I really don't get why people don't like the stock kenda tires. I put ~3500 miles on the stock rear tire before it needed replacement, and my original front is over 6500 miles and looks good for at least another 4-5000. They roll well, have great traction both dry and wet, and seem to have great puncture resistance considering I've only had 2 flats. FWIW, I put a Continental Contact Plus tire on the rear as a replacement and have been very happy with it as well, (it does seem to be wearing a bit better than the stock Kenda as I expect to get another 1000 mi or so). It is comparable to the Schwalbe Marathon Plus but half the price.
Also I picked up a new pair of the stock Kenda's from a member on this site for $20 for the pair.