Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Quezon City, Philippines Date Reviewed: September 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Maarat, Sierra Madre, Montalban
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$36.00
Purchased At:
Extreme Bike Shop
Strengths:
Fast & light. Fast climber. Low rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
Potential rear washout during fast turns due to shallow thread design.
Similar Products Used:
Nearest would be Kenda Small block eight.
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC hybrid. Rockshox Reba. XT grouppo.
Bottom Line:
Faster and lighter than the small block eights. Confidence building while climbing. Huge probability of a washout while doing fast downhills, especially with 50psi plus air pressure. You can leave others behind on the climbs, just be careful on the descents.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Cross Country Rider
from Hollywood, FL, USA Date Reviewed: August 21, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Light weight, low rolling resistance
Weaknesses:
Flats. Poor traction in sand, mud, etc., but that is not what this tire is supposed to be good at.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Slick Mythos XC
Bottom Line:
Fast and light. But since mounting this as my rear tire, I have had at least half a dozen flats -- all on the rear tire. I am lightweight and do not ride aggressively, I do not get flats very often. I won't buy them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Shanahan
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta Date Reviewed: February 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
aska loop - Blue Ridge, GA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$36.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Very light and VERY fast and fast and light. And fast. Tough for lightweight tires. Fast, too.
Weaknesses:
No lateral traction, makes me mess my bike shorts. Wear quickly. Climb fast, but any mistake in body position results in severs traction loss.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Mosquito, Panaracer Fire XC
Bike Setup:
Giant Ranier, XT drive, lots of upgrades
Bottom Line:
I purchased these on advlce of the guy at the LBS. I asked for suggestions to lighten my ride. He had a bit of an odd twilnkle in his eye when he handed me these. Now I know why.
I switched out hubs, rims and tires at the same time and it felt like I had added a 3hp engine on the downhills. Holy crap these things are FAST! On my very first ride I crossed a small wet patch in the trail - maybe 3 feet across - we're talking flat, straight trail - and the bike side-sips a couple inches. Mind you, it feels like a foot to me because I've only ridden Panaracers and the like, and they won't slip in 3" of bacon grease.
I was determined to give these tires a full audition. In the past year I have ridden them many times on trails in GA, NC and AL. In all of these locations one can expect a little moisture on the trails at some point. On the bright side, I feel these tires are tougher than one mjght expect from an ultra-light tire. I took them on some pretty rough trails in Montesano (Huntsville, AL), and while I did manage to fold the tire half way around the side of the rim on one patch of rocks, I never punctured the tire or got an irreparable flat. In the long run, however, I have mostly abandoned these tires after 1 year because I simply cannot muster any confidence while using them. Any speed gains I got in climbing and downhills were probably negated by me slowing down excessively in the turns. Any time I saw loose dirt or sand in a turn, or, heaven forbid, a wet patch I would slow it down and still and hold my breath. On a easy or moderate, wide trails (most of DuPont Forest trails in NC) they would be great, but for typical XC conditions here in the SE they don't work for me. YMMV.Still, I give them four chiles because they are tough and they are exactly what they claim to be. Did I mention they are fast?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Weekend Warrior
from Pittsburgh Date Reviewed: October 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Extremely light (395 grams). Low rolling resistance. FAST, FAST, FAST!!
Weaknesses:
Rear tire tends to stray on gravel. I sort of expected this, however.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos XC Slicks
Bike Setup:
Stock Trek 3500 MTB w/Kenda Kozmik Lite semi-slicks. Slime tubes.
Bottom Line:
So far, so good. Have had no issues with pinch flats - keep mine at 80 psi. I've been riding on this pair of for about 1 1/2 months. I do all of my riding on streets or rails-to-trails. The amount of speed you pick up switching from a MTBtire to this semi-slick is amazing! I highly recommend them, especially at the price I paid - $34.00/including S&H! I'd give them 5 Flamin' Chilis but I want to ride a few more miles before I make a final determination. Currently I have 75-100 miles on them. Previously I had the IRC Mythos XC Slicks which produced quite a bit of vibration (and yes, I did have the direction correct).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: July 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
McCauly Conservation
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Light, Very Fast
Weaknesses:
Side nnobs could use more bite
Similar Products Used:
Michelin jett, sprints, Irc mythos slick, WTB racing raptors
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC1-xtr,crossmax disc,time,thomson
Bottom Line:
I have 1500 miles on these in 2 years with only 3 flats (2 this year). They are just starting to tear the side knobs off. On hard packed they fly and you lose a little in breaking but climb exellent. They do tend to be a bit lose in cornering(could use a more agresive side knob) but overall an exellent tire for the money. I have just purchased a second set on ebay for next year. I would just like to ad that these are for hard packed terrain and not for mud.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
www.jensonusa.com
Strengths:
super light, low rolling resistance, decent side knob bite
Weaknesses:
Scary. Scary going up, scary going down, scary in the corners
Similar Products Used:
Intense Wedge 1.85
Bike Setup:
Titus Racer-X, custom 1400-gram wheelset
Bottom Line:
These things should come with a warning label. No one who rides off-road should even consider it as a front tire. I did a test ride today using this on the rear and a Michelin Comp S Light on the front, riding my favorite hardpack (this time of year) trail.
It's got about as much traction as my 1.85 Intense Wedge tires did in the straights, but while the huge side knobs made the Wedge and effective mud tire (at 100 grams heavier), the Kozmik definitely isn't. That having been said, this thing is amazingly fast on hardpack. Which is good, because it slips really quickly under low-speed, high torque (read: technical) riding. You need to carry a lot more speed into short, steep, loose hills. And stay seated.
I have no objective measurement of whether I was faster than when I ran a Hutchinson Python Air Light rear and Intense System 2 front, but I definitely spent a lot more time concentrating on my line and laying off the rear brake to prevent skidding out the tire.
I'm 185 lbs. with Camelback and ran it at 40 psi with a 125-gram Continental tube with no problems on some harsh, high-speed chatter bumps.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chas
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa FL Date Reviewed: July 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$14.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Speed and smoothness.
Weaknesses:
Loses it on wet pavement.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC Pro, WTB Racing Raptor.
Bike Setup:
Giant Rincon - Rock Shox Judy. All other components stock.
Bottom Line:
Needed a semi-slick after my primary riding became more pavement than dirt :^( Tried Racing Raptors but they flatted an average of once every two weeks. Moved to Kenda Kozmic Lites recently. Great tire. Fast and smooth riding. But don't try any sharp fast turns on wet pavement. They lose grip and you end up sliding.
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Submitted by
Thomas
a Racer
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: March 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the one i havn't ridden yet
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
Bike Show
Strengths:
Light! Fast! Light! Fast! Cheap! Fast! Did I say it was light?
Weaknesses:
Wears a little fast...Not great traction, but good considering the design
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Super X
Bike Setup:
Trek 8000 xt/517, flat bar
Bottom Line:
These tires rip for racing. The acceleration quotient is wicked. They hold well untill it gets really slick. They can't really be pushed through really rocky sections, but most race courses are boringly easy anyway. Good for Racing!
Tip: Put on your old, inferior, heavy tires for training. Put these back on week of race, bike will feel mysterioulsy fast again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duncan
a Weekend Warrior
from Cambridge Date Reviewed: March 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Coed y Brenin / Flume Ride, Tahoe
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
JT CYCLES
Strengths:
Very light, unbeleivably fast, the first time I used them I could not believe the acceleration or top end speed that could be achieved.Use them when ever I think I can get away with it.
Weaknesses:
SLIDEEEEEEE.. makes for some interesting cornering, they tend to slide if pushed on most surfaces (except clean, fast hard pack surfaces or tarmac, a little slow to turn in sometimes. Ride in the wet at your peril!!
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer ss & sk
Bike Setup:
Super light, fox etc etc
Bottom Line:
If you can handle the odd heart stopping slide these are the fasted tyres you'll find
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stuff-junkie
a Racer
from Burlington, Vermont Date Reviewed: December 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
technical madhouse- northcountry vermont
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
can't remember
Strengths:
wicked fast! light has h*** (am i allowed to say stuff like that?) i felt a huge difference the first time I rode them
Weaknesses:
wear a little fast, i recomend only using them for races or other rides that require something extra, unless your loaded
Similar Products Used:
nothing even close to this light
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 98, mostly XTR
Bottom Line:
These are a great tires for fire roads and hardpack, just don't try to make them do anything else. If you're looking for a super light and fast tire, then this is the one for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Timur
a Weekend Warrior
from Almaty, Kazakhstan Date Reviewed: August 22, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Light, rolls fast, easy to fit, good grip on fire-road
Weaknesses:
Those small knobs wear out fast - I lost every 2nd in 4 months.
Similar Products Used:
Conti Town&Country (long-lasting tires)
Bike Setup:
Klein Attitude Race 2000 - light and fast
Bottom Line:
Not a real slick, but stiil a rocket! And you can shave some weight when lose half knobs. Needs high air pressure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Blacksburg, VA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
jensonusa.com
Strengths:
durable and "Oh WOW!!" light
Weaknesses:
not a lot of grip in the loose stuff and on rocks, and a couple of pinch flat- but that is the price you pay when you step up to semi-slicks
Bottom Line:
Hey, you wanna shave some weight? I lost about a pound with these tires and I definitely felt a difference on hardpack and on the street. I don't race but I love to ride fast and these tires are the ticket to my adrenaline rush. They aren't great in loose dirt or on rocks but that is not what they are designed for anyway. When you use 'em on hardpack they SHINE. You will feel your bike want to spurt out from beneath you. They do pretty darn well on the street, too, but wear quickly if you log a buncha miles on the asphalt. If you need a speed fix, you gotta try these. If you mostly ride slower, more technical terrain then you should probably look elsewhere.
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Submitted by
Loi
a Cross Country Rider
from West Covina, CA Date Reviewed: January 22, 2002
I got my Michelin Wildgripper on front and Kozmik Lite on the rear. I have managed to climb hardpack, loose rocks, and slick mud without much difficulty. There were some slippage on the slick mud, but the mud sheds right off the Kenda. The tires are slick so don't expect it to climb like others, but for all around cross-country these are awesome. The sidewall seems stronger than my michelin. I have torn two sidewalls of my Michelin Wildgripper Comp S tires. It is narrow, so going through technical rocky sections a little scary, but it handles it decently. Going through corners hard are sketchy, but so are my Michelin.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Racer
from Christchurch (New Zealand) Date Reviewed: September 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Light,fast rolling,easy to fit
Weaknesses:
dont last very long (but what do you expect from a 395 gram racing tire)
I have been using these tires for around a year now, and have being using them both F&R with no problems.The rear tire only lasts around 200kms of racing, but the front is always fine for at least twice that.Some caution is reqiued when using this tire f&r as the front will all ways let go early , but most racers should be able to feel the limit before going over it, and the advantage of a faster open area section will always make up for this.This tire is defintely for racing only and is wasted any were other than a hard pack race circuit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: August 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Still Lookin
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$22.00
Purchased At:
Wheel Goods Stratford Ontario
Strengths:
Fast
Weaknesses:
Only for hardpack..... Do not ride this tire in rocky or rough trails. It will self destruct!
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Dart,Smoke,Fire Cross Country Pro.Tioga X-Country Kenda Kwick
Bike Setup:
1991 Gary Fischer Montare
Bottom Line:
Fast Tire but for racing only. Only had these for Two weeks and they are trashed. I bought them for a race and figured I would ride them leading up to the race to get a good feel for them. Can't complain about how fast the are as I came in second in the race.....But thats the end of both tires. 20% of the side knobs missing on the rear and 5% on the front.Between 40-50% of the rest of them are partially torn off. To be fair I realize that these are a racing tire. On the other hand they shedded so quick that Ross at Wheel Goods had no problem replacing the with another set of tires. Going to give the Maxxis Worm Drive a try. 1 Flaming Chili for value because they Self Destruct 4 For Overall because they are fast if used for for dry condition racing and the do stick good for a Semi slick
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dude
a
from baltimore Date Reviewed: July 22, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
fast accerleration, light weight
Weaknesses:
pinch flats, poor traction,
Bike Setup:
rocky race fs
Bottom Line:
3 races. 3 flats. 2 pinch flats the first at 35psi the second at 45 psi, the third flat was a thorn. the lateral knobbies are 20% worn off. the tire is fast and will get you to the front of the line quickly but it won't keep you there. it feels squirrely at low pressure and too bouncy at high pressure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pat smith
a Cross Country Rider
from albany ny Date Reviewed: July 10, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
extremely fast in all conditions
Weaknesses:
steep out of the saddle climbs
Similar Products Used:
specialized sl s works
Bike Setup:
stumpjumper
Bottom Line:
i have used this tire in the rear only because of its narrow width. it has seen hardpack,deep sand,mud,rocks etc.it absolutely accelerates like like a rocket.for 25 dollars at pricepoint it's the bargain of the century.By the way ,it goes on easily with plastic tire levers.Those guys who posted negative reviews must have no fingers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Raleigh, NC USA Date Reviewed: May 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Right Loop @ Tsali
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Extremely light (I lost about 2 lbs off my bike with these new tires over my old steel-beed). Wow, can you say FAST!? These tires fly, very very low rolling resistance, and they rule on any type of hardpack (like Tsali, Newlight...). Also, these tires are LIGHTER than advertised! (probably the only product on the market that's lighter than advertised). Advertised at 395 grams, mine weighed in at 380 and 385g!!!
Weaknesses:
The sidewall may be a little weak (it blew out when riding in Tsali, but I think the use of inappropriate tools (screwdriver) to install the tires may have played a role in this.) These tires are extremely hard to put on the wheels; I've broken three tire levers trying to get these tires on!
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptor, WTB Enduro Raptor (steel-beed)
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Toccoa, FSA Carbon Pro Cranks, Mars C Fork, XT shifter/levers, XTR brakes, XTR front hub/lx rear, XT rear/lx front derailleur
Bottom Line:
When properly used (ie, used on hardpack, not technical downhill), these tires rule! Acceleration is awesome, and I get surprisingly good traction and cornering everywhere I take them (I was quite impressed after my first ride with them). Another strong point, because these tires are so streamline and light, they can also easily be used on the road, as they have very little rolling resistance. Although I first considered sending the tires back after I first received them (and I was stunned with the lack of tread on the tires), I ended up keeping them, and I'm sure glad I did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank Berkhout
a Racer
from Meppel (Holland) Date Reviewed: May 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
havelte
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
local bike store
Strengths:
Very fast! Very grippy less then 395 grams (376 front/ 387 rear)
Weaknesses:
Difficult to get on wheels (cross ride's) Starts to drift a litle in mud This tire is not made for the John Doe type of rider
Similar Products Used:
96 specialized MT Baldy TEAM. And lots of others, but that are knobblies
Bike Setup:
zaskar, judy race,XT LX
Bottom Line:
Well I'm from Holland. And as you all know over here it rains a lot and the country is flat (yeah right). We actually have hills over here. Come and ride! I will let you sweat! I race on those tires. Even in the rain, but then you have to drift through wet corners. But they are really nice and fast. I'm one of about 10 riders who uses them in Holland. The Kenda brand is only known here for its cheaper tires! But BEWARE this tire is NOT for every rider
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas Johannessen
a Cross Country Rider
from Jessheim, Norway Date Reviewed: May 17, 2001
You need a high air pressure in these to avoid pinch flats. The tire is incredible fast, thats why I've been using them in my last 3 races. But what I gain during climbs and rolling, I lose to my competititors when the terraing gets tough. This is due to low traction in all conditions. Mud, sand, rocks you name it.
This is not a tire for everyone, but if it suits your needs it will not be a disapointing buy.
PS: Very very fast...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Toad
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis, MO USA Date Reviewed: February 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Castlewood blue ribbon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$21.00
Purchased At:
Jenson usa
Strengths:
AWSOME on DRY HARDPACK ONLY. There are a few rocky down hills on trails that I ride and when start my descent I start my prayers. Tread held up pretty well considering light weight.
Weaknesses:
horrible on anything other than pavement on hardpack. I can bead any tire with my hands exept these. I broke a plastic tire lever trying to beac them the first time. It took me an hour to bead them the 1st time. I noticed somebody else thought they were easy to change though.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson python air light, panaracer firepro xc, wtb velociraptor
Bike Setup:
old trek 930, mostly xc, manitou mars 1
Bottom Line:
At 395 grams great tire for overall dry riding, however very light casing I ripped a gash in side wall and ruined tire after three mos. I would go with Hutchinson air light pythons, a few grams more but lots more traction
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
plutocrat
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR, USA Date Reviewed: December 30, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Strengths:
Light weight Low rolling resistance Smooth and quite ride Great on pavement or dry hardpack.
Weaknesses:
Extremely poor traction on wet earth, wet leaves, or muddy conditions. Very dangerous! Rear tire spins easily in gravel.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Minotaur 380
Bike Setup:
Specialized Hardrock FS
Bottom Line:
I do not consider this to be a true mountain bike tire. It is basically an urban tire masquerading as a mtn. bike tire. Despite Kenda's claims that this tire offers reasonable traction in wet conditions - I quote from their testimonial ad, "Even when I got caught in a rainstorm, I found them to be manageable on the greasy trail", I found that this tire performed miserably in these conditions. The rear end would routinely swing out and slip if the trail showed any signs of being "greasy". Traveling at over walking speed in wet earth or mud conditions are dangerous in these tires. Even my bald Minataur 380s offered better traction. Kenda should market this tire as a tire for people who wish to turn their mountain bike into an urban street rod. I routinely pass road bikes on the paved bike paths and sreets using this tire. Anyone who travels "off road" will be disapointed with the poor traction of the Kozmik Lite.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
e-jack lamano
a Cross Country Rider
from the Valley of the Sun Date Reviewed: December 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The rocky one behind the mountain on the horizon in the east.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
One of the online parts dealers.
Strengths:
Easy to take off during flat repairs.
Low rolling resistance.
Worked well on steep rocky singletrack, flat doubletrack, shallow sand, gravel, and pavement.
Center of tread held up fine.
Weaknesses:
The corner knobs broke off on day one. They should've just left them off when they made them.
The whole casing was too thin.
Similar Products Used:
A thicker WTB semi-slick with the knobs still intact. It's been much more durable.
Bike Setup:
6500 with several upgrades. Check my review on it.
Bottom Line:
It handled well on many different kinds of terrain, but other semi-slicks can do that too.
It's the last one I'm going to get. The rubber seems too thin. Thorns puncture it too easily and I don't wan't to find out what broken glass will do to it.
It'll need replacement any day now. My other tire, a different brand, isn't nearly as worn as the Kenda.
This is probably a racing tire and it hasn't been the best thing to use on my daily rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ross
a Cross Country Rider
from Fresno, CA Date Reviewed: December 8, 2000
I put these on for the Series Finals as Castaic, which has alot of fire road and hard packed double track. Tested them the day before on my pre-ride. Seemed like a good place to use a minimalist tire. Traction was not a problem, they had low rolling resistance, and the super low weight was nice.
Problem is that the rear tire warped half way around the course. Thought I had bent the crap out of my wheel, but it was just the tire. That night I tried re-installing the tire, stretching it, etc. put it was garbage. Put the Conti's back on for the race. Front tire was/is fine. I gave it to my teamate who weighs about 140. He likes it.
So $50 down the tube. I won't ding it too bad because the concept is good and at least the tread seems usable. However, it is clear to me that a tire this light just won't work for me. Maybe I'm too heavy at 175 lbs for the casing on this tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Altamonte Springs, FL Date Reviewed: October 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
tsali
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Phattire.com
Strengths:
light full size(1.95) cheap
Weaknesses:
wears a little fast
Similar Products Used:
conti XC
Bike Setup:
Fisher frame, SX Ti, GT/X517 wheelset
Bottom Line:
I have only tried this tire on the front, but I imagine it would perform as well as any other semi-slick. Dont take this tire on the pavement much, the side knobs will tear off on corners. On the dirt the wearing is OK.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
biknben
a Racer
from Robbinsville, NJ Date Reviewed: September 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
porcupine rim
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Extreme Light weight!!! Low rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
Could be wider but then it would be heavier wouldn't it.
Similar Products Used:
Conti's, Specialized, Hutchinson
Bike Setup:
GT I-Drive, Full XTR, Z-2 X-fly fork, Kozmik lite on rear, Hutch Air Light on Front.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review. My overall view has not changed. This tire rocks on the rear wheel. I am still surprised how well it grips, even in poor conditions. My first tire has had enough. After about 100 miles of racing and occasional training it is dead. About one quarter of the knobs have serious damage or are missing. I have another one that's ready to go. I've used it in about 2/3 of the races I did this year. The times I didn't use it was because of mud conditons or real technical terrain. I ended up using it in one race that was wet and really rooty and was shocked how well it gripped. In my most recent race my teammates warned me not to use it because the course was getting beat up (slippery) from all the traffic. I used it anyway and had no problems. Since I prefer this tire for most conditions, this is where I WOULDN'T recommend using it: -Deep Sand...It dives because it is so narrow. -Technical descents...Without knobs you might as well not bother braking. In a race that's not a bad thing unless there's a turn at the bottom. Hehe -Mud...Obvious reasons. Damp or wet conditions are okay though. -Rock gardens...This tire slides off rocks rather than floating over them becuase it is so narrow. I realize that most placs have at least a little of all these things. I would just reduce my speed through these areas. The tire will allow you to make up time everywhere else. But if your going to be going through these conditions all day...I would recommend a beefier tire.
This is the perfect rear tire for x-county racing and hard core training.
BTW: When my Kozmik is not on the rear it is replaced with a Conti Explorer Pro. I think the Hutchinson Python Air Light is the perfect front tire. It is VERY wide with low rollong resistance but excellent grip. I've used it all year on the front (racing and training) and it has been awesome and shows hardly any wear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mad Dog
a Racer
from US Date Reviewed: September 16, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bikes
Strengths:
light fastest tire ever ridden push an extra gear or two up hills great for xc races
Weaknesses:
durability
Similar Products Used:
many
Bottom Line:
Well this tire has redeemed itself from an earlier model that I tested which was completely a piece of junk. Kenda has improved this tire from one that I received when they first came out. This tire is holding up much better than an earlier version in which the knobs tore off after one race. This time around I experienced zero knobs tearing off and have confidence this tire may make it through several more races fine. I recommend using this as a rear only tire. You can really feel the difference in a xc race versus a heavier tire. I always finish much better when using a light tire such as Kenda's Kozmik Lite. I am interested to see the total mileage that I will get out of this tire. So far I have only tested 3 of these tires. The first two only lasted 20 miles. My third one which was purchased to see if Kenda had corrected the previous durability problem and so far it looks like they probably have. I will be running this tire probably the rest of the season on the rear end and will update this review in a few months. My advice is to give this product a shot if you are a racer who is looking for that extra edge on a xc course that does not require a tire with more grip. This tire is great at climbing and cornering for having such a small amount of tread. The tire compound grips better than any other tire that I have tested so I am a believer of this product thus far. I was not convinced earlier that the tire was worth the $35, but this time around it is because I maybe able to complete the rest of the xc season without having to trash it. Only time will tell if the problem has fully been corrected.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dean
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: August 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
shop
Strengths:
Has anyone noticed that sub 400 grams is light? Rolling resistance? I thought I was riding my road bike!
Weaknesses:
These treads do not last! And I did not feel confident with my cornering with one up front.
Similar Products Used:
any and everything, ritchey, conti, geax, michelin...
Bike Setup:
Full rigid, ultra light Giant singlespeed
Bottom Line:
Okay, I know I'm a freak for using semi-slicks on a single-speed, but I am all about smoking fools and friends alike going up hill. I usually ride semi-slicks anyway, so I thought I might as well put my already skinny bike on a diet with ultra light treads. They ride sweet, sweet and fast, but hang on to your dancing mountain goat when you hit sand cause if you were not ready YOU WILL take a digger. I loved the ride, but when I was putting my bike away after ride #1, I had a couple of nobs remaining and the casing was exposed down the center. They looked as if they had spent the day with my pup Joe, The Destroyer of ALL Things organic and inorganic, so, I'll give customer serice at Kenda a shot. Next time I'll only run one in the back and run a front that has more bite. I never lost traction on the rear (that surprised me), but up front I thought I had a big ole ski. For now they get a dink rating, but if you are going to the races and want to to crush that one weasel who always has just a little extra when you're spent- use these and tell that weasel you owe it all to Oreo's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Racer
from Oregon Date Reviewed: August 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light, rolling resitance almost non existant. The sound it makes when riding on the road. Bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. As opposed to, thudthudthudthud.
Weaknesses:
Lack of grip, but it's a slick, what can you expect?
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos
Bike Setup:
Airborne Corsair, SID RACE, XT, Time AtAC
Bottom Line:
There is a certain back road trail that goes from one city to another. The distance is 13 miles. There arent many big hiles and so my normal time for it was 40 mintues. Then I tried the Kendas instead of my Mythoes. Wow!This time I finished in 26 mintues! This is undoubtedly because of the lack of rolling resitance. But the tread is perfectly designed to still give amazing traction!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen
a Racer
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: July 24, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
super light weight surprisingly good traction for a slick reasonable price (shop around)
Weaknesses:
haven't noticed anything yet
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager ST
Bike Setup:
Airborne LS hardtail, Zoke Superfly, Bontrager wheels
Bottom Line:
I raced on this tire (front and rear) this past weekend, and had tried it on a couple training rides the prior week.
On dry hardpack, this tire is fantastic. The reduction in the rotating weight feels great, in both acceleration and in endurance. In the race, there were sections with large numbers of roots networked over the trail surface at crazy angles. The soil was wet, and those roots became very slick. The Kozmik felt much better than I expected, even on the wet, slimy roots.
It's a good idea to take them out on a training ride before racing on them, to get the feel of them at the limit of traction. There are two things I've noticed. They climb extremely well for a slick, but it helps to put a little extra weight on the rear. In cornering, they have to lean a bit more for the side knobs to bite.
The bottom line is that you get the benefit of a really light tire without giving up much traction.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Weller
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose Date Reviewed: July 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
bluffs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This tire is fast
Weaknesses:
I got a snakebite, first time in over five years. Pressure for me needs to be above 43#. I am about 200# with gear. I have also broken a few side knobs off, too
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer 2.1 Xc pro, Bontrager
Bike Setup:
Trek hardtail, XT hollow tech crankset, xt cassette, rise bar, rest is stock
Bottom Line:
This tire is very, very fast, does exactly what it is supposed to do. (why it is a five chili) Traction is what one would expect for a semi-slick, actually a little better. It does hook-up pretty well. I would not ride it on very rocky descents or rutty places. Wear seems to be OK so far. I haven't ridden it in the mud or rain...and I won't.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan Kersting
a Cross Country Rider
from PA Date Reviewed: July 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light weight and stealthy looks
Weaknesses:
Possible durability problems
Similar Products Used:
Fire Pro 2.1 and 1.8, Michelin WlidGrippers, Continental Explorers, IRC Mythos, Hutchison Python, WTB Veliciraptors, Panaracer Mach SS/SK
These tires knocked my rig under the 25 pound mark and work excellent in dry conditions. They're not as grippy as the Panaracer Mach SS/SK, but carve turns predictably. Don't buy these tires for everyday riding, especially if you tend to make a lot of "mistakes" while riding. The Kozmiks take a little more body english and aren't very forgiving. The only trouble I've encountered is extremely squirmish behavior in even small mud holes. The back end will kick out if you just blast through a mudhole. The front is even worse if you don't pop a wheelie to get through a mud hole. I also found that the tires are more controllable at a lower psi of around 40. I ran 55 and roots were kinning me. I dropped the pressure and they stuck. I've had no pinch flats running this lower pressure. Even with thin tubes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
biknben
a Racer
from Robbinsville, NJ Date Reviewed: June 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
porquipine rim
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Super Light weight, low rolling resistance. $35...I'll take two!!!
Weaknesses:
Shouldn't expect much in mud or sand. Wear quick? We'll see.
Similar Products Used:
Conti Pro-1, Conti semi-slicks, Specialized Team Master, bunch of old Ritcheys, Hutch Python Air Light (Sweet).
Bike Setup:
GT I-Drive, full XTR, etc.
Bottom Line:
You may think I'm crazy but I did a race with this tire on both the front and rear. Best finish yet although I won't do it again. I wanted to see how much of a difference it made. WOW!!! Scary fast on the flats and when climbing!!! Down right scary in fast turns and downhills!!! On terrain which isn't too technical this tire will take minutes off you laps. When it gets technical you will have to check your speed. This tire won't stay on track in rock gardens. Doesn't handle well enough for a front tire but is sweet for the rear. I'm going with the Hutch Python Air Light in the front. Provides much better grip without too much penalty. I've been running this tire full-time on the rear for about 1 1/2 months and don't see signs of wear. No knobs tearing off as other people mentioned. I don't know if you can call them knobs. More like symmetrical bumps.
One thing I noticed is that the tire drifts predictably in the fast turns. Meaning, it doesn't break loose quick. It gives you a second to make an adjustment and then it grabs again.
I did a rain ride with this tire in wet hardpack conditions and was surprised how well it gripped. Going uphill, over obstacles was fine.
If you race, or wanna go real fast, go with this tire on the rear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard Harris
a Racer
from Oshawa, ont, Canada Date Reviewed: June 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Durham Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very fast, light, and climb well in most conditions
Weaknesses:
Forget these tires if you are even close to mud. They do wear fast but if you are just using them for racing they well last for a while.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrauger Revolt super x
Bike Setup:
Klein Mantra Race
Bottom Line:
These tires serously hall ass on the hard dry pack dirt, also climb much better then I would have thought possible. If you are a racer I would give them a try.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Mihalski
a Cross Country Rider
from Nazareth, Pa. Date Reviewed: June 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Channel 39
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Weightlessness, speed achieved if used correctly within tire's limits
Weaknesses:
Racing or riding unknown terrain, (mud,slippery off camber), caution must be taken, but advantage everywhere else compensates.
Similar Products Used:
Michelin semi-slicks
Bike Setup:
Dean ti hardtail , crossmax wheels, manitou sx le, xt/xtr, bontrager revolt st rear tire, kestrel bar, icon stem, nashbar pedals
Bottom Line:
If you can finesse ride these tires through the bad parts like mud, rocks, and off camber, you can enjoy the xtra speed they give you on flat terrain and climbs. There's not much tread so they don't hold any mud. The durability of the tire so far has been good. I run them at 60-63lbs. because I weigh 200lbs. I highly recommend these tires, but for front use only unless on smooth terrain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
terry
a Cross Country Rider
from wpg,mb,ca Date Reviewed: June 5, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
light fast
Weaknesses:
didnt believe it make a diff then I toqued out and didn't have a good grip and fell off it freaked me in a good way thinking twice about locking the brakes up
Similar Products Used:
all nobbies never noticed loss of traction on cement hardpack or dirtjumping
Bike Setup:
19 lb singlespeed
Bottom Line:
for intendid use #1high valu rating comes from the$ saved from not buying a titaniam frame to save weght.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakville Date Reviewed: April 8, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The obvious, blazing speed on hardpack, like no other tire I have used. The best racing upgrade you can make for $42.Combined with 125gm tubes, dropped almost a full pound.
Weaknesses:
First set fell apart prematurely, but Kenda's customer service was amazing and they replaced them promptly. The new set is vastly improved.
Similar Products Used:
Mach ss/sk, specialized, Maxxis
Bike Setup:
Element T.O. customized to 22.5 lbs.
Bottom Line:
Forget about the first set, they made a mistake and they took care of it. The second set totally impressed me. My first ride was to pre-ride a time trial course and I broke off three shoulder knobs, so I thought these were going to be scrap again, BUT since then (4 rides) no further wear can be seen. Maybe I sheared the knobs off on a rocky section or there was a defect on that part of the tire (all three knobs were together). I won the time trial on these and I can honestly feel the added speed these tires allow. For their intended use, nothing beats them! I really bashed these tires around on a very rocky course, where most people were using big knobbies, and they held up well with no flats at 43 psi. Thanks Kenda, I am a believer!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston, TX USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
HO Chi Minh
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very light, great on Hard pack or street. Very fast...
Weaknesses:
Lousy in mud and loose sang or gravel. But that's not what it's intended for.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Minotar / H-sen Python
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight, 200 model, custom build. All the good stuff.
Bottom Line:
Tire does waht it is designed to do. I have logged over 120 miles on these on and off road. So far they have held up well! Very low rolling resistense. Very fast! All in all, I am very pleased. Stay out of the soft stuff with them though, you'll slide all over the place.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
don breaux
a Racer
from houston tx Date Reviewed: February 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
hermosa creek, durango
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
very light, acceleration is quick, even with 55lb still plush , hold line surprisingly well
Weaknesses:
wear quickly in rocky terrain
Similar Products Used:
panaracer ss,sk, firepro
Bottom Line:
i use this tire only on the back. i can grab one gear higher on the trail and fly up climbs in higher gears. can really real someone in on a climb and hardpack. i rode 100 miles of lajitas with no complaints except a little more cautious on the downhill. these babys roll. did i mention these babies roll. let a friend use it and was keeping up when he usually strugles to keepup. everyone that ive let use it or has gotten one is riding faster. the tire teaches you to ride smooth which is not a bad thing. keep high pressure or it will pinch flat. they do were quick on rocky trail but for 21 dollars from jenson who cares. if the terrain you ride on is not too trecherous these are very much worth a try. mine was 388 grams on my scale.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zero
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore Date Reviewed: January 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Dirt bike trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The lightest tire I've ever used. Incredible acceleration even for a semi-slick. I actually broke my previous speed record on this rubbers
Weaknesses:
Slippery on loosely packed earth. Terrible durability.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Racelight, Ritcheys, Other Kendas, Continentals
Bike Setup:
GT Tempest Hardtail
Bottom Line:
Quite a pricey tire considering it lasts only for a few miles. But very very very light though. Better for sponsored pros racing on hard pack. Not a Jack of all trades but definately a Master on more solid earth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rich
a Racer
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: December 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
chubb, Greensfelder
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This is a followup report (see below). Light, fast, light, fast. light, fast. GREAT factory support.
Weaknesses:
First set: too light- the company had compound problems. This caused fast wear/side knob fragility. New set: these are sketchy, sketchy, sketchy! But what do you want for the lightest tires made?
Similar Products Used:
There is nothing similar but I've ridden other semi-slicks:Bontrager SS, ST, Michelins, etc.
Bike Setup:
Marin Ti hardtail, Manitou SX-ti shock, Moxey seatpost/Ritchey/XTR/Avid mix
Bottom Line:
These are a specialty tire. Not for everyday use, for sure. They are, by FAR, the fastest accelerating and rolling tires I've ever used. Very scary in loose corners, rocky, technical terrain, anything sketchy. That's partially because of their small contact patch and oval cross-section, but also because the side knobs are not substantial. But for racing where it's mostly hardpack, the difference in acceleration and rolling resistance make it worthwhile to ease up a bit in the technical sections.The first shipment by Kenda had the wrong compound and were too soft, so the side knobs ripped off. Kenda was VERY helpful and replaced my tires with new ones with the right compound and they are much more durable. But still, I expect to use them for a few races only. Their rating as a special purpose tire (racing hardpack)would be 4 chilies. I'm not rating them as all-rounders, because they are not.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Madlem
a Racer
from Marietta, GA Date Reviewed: October 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
light as sin fastest tire ever tested on straightaways
I was pscyched about this product because for once a company produced a sub 400 gram tire. Currently, these tires are not carried by many dealers so locating them is difficult. I bought mine from Nashbar if you must know. Anyway, I used them in a 12 mile xc race and they were flat out awesome! Acceleration was super and I finished in the top 10 out of 50 riders in my class which is not to bad for a rookie. I was impressed at how fast I could go in the straightaways. It was simple to pass many riders because of the lower rolling resistance. The knobs on the sides were suprisingly decent, but stopping on downhills was a more difficult task. I must warn you thought that entering a loose packed corner is a big no no on these tires. I learned the hard way and crashed. Anyway, I have been raving on these tires let's get down to the nitty gritty dirt. They suck! Why? Number one reason is the product was obviously rushed to market without much testing from riders. After riding the tire for under 20 miles, most of my knobs on the sides are tearing off. In addition, as some other reviewers have noted the tires look two years old after virtually no miles. I was looking forward to running my second race, but decided to go with my Geax which are almost a year old because the tread was in better shape. This is pathetic for $33 each that they last under 20 miles. I suppose they could still be used if I don't care about having a safe setup. I would give these a 5 star rating if I could be guaranteed to get even 200 miles out of them. This is a tire the boys of NASCAR would love. In a mtb xc race they would radio in that we're coming into the pits for a two tire change. I need a fresh set of Kenda Kozmik Lites to beat up the competion. These would be awesome tires if Kenda is able to add a bit more durability to the tread. It is odd how the knobs just come off of the rest of the tire. Oh well!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BCS
a Weekend Warrior
from Illin' Noise Date Reviewed: October 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
new ones
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light as a feather Knobs actually work Super fast rolling tire Precise on hardpack Cheapest way to drop 1lb
Weaknesses:
Gooey-soft rubber compound Not quite fat enough
Similar Products Used:
Velociraptors, Nimbus III's, Vredesteins, Mythos, Ritchey, etc.
I dropped over a pound of rotating weight from my bike just by switching to these tires. These tires roll very easily - you'll feel like you're piloting a rocket! (no kidding) If you ride mostly hardpack (no loose stuff) try these tires! Best gram shaving bargain available.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rich
a Racer
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: September 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Greensfelder
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Very light (361 grams Very low rolling resistance
Weaknesses:
Special use- For Racing Only, Hardpack
Similar Products Used:
Nothing is in same weight class; Bontrager Revolt SS
Bike Setup:
Marin Ti Hardtail, Manitou SX Ti, Moxey seatpost, Ritchey/XT/XTR/Avid mix, American Classic wheelset
Bottom Line:
These tires are very light, very narrow, and have a small footprint because the shape is so rounded it's almost an oval. I tested them by running 3 extra laps after a local race. To prevent pinch flats I ran 60 psi. The trail was 75-80% hardpack with some loose silt; the rest was littered with large embedded rock and a short 1/4 mile paved uphill section. The lower rotating weight is very noticeable, as is the low rolling resistance. I thought the rocky parts would tear the tire up, so was careful, but no problems. At 60 psi, they are as expected, bouncy in the rough stuff. Tires were very fast on hardpack, even in loose silty corners but I exercised extra care with the tires on downhills and rocky sections. I'd worry about slicing these tires on rocky trails, because they are as supple and thin as some inner tubes I've used! But that's the only way to make a tire this light. Will re-post after some more testing, but I was impressed with them as special use tires, for racing only, on trails without sand, mud, or gravel/sharp rocks.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DAVID C.
a Cross-Country Rider
from AUSTIN TX Date Reviewed: September 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
HERMOSA CRK
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very light (365gm postal)
Weaknesses:
limited conditions, wear is very bad, racing use only
Similar Products Used:
Every thing
Bike Setup:
Turner XC
Bottom Line:
Scared the shit out of me with no warning Im sliding sideways on the ground! If you go fast and in more than a straght line you will DIE! Actualy if you ride the right conditions these might work for you in a local RACE very well but not in Austin. I am sending my 3 back, I put in 18 MI and went down twice and ripped all the side nobs off. Well back to my trusty combo of Bontrager SS rear and Specialized DIRT CONTROL.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Racer
from MN Date Reviewed: September 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
hardpack
Weaknesses:
don't know yet
Similar Products Used:
all other tires, tons of em
Bike Setup:
procaliber
Bottom Line:
these tires haul on hard pack and climb damn good on lightly loose conditions! i was suprised at how they corned so well too!! haven't tried yet in mud or in very loose conditions so i give them 5 for hardpack conditions and lightly loose dirt.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DBRider
a Racer
from TN Date Reviewed: September 8, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light, VERY FAST!
Weaknesses:
zero braking ability
Similar Products Used:
Dirt's- Notos- Racing Raptor
Bike Setup:
Klein, SID, Valiant
Bottom Line:
Extremely fast tire. Weight loss is obvious. Surprisingly good traction climbing. Some negatives: pinch-flatted first time out at 44PSI, (I ran 44PSI in hope of gaining better footprint) very skinny tire looks like a 1.7, this with the lack of side support, causes problems with off camber climbing. Braking on descents was useless. After 10 miles of riding through rock gardens and gravel the tire looks about two years old. I will save this one for the truly hard-pack conditions. I could not imagine using the Kozmik for front use in anything but flat, dry, hard-pack conditions. I will use in certain racing rear use situations only.
Overall Rating:
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