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Last updated 3/11/2025 - Originally published 3/11/2025
Written by SimpleTire, Expertly reviewed by Brett Antosh
Venom Power and Kenda are two popular tire manufacturers known for their high-quality and affordable range of tires. Venom Power specializes in heavy-duty mud-terrain and all-terrain tires designed for off-roading. Kenda Tires, on the other hand, is a Taiwan-based manufacturer that started producing bicycle tires before introducing its first radial tire in 2001. Both brands offer tires in several categories including all-season tires, all-terrain tires, mud-terrain, rugged-terrain, all-weather, winter tires, and so on.
Today, we will be looking at two rugged-terrain tires from these two brands — Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T and Kenda Klever R/T (KR601). Both these tires are designed for use on light trucks and offer great traction and control on tough terrains. But one has to be a better fit for you than the other, right? We will now compare these two tires in this Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T vs Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) tire comparison based on SimpleScore, traction, handling, and longevity performance.
Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T tires
The Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T is a rugged-terrain tire built for Jeeps, light trucks, and SUVs, delivering a well-balanced performance on both paved and off-road surfaces. Featuring large, staggered tread blocks, a reinforced sidewall, and an optimized rubber compound, this tire enhances traction, handling, durability, and tread life.
Its aggressive tread pattern, combined with open shoulders, provides superior grip on loose, soft, and uneven terrains. With these attributes, the Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T has earned an average SimpleScore of 7.5 out of 10.
Get Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) tires
The Kenda Klever R/T (KR601), introduced in April 2020, is designed for Jeeps, light trucks, and SUVs, delivering a balance of rugged off-road traction and the comfort of an all-terrain tire. Engineered for durability, year-round performance, and reduced road noise, this tire also features aggressive styling.
Built to handle rough terrains and snowy conditions, the Klever R/T KR601 includes specialized design elements that enhance off-road grip and improve damage resistance. Its studdable tread pattern further boosts traction on snow-covered roads. With a range of features that elevate both on- and off-road driving, the Klever R/T KR601 earns a commendable 7.9 SimpleScore rating.
Get Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T vs Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) tires on traction
Traction is a critical factor across all tire categories, especially for rugged-terrain tires designed to tackle challenging landscapes. These tires require consistent and reliable traction to optimize both vehicle performance and tire longevity. Several factors influence traction, including tread pattern, tire construction, and rubber compound composition.
The Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T earns a solid 7.6 SimpleScore in traction, thanks to its aggressive tread design, large staggered tread blocks, and open shoulders, all of which enhance grip across various terrains.
The Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) also secures a 7.6 SimpleScore in traction, demonstrating its capability in demanding conditions. Its interlocking center tread blocks provide strong off-road and snow performance, while wide grooves help resist hydroplaning and improve grip in wet and muddy terrain. Additionally, the tire's Triple Threat Sidewall enhances traction in rugged off-road conditions. For an even greater grip on snow-covered roads, its studdable tread design allows for the addition of metal studs, further boosting winter traction.
As both tires scored equally, the comparison in terms of traction results in a tie. An important thing to consider here is that the Kenda tire can be studded, where permitted, for improved grip in extreme weather conditions.
ADVANTAGE: Tie
Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T vs Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) tires on handling
Handling is a key factor when choosing rugged-terrain tires, as they must navigate challenging environments while maintaining stability and performance. A tire’s construction and design play a crucial role in ensuring responsive handling both on and off the road.
The Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T earns a 7.8 SimpleScore in handling, thanks to its symmetrical tread pattern and reinforced sidewall. These features help the tire maintain its shape under pressure, providing stability and control across difficult terrains.
The Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) secures an 8.0 SimpleScore in handling, highlighting its strong responsiveness and overall controllability. Its high sipe density enhances stability in wintry conditions, while the studdable tread improves ride control on snow-covered roads. A wider footprint and reinforced shoulders contribute to stability on highways and during off-road excursions. Additionally, the tire’s durable sidewalls help manage cornering forces and provide the strength needed for rock crawling and dune driving.
In handling, the Kenda tire comes out at the top with a better SimpleScore.
ADVANTAGE: Kenda Klever R/T (KR601)
Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T vs Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) tires on longevity
Longevity is a crucial factor in selecting tires, influencing how well they withstand wear over time. It directly affects traction, as uneven tread wear can reduce a tire's performance. The rubber compound, tread pattern, and tire design are key elements that determine a tire's lifespan.
The Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T scored well in longevity with a 7.6 rating, thanks to the optimized rubber compound that promotes even tread wear for a longer tread life.
On the other hand, the Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) scores a great 8.2 SimpleScore rating in longevity. The reinforced construction of the tire also ensures long-lasting wear and protects from cuts and punctures. The use of an extra rim protector further guards the tire for extended use.
Rugged terrain tires are not generally optimized for longevity as they are used on difficult terrains that can damage the tread. However, both these tires will deliver solid longevity with the Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) offering a much better SimpleScore.
ADVANTAGE: Kenda Klever R/T (KR601)
When to use each
Both Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T and Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) are rugged-terrain tires commonly used on SUVs, light trucks, and Jeeps. These tires are generally driven on off-road and on-road terrains and can handle extreme conditions. Both tires are designed to be durable and offer great traction, giving the drivers the freedom to explore the unexplored.
Additionally, these tires are capable of handling light winter weather conditions, but shouldn’t be driven in moderate or severe winter conditions as they are not Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified. Alternatively, you can use a set of dedicated winter tires that deliver improved traction on ice and snow-covered roads.
Which one should you choose?
So which rugged-terrain tire is the right choice for you? Well, the answer depends solely on your personal preference as both tires have their own set of disadvantages and advantages as seen above. For instance, the Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) is rated better in handling and longevity, while the Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T offers a balanced performance in all avenues.
Another important thing to keep in mind is the pricing of the tires. The Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T costs around $231.99 per tire or $927.96 for a set of four. At the same time, the Kenda Klever R/T (KR601) costs $274.15 per tire or $1,096.60 for a set of four.
(Note - We have picked the LT275/65R18 tire size for price comparison and prices can vary depending on the tire size.)
Based on SimpleScore, you should choose Venom Power Terra Hunter R/T if you:
- Drive a pickup truck like the GMC Sierra 2500 HD or a Jeep like the Jeep Wrangler
- Want a more affordable tire that offers solid performance in all avenues
Based on SimpleScore, You should choose the Klever R/T KR601 if you:
- Drive a powerful pickup truck like the RAM 2500 or a mid-size SUV like the Toyota 4Runner
- Want a set of tires that offer better longevity (8.2 vs 7.6) and handling (8.0 vs 7.8)
- Need a set of tires that performs better in snowy conditions and is also studdable, where permitted by law, for extra traction
- Are willing to pay more for a better set of tires
Still not sure which tire to buy? Fortunately, SimpleTire is here to help as our helpful agents will be more than happy to assist you in selecting the right tire for your ride and budget.