Yamaha Tenere 700 World Rally

Welcome to our in-depth review of the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Rally edition, a motorcycle that has garnered significant interest in the adventure touring community. This review is tailored specifically for enthusiasts of adventure touring bikes, and we'll be exploring various aspects of the Tenere 700 World Rally, including its performance, design, and unique features. Notably, this and World Raid version stand out with its larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, compared to the standard Tenere models that come with a 16-liter tank, making it an ideal choice for long-distance adventure touring.

The Yamaha Tenere 700 is designed to cater to riders who seek a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. This bike promises to offer an engaging riding experience, whether navigating through city streets or traversing rugged trails. In our review, we'll cover how the Tenere 700 World Rally meets the demands of adventure touring, its suitability for extended journeys, and why it might be the preferred choice for adventure touring aficionados.

Our review will delve into various facets of the Tenere 700 World Rally, including its overall riding experience, practical features, and how it stands up against the needs of serious adventure riders. Stay tuned as we uncover what makes this motorcycle a compelling option for those looking to embark on their next great adventure.

The Evolution of the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Rally

The Yamaha Tenere 700's evolution and its current incarnation as the Tenere 700 World Rally are steeped in a rich history of adventure and endurance. This journey can be traced back to 1983, when Yamaha introduced its first-ever Tenere model. This original Tenere revolutionized the adventure riding scene with its large fuel tank and versatile, go-anywhere capability. Now, nearly 40 years later, the Tenere 700 World Rally emerges as a tribute to Yamaha's illustrious Dakar heritage, offering riders the freedom to explore without boundaries.

The Tenere 700 World Rally is inspired by the very machines that clinched six Dakar victories under the legendary French rider Stéphane Peterhansel. This model is more than just a nod to history; it's a modern reinterpretation of Yamaha's racing prowess. It features exclusive factory racing colours and is equipped with a lightweight Akrapovič slip-on muffler, enhancing both its aesthetic and performance. Further distinguishing this edition are its specialized long-travel forks, bespoke wheels, and a flat rally seat finished in black, all contributing to its unique character and capabilities.

This premium adventure bike stands as the pinnacle of Yamaha's adventure range. It is equipped with dual 23-liter fuel tanks, ensuring an extensive range for long-distance travel. The heart of the Tenere 700 World Rally is Yamaha's renowned 690cc CP2 engine, known for its robust torque and reliability. Complementing this powertrain is the best-in-class KYB suspension, providing exceptional ride quality and handling, whether on rugged trails or open highways. The bike's connected TFT meter, a feature inherited from the World Raid model, offers advanced connectivity and ride information, making it a modern and sophisticated choice for today's adventurers.

Design & Aesthetics:

The Yamaha Tenere 700 emerges as a bold statement in the realm of adventure motorcycles, with a design that unmistakably leans towards its enduro and off-road heritage. Its appearance is a clear declaration of its intended use; the bike is not just designed to be ridden, but to be ridden hard on challenging terrains. The narrow seat, which at first glance might seem less suited for long highway stretches, is a deliberate choice, favouring the off-road enthusiast. It is in the rough and untamed landscapes where the Tenere 700 truly shines, encouraging the rider to adopt a standing position for better control and manoeuvrability.

This motorcycle is not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about the experience of the journey, especially when that journey takes you off the beaten path. The Tenere 700's ergonomics are a testament to this philosophy. The positioning of the handlebars, footpegs, and controls are optimized for off-road riding, ensuring that when standing up, the rider has maximum control and comfort. This is essential for navigating through challenging terrain, where responsiveness and agility are key.

From a design perspective, the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Rally exhibits a functional ruggedness, with every line and curve serving a purpose. The slim profile of the bike is not just for aesthetic appeal; it allows for easier side-to-side movement, crucial when traversing difficult off-road conditions. The protective elements, such as the skid plate and engine guards, are not merely add-ons but integral parts of its design, reinforcing the bike's readiness for adventure. The Tenere 700, with its blend of practicality and performance, stands as a testament to Yamaha's commitment to creating motorcycles that are as capable as they are visually striking, ready to take on both the demands of off-road riding and the allure of open-road touring.

The Yamaha Tenere 700 is a motorcycle that exemplifies a high standard of build quality, materials, and finish, consistent with Yamaha's reputation in the industry. The bike is constructed with a focus on durability and resilience, essential qualities for a motorcycle designed to tackle a variety of terrains and conditions.

Engine & Performance:

Powered by a 689cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, the Tenere 700 delivers a blend of power and efficiency that is ideal for both off-road challenges and on-road cruising. This engine, which is also featured in Yamaha's MT-07 and Tracer 700 models, is renowned for its reliability and spirited performance. The motor offers a linear torque curve, providing smooth and responsive power delivery across the rev range, which is especially beneficial when navigating through varying terrain types. The engine's design also contributes to the bike's low centre of gravity, aiding in stability and handling.

The Tenere 700 stands out for its agility and capability in a wide range of riding conditions. The six-speed gearbox is tuned to maximize the engine's output, offering crisp and precise shifts that make for an engaging riding experience. Whether it's tackling tight switchbacks, cruising on highways, or navigating technical off-road trails, the transmission setup ensures that the right amount of power is always at the rider's disposal. The bike's suspension setup, with its long-travel forks and rear shock, provides a comfortable ride on various surfaces while maintaining the necessary support for aggressive off-road riding. The Tenere 700's performance is further enhanced by its rider-aid features like switchable ABS, which offers added safety and control, particularly in unpredictable off-road conditions or during aggressive braking on pavement.

Yamaha Tenere 700's Tech Suite:

The Yamaha Tenere 700 features a versatile 5-inch color TFT display that enhances the riding experience with its smartphone connectivity options. This advanced display allows riders to choose from three distinct screen layouts, catering to individual preferences. These include a modern digital design, a classic analog-style interface, and a roadbook-style display complete with trip meters, offering versatility in how ride information is presented.

Integrated with Yamaha's MyRide app, the bike's Communication Control Unit (CCU) ensures that riders stay connected on the go. It displays text messages and incoming call alerts directly on the TFT screen. This feature ensures that riders can stay informed and connected without needing to stop and check their smartphones, blending convenience with safety. This smart integration represents Yamaha's commitment to offering technologically advanced features that enhance the riding experience while maintaining a focus on rider convenience and safety.

The Tenere 700 World Rally is equipped with a versatile 3-mode switchable ABS system, giving riders the flexibility to tailor the bike's braking behavior according to different riding conditions. This system enhances both safety and performance, adapting to various surfaces and rider preferences.

• Mode 1: Fully On: This mode activates ABS on both wheels, conforming to legal requirements for riding on public roads. It's ideal for everyday riding conditions, providing a balanced braking response and added safety.
• Mode 2: Front Wheel On, Rear Wheel Off: Designed for more adventurous riding on loose surfaces like gravel tracks, this mode allows ABS to function on the front wheel while disengaging it on the rear. This setting offers greater control, allowing experienced riders to manage the bike's behavior more assertively on challenging terrains.
• Mode 3: Fully Off: For the ultimate off-road experience or when riding in the dirt, this mode completely turns off the ABS, giving skilled riders full control over the braking system. This setting is particularly useful for advanced off-road riding where riders may prefer to manage braking manually for techniques like sliding or more aggressive control.

This 3-mode switchable ABS system underscores Yamaha's commitment to providing riders with customizable options to suit their riding style and the conditions they face, enhancing both the enjoyment and safety of their riding experience.

On Road

On paved roads, the Yamaha Tenere 700 is known for providing a smooth and compliant ride. Its suspension system, which includes a long-travel fork and rear shock, excels in soaking up bumps and road irregularities, ensuring a comfortable experience even on less-than-ideal surfaces. However, it's worth noting that some heavier riders may find the suspension setup a bit too soft, particularly when riding at higher speeds or during aggressive cornering. While the suspension is tuned to offer a balance between firmness for confident handling and enough give for comfort, riders with a heavier build might consider adjusting the settings or upgrading components for optimal performance.

The frame of the Tenere 700 is designed to contribute positively to its road manners. It offers a combination of rigidity for stability at high speeds and enough flexibility to maintain agility in urban settings or on winding roads. This ensures that the bike remains stable and predictable across a range of road conditions.

Ergonomically, the Tenere 700 aims to accommodate a diverse group of riders. Its upright riding position and thoughtfully laid-out handlebars reduce fatigue during long rides, a key factor for touring comfort. The narrow seat, while primarily designed for off-road riding, also offers sufficient comfort for prolonged periods of on-road travel. This design might require an adjustment period for some riders, particularly those used to broader, cushier seats. Additionally, the motorcycle's windscreen and bodywork are engineered to provide effective protection against the wind at highway speeds, enhancing overall rider comfort. These features make the Tenere 700 a versatile option for both daily commuting and longer road trips, although individual adjustments or accessories may be needed to tailor the bike to personal riding styles and preferences.

Main Features, Spec and Considerations

Summary

In conclusion, the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Rally edition stands as a formidable entry in the adventure touring segment, successfully bridging the gap between off-road agility and on-road comfort. Its roots trace back to Yamaha's significant history in the Dakar Rally, with design and performance elements that pay homage to this legacy. This motorcycle not only embodies the adventurous spirit of its predecessors but also integrates modern technology and features to enhance the riding experience for today's adventurers.

The Yamaha Tenere 700 is poised to deliver a memorable and exhilarating riding experience. It's a motorcycle that doesn't just take you on a journey; it becomes an integral part of the adventure itself.

Fun Facts

Did you know the world's longest motorcycle was over 26 meters long. It was presented and measured at Lakhota lake, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India, on 22 January 2014. The bike was more than 4 m (13 ft) longer than the previous record holder's.

To ensure that his super-stretched motorcycle would be able to perform like a conventional motorbike, the constructor rode it along a road for 100 m (328 ft) without putting his feet down.

Tip of the week:

Never grab the front brake; squeeze it!

Grabbing the front brake abruptly can cause the front wheel to lock, as it doesn't allow time for the bike's weight to shift forward.This significantly reduces the front tyre's grip on the road and may result in loss of control, posing a serious risk of an accident.

Did you know?

The aerodynamic drag on a motorcycle can increase by up to 40% just by the rider sitting upright instead of in a tucked position. It's a wind-resistance thing—like trying to walk through a pool vs. gliding through it!

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Motorcycle Camping

Forget the fuss of hotels; discover the liberating joy of motorcycle camping with us, and elevate your road trips from memorable to absolutely legendary!

Having the camping gear with you grants the freedom to decide where and how you want to spend your nights, including the option of choosing a hotel bed if desired. Though it's common to camp every day due to the desire for fresh air and the outdoors when you're prepared.

Reading List:

• Twist of the Wrist II by Keith Code
  Why it's ace: This book is essentially the Bible of motorcycle cornering. Want to tackle bends like a pro? Get this in your noggin.
• Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig
  Why it's ace: Alright, it's not a "how-to" guide, but the philosophical ponderings on the relationship between rider and bike are priceless.
• Total Control: High Performance Street Riding Techniques by Lee Parks
  Why it's ace: This one dives deep into the nitty-gritty of how to handle your bike on the road.
• Proficient Motorcycling: The Ultimate Guide to Riding Well
  Why it's ace: This is the Must-Have Manual: Confront Fears, Sharpen Handling Skills, & Learn to Ride Safely
• Motorcycle Maintenance TechBook - Haynes Manual
  Why it's ace: This is like the Swiss Army knife of motorcycle books. It covers everything you need to know about servicing and minor repairs.

Joke of the week

What's a motorcycle's least favourite game?

Hide and squeak!

Riding Techniques

Ready to elevate your skills from basic riding to mastering the road? This guide aims to do just that by uncovering crucial riding techniques that will boost your confidence, safety and enjoyment on the tarmac. But we're not stopping at mere tips and tricks; we're going the extra mile.

10 Reasons Why You Should Ride a Motorcycle

Riding a motorcycle is like savouring a five-star Michelin meal when you're absolutely famished. It's an experience that not only satisfies an immediate craving but also leaves a lasting impression. Just like that first bite of an extraordinary dish makes you forget the world around you, so does the initial twist of the throttle. Your focus narrows to the sensation of the bike, the road, and the rhythm of your breathing. It's an immediate way to bring mindfulness into your day.

So next time you feel weighed down by the demands of life, remember that your two-wheeled 'Michelin experience' awaits you. One session on the road can recalibrate your mood quicker than you can say 'Michelin star.' It's the sort of lifelong journey that never disappoints, always offering new flavours for your soul to relish.

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