The auto market offers a wide range of tire brands for car enthusiasts, drivers, and car owners. You can choose from the top brands that only high-end buyers can relate to. We have mid-level popular tire products that appeal to different categories of shoppers. The affordable and readily available tires are also on the market for you to order.
When you hear the likes of Michelin, Pirelli, Bridgestone, or Continental’s tires, you’re reminded how pricey they can be. When you see the low-end tires, you tell yourself how poorly most of them are made. Between the costly and the too cheap are brands like Kenda tires. They come relatively affordable for those who can’t afford the big guys. Yet, they are made with quality compounds and exhibit incredible on-road and off-road.
What is Kenda and why is it the brand to choose for all your tire needs? You’ll find out in this article. Like I always say, your car tire is as essential to your safety as the engine and the braking system. Any trouble with the tire can cost a lot of damage to the car and your finances will bear the brunt.
Table Of Contents
What Is The Kenda Brand And Who Owns It?
Kenda Tire is an auto subsidiary of Kenda Rubber Industrial Co. Ltd. The Taiwan-based company has been around since 1962. Between 1962 and 1970, the company was making tires for manufacturers of scooters and motorcycles. From then to now, Kenda Rubber has gone through a series of technological, operational, and administrative revolutions. This includes the production of garden and lawn tires in 1978 and trailer tires in 1983. In 2001, Kenda Rubber started the production of passenger auto tires. However, before it dived into the manufacturing of radial tires, the company had moved and established its global headquarters in Ohio, US in 1991. In the 2000s, Kenda tires open a distribution outlet in China, 2004.
It deals in manufacturing and designing tires and other auto OE fitments for passenger vehicles, light trucks, and pickups. Previously under the sole distributorship of Cooper Tire & Rubber Co, Kenda tires have become leading auto products to reckon with in the industry. Over the years, there has been a massive increase in the company’s investment portfolio in R&D. This led to the production of original equipment and fitments to match the demands and needs of the global manufacturing industry.
In terms of sales and revenue, Kenda tires compete with the top brands out there. Since the launch of the Kenda Traction in 2009, sales from Kenda tires scaled from ground zero in 2009 to over $70 million in 2014. Kanda Traction was an incentive system that aimed at rewarding auto enthusiasts and car owners who bought a certain number of Kenda tires. As of 2014, tire dealers could earn up to 75 cents on a tire. As of 2020, sales from Kenda tires have yielded a whopping US$2 billion.
Why You Should Choose Kenda Tires
All brands that deal in the production of passenger car tires have an identity. One or two things make their tires stand out. As with other brands, Kenda tires are popular for their multiple ultra-performance features. While boasting most of the top features a good and reliable tire should have, Kenda tires come with special perks. These great features stimulate a lot of drivers and auto enthusiasts who want to have Kenda tires on their cars.
With its massive investment in R&D, Kenda has produced affordable tires that have a unique tread design. Apart from pricing and quality tread pattern, Kenda tires also come with low noise, no vibration, and above-average performance.
However, you may not like the look of the Kenda tires, but can I judge a book by simply looking at its cover design? No, I think it’ll be unfair and amount to giving a verdict on a sloth by its fast speed. No doubt, the outward appearance of the tires adds beauty to the overall look of the car. But what’s the benefit of a good-looking tire that has low tread depth, short treadwear warranty, and poor performance? Let’s take a look at the features of Kenda tires.
Great Price
Typically, Kenda tires are affordable and you won’t need to break the bank before you purchase them. One Kenda tire can cost as low as $50 or less, depending on the model. This is a budget-friendly and competitive price in a market of highly pricey tire brands.
Quality Tread design
Despite the competitive pricing model, Kenda tires come with an amazing tread design. You can buy Kenda tires with a directional tread pattern. You can also opt for the ones with asymmetrical tread patterns. In any case, Kenda tires will hold the road when you’re at high speeds. The great tread pattern also ensures high protection against aquaplaning.
Good Traction In Wet Conditions
Another amazing feature of Kenda tires is the offer of good traction and grip when you’re driving in wet conditions. Snowy, wintry, icy, slushy, or muddy road conditions cannot hold the Kenda tires down. You will have excellent handling throughout your trip.
On-Road And Off-Road Use
Not many cheap tires can handle the trouble that comes with off-road activities. But the good news is that you can do a lot of off-road jobs with the Kenda tires. They ensure good road-holding, high curve ability, and tire-road cohesion.
Variety Of Sizes
Another essential quality of the Kenda tires is that they come in a wide range of sizes. You can buy 16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, and 20”-inch Kenda tires. All you have to do is to look at your tire rim and take the size to the market to buy a Kenda tire. More so, Kenda tires can meet your various driving needs. If you own or drive an SUV, a minivan, a truck, or a car, you’ll always find a Kenda tire that will fit your specs.
Good Performance
Although not as excellent as you’ll find with Hankook or Michelin, Kenda tires still offer above-average performance. They work well in wet and dry driving conditions. Out of 10, Kenda tires will rate 8.5. This is not a bad rating for a little-known brand.
Review Of Top 4 Best Kenda Tires
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | EDITOR’S RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Kenda Klever M/T KR29 Mud Terrain Radial Tire |
9.7
|
CHECK ON AMAZON |
 |
Kenda Kaiser KR20A 225/45ZR17 |
9.5
|
CHECK ON AMAZON |
 |
Kenda Klever R/T KR601 121R E/10 Ply BSW Tire |
9.1
|
CHECK ON AMAZON |
 |
Kenda Kenetica KR217 215/70R16 100H BSW |
8.8
|
CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Kenda Klever M/T KR29 Mud Terrain Radial Tire
It features an interlocking tread pattern that ensures protection against hydroplaning. The tires’ tread pattern will keep water or mud away from building up around the tire. It doesn’t matter the depth of the mud or road, the tie will enter and come out unhurt.
What’s more, the 17-inch tire comes with an E ply speed rating, meaning you can run at a speed of 43 miles per hour. It has an outlined white sidewall, allowing you to see the specs of the tire.
That’s not all. Let me burst your bubble more. The Klever KR29 has a tread depth of 18.5 32nds, one of the deepest treads you’ll find on car tires.
The tire is also affordable, making it one of the top-quality Kenda tires at a great price. It is even a surprise to me how this tire comes at such a great price.
- Durable and long-lasting
- Excellent tread pattern
- Supports handling and curve
- Amazing tread depth (18.5 32nds)
- Low ply rating low miles per hour
This tire delivers good performance and won’t chip or cut when. It is a durable tire and you should get value for your money.
2. Kenda Kaiser KR20A 225/45ZR17
You can be sure of control and grip because this tire has a race-inspired design. This is a tire made for racing. It is rated W and you can hit the road at 168 miles per hour. Imagine you driving at top speeds on an extremely warm road without fear.
The kind of tire that makes you smile on a sunny day is one that firmly sticks to the road. No Kenda tire does it better than the Kenda Kaiser KR20A. This 17-inch tire comes with a black sidewall.
The tire’s directional tread pattern makes it hold the road firmly when you’re driving at top speeds. Even when you load your car, the 1477-pound load capacity of this tire is strong enough to provide stability and withstand the ruggedness of the rough terrain.
- Designed for race and warm weather conditions
- Excellent grip and traction
- Black sidewall
- Sticks to the road
- Relatively pricey
- It May is not ideal for cold weather
When people talk about value, I will think it’s a relative thing. After all, each tire has its mandate. I don’t think the idea of overpricing is strong enough to knock this guy off the market. I can tell you that this tire performs better than some of the highly-ranked guys out there. Go for it!
3. Kenda Klever R/T KR601 121R E/10 Ply BSW Tire
Let me tell you what I have found out. When it comes to treading wear, no tire performs better than non-directional and my darling Kenda Klever KR601 is not an exception. You have the flexibility to change rotate or swap this tire to any direction of the vehicle you want.
What it also means is that the tire has a long life and will last longer than many of the guys on this list. That’s not all I have for you about Kenda Klever’s E-Ply tire. When the tire’s tread pattern wears out, you can easily correct it and return the tire to optimum function.
This way, when it comes to high curve ability, and road holding, there is no fear of anxiety. The R speed rating is cool for me for a non-directional tire. You can run at 106 miles per hour. Excellent!
- Easy to swap
- Durable and lasts long
- Easy to correct treadwear
- Speed rating R (106 mph)
- Not beautiful
- May slightly hydroplane
For once, forget the negative comments about non-directional tires. I can tell you this tire doesn’t key into that stereotype. If you buy it, you’ll enjoy the tire, trust me.
4. Kenda Kenetica KR217 215/70R16 100H BSW
It features a 1764-pound load capacity that makes it ensures stability and great handling throughout your trip. It doesn’t matter how long. A tread depth of 10 inches isn’t bad for an average performer like the Kenetica.
Rated H, the Kenetica will support your car to run at a speed of 130 miles per hour. This is an amazing per-hour mileage if you ask me. Even many of the highly-rated tires have a lower speed rating. This is perfect for me.
You can see why I have said that the Kenda tires are mostly made for race and top speed. Yet, with the high speeds, the tire will hold firmly to the road. So, it will make sure you receive the needed stop when you apply your foot to the brake.
- Perfect for summer
- Durable and long-lasting
- Amazing speed rating
- Great road holding
- Not ideal for a winter ride
- Low tread depth
The next time you want a tire for the summer season when humidity is high, the Kenetica should be your first choice. I have confidence that this guy won’t disappoint. I used this tire throughout 2017 before I upgraded to a Dodge Charger. I did not experience any issue and I passed it on to another user.
How Long Do Kenda Tires Last?
On average, a Kenda tire can last up to 3-4 years or between 45,000 and 65,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is a good tread life warranty for a product that’s not top of the market. However, the longevity of the Kenda tires depends on the model that you order for. Each model comes with its specs. As a result, you’ll need to check the manual to know how long it can last. If you’re opting for the touring tire model, the treadwear warranty is usually longer than 65,000 miles.
Are Kenda Tires Good?
Yes, Kenda tires are good and reliable. They may not be up there as the big guys like Michelin and Bridgestone. Yet, Kenda tires offer the needed traction, grip, stability, and perfect handling for all on-road and off-road jobs. The brand tire’s affordability doesn’t mean they are of poor quality. On the contrary, Kenda tires perform at elevated levels and will deliver whether you dry on tough or easy terrain and under wet or dry conditions. The treadwear warranty is exceptional for its category.
Pros And Cons Of Kenda Tires
It cannot be all awesome or all-awful. There are things you will fall in love with within this tire brand. You may not like some other things. This doesn’t mean that Kenda tires can’t compete with other items out there. Let’s take a look at how Kenda tires fare in terms of benefits and downsides.
- Excellent traction in wet conditions
- Comes in a variety of sizes, models, and prices
- Great treadwear warranty
- Ensures perfect handling, cornering
- Suitable for minivans, SUVs, light trucks, and more
- Durable and stable on-road and off-road
- Average performance
- The brand is relatively known
- Low-speed rating
My Kenda Tire Verdict
I am sure my Kenda tire review has opened your eyes to the fact that there are cheap but top-quality tires out there. Your budget counts each time you decide to replace any components of your car. Sometimes, the fear of not wanting to fall for low-quality tires makes some car owners buy highly expensive tires. In the end, their finances suffer seriously. Because of a lack of funds, some simply opt for low-quality and affordable tires. After a few miles, they have to change. That’s double expenses, isn’t it?
But if you choose Kenda tires, you stand between quality and affordability. Every car owner must be value-conscious. It’s not budget-wise to invest a lot of money in purchasing tires that you’ll install on a not-too-rated car. After all, money is not easy to come by.
Whether you’re on a tight budget or you have sufficient money to generously splash around, Kenda tires are the right picks for you. Don’t take my word for it. Go get any of the products I have described in this review and let me have your thoughts there. You can put your comments in the section below. Drive carefully; don’t drive-drive. Have a safe trip!
My name is James. Call me your ‘Born Auto Neighbor.’ I am an auto savvy with a burning enthusiasm to help vehicle owners, auto technicians, DIYer auto caregivers, and drivers like you have a seamless time with your vehicles. Do you own or work on a Dodge Convertible, a Chevy Crossover, a Ford SUV, a Toyota Hatchback, a Honda Coupe, a Datsun MPV, or a Mercedes Sedan? I have enough automotive content to help your auto service and repair on the go.
I have been around for more than a decade, examining and analyzing car issues while proffering practical fixes that will help you spend less time and money. I take auto care, service, and maintenance very seriously and my tested experience in the industry means that you can always get the best auto tips and tricks.
Don’t fall for the auto myths; take the facts as I give them out freely.
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