Tenere 700 - got one? Thoughts?
Discussion
Had one as a loan bike for a day. Surprisingly pleasant experience. Did around 100 miles of mainly dual carriage so not it’s natural habitat. That seat is damn high though. I’m over 6ft and I could just get both feet on the ground, not flat. If you’re not planning on going off road it’s a bit much.
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I have just replaced my 80k mile 660 with a 700. It is (for me) the perfect bike. It's comfortable, good weather protection, plenty quick, incredible handling and brakes and is so far a really competent off roader.
I have luggage ordered and fitted bars, levers, pegs, sump guard and grips which, to me, have made it 100%. The Rallye model is incredible but I got a heavy discount on a matt black model and enjoy modding to my own spec.
I use mine for any local running about and any work travel as my car is heavy on fuel. Although it is used as a 'work horse' and shares the garage with some other bikes, I do still use the Tenere 700 for runs too. I think that says a lot about it.
Here are some pics....
I have luggage ordered and fitted bars, levers, pegs, sump guard and grips which, to me, have made it 100%. The Rallye model is incredible but I got a heavy discount on a matt black model and enjoy modding to my own spec.
I use mine for any local running about and any work travel as my car is heavy on fuel. Although it is used as a 'work horse' and shares the garage with some other bikes, I do still use the Tenere 700 for runs too. I think that says a lot about it.
Here are some pics....
MrGman said:
MKM87, I’m guessing you enjoyed your 660?
I keep looking at a 660 as a cheap fun bike just to potter about locally on with some light off road action.
Yes, absolutely. It was only replaced as I felt the use it was getting justified the new one. No issues with the 660, oil and filter changed regularly along with cleaning the air filter. Off road it was fantastic although I am not an experienced off roader so no real comparison other than a previous 1200GS. CheersI keep looking at a 660 as a cheap fun bike just to potter about locally on with some light off road action.
I decided to go for it and bought myself a 660 
Found a local one at a price I was happy with and within a few days the deal was done without ever having ridden one.
Within the first ten minutes of riding the bike home I was seriously questioning what on earth I had just done as it was so different to anything I’ve ever ridden (currently own a Zx6r and mt10) I got it home, parked it up, looked at it and went indoors and forgot about it.
In the last few days I’ve probably covered 200 miles and have actually really fallen for it’s simplicity, I’ve done all the local green lanes, explored all the back lanes and used it for all the chores, it’s certainly bought a new side of riding to me and I can’t wait to cover some more miles on it now
Found a local one at a price I was happy with and within a few days the deal was done without ever having ridden one.
Within the first ten minutes of riding the bike home I was seriously questioning what on earth I had just done as it was so different to anything I’ve ever ridden (currently own a Zx6r and mt10) I got it home, parked it up, looked at it and went indoors and forgot about it.
In the last few days I’ve probably covered 200 miles and have actually really fallen for it’s simplicity, I’ve done all the local green lanes, explored all the back lanes and used it for all the chores, it’s certainly bought a new side of riding to me and I can’t wait to cover some more miles on it now
I've got one and turned home yesterday from a few days riding around the Welsh forests and mountains with Dylan Jones. I've had the bike about 6 months, I've used it quite a lot, and the more I ride it and the more I chuck it at, the more it impresses. I was thinking whilst I was riding this week, it's probably one of the best bikes I've ever bought in terms of being fun, capable, and, er, fun. Sure I have faster bikes, I have bigger bikes, I have more expensive bikes, but short of a long distance motorway run I'd pretty much be looking at this one first every time I open the garage door.
If ew get the go ahead later this year I'll be doing the Illyria Raid and I'll be doing it on the T7, which this week's Wales trip has particularly reinforced.
On more road-biased tyres it's also great fun on the road and does handle very well. Even on the knobblies on it at present I've surprised a few mates on the roads.
Mods on mine run to things like engine and body protection, bar risers (I'm 6'3") and I've also had K-Tech re-do all the suspension (springs and re-valve) to set it up for my weight.
I posted a pic in "Picture a Day" recently but here's a couple anyway:
If ew get the go ahead later this year I'll be doing the Illyria Raid and I'll be doing it on the T7, which this week's Wales trip has particularly reinforced.
On more road-biased tyres it's also great fun on the road and does handle very well. Even on the knobblies on it at present I've surprised a few mates on the roads.
Mods on mine run to things like engine and body protection, bar risers (I'm 6'3") and I've also had K-Tech re-do all the suspension (springs and re-valve) to set it up for my weight.
I posted a pic in "Picture a Day" recently but here's a couple anyway:
Bump.....
I've just picked up one of these, and so far I'm well chuffed with it. I really think Yamaha have hit on a winner here as good a compromise between, tourer, commuter, light off roader, and general workhorse as you'll ever find. The engine is a real peach. OK it's no Fireblade, but it's got all the power and response I'll ever need, and it doesn't seem to matter what gear you're in.
Coincidentally my mate picked up the Africa Twin on the same day, so we met up for a pint to compare. As lovely as the Honda is, it looked and felt a bit too heavy for me. I like a lighter more manageable bike, so I'm sure I've made the right decision. (I think the AT is approx. 50kg heavier than the Tenere)
Now I've just got to buy a few bolt on bits and pieces, and then plan some mini adventures !!
I've just picked up one of these, and so far I'm well chuffed with it. I really think Yamaha have hit on a winner here as good a compromise between, tourer, commuter, light off roader, and general workhorse as you'll ever find. The engine is a real peach. OK it's no Fireblade, but it's got all the power and response I'll ever need, and it doesn't seem to matter what gear you're in.
Coincidentally my mate picked up the Africa Twin on the same day, so we met up for a pint to compare. As lovely as the Honda is, it looked and felt a bit too heavy for me. I like a lighter more manageable bike, so I'm sure I've made the right decision. (I think the AT is approx. 50kg heavier than the Tenere)
Now I've just got to buy a few bolt on bits and pieces, and then plan some mini adventures !!
Edited by BlackG7R on Monday 20th June 22:14
I had a couple of off road days at the Yamaha school last summer on these. Absolutely fantastic machines and was really surprised at how capable they were off road.
I really like them but not sure if I'd ever take it off road. Just a combination of not enough routes to enjoy and the risk of dropping it in the middle of nowhere on my own. I've actually considered whether to just buy a Tracer 7 instead as it's the same engine and probably a similar riding position.
If you get the chance, book an off road day in Wales and see what they are capable of off road. Probably the best fun I've had in a while.
I really like them but not sure if I'd ever take it off road. Just a combination of not enough routes to enjoy and the risk of dropping it in the middle of nowhere on my own. I've actually considered whether to just buy a Tracer 7 instead as it's the same engine and probably a similar riding position.
If you get the chance, book an off road day in Wales and see what they are capable of off road. Probably the best fun I've had in a while.
Chicken Chaser said:
I had a couple of off road days at the Yamaha school last summer on these. Absolutely fantastic machines and was really surprised at how capable they were off road.
I really like them but not sure if I'd ever take it off road. Just a combination of not enough routes to enjoy and the risk of dropping it in the middle of nowhere on my own. I've actually considered whether to just buy a Tracer 7 instead as it's the same engine and probably a similar riding position.
If you get the chance, book an off road day in Wales and see what they are capable of off road. Probably the best fun I've had in a while.
I have been to Geraint's farm before many years ago, but took my own KTM300EXC, was a great day out.I really like them but not sure if I'd ever take it off road. Just a combination of not enough routes to enjoy and the risk of dropping it in the middle of nowhere on my own. I've actually considered whether to just buy a Tracer 7 instead as it's the same engine and probably a similar riding position.
If you get the chance, book an off road day in Wales and see what they are capable of off road. Probably the best fun I've had in a while.
May have to give it another go with the Tenere's, would definitely prefer to learn it's off road limits on their bike rather than my own.
If you're looking to alleviate back issues then I suggest you try before you buy. I went from riding sports bikes for 20 years to a triumph tiger sport. The bolt upright riding position takes some getting used to and sends shocks straight up your back. You might find being leaned forward even a little with some weight on your wrists might work better for your spine.
leighz said:
If you're looking to alleviate back issues then I suggest you try before you buy.
I went from riding sports bikes for 20 years to a triumph tiger sport.
The bolt upright riding position takes some getting used to and sends shocks straight up your back.
I find Adventure bikes fine (I have a dodgy back) but I can't ride a Cruiser as the feet forward position is tortureI went from riding sports bikes for 20 years to a triumph tiger sport.
The bolt upright riding position takes some getting used to and sends shocks straight up your back.
I wouldn't buy any bike (for me) without a test ride
BlackG7R said:
I have been to Geraint's farm before many years ago, but took my own KTM300EXC, was a great day out.
May have to give it another go with the Tenere's, would definitely prefer to learn it's off road limits on their bike rather than my own.
Do it, you'll love it and if or when you drop it, you know it's already paid for!May have to give it another go with the Tenere's, would definitely prefer to learn it's off road limits on their bike rather than my own.
Chicken Chaser said:
BlackG7R said:
I have been to Geraint's farm before many years ago, but took my own KTM300EXC, was a great day out.
May have to give it another go with the Tenere's, would definitely prefer to learn it's off road limits on their bike rather than my own.
Do it, you'll love it and if or when you drop it, you know it's already paid for!May have to give it another go with the Tenere's, would definitely prefer to learn it's off road limits on their bike rather than my own.
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