For this Kenda Cross Trail: Polaris XPEDITION Tire Test, we wanted to see how Kenda’s newest UTV tire performs in real-world conditions. Developed and tested in the U.S., the Cross Trail is already OEM equipment on certain Polaris models, which speaks volumes about its quality. We mounted a fresh set of 32×10-15 Cross Trails on a Polaris XPEDITION, tall enough to give solid off-road capability but still mindful of the vehicle’s top-heavy nature and potential wheel well clearance issues. We headed out to Johnson Valley OHV, a proving ground that offers deep sand, jagged rock gardens, and wide-open fire roads perfect for high-speed testing. Maybe someday we’ll add mid-travel suspension and try some 35s, but that’s a story for another day. The results gave us a clear picture of how well Kenda’s newest UTV tire handles real-world abuse.
Also see our full review of the Polaris XPEDITION XP Northstar.
Kenda Cross Trail: Polaris XPEDITION Tire Test
Kenda Cross Trail — Quick Specs
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Construction: 8-ply radial
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Size Range: 27x9R14 up to 35x10R15
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Weight: ~36–43 lbs (depending on size)
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Speed Rating: M (up to 81 mph)
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Load Rating: ~1230 lbs (30x10R15 example)
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Tread Depth: ~20/32″ (varies by size)
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Origin: Designed, tested, and developed in the USA
Kenda Cross Trail: Polaris XPEDITION Tire Test
From the first few miles, the tire’s versatility stood out. The truck-inspired profile and staggered shoulder block design gave our XPEDITION a planted feel on loose surfaces, and the versatile tread pattern translated to steady braking control on steep, rocky descents. On Johnson Valley’s infamous granite sections, the Cross Trails clawed forward with confidence, allowing the tread blocks to flex just enough for grip without feeling squirmy. The combination made technical crawling less stressful and gave the Polaris an added sense of surefootedness in places where traction is often a guessing game.
Durability is always a concern in terrain this unforgiving, but the 8-ply radial carcass construction held up without drama. We smashed through sharp rock shelves and crossed cactus-strewn washes where punctures are common, yet the tires came out unscathed. Even better, they didn’t ride harsh despite their toughness. At roughly 36–43 pounds depending on size, they’re not the lightest option in this segment, but the added weight translates into stability and the kind of puncture resistance you want when venturing deep into rocky terrain. Like most UTV tires in the 30″ and above range, we started at 20 psi to be safe, then gradually lowered the pressure to improve comfort and ride quality. We found ourselves running around 15–16 psi, which offered excellent traction and a smoother ride, though we refrained from dropping lower since we were on non-beadlock OEM Polaris wheels. On the smoother stretches and graded roads, the well-designed tread layout kept vibration and road noise surprisingly low, proving the tire can be both tough and civilized.
In the sandy washes, the tire’s variable-depth siping became a huge asset. It helped the lugs stay flexible, digging in just enough to maintain forward momentum without burying the machine. Back on the fire roads, the same siping created extra biting edges that improved steering precision at higher speeds. The XPEDITION felt predictable even when pushing past 60 mph, and the M speed rating (up to 81 mph) gave us peace of mind during long straights. Stability was excellent—there was no wandering, and the sidewalls kept the machine from feeling loose in fast, sweeping turns.
Johnson Valley also gave us a good chance to evaluate wear. After multiple days of hammering across mixed terrain, the Cross Trails showed even tread patterns and no chunking, which speaks to the durability of Kenda’s rubber compound. While the tire isn’t light, thanks to the 8-ply construction, the trade-off in stability and puncture resistance is well worth it for riders who frequent rocky or unpredictable trails.
Kenda Cross Trail: Polaris XPEDITION Tire Test
Final Verdict
The Kenda Cross Trail isn’t just another all-terrain tire—it’s a true performer that feels at home across the wildly different surfaces Johnson Valley threw at us. From rock crawling to sand washes and high-speed fire roads, the tire impressed with its ability to adapt without compromising comfort. At 36–43 pounds per tire depending on size, it isn’t the lightest option on the market, but that added weight pays dividends in stability, strength, and puncture resistance. It’s tough, quiet, and confidence-inspiring, making it an excellent match for today’s heavier and more capable UTVs like the Polaris XPEDITION. If your adventures take you across a wide variety of terrain and you want a tire that won’t force you to choose between traction and comfort, the Cross Trail belongs at the top of your list.
