I was always a bit disappointed in the $7-8 gumwall Kendas that I rode on about 20 years ago for urban commuter purposes.

Recently I put (off-topic) two high end all-season touring tires from Kenda on my car. I didn't have many choices - five minutes until the shop closed and I needed a passing state inspection.

To my surprise, I like them quite a bit and consider them great value. My hybrid still chugs along without any change in its excellent fuel economy. Though the tires they replaced were a dog's breakfast of $70 to $250 tires...

Maybe not the best analogy where on the bike the rider is also the engine and part of the suspension...