Are you looking for a tire that can tackle rough trails and smooth highways alike? The Kumho Road Venture AT51 is an option, though its ratings suggest some important trade-offs. But how does it stack up against other top all-terrain options, and what compromises might you face if you choose it?
With a Tire Grade of 6.8/10, the Kumho Road Venture AT51 delivers confident snow traction, sure-footed dry handling, impressive longevity, and dependable rain performance for drivers who want a dependable on-road all-terrain option. Still, limited off-road capability and stiffer ride quality should be weighed before purchasing.
We’ve put together a comprehensive look at the Kumho Road Venture AT51 and what it has to offer. We put it head-to-head with competitors including the mid-range Falken WildPeak A/T Trail, the high-end Michelin LTX A/T 2, and the value-oriented Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015. Plus, we address common complaints and dig into the real-world performance data.
Tire Owner Feedback
Side-by-Side Comparison
Below, we compare the Kumho Road Venture AT51 against the top-rated alternatives in the On-Road All-Terrain category. For a deeper look at each alternative, see the Recommended Alternatives section further down.
Detailed Review
Our ratings are based on aggregated feedback from real-world drivers. Each tire’s Tire Grade reflects thousands of miles of owner-reported data — the more miles driven, the higher our confidence in the score.
Kumho Road Venture AT51
Customer Ratings
Wet Weather
8.0 of 10
Winter Weather
8.7 of 10
All Terrain
N/A
Dry Weather
8.3 of 10
Ride Comfort
7.9 of 10
Tread Wear
8.1 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
Contact manufacturer for warranty details
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 8.5 of 10
Mud Grip: 7.5 of 10
Sand Grip: 7.9 of 10
Rock Grip: 8.2 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.3 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.3 of 10
Cornering: 8.5 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.0 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.7 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.5 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.0 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.2 of 10
Road Noise: 7.9 of 10
The Kumho Road Venture AT51 competes in the on-road all-terrain segment but falls short of top performers in key areas. It may suit budget-conscious drivers willing to accept trade-offs in grip, comfort, or longevity compared to higher-rated alternatives.
All-Terrain Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Off-road performance is functional but not a primary strength of the Kumho Road Venture AT51. It can manage well-maintained dirt roads and light gravel, but more demanding terrain may require a more aggressive tire choice. Within the category, this level of off-road capability is par for the course, with most competitors delivering a similar experience.
Dry Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Kumho Road Venture AT51 performs well on dry pavement with predictable handling and good traction. Steering response is confident, and the tire maintains composure through corners. Most drivers will find the dry performance more than adequate for daily driving. Within the category, this level of dry traction and handling is par for the course, with most competitors delivering a similar experience.
Wet Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
In wet conditions, the Kumho Road Venture AT51 provides reliable traction and good hydroplaning resistance. The tread design effectively evacuates water, giving you confidence during rainstorms. Most drivers will appreciate the predictable wet weather behavior. Within the category, this level of wet traction and hydroplaning resistance is par for the course, with most competitors delivering a similar experience.
Ride Comfort and Noise Level
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Kumho Road Venture AT51 provides a comfortable ride for most drivers. However, some users have noticed that the tire produces a slightly higher level of road noise, especially on paved surfaces. While the ride remains smooth, this extra noise might be noticeable on longer highway trips. Within the category, this level of ride comfort and noise control is par for the course, with most competitors delivering a similar experience.
Winter/Snow Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
In snowy conditions, the Kumho Road Venture AT51 performs admirably. It shows strong traction in both light and deep snow, giving you confidence when winter weather arrives. Ice traction is also respectable, though dedicated winter tires would still be preferred for severe conditions. Within the category, this level of winter and snow traction is par for the course, with most competitors delivering a similar experience.
Treadwear and Longevity
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Treadwear is respectable for this tire category. With proper maintenance including regular rotations and correct inflation, you can expect reasonable longevity. Driving style and road conditions will naturally affect how long the tires last. Within the category though, some competitors do deliver stronger tread life and longevity, so this is worth weighing if it’s a top priority for you.
Pros
- Responsive steering and stable handling
- Capable winter and snow performance
- Budget-friendly price point
- Widely available tire sizes
Cons
- Increased weight can slow acceleration and affect fuel economy
- Slightly elevated road noise on paved surfaces
- Limited long-term data due to newer market presence
- May not suit all driving styles
Value Analysis
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
As a mid-range tire, the Kumho Road Venture AT51 falls short of the value mark compared to its direct competitors. While it is not a poor tire by any means, its performance ratings relative to its price point lag behind several alternatives in the same segment. Factor in reasonable longevity when properly maintained, and the overall cost-to-performance ratio is a consideration worth weighing. If value is a priority, comparing it against higher-scoring options in this on-road all-terrain category is recommended.
The Verdict
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Kumho Road Venture AT51 is a budget option with notable trade-offs in off-road capability and robust performance. However, if ride comfort is your top priority, you might want to consider other alternatives. Overall, this tire may leave you wanting more. Consider the alternatives discussed above before committing, especially if serious off-road capability is a priority.
Kumho Road Venture AT51 Problems
While the Kumho Road Venture AT51 is a capable tire, some drivers have reported a few issues that might affect their overall experience. These include a heavier weight compared to other models, a bit more road noise, and challenges in light snow, ice, or slush. It’s good to know that many of these problems are from isolated reports or can be helped with proper maintenance like keeping the right air pressure, regular rotations, and proper alignment.
Understanding these concerns can help you decide if this tire is the right choice for your driving needs.
Weight and Its Impact
Typical
Some drivers have noticed that the Road Venture AT51 is heavier than previous models or some of its competitors. This extra weight can lead to slower acceleration and may lower fuel economy by a couple of miles per gallon.
Road Noise
Typical
While many say the tire is quiet for an all-terrain design, a few drivers have reported that it makes more road noise than factory tires or some premium options. This can be especially noticeable on paved roads.
Light Snow, Ice, and Slush Performance
Typical
The tire performs very well in deep snow, but some drivers have found that it does not grip as well in light snow, slush, or on icy roads. This can sometimes lead to slipping or less stable cornering in those conditions.
Limited Long-Term Data
Typical
As a relatively newer tire in the market, the Road Venture AT51 has a shorter track record compared to established models. While initial feedback is positive, long-term durability data is still accumulating. This is worth considering if proven longevity is a top priority.
The Bottomline
While the Kumho Road Venture AT51 is a strong tire overall, it is not without its concerns. Issues such as increased weight, higher road noise, reduced traction in light snow, ice, or slush have been noted by some drivers. If these problems worry you, consider looking into our recommended alternatives.
Kumho Road Venture AT51 Alternatives
While the Kumho Road Venture AT51 is a strong tire overall, some drivers have noted its heavier weight, extra road noise, and lower performance in light snow or icy conditions. If these issues are a concern for you, consider these recommended alternatives.
Falken WildPeak A/T Trail
Falken WildPeak A/T Trail
Overall: The Falken WildPeak A/T Trail is a well-balanced, average-priced tire that offers a good mix of performance and value. It delivers solid traction in most conditions and represents a strong alternative at its price point.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the Road Venture AT51’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the Road Venture AT51’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the Road Venture AT51’s winter capability.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the Road Venture AT51.
Michelin LTX A/T 2
Michelin LTX A/T 2
Overall: A premium on-road all-terrain tire known for its proven durability and high performance, the Michelin LTX A/T 2 is built for drivers who demand the best. It offers a robust performance package that can address some of the Road Venture AT51’s concerns.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides solid wet traction and effective hydroplaning resistance, even though its ratings are slightly lower than the Road Venture AT51’s wet scores.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the Road Venture AT51’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the Road Venture AT51’s winter capability, though ice traction remains limited.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for good tread life and durability; while the ride may be slightly firmer than the Road Venture AT51, its longevity is proven.
Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015
Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015
Overall: A budget-friendly option, the Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 offers good value for drivers who want reliable performance without a high price tag. While it may not match the Road Venture AT51 in every area, it stands out as a strong performer for its cost.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the Road Venture AT51’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the Road Venture AT51’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the Road Venture AT51’s winter capability, though ice traction remains limited.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the Road Venture AT51.
Each of these alternative tires brings its own strengths to the table.
- The Falken WildPeak A/T Trail offers a balanced blend of performance and comfort at a solid average price.
- The Michelin LTX A/T 2 is a premium choice with proven durability and strong performance in many conditions.
- The Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 is a budget-friendly option that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Depending on your driving needs and what matters most to you, these tires can be great alternatives to the Kumho Road Venture AT51.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The Kumho Road Venture AT51 falls short of category leaders, with its strongest showing in solid off-road capabilities. Drivers on a tight budget may find it serviceable, but those who prioritize trail confidence should weigh the trade-offs carefully.
However, it’s important to note some of its drawbacks. The tire’s extra weight can lead to slower acceleration and a slight drop in fuel economy. Some drivers have also reported increased road noise, and less reliable traction in light snow or on icy roads. While these issues are not widespread, they are worth considering if you have specific performance needs.
In the end, the Kumho Road Venture AT51 sits near the bottom of its category in overall ratings. Consider alternatives like the Falken WildPeak A/T Trail, Michelin LTX A/T 2, and the Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 before committing, as they offer meaningfully better performance in key areas. If budget is the deciding factor, this tire may still work for light-duty use — but go in with realistic expectations about its performance in light winter conditions or prefer a quieter ride.
Good luck and happy motoring.
