Kenda Klever AT2 is the latest off-road all terrain tire from Kenda. Its predecessor, the Klever A/T, had significant voids that resulted in excessive noise. However, Kenda has made some notable improvements with their new design. They claim to offer enhanced traction and reduced noise levels. The tread design is particularly impressive, showcasing a multitude of promising features. But does the Kenda Klever A/T2 truly deliver a more satisfying on-road experience? Let’s dive in and find out!
| Kenda Klever AT2 | |
|---|---|
| Best for | 3/4 ton or above trucks and full-size SUVs that would like to combine working tire with a weekend adventure tire, winter traction |
| Available Sizes | Click to see |
| Made In | Dong Nai Province, Vietnam |
| Labels | 3PMSF |
| Warranty (P-Metric) | 60,000 Miles |
| Warranty (LT) | 50,000 Miles |
Drawing from my stint as a Bridgestone engineer, I can say the Kenda Klever AT2 is a resilient all-terrain tire, handling both wet and dry conditions with poise. For those with 3/4 ton+ pickups, it’s a top pick, showcasing winter prowess with its 3PMSF rating. Medium to high-duty truck owners? You’ll appreciate its blend of aesthetic appeal and reliable grip on loose ground. Off-road enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either; it manages rough patches and milder terrains, all while preserving a commendable tread life. Considering an upgrade for your lifted truck or SUV to get that aggressive stance? This tire might just be your answer. Just keep in mind, like many of its all-terrain peers, it does hum a bit on the road.
All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet
Finding the ideal all-terrain tire among the plethora of options available can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, my team and I have taken on this challenge head-on. Besides our hands-on experiences with these tires, we also analyze thousands of customer reviews and test reports.
We also analyzed ‘What customer complains more about all-terrain tires?’. Even though some of these complains are coming from the nature of all-terrain tires, there is still way to prevent yourself from these issues. Below, you can see articles about, hydroplaning, tire noise
- How to reduce tire noise?
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise - Tire Vibration
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-vibration - Tire Air Pressure – How to Decide?
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-air-pressure-info
Please note that: Light-Duty is 1500 series, Medium-Duty is 2500 series and Heavy-Duty is 3500 series. If you do towing or hauling, I recommend considering at least Medium-Duty tires.
Mobile users can scroll the table to the left to see the whole data.
For those who prefer a more textual representation and dislike sifting through tables of data:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires-for-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-1-2-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-rt-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-tires-for-snow-plowing/
A couple of popular size analyses:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-35×12-50r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-285-70r17-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-55r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-65r18-all-terrain-tires/
Want to learn more about all-terrain tires:
- https://tireterrain.com/highway-tires-vs-all-terrain-vs-mud-terrain/
- https://tireterrain.com/all-season-vs-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/tire-load-index-and-load-range/
- https://tireterrain.com/lt-tires-vs-passenger-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-loud/
- https://tireterrain.com/how-long-do-all-terrain-tires-last/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-rain/
- https://tireterrain.com/off-road-tire-pressure-load-range-for-every-rig/
I highly recommend checking the below pages out before making any purchase:
- DiscountTire Deals:
https://www.discounttire.com/promotions - TireRack Deals:
https://www.tirerack.com/specialoffers - SimpleTire Deals:
https://simpletire.com/tire-deals
Table of Contents
Overview
So, you’re looking for a tire that doesn’t break the bank, yet still delivers on performance? Enter the Kenda Klever AT2. Quick heads-up: it’s technically a concept tire. Developed right in Ohio, this tire might be a solid pick, especially if you’re the kind who sticks to the roads with a beefy SUV or drives a light truck that’s 3/4 ton or above.
Now, if you’re thinking of plowing through heavy mud, this might not be the top dog. But when it comes to gravel, dirt, and some light muddy patches? The AT2 shines. Plus, it’s got that 3PMSF mark, which is a nice little assurance for those snowy months. Essentially, if you want a tire that does a great job on most terrains and still keeps an eye on the wallet, the Kenda Klever AT2 seems like a worthy contender to consider.
What I Like
- The great off-road grip on mild applications (Sizes with 3-ply sidewalls can be used on severe off-road)
- Outstanding wet grip performance
- Three-peak mountain snowflake marking (Winter capability)
- It’s not going to break your budget
- It’s highly capable of towing and hauling
- It’s a perfect fit for work trucks
- Looks good!!!
What I don't Like
- A 3-ply sidewall is not available for most sizes
- It is slightly firm and vocal on highways
- Tread life isn’t great but it is highly acceptable for this price level
- Can’t be used on CUV or sedans
Road Noise
Kenda insists that the Kenda Klever AT2 holds a quieter demeanor compared to the Kenda Klever AT. However, scrutinizing the center section design, I find this claim a bit optimistic.
Here’s the breakdown: The Kenda Klever AT sports a rib type, characteristic of highway-centric, on-road all-terrain tires. Meanwhile, the Kenda Klever AT2 leans more towards an off-road all-terrain disposition. It features an interlocked center section punctuated with substantial lugs providing biting edges—boosting the tire’s traction dynamics. However, the inter-lug spaces do hint at a potential uptick in road noise (Are all-terrain tires loud?).
So, how does Kenda tackle the noise conundrum? They deploy a dual approach. Firstly, they incorporate relatively wider shoulder blocks, maximizing rubber-to-road contact. Secondly, they employ scalloped shoulder tread blocks. The alternating block design modulates the tire’s internal airflow, subsequently reducing road noise.
To sum it up, the Kenda Klever AT2 does demonstrate commendable noise mitigation—it’s certainly not your everyday on-road all-terrain or typical highway all-season tire. Yet, among off-road all-terrain contenders, it does stand out, proving particularly appealing to those steering larger vehicles.
A side note here: Even though some tires tend to make noise because of their tread patterns, it’s still possible to keep your tire noise down.
I’m leaving a perfect explanation below from DiscountTire for those who need it;
How to Keep Tire Noise Down? –>
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise
Treadlife
Warranty
Kenda Klever AT2 promotes a 50,000-mile limited warranty for LT products and a 60,000-mile limited warranty for metric and p-metric tires.
Dry Performance
When assessing all-terrain tires, one observes distinct criteria for dry performance as opposed to wet or winter conditions. Wet and winter performances are primarily gauged on their traction and grip capabilities. In contrast, dry performance hinges critically on steering responsiveness and cornering stability.
While all-terrain tires inherently possess commendable dry traction due to their structural design, the key focus should be on their steering responsiveness and cornering stability. These attributes are pivotal in understanding the tire’s overall performance in dry conditions.
Steering Response
When you’re comparing all-terrain tires to all-season ones, think of it like choosing between hiking boots and regular sneakers. The design of each has a distinct purpose.
Now, the more rubber a tire has on the road, the quicker it can respond to your steering – it’s like having better grip with your shoes. All-season tires are kinda like those comfy sneakers you wear daily; they respond quickly and are smooth on most surfaces. On the other hand, all-terrain tires, with their rugged design, are more like your hiking boots. They’re built to handle rough paths, but might not give you that quick, sharp turn you’d get with your sneakers.
Zooming into the Kenda Klever AT2, it’s quite the impressive hiking boot of the tire world. Sure, its heavy-duty design means it’s not winning any races in the swift response department. But considering how aggressive its tread is, it’s doing a pretty commendable job. The symmetrical pattern and those interlinked bits in the center give it a boost in that area. Plus, it’s got a bit less tread depth than some others out there, which is like having a slightly slimmer sole—it helps in reacting a tad faster.
So, bottom line? If you’re all about that split-second steering, the Kenda Klever AT2 might not be your first pick. But, if you’re looking for something that’s tough and still brings a decent game to the response table, especially given its beastly design, this tire’s got some tricks up its sleeve.
Cornering Stability
When it comes to all-terrain tires, cornering stability isn’t just a fancy term; it’s crucial. Think about the kind of vehicles these tires are equipped on – heavy beasts that, when cornering, exert significant lateral forces. It’s not just about rolling smoothly; it’s about making those turns without any hiccups.
The secret sauce to achieving this stability? Sidewalls. Many have an assumption: the thicker the sidewall, the better the stability. This has led to a high demand for tires with a 3-ply sidewall. It’s seen as the gold standard by many, a throwback to an older rating system we don’t strictly adhere to anymore. But here’s a nugget of wisdom: sometimes, modern 2-ply sidewalls can perform just as well, if not better, thanks to advancements in tire technology.
Now, let’s chat about the Kenda Klever AT2. It’s a discerning tire. Instead of slapping a 3-ply sidewall on every size, they reserve it for sizes tailored for heavy-duty activities or those constant hauling tasks. It’s a calculated move to balance durability with ride comfort. To get the specifics on which sizes boast the 3-ply, their sizes section has all the details.
In essence, the Kenda Klever AT2, armed with its robust shoulder design, is a strong contender when cornering stability is in question. It’s a blend of thoughtful design meeting the demands of challenging terrains.
Here is a perfect article what to expect from all-terrain tires for daily driving –> https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
Wet Performance
Wet performance in all-terrain tires is a delicate balancing act between traction and hydroplaning resistance. Let’s break it down.
First up, wet traction. Now, this is largely influenced by the stiffness of the compound used in the tire. All-terrain tires, due to their design, might not always score top marks here. But the Kenda Klever AT2 bucks that trend. Its strength in wet traction is derived from its softer compound. Particularly, its p-metric sizes boast an A rating in wet traction, setting it apart from the pack. But there’s more to it than just compound stiffness. The tire’s tread is generously sprinkled with sipes. Some are half-depth, which improves traction, while the full-depth ones do double duty, enhancing both traction and hydroplaning resistance.
Now, hydroplaning resistance is where the rubber literally meets the road. If a tire hydroplanes, all the traction in the world won’t help. The design intricacies of the Kenda Klever AT2 shine here. The open shoulder blocks and two circumferential grooves situated close to the shoulder area play a vital role. They efficiently channel water away from the tread, minimizing the risk of hydroplaning (Are all-terrain tires good in rain?).
In a nutshell, for those in rain-prone regions, the Kenda Klever AT2 is not just a good choice; it’s a brilliant one. Its thoughtful design and performance in wet conditions make it a tire I’d personally vouch for.
Note: Hydroplaning is vital for a safe ride under the pouring rain. However, it might occur even with the best tire. Maybe you can’t prevent it but if you know what it is and how to deal with it, you can easily stay on the safe side.
Here is an extremely efficient guide about ‘How to Deal with Hydroplaning?‘ –> https://www.discounttire.com/learn/hydroplaning
Winter Performance
When it comes to the winter prowess of all-terrain tires, there’s often a bit of a misconception among vehicle owners. Let’s set the record straight.
For starters, all-terrain tires aren’t specialist winter tires. Sure, they might bail you out of a snowy bind once in a while, but when faced with icy terrains, they typically come up short.
A contributing factor here is the generally stiffer compound found in all-terrain tires. As temperatures drop, so does their grip, especially if they lack the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol, a hallmark of proven winter performance.
Enter the Kenda Klever AT2. It proudly sports the 3PMSF mark, which already gives it a leg up in wintry conditions. Additionally, the tire’s siped pattern combined with its more flexible compound makes it quite adept at navigating light snow. Moreover, thanks to their characteristic voided design, all-terrain tires like the Kenda Klever AT2 naturally perform well in deeper snow.
But here’s the kicker: icy roads. While the sipe density on the Kenda Klever AT2 is commendable, making its ice traction somewhat better than many rivals, it’s still not foolproof. Relying on any all-terrain tire, including this one, for consistent ice traction might be a gamble (Are all-terrain tires good in snow?).
In conclusion, if you’re hunting for an affordable tire that doesn’t compromise too much on winter performance, the Kenda Klever AT2 should definitely be on your radar. It’s a solid contender in the budget-friendly realm.
A side note here: Understanding the snow performance of all-terrain tires can be quite challenging. For those who find it perplexing, I’d like to direct your attention to a helpful resource: “6 Best All-Terrain Tires for Snow by AT Tire Category“ This article is specifically designed to assist you in making informed decisions regarding all-terrain tires in snowy conditions.
Off-Road Performance
Let’s take a closer look at the Kenda Klever AT2. Now, I’d categorize this tire squarely in the realm of medium-duty all-terrain. Why? Well, when it comes to more intense terrains like scaling rocky inclines, traversing sandy dunes, or plowing through thick mud, the Kenda Klever AT2 might not be your first pick. Here’s why.
To begin with, the Kenda Klever AT2 sports a tread depth that’s on the shallower side. In the world of off-roading, tread depth can be a game-changer, especially when dealing with loose surfaces. A deeper tread typically equates to better grip, and the Kenda Klever AT2’s less pronounced depth can hinder its performance in more challenging terrains.
Next up, let’s chat about sipe density. This tire has a sparser sipe distribution compared to some of the premium brands out there. Now, while sipes play a big role in wet and icy conditions, in off-road scenarios, their absence can sometimes be felt.
But here’s where the Kenda Klever AT2 shines. If your off-roading aspirations are more in line with tackling gravel paths, dirt trails, or navigating construction sites, this tire delivers. It offers reliable traction and won’t let you down. However, dreaming of conquering the Baja Race with this one? You might want to reconsider.
In sum, the Kenda Klever AT2 is a solid choice for those weekend getaways, perhaps a hunting trip or a jaunt to the beach. Yet, its shoulder design can be a limiting factor when you find yourself in thick mud. For light to moderate off-road adventures, it’s a reliable companion, but for more intense escapades, you might want to explore other options.
Technology
- Not having the 3-ply sidewall enables flexing and increases the comfort for in-city drives.
- Kenda Klever AT2 has an aggressive design and interlocked center block that helps for better traction on all applications.
- Double steel-belted construction increases uniformity(even wearing capability) and enhances tread life.
- High sipe density for ice and snow conditions. Remember, sipes always increase grip.
Sizes
I have created two different tables. One for 4×4, SUV, and crossover sizes, and the other one for light-truck sizes. Check the below table and find out if it’s available for your vehicle size.
Most tire sizes begin with modifier letters(P, LT, etc.) that identify the type of vehicle or type of service for which they were designed. Here is a perfect guide for reading tire size –> https://tireterrain.com/how-to-read-tire-size/
4×4, ,SUV and Crossover Sizes
| 15 Inches Sizes | 16 Inches Sizes | 17 Inches Sizes | 18 Inches Sizes | 20 Inches Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 235/75R15 | 235/70R16 | 235/75R17 | 255/70R18 | 275/60R20 |
| 245/75R16 | 245/70R17 | 265/70R18 | 275/55R20 | |
| 245/70R16 | 245/65R17 | 265/65R18 | ||
| 255/70R16 | 255/75R17 | 265/60R18 | ||
| 265/75R16 | 255/70R17 | 275/65R18 | ||
| 265/70R16 | 265/70R17 | |||
| 265/65R17 | ||||
| 285/70R17 |
Light Truck Sizes
| 15 Inches Sizes | 16 Inches Sizes | 17 Inches Sizes | 18 Inches Sizes | 20 Inches Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 33×12.50R15 | LT225/75R16 | LT235/80R17 | LT265/70R18 | LT265/60R20 |
| LT235/85R16 | LT245/75R17 | LT275/70R18 | LT275/65R20 | |
| LT245/75R16 | LT245/70R17 | LT275/65R18 | LT275/60R20 | |
| LT265/75R16 | LT265/70R17 | LT285/65R18 | ||
| LT285/75R16 | LT285/70R17 | 275/65R18 | ||
| 265/70R16 | LT315/70R17 | |||
| 265/65R17 | ||||
| 285/70R17 |
You can also check Kenda Klever AT2’s product page to see load and speed range details.
Please note that the rows marked with (*) are 3-ply sidewall sizes.
https://automotive.kendatire.com/media/369620/kenda_kr28_spec_sheet_real_tire.pdf
A side note here: If you are planning to upsize or downsize from your original equipment size (changing tire size with a smaller or bigger size), or if you have already done, it’s crucial to remember that changing tire size will decrease the accuracy of your speedometer. If this is the case, I strongly recommend checking DiscountTire Speedometer Guide.
Size Selection
Before we dive into selecting the right tire size, it’s essential to understand the tire standards that manufacturers follow.
Technical Standards & Regulations
In Europe, the tire standardizing organization is called ETRTO. In the United States, it’s The Tire and Rim Association (TRA), while in Japan, it’s the Japanese Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA). Although there may be other organizations, they generally align with one of these three.
When it comes to passenger car tires, TRA designates them by placing the letter “P” in front of the size to indicate conformity to the TRA standard. On the other hand, ETRTO and JATMA do not use any letters, which can sometimes be confusing when determining which standard is being used.
For light truck tires, TRA uses the letters “LT” in front of the tire size, while JATMA places the letters “LT” after the size. ETRTO, however, uses the letter “C” after the size to indicate tires of this type.
In the realm of medium truck tires, ETRTO uses the letter “C” after the size to designate tires designed according to their standard. In contrast, TRA and JATMA do not use any letters in this context.
Now, here’s what’s essential: Tires with the same dimensions (size) may have different maximum load capacities depending on the standard being followed. So, it’s crucial to consider the relevant standard when choosing tires.
When it comes to load capacity designations, “SL” (Standard Load) and “XL” (Extra Load) are used for all passenger car tires, regardless of which standard is being followed. In the ETRTO standard, “Reinforced” is also used as an alternative to “XL.”
Load Range, on the other hand, is specific to TRA. ETRTO and JATMA use the term “Load Index.” While TRA references Load Indexes, it’s important to note that the values provided are approximate.
To sum it up, understanding the tire standards and designations is vital as they play a significant role in determining the right tire size and load capacity. By considering the appropriate standards, you can make an informed decision when selecting tires that meet your vehicle’s requirements.
Here are two great articles if you wanna dive deeper:
Load Range vs Load Index: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/load-range-load-index
Tire Sizing System: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/euro-vs-pmetric-tires
How to Select the Right Tire Size Based on Your Requirements?
When it comes to selecting tire sizes for your vehicle, it’s important to keep in mind that most vehicles offer more than one original equipment size. Let’s take the 2019 Ford F-150 Lariat Crew Cab 4WD as an example. You have three different tire size options: 275/55R20 SL, 275/65R18 Load Range C, or 275/65R18 SL.
Note: I use Toyo Open Country AT3 for an example tire. You can use this link to see tire options for your vehicle and then make a comparison between the sizes:
https://www.discounttire.com/fitment/vehicle
If you don’t know your tire size: https://tireterrain.com/find-tires-by-vin-number/
Let’s focus on comparing the 275/65R18 SL and 275/65R18 Load Range C options for a more detailed comparison. Your decision should be based on your priorities. If you prioritize a smooth ride and better handling, the SL option is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value hauling or towing performance and tire longevity, the Load Range C option would be a better fit.
As a tire engineer, my perspective often revolves around load-carrying capacity. Generally, tires with higher load capabilities tend to provide a stiffer ride. However, there’s a bit of an illusion to consider. When you compare the two tires in the same size, the SL-rated tire may initially appear to have a higher load capability. But here’s the catch: P metric tires, like the SL option, need to be derated by a factor of 1.1 when used on a truck. Crunching the numbers reveals that the SL option actually has a lower maximum load capability. Additionally, it boasts a lower tread depth, which translates to better responsiveness.
The same principles I mentioned earlier also apply when comparing XL and E Load range tires. In summary, if your vehicle allows for Passenger Car or LT (Light Truck) tires, going with a passenger option will provide you with better on-road manners. However, if you find yourself venturing off-road frequently, own a working truck, or regularly engage in towing and hauling heavy loads, then LT tires are generally the better choice for your needs.
Couple of tips for towing;
- Even though the load index of passenger car tires fits, when it comes to towing, sidewall stability is the issue. Hence, LT tires with Load Range C, D, or E provide better stability.
- Generally, a load index higher than 119 is recommended for towing
- Proper loading is important for even wearing. 60/40 rule should be followed. 60% of the weight should be on the front axle and 40%of weight should be applied rear axle of the trailer. Besides that, try to center load. Start with heavier ones if you gonna stack them up.
To wrap it up, selecting the right tires comes down to choosing the ones that align with your driving preferences and specific requirements.
Price
The tire market has a dynamic price policy. Hence, in my point of view, sharing tire price is pointless.
Though, I’ve analyzed the top 10 brands of most popular tire brands.
Here are the dealers with a reasonable price range,
SimpleTire
- Free shipping
- Delivered in 2 days
- Verified shops near you (for mount and balance)
- Mobile installation option
- 7 million customers since 2021
- 4.7/5 points on Google rate
- Top-notch customer service, you may even request a price match
Kenda Klever AT2: https://simpletire.com/brands/kenda-tires/klever-a-t2-kr628
PriorityTire
- Local installer and mobile installer options
- Huge product range(you may find any tire you want)
- 4.8 overall satisfaction rate
- Always have a good deal to find
- 90 days money-back guarantee
- Free FedEx shipping
Kenda Klever AT2: https://www.prioritytire.com/by-brand/kenda/klever-a-t2-tires/
Amazon
- Fast and free shipping (mostly in a day)
- Get your tires shipped to a selected service center or get them installed at home or work (how does it work?)
- Installation on Mavis Discount Tire (15$ per tire)
- Installing new stem valves supplied by pro
- Balancing your tires
- Road/safety test
- Since Amazon provides wholesale and affordable prices, they don’t offer a road hazard warranty
Kenda Klever AT2: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=kenda+klever+at2&i=automotive&ref=nb_sb_noss
While choosing dealers, I especially pay attention to reliability. All of the dealers on this list have 15-20 years of experience in the online tire business. Therefore, I can guarantee a smooth and fast tire buying process.
Conclusion
Most All-Terrain tire users are spending most of their time on the road. Yet, off-road performance is key to defining good all-terrain tires. Kenda Klever AT2 is mainly built for long-lasting tread, good loose-ground traction, and winter capability. Hence, it’s a slightly noisy tire but offers a smooth ride.
Before making your selection, I recommend you check all tires in Kenda’s line-up. You might find a better fit for your vehicle. Here’s the detailed review of Kenda’s all-terrain tires line-up!
I hope this post was helpful for you to learn more about the tire in your mind. Feel free to ask me any questions or provide feedback, and I’ll be happy to respond in the comment section below.
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