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A gene encoding the heavy chain of conventional kinesin (kin2) has recently been identified in the dimorphic fungus Ustilago maydis . From the phenotype of kin2 null-mutants it was concluded that Kin2 might be involved in vesicle traffic towards the tip. However, this model did not explain why kin2-null mutant hyphae were unable to create empty cell compartments that are normally left behind the growing tip cell. Here we present a re-investigation of the function of Kin2 in hyphae and sporidia. We provide evidence that suggests a different and unexpected role of this kinesin motor in hyphal growth of Ustilago maydis. In addition, Kin2 was partially purified from U. maydis and in vitro properties were investigated. Isolated kinesin supported in vitro microtubule gliding at speeds of up to 1.8 μm/second, and showed motility properties and hydrodynamic behavior similar to those described for kinesin from N. crassa …