Kenda Konstrictor 700x23c tyre

Named for their road holding prowess and serpentine tread pattern, Kenda’s Konstrictors have been among the most rewarding mid price 23mm road tyres I’ve used though they're a pig to mount when new, even aboard very traditional rims. Incorporating the brands “Iron Curtain” technology not only safeguards against punctures but forms part of the wall structure, combining speed, handling prowess and durability in a lightweight package.

Paired with svelte hoops and inflated to their 125psi maximum climbs are a blast, often eliminating the need to drop a gear. These are characteristics readily appreciated when mounted to middleweight training wheels and a clear illustration of how far mid price clinchers have come in recent years. Carving into corners and leaving braking as late as possible, the Konstrictors inspire confidence, the supple, sophisticated compound hugging wet rural roads and reducing vibration and fatigue over long distances and poor surfaces.

These properties translate well to urban environments; split second changes of course around potholes, opening car doors and errant pedestrians never raised a sweat. Wet manhole covers are tricky at the best of times but even the recessed variety couldn’t cajole a shimmy out of the Kendas.

I prefer run 25mm upwards for winter duties but experimenting with the pressures – dropping them by thirty in one instance – and chasing through cycle paths littered with broken glass, flints and thorns failed to infiltrate the casing, much less cause a flat. On this basis they’d be worthy options for those looking to blast along through the murkier months and I’m pleased to report our test pair moulded to shape a bit during testing, enabling less troublesome removal and refitting in the unlikely event of puncturing.

Verdict

Good value, high performance race/training tyres that can prove a stubborn fit.