After nearly four decades of building a trusted name in the South African market, the distribution of Kenda tyres is set to enter a new chapter.
Speddick, the long-standing distributor behind the Kenda brand locally, will officially hand over its motorcycle tyre operations to Bikewise, a division of KMSA Distributors, effective 1 May 2026.
Founded in the mid-1980s, Speddick played a pivotal role in establishing Kenda as a household name across South Africa and neighboring countries. What began as a Durban-based operation grew steadily into a nationwide network, supplying motorcycle dealers, tyre retailers, lawnmower specialists, and golf courses.
Over the years, the company earned a reputation not only for quality products, but for dependable service — particularly when it came to sourcing hard-to-find or unusual tyre sizes. That reputation helped cement Kenda’s position as a reliable, value-driven brand in key sectors such as ATV, commercial motorcycle, and turf applications.
The decision to transition the business was made after careful consideration by both Speddick and Kenda, with Bikewise identified as the preferred partner to take the brand forward.
Bikewise, backed by KMSA Distributors, brings over 45 years of combined industry experience and represents a portfolio of globally recognised brands including Pirelli tyres, SBS brake pads, NGK, DID chains, Acerbis, Renthal, Arai helmets and Motul lubricants. The company has built a strong reputation for consistent service, dependable supply, and active involvement in promoting the motorcycling community through events and industry initiatives.
Importantly, continuity will remain a key focus during the transition. Vincent, who has been instrumental in developing the Kenda brand since joining Speddick in 2002, will continue in his role as Kenda Brand Manager under the new structure. His ongoing involvement ensures that customers will retain access to the same level of product knowledge and industry experience.
The transition marks not an end, but an evolution — maintaining the legacy established by Speddick while positioning Kenda for further growth under new leadership.
As the brand moves forward, customers can expect the same trusted products, supported by a distribution network geared for the future.