By Graham FisherUpdated November 2026
Kenda Bearclaw ATV tires are a long-running aggressive tread option for riders who spend most of their time in mud, loose dirt, and rough trail conditions. This review looks at the full four-tire package in 25×8-12 front and 25×10-12 rear sizes. It is a good fit for trail riders, mud riders, and utility users who want a directional-style lug pattern with a multi-ply carcass. It is less suited to riders who mostly stay on pavement, hard-packed fire roads, or sand dunes, where a lower-profile or specialized tread would serve better. Shoppers who ride on a tight budget may also want to compare older used sets before committing to new rubber.
Full set of Kenda Bear Claw (6ply) 25×8-12 and 25×10-12 ATV Tires (4)
Product Overview
This listing is a full set of four Kenda Bear Claw tires, built with a 6-ply rating and sized for common ATV fitments: 25×8-12 for the front and 25×10-12 for the rear. The Bear Claw name has been associated with Kenda’s mud and trail lineup for years, and the tread is designed around deep, widely spaced lugs that bite into soft ground and clear mud more readily than a standard all-terrain pattern.
The 6-ply construction is the feature most buyers look at first. A higher ply count generally means a stiffer sidewall, which helps resist pinch flats and sidewall damage when the tire runs over rocks, roots, or ruts at lower pressures. The tradeoff is that a stiffer carcass can feel a bit firmer on hard surfaces than a lower-ply tire. Riders who run their ATVs at moderate loads on mixed terrain tend to find this balance reasonable, while those who run very light or who expect a plush ride on pavement may notice the difference.
Because this is a matched four-tire set, it simplifies ordering and ensures the fronts and rears are the correct diameter and width for the rim sizes they are intended to fit. Always confirm your rim diameter and offset before ordering, since a mismatch in width or diameter affects both fitment and handling.
Key Features & Specifications
The table below lists the specifications that are clearly stated in the product name or that Kenda publishes for this line. Confirm the exact details on the product page before purchase, as listings can change.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand / Line | Kenda Bear Claw |
| Set Contents | Four tires (full set) |
| Front Size | 25×8-12 |
| Rear Size | 25×10-12 |
| Ply Rating | 6-ply |
| Intended Use | ATV mud, trail, and utility riding |
| Tread Style | Aggressive, deep-lug mud pattern |
| Vehicle Type | ATV (fitment per size) |
Tire size format matters. The first number is the overall tire height in inches, the second is the section width in inches, and the final number is the rim diameter. A 25×8-12 front therefore sits about 25 inches tall on a 12-inch rim, while the 25×10-12 rear is wider for added contact patch and flotation. For a deeper explanation of how to read these numbers, see ATV Tires Sizes Explained: How to Read, Match and Choose the Right Fit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Deep, aggressive lugs designed for mud, clay, and soft trail surfaces.
- 6-ply construction offers a stiffer sidewall for rock and root protection.
- Full four-tire set with matched front and rear sizes simplifies purchasing.
- Wide rear size provides added flotation and traction under power.
- Well-known line with a long track record among mud and trail riders.
Cons
Performance Analysis
Performance on this type of tire is driven by three things: tread design, carcass stiffness, and inflation pressure. The Bear Claw pattern uses large, widely spaced lugs. Wide spacing allows mud and debris to clear from the tread as it rotates, which helps maintain bite in soft conditions. In practical terms, owners generally describe these tires as confidence-inspiring in mud, clay, and loose trail sections where a smoother tire would spin or wallow.
The 6-ply carcass adds a second layer of performance. Stiffer sidewalls resist deformation under side loads, which can improve steering response on off-camber trails and reduce the chance of a rim strike or sidewall cut. On the flip side, the same stiffness can transmit more of the trail’s roughness to the rider, especially at higher pressures. Lowering pressure increases the contact patch and improves traction, but it also increases the risk of a bead or rim issue if the tire is pushed too far. Manufacturers typically specify a recommended pressure range, and riders should stay within it.
Owners frequently report that the rear 25×10-12 provides better forward bite than the front, which is expected given the wider width and higher load. The front 25×8-12 is narrower, which helps it cut through soft ground and reduces steering effort in deep ruts. Balanced fitment between front and rear is important for predictable handling, so keep the set matched and rotate or replace them as a pair when possible.
Wear is a common talking point. Aggressive mud tread is designed to shed material to stay clean, and it can chunk or wear more quickly on hard, abrasive surfaces like rock trails or pavement. Riders who mix these conditions often see faster lug wear than those who stay in soft ground. Checking lug depth and sidewall condition regularly, and inspecting for cuts or bulges, is the simplest way to catch problems early.
Who Should Buy This Product?
This set suits riders who regularly encounter mud, clay, and loose trail surfaces and who want an aggressive tread with a robust carcass. Hunters, mud-bog enthusiasts, and utility users who work in soft fields will likely appreciate the bite and clearing ability. Riders who run their ATVs with a moderate load and who keep pressures within the manufacturer’s range will get the most consistent results.
Riders who should skip this set include those who ride mostly on pavement, gravel roads, or hard-packed fire roads. The aggressive tread will be louder and less stable on hard surfaces, and wear will be faster. Sand riders may also be better served by a tread designed for flotation rather than mud clearing. Anyone who needs a smooth, comfortable ride for long road transits should consider a lower-ply all-terrain tire instead.
Buying Guide
Before buying any set of ATV tires, confirm four things: the rim diameter, the rim width, the wheel offset, and the tire load and speed ratings required by your machine. Your owner’s manual or the tire placard on your existing tires will list the correct sizes. Mismatched sizes can cause rubbing, poor handling, and drivetrain stress. If you are unsure, the guide at ATV Tires Sizes Explained: How to Read, Match and Choose the Right Fit walks through the process step by step.
Consider how you ride. If your main concern is mud and trail traction, an aggressive tread like the Bear Claw is a logical choice. If you need better all-around performance on mixed terrain, a less aggressive all-terrain tread may be more practical. For a broader comparison of tread styles, see 10 Best Kenda Tires for ATV: Buyer's Guide and Expert Picks.
Several well-known alternatives are worth comparing. The first is a related Kenda Bear Claw listing that uses a similar name and size set, which may appeal to buyers who want to compare sellers or packaging.
Kenda6 Ply – Bear Claw EX 25x8x12 25x10x12 Bearclaw EX K573-25×8-12 Front & 25×10-12 Rear ATV/UTV Tires (4 pk)
A second option is a KendaFour-branded set that also lists 25×8-12 front and 25×10-12 rear sizes, aimed at all-weather grip and even wear. Compare the ply rating and tread description carefully against the original Bear Claw listing before choosing.
KendaFour 6-ply tires for ATV, UTV, & SxS Ideal for all-weather grip, power delivery, & even wear w/ Keychain Bear Claw Front 25×8-12 & Rear 25×10-12 ATV, UTV or SXS Tires
If you want to see how other mud-focused options compare, reviews of other trail patterns, such as Maxxis Tires for ATV: How to Choose the Right Set for Your Riding, can help you weigh tread style against your riding conditions. Whatever you choose, check inflation pressure with a reliable gauge, such as one described in Low Pressure Tire Gauge for ATV Tires: How to Check PSI Accurately.
FAQ
Are Kenda Bearclaw ATV tires good for mud?
Yes, the Bear Claw pattern is built around deep, widely spaced lugs designed to bite into soft ground and clear mud as they rotate. Owners generally report strong performance in mud and loose clay when the tires are run within the recommended pressure range.
What size are these tires?
This set is listed as 25×8-12 for the front and 25×10-12 for the rear. Always confirm the size against your owner’s manual or existing tire placard before ordering.
Is this a 6-ply tire?
Yes, the product is listed with a 6-ply rating. A higher ply count generally provides a stiffer sidewall and greater resistance to punctures and sidewall damage.
Can I run these on pavement?
You can, but they are not ideal. The aggressive tread tends to be noisy, vibrates more on hard surfaces, and wears faster on pavement. Riders who spend most of their time on roads may prefer a less aggressive tire.
Do I need to balance these tires?
Balancing is recommended for any new tire mounted on a wheel, especially at higher speeds or on a machine where vibration is noticeable. Ask your installer whether they balance the set after mounting.
How often should I check tire pressure on aggressive tires?
Check pressure before every ride, since lower pressures are often used in mud and trail riding and small changes can affect traction and bead seating. Stay within the manufacturer’s recommended range.
Are these tires suitable for sand?
They are not optimized for sand. Riders focused on dunes or soft sand usually benefit from a tread designed for flotation, so consider a different style for that terrain.
Should a consult a professional before installing?
If you are unsure about fitment, bead seating, or mounting on your rims, have a qualified tire shop or service technician handle the installation. Incorrect mounting can cause tire or rim failure.
Final Verdict
The Kenda Bear Claw set in 25×8-12 front and 25×10-12 rear sizes is a sensible choice for riders who put mud, clay, and loose trail surfaces at the top of their priority list. The 6-ply construction adds sidewall durability, and the aggressive lug pattern is well suited to clearing debris and maintaining bite. The tradeoffs are a firmer, noisier ride, faster wear on hard surfaces, and limited suitability for sand or pavement. If your riding is mostly mud and trails, this set is worth serious consideration. If it is mostly road or dune riding, look elsewhere.
About Graham Fisher
Graham Fisher is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our ATV, UTV/side-by-side & dirt bikes guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
