.3 version might be closer to the a true 2.1 size and a better option for trail use and light FR. The 2.1 because it's so small would be a good option for XC racing except the rubber is too soft (i.e. slows you down), it weight too much and is not stable at high speed cornering particularely in softer condition. It could be a good traning rubber for XC as it is pretty cheap, if you pruchase the regular rubber version.
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Submitted by
Afran
a
from San Diego Date Reviewed: April 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Knobby, Soft, Cheap, A good tire for dirt and free ride.
Weaknesses:
Not to nice on the street. A bit to knobby for the concrete.
Similar Products Used:
Tioga
Bike Setup:
GT iDrive
Bottom Line:
Good for free ride cross country. Light, good rubber.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wormman
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada! Date Reviewed: April 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anywhere
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Canadian Tire
Strengths:
Will Grip anything! Ice, snow, no problem, sure like 6 inches of snow will stop you, but these tires stick to all, but alot of the mud stays out of the tred! awsome!
Weaknesses:
Noisey on pavement, but these aren't road tires!
Similar Products Used:
Klaw xt
Bike Setup:
IronHorse Patrol
Bottom Line:
I got only a rear tire, its not marked as either front or rear, its a 2.35, really is a 2.35, i measured it, it has an awsome sized sidewall......pinchflats? hello? And has no red sidewall on it at all, just 'KENDA KINETICS" in white letters, i am guessing there are a few versions of this tire out there, i only paid $20 canadian for it and its well worth it, for my riding anyway, if you do alot of road riding and then go offroad a bit, dont get this tire, its not for you, try the klaw XT its a good road and off road tire. These Kinetics are off road only. Gonna reccomend that you not skid these tires on pavement at all, for sure you will rid the tred off it! You can easily hear when this tire is gripping under hard baking! A good tire over all at a good price! People should choose their tires based on their riding style!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jacob O'Neall
a Downhiller
from Eubank,Kentucky, USA Date Reviewed: February 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any thats rough and technical
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
came on bike
Strengths:
durable, good traction, decent weight, cheap price
This review is on the 2.10 wire bead models. All around good tires. No major faults, just a good performer. Not on par with the Motoraptors, or Tyrannoraptor's, but only cost $10 for replacements. Just thought I'd mention the incredable wear life, I've had them for almost two years now, and they still are usable.( and I ride HARD) Used them for trail, freeride, DH, dirtjump, and a good deal of urban riding. Good tire that can't be beat for the price. (WTB doesn't make a tire at this price)
I gave 4 chili's because they good, but not great, but the long wear pulled them up one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Numb Bum
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: February 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
I have only used these front and rear during the winter. Not bad on mildly surfaced and broken up very hard snow, -8-20 type. Work well on this surface a low 20+psi and 60+psi (done at outside air temp). Not bad either on the road, especially with slush and snow that would normally float a tire. 80 km on pavement so far hasn't noticably worn them down.
Weaknesses:
Lousy on fresh dry or wet snow, especially loose and -3 and above. Previous Velociraptor rear was much better with the loose wet, although these are better this year as it's so damn cold. Weight, these are a tire and a half. The 2.35s Kevlars are 785g, where a reasonably light x-cross tire is just north of 600g. The boxes they come in are ugly and girly.
Bottom Line:
.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a Weekend Warrior
from Pt. Bob Date Reviewed: January 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Whistler:A-line
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
www.airbomb.com
Strengths:
Grips well. Nice and wide. Different tread patterns for the front and rear tires for minimum rolling resistance.
$ 40.00
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
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