Kenda Ripper review: a trail tire that balances fast rolling with solid grip

# Overview Kenda's Ripper is the new trail tire in the K-Series lineup, intended to sit between the aggressive Double Black (trail/enduro) and the XC-focused Dagger. The Ripper aims to combine low rolling resistance with dependable traction for general trail riding.

# Key specs and options

# Tread and casing design The tread uses a 3-2-2 ramped pattern that tapers and repeats through the center, paired with relatively aggressive alternating side knobs. Kenda describes the Trail casing as 60 TPI with sidewall protection and a dual-compound rubber. The company also simplified its casing naming in the K-Series to XC, Trail, All Mountain, Enduro, and Downhill.

# On-bike impressions The reviewer ran 29×2.4 Rippers front and rear on a Trek Fuel EX for several weeks in dry, relatively loose summer conditions. The tires rolled notably faster than a previous Maxxis Assegai/DHR front/rear setup and showed less rolling resistance than a Maxxis Dissector comparison.

Grip was stronger than expected for a tire with modest center knob height. The center knobs are tapered and ramped to reduce rolling resistance, while the side knobs remain low-profile enough to corner confidently without excessive drag. The Trail casing felt lighter and required slightly higher pressure than the reviewer's reference Maxxis EXO+ to achieve a similar ride feel, but provided enough support for typical trail use.

# Durability and punctures The Trail casing did not puncture during the reviewer's test rides, but the reviewer notes they still carry a repair kit on longer rides. The casing provides a livelier, less damped feel compared with heavier gravity-focused casings.

# Claims and comparisons Kenda's press materials claim Ripper scores 110% or better across cornering, braking, trail speed, handling, predictability, and comfort versus select Kenda and unnamed competitors. The reviewer treats those claims cautiously, noting that details about test protocols and competitor models were not provided. Practical on-trail comparisons made by the reviewer favored the Ripper for rolling speed and surprising grip relative to the Maxxis combinations mentioned earlier.

# Availability and future releases Ripper is already available in 29 and 27.5 diameters and in 2.4 and 2.6 widths. Kenda plans additional diameter options (including smaller wheel sizes) and will release the All Mountain casing later.

# Practical takeaway If you want a trail tire that leans toward faster rolling without sacrificing predictable cornering and braking traction, the Ripper is worth considering. It's lighter-feeling than heavier gravity tires, runs true to its claims in dry/loose conditions, and fills the gap in Kenda's K-Series between XC and enduro offerings.