The ST is one of the most under appreciated bikes on the market today. It's the Toyota Tacoma TRD of bikes. It's not a Raptor or a Range Rover, but you don't have to be rich to own it and maintain it. It will take you anywhere and back with no worries. They never break, run forever, are cheap to maintain, have good power, and excellent brakes and suspension. The problem with the GS is not that it's not a great bike; they are expensive to buy and especially to own and maintain/repair. EVERYTHING costs more; get out your wallet and keep it out. I have two BMWs, in addition to my S10; parts for the BMW are insane compared to a Yamaha. I do my own work and it's still pricey. In the end it's good that the Tenere doesn't get the love; better value for those that appreciate it.
don't knock it till you've tried it. I'm going to own mine until it explodes. I'll never sell it, and I'll never replace it with another bike of this class. I load mine up with two side cases and a top box, strap all sorts of camping gear on top of the boxes, and put my girlfriend on the back seat, and the bike doesn't even bat an eyelash. I feel like I could even put a trailer hitch on it and tow something. The parallel twin is more than powerful enough in the low and mid range. If you're looking to ride 100+mph and rev something up, this isn't the bike for you.
Sean Colligan:::: YOU will need to keep it till it dies, resale value is shit. My 2012 is hitting 84.000 miles and it still feels agricultural sounds like a sewing machine with loose internal parts. This bike slowly breaks in the more time on it the better it gets, at 84k it feels just right. But it is one of the easiest bikes to keep up on and most forgiving in the maintenance department. It's heavy but the weight is low and up front, I've had a ECU reflash done (MUCH NEEDED) and bought it with a set of Woody's Wheels Works conversion kit 21" front and 18" rear. This transformed this bike into a serious ground gripper machine to the point the 600+ pounds feels almost non existent. Until you drop it and you have to hump it up alone. Some of the 2012's and 13's had a what i have observed wiring harness issue. It would High idle low idle or stall and would not start until you recycled the key three to five times and held the throttle wide open to start it. Seems like everyone who had this problem after the main wiring harness was replaced with the Generation 2 harness all went to normal, never had an issue in over four months after mine was swapped out. All in all it's one of the best bikes in my opinion and i've owned many. It does what needs to be done can haul shit like a Jeep and get good MPG if you keep the throttle hand at ease. Seat yes the seat suck, i never had a bike with a good seat but it's manageable.
I have an early ST with 15,000 miles, owned from new. Having owned 12 different bikes over the years I think the ST is a great all-rounder having toured Europe and North Africa. It is surprisingly easy to handle even in city traffic. I agree with your comment about the oil level - is easy to overfill even when carefully watching the sight glass. The only gripes I have are 1) wish Yamaha would use better quality nuts/bolts/fittings as the fur or corrode very quickly 2) The engine is great - strong, reliable and very smooth but it sounds just terrible at low speed! But would I buy another? Yes I would.
Thanks for that feedback. Good to hear I could take the S10 to Africa and Europe! I haven't heard too many owners complain to the point that they regretted their decision. I would buy one again too.
On the windshield adjustment, one of the first things I did was to replace the stock unit with the Madstad bracket. While this is not adjustable on the fly, it is much easier and provides more fine tuning than the stock bracket. Even with the stock shield it makes a big different on the highway by pushing the shield forward and allowing air to flow under the shield, thus reducing the buffeting. Yamaha of course rubber mounted the shield, so there is some shake on bumpy roads. So far this has not bothered me, but as was already mentioned there are braces available to stiffen the bracket if you are bothered by the vibration.
more good advice. I have had an X-Screen on the top of my windshield since I bought it so I don't have the experience with the stock screen and any buffeting. It seems like windshields are like seats in that they are one of those personal items many people change out no matter what bike they are on. The Tenere is the only bike I've had in the last 15 years that I haven't changed the seat.
One point I might mention is the rubber grommets that fix the screen to the bracket. These are difficult to undo if they are a bit corroded as you can’t get a good grip on the rubber, best practice is to cut the rubber off so you can grip the brass nut then look for M5 x 15 “well nuts” on eBay. 4 will cost about £2.50 then don’t do them up too tight, they don’t need to be cranked up to the maximum. Do them up so the rubber deforms half way
Another great video as always. The issues you point out are mostly concerns by magazine testers when directly comparing the S10 against other ADV bikes in comparison shootouts and by non- S10 when trying to justify their purchase of something else. What most of the other models lack is the S10s reliability. As an former owner of KTMs and other brands I can say it's been my experience that Yamaha has it all over everyone else in that department. Long Haul Paul and Nick Sanders have proven that without question. Not the most powerful, maybe but the generally spend allot less time in the service department. 👍💪👌
Although not a S10 owner yet, my wife has the DL650 V-Strom. My 2 cents are that you can have a race car at one end, or an open basic SUV. The BMW's fall closer to the 1st, with the KTM's, Multistrada's and such in that group. Boy will they give you excitement and maybe even get you there first, but you will have to pitstop it a lot and have the expensive super hi tech knowledgable crew around to take care of it. Or you can have the dependable, but not exciting, SUV (say like a Landcruiser) that will take you there, never complaining, arrive at almost the same time because it never needed servicing that eats up time (and lots of money) like the other (oh yah, tortoise and hare). Me I want just enough of the Hare to keep me interested, but practicality of the tortoise as well. Having done a recent trip from the US to Panama, across 7 borders and many broken up roads (even on the mostly nice Toll Roads in Mexico, some of the best and worst on the trip), I will take practicality with a heavy dose of reliability. Our 2003 Kawasaki Voyager (pulling a loaded trailer) and 2009 DL650 made it like champs (now if only my wife and I had been so durable, but we did our best at 60 and 62). I am working on the video now for that trip to be seen on the Global Grace Outreach Channel soon, I hope. Unfortunately, my camera mount failed (shoestring budget again) mid way down Mexico, so not much video. Thanks again!
Hey Keith, nice job on the video. No bike is perfect and you hit most of the little complaints about the Tenere. However, like you none of these things are deal breakers for me. Overall the ST is a great bike and provides a lot of value for the money. I took an off-road training tour on the Tenere and everyone was very concerned that be able to turn off the ABS and the only way to do that on the 2014 and above models is to pull the fuse. This also disconnects your tach, odometer and throttle control. You are not just stuck in sport mode, you end up with a very twitchy throttle that will rev with the slightest bump or movement of your hand. This caused me all kinds of issues during the first two days of the class. On the third day, I put the fuse back in and got my bike back. I was able to handle all the roads just fine. Do not pull the fuse. Ride the bike with the ABS on and like you said, you will be fine as long as you are not trying to ride the bike like it is a 300 pound dual sport. The power train provides a lot of engine braking and I find that using that in conjunction with controlled breaking on the down hills works very well.
Thanks Craig, that's great advice to share with other S10 owners. I wouldn't have thought to pull the fuse. I have certainly had the ABS pulsate in the dirt on downhill stops and yes, it can be a little un-nerving, but it's something that can you can generally anticipate. Otherwise in the dirt you don't feel the ABS. The engine braking is very helpful.
The ABS can be turned off on the ‘18 ES model by putting the bike in neutral and holding the ABS button on the dash. It will go off until the bike is turned off or the button is pushed again.
Thanks Keith. I find the bike so much better than I thought it was going to be. I have no regrets about buying this motorcycle. Is it perfect? No but show me a bike that is. It’s done everything I’ve needed a motorcycle to so far. Thanks again!
ha, no bike is perfect! But I've changed out less on the Tenere than my VFR and KLR. I hope prospective owners see that the Tenere is pretty darn good out of the box. Thanks for the comment!
Not to be rude, I have 66k miles on my bike I can ride 2hours to the mountains shred double track trails FS roads and high rail it back home doing 90 on the freeway. My point is do you complain as you age? This bike is perfect. GS dudes are having recalls all the time and breaking random parts costing a million dollars to fix, 1190s and 1290s are nice will say that but the s10 does it all and you wont feel as bad laying it down as you would on a 28k BMW or 20k ktm. Say thanks to yamaha and be grateful. Nice video.
What issues have you had in that time? Also what maintenance have you done as well? The main appeal of this bike is the reliability so I’m interested 😊
@@scotwilson4169 the valves at 24k and a manual chain cam tensioner at 57k. Only other issues I've had were when I rode with some enduro boys and thought the bike weighed 150lbs less.
I'm 72 (yoa) & have ridden all types of motorcycles during my time & am currently riding a 2018 ST ES. As is stated here there is no such thing as a perfect bike but in my opinion this bike is one of the best deals out there for the money. Put a good rider on an ST & it can do anything & everything that any of the other big ADV bikes do. I loaded this baby up & did a 3,668 mile trip with not a single issue. I traded in a 2014 FJR on my bike & have never looked back. I believe in Honda & Yamaha products as in my opinion they're super reliable & I would purchase another ST in a NY second. I'm also done with chains so I love the shaft drive.
I have to agree with all of these however in most cases it’s not a deal breaker for me and in no way makes me feel I want a different bike. I use my Tenere more for sport touring and light trails. I find the engines “locomotive like” power delivery to be perfect for this type of riding. I love my ‘16 ST ES and plan on riding it for many years...great video and thanks for sharing!
Not one “complaint” about the ST is significant enough to rule it out for me.I haven’t ridden one yet, but it ticks all the most important boxes.Reliability,affordability,ease and infrequency of maintenance,and aesthetic appeal.Thank you for your comprehensive and informative videos.👍
I have the same blue model as yours. Honestly, your knocks are all spot on. I love my bike and would always buy another one. Build quality is unmatched. I got all the snatchiness out of my throttle by adjusting the cable right next to front brake cylinder. There is a rubber boot on the cable. Simply turn the entire boot. Enjoyed the review. Well done
One of the Plus's of the ST is the low resale value.. Not awful, but I bought my 2014 (non ES) with full MT luggage, excellent aftermarket guards, PIAA LED's and several other features that I probably would have added anyway, for only $9000 with 9K miles on it. I bought it late fall (a couple years ago) and wasn't sure if I was going to like it, so I held onto my 05' R1200GS until I was sure.. A 3500 mile ride through MI, ON, NY, PA VA, NC, KY and IL made my decision. The GS was listed on ADV a week later. Biggest item that I love? Cruise Control!!! When slabbing is needed, it's so nice to set it at speed and not worry about not paying attention and getting pinched for speeding, as it's pretty easy to get to ticket range on this motorcycle. The only thing I added was a Sargent front seat, which I found much more comfortable than the kind of sticky stock seat. It's the graphite colored version, so I've named it the Old Grey Mare. It's going to be around for a while, as I don't normally name bikes unless I really like them. :)
Thanks for the comment. You're right about the deals you can get on this bike. The Tenere never does well in magazine/video comparisons with the other big ADV bikes, but I think it's a real under-rated machine, which keeps the price low. A 3,500 mile trip like the one you did is perfect for this bike. You're right, the cruise control is one of the nicest features...I would have a hard time getting a bike without one. I plan on keeping this bike for a long, long time.
Excellent review. Wish I had your bike... While planning a huge Canadian trip this summer through QC/NL/NS from Maryland, I looked for this kind of mile-crushing, comfortable and BULLETPROOF machine to get me safely there and back. Having seen hundreds of comments for months praising the exact qualities I need for a big ride, I found a 2013 with 10k miles from a dealer I trust completely and started my learning curve on a new bike. Comfort, mileage, handling, quirks, etc. Have ridden less than 500 miles on only a few weekends and got stranded with a shot clutch. Apparently the whole clutch pack is done. Lost a month of riding and cost another $1000. Still don't have the bike back as they had trouble sourcing parts (for a Yamaha???). Crushingly disappointed as my trip is now cancelled and I'm not sure I can reliably travel far from home without a constant anxiety of WTF else is going to go bad.... which is the exact opposite of what everyone says and the riding I want to do. Any comments on whether this is a fluke or if I got the only lemon in the basket of apples? Can't really afford to upgrade to a newer version at this point but I REALLY want to love this bike and have it do what everyone says it does.
The most updated and refined years will be 2018 on, as Yamaha made several incremental upgrades until then. Fuel economy better. The ES became standard. For those that have starting, shifting, or running issues, try resetting the ECU. Simple DIY procedure. Modern vehicles computer controls can affect performance when they become out of sync. Create a tool kit, 5mm hex wrench to remove right side panel where fuses and battery reside, small pack of extra fuses, wrench for rear and front axles, metric Allen wrench set, gorilla tape, picture handing wire, long zip ties, pliers, multi head screw driver, air guage, valve caps, extra panels bolts, neoprene gloves, rags, etc. Use premium 91+ octane top tier gas per Yamaha, especially off road use. ECU will cut off engine to prevent knock. Cannot stress enough to use top tier gas with cleaning detergents. The engine gets carbon deposits, reduced performance, if not using top tier gas or cleaned or revved to blow out. Fresh ethanol gas every two weeks or use a stabilizer if sitting longer. Keep tank full when stored. Once every oil change use fuel system cleaner like Chevron Techtron. Do not start bike then shut off without riding. Find a way to ride bike to full warm once a month. If not follow long term storage procedues. Use a trickle charger on battery if not ridden for more than two weeks. Upgrade battery to series 14 with more CCAs same size. Clean brake rotors with alcohol and soft rag every other long ride. Improves and maintains brake performance. Wash with low pressure. Do not spray water near air intakes or electrical connections. Check tires pressures regularly. Clean the radiator intake fins every oil change with soft brush low pressure water. Get magnetic pickup drain plugs for both oil drains. Check and change filters and fluids more frequently as needed than Yamaha suggests. If it is black the interval was too long. If you change exhaust or use performance air filter, necessary to reset or reflash ECU. These bike are tought but can be broken with misuse or neglect. Happy Travels.
Hit them all. You did a very nice job. The only correction is that it has 112 hp at 7250 RPM’s (at least on my 2017). The only thing on the windshield you missed is mounting a phone or GPS on the center bar and the way these items wiggle on gravel roads. There is a fellow on the Tenere forum that makes a support to stop that which is very inexpensive. All in all this is my favorite bike out of the many I have owned especially for two up touring.
Yeah on paper it’s got 112, in reality when you put it on a dyno it will give you about 85 hp at the wheel, all bikes are the same and the shaft drive takes away more power, my Triumph Tiger Explorer 1200 has a claimed 137 but will give about 112 on the dyno
Every bike has its pluses & minuses, the S-10 is no different. One thing that bothered me was the seat angle. I did get the smaller bumpers for the seat & that did help level it but I was constantly sliding the boys into the tank. Had a custom seat guy fix that but it was a nearly $400 fix. Sure made a big difference though.
Thanks for that advice Hexter! I haven't had seat issues, but a few people are commenting here that they have. Did you have a custom seat made or were the bumpers $400?
Hey Keith, The bumpers are just a few dollars and are a Yamaha product. You replace the back 4 bumpers under the seat with the shorter ones and it levels out the seat quite a bit. However, I did still slide forward into the tank at times so several people in the PNW S-10 club always seemed to recommend Laam Custom Seats in Redding CA. (laamseats.com) His shop is only a few hours away from me so I went up there to have him do mine. However, he gets seats shipped to him from all over the country. If you can be at his shop with an appointment, he will work with you to to tear your seat apart and rebuild it to your liking. But if you aren't able to go, you basically you send him your seat and he redoes it to the best of his ability as to what you want. He's now done a ton of S-10 seats (as well as every other bike model) so he has a pretty good idea of what people want and need. Great guy too. Hector (aka thehexter1)
Agreed the factory seat has you getting your Juck crushed within the first couple of miles every time. Swapped mine out at the tune of about $400 to a Sargent and the result is A++. Turned a miserable experience into a delightful one! Factory seat 👎🏽👎🏽👎🏽
Hi, great vid! I wish I'd seen it last week. I just took mine out for the first time this year and found the oil almost missing in the sightglass. Topped it off when I probably didn't need to. I had changed the oil and filter last December after putting it in storage for winter with 600 miles on the odometer (just bought it new in October) and had put in the proper amount. You didn't mention the tendency to occasionally stall at stoplights, which I've read about and have experienced. My bike now has 650 miles on it and hopefully this will disappear after it's fully broken in. It is difficult to upright alone, hope the addition of hard luggage will help give it a better angle to get it moving upright. Thanks for the channel, Steve.
Thanks Steve. Yeah, the oil is one of those quirks that every bike seems to have. I haven't experienced the bike stalling before though. Is that a common issue? I haven't heard of it.
The new GSA has an eight gallon tank and weighs 65lb less, BUT the pricing is reason enough to take a serious look at the ST. And Yamaha reliability is legendary.
When the rear shock gets bagged out (or before if impatient like me) put a quality aftermarket shock on there, and toss the progressive fork springs in favor of proper straight rate springs. I have a Penske on mine, the combo of the good shock and long swingarm make for an incredibly smooth ride on the slab. Proper springs in the fork help too. Bought my '14 low mileage and pre-farkled for cheap, added more farkles and plan to keep it indefinitely as it is a reliable mile muncher. The bottom line is I enjoy how the ride is all about the ride, not the "gee whiz" factor of the bike when I ride my Super T.
I have a 2015 es... Love it and though it has minor things that could be better, I wouldn't trade it for anything else in the adv market.... But you did forget the "front sloping seat", which for me was a 14 dollar fix.... I ride my super T every day to and from work and it's essentially my "car".. Keep up the good work and ride easy.
Thanks Sean. I don't have any issues with the seat...which is unusual for me. I just had the Tenere out for a weekend camping trip and it performed spectacular, as always! I always love to hear that people enjoy their bikes as much as I do.
I fixed mine fo zero dollars. I just switched the rear bumpers with the front and then trimmed the rears with a knife. Leveled the seat and feels much better.
I’m about to buy an 11 Reg, one in two days with 42K miles. I’m glad I watched your review because the complaints are very minor if any. I’ve had ktm’s and I found them unreliable whereas the Yamaha is bulletproof. Why anybody needs more than 80 hp is beyond me unless they are racing like idiots above the speed limit. I have the 750 Yamaha version and I read it. Look forward to this version. I’ve also had a V Strom 1000 which I loved, I have to admit, but I think this looks better and is probably even more reliable comfortable. I also like the fact that the older model does not have all the electronics and modes that my ktm had. I hate all that tech and it is the Achilles heel of modern Motorcycles.
I have the fisrt gen and you can change the mix using the buttons around the dials. It was done by the technicien at the dealer. It certainly gives a boost. The other way to give it a bit more boost was to remove TCS. On my bike it felt like another mode, super power mode ;-). My biggest knocks is the sound of the engine. I came to stop using my tall windshield because I prefer the sound of the wind over the sound of the engine.
I got my gen1 flashed by avc8131 on the tenere site and eliminated the jerky throttle and the killer deceleration. I went from keeping it in t mode to s mode. I have a power commander and a arrow exhaust too. If I had to pick the one that made the biggest difference it would be the flash for me. I also put a abs switch on mine for about $10 bucks. It's easy to do.
i ecu flashed mine and fixed more then 10 things: gained 20 Nm in the first 3 gears, changed the grip heater from 4 to 3 settings, changed cruise control, t mode feels now like sport, s mode is now too much for city!, 5th gear is now really a gear, and got lost of the valve noises when the bike was restricting the shit out of it lol. best bike, i'll keep it forever.
I put a Booster Plug on my first generation ST and hooked the clutch switch wires together to bypass the reduced power in the bottom gears. The driveability is great now and I can feel a slight power increase due to the clutch switch trick.
I don't own a Super Tenere, but I've been considering one for years and have done tons of research. One problem I've read about that can be a real nuisance is the hard start. Another one that I would find irritating, but is fixable via an ECU reflash, is the power restriction in the first 3 gears. While no one issue is a deal-breaker, the combination of all of them has given me pause in pursuing the bike.
what do other owners think about the hard start and the power restriction in the first three gears. I had never heard of the hard start until I experienced it. I can't say how common it is. I have not heard about the power restriction, but I'm not on the Tenere forum much. I haven't had any issue with this either. As I said in the video, the power comes on like a locomotive and I feel it's more than adequate for the spirited sport-touring I do on it. Thanks for the questions!
Mine was a bit hard to start after sitting all winter but that is all I have experienced--mine is a 2015. I have had a few occasions that I was impatient and did not let the computer fully boot, it does not like that. But if I wait until everything is booted it works fine.I don't know about power restrictions. Mine gets up and goes if I twist the throttle. I guess it depends on how you intend to ride. I bought mine to be a pack mule. As Keith said in the video, if you are looking for massive power and quick quarter mile time, buy the KTM 1290, it will give you all the power you can handle. Amazing engine.
AdventureswithMe The most common way to bring on the hard start is by shutting off the engine shortly after starting it. It's not a common problem and I don't consider it a major issue, but it sure would be a nuisance to deal with mid-tour. On the one demo ride I took I could discern the power restriction if I focused on it, but the snappy throttle in S mode demanded much more of my attention. Getting these fixed via an ECU reflash I would consider a hassle, but in reality I would probably adapt to them and stop noticing. I don't need tons of power and think overall I would like the S10 as a sport tourer for the same reasons you do. Maybe another test ride is in order.
No, I'm not looking for massive power and quickness. My Tiger 800 is a fun bike but I don't ride it anywhere near its limit. For touring and camping off the bike, I suspect the Super Tenere would be a fantastic bike. I really should ride one again. BTW, I enjoy your videos.
Mark Heinig hi Mark, about the difficult starts all I can say if you wait and let the electronics boot up fully it starts allright.. what I've encountered from time to time is that it takes a couple of starter rounds more when I've left the heated grips on the highest stand, put the ignition on and didn't start immediately.. seems like the heated grips do take some of the battery power away that is needed to start the engine.. About the power restrictions.. it has lots of torque in almost all gears.. I come from a gsf1200 bandit which on top of quite some torque also had lots of power in higher revs in all gears.. the super Ténéré Is another bike, another engine and requires another riding style.. I can't compare it to the bandit, but I get a big smile on my face on the Ténéré when I open the throttle in the first 5 gears.. in 6th however, i.e on the highway I miss a bit of punch and torque above the 110km/h .. it needs more time than the bandit to overtake others.. but again the Ténéré Is another bike, another behaviour and I adapted to another riding style within weeks. I choose the superTénéré above other adv bikes because of the reliability, durability, cargo capabilities to go on holidays, specially the looks and also of course the price. Power only wasn't on my top 3 priority list, otherwise I would have taken the KTM super adventure.
I noticed you have side windscreen protection. My new 2023 ST 1200 ES does not have this. The side windscreens are for sale at Yamaha as an assessor, is it worth purchasing these side windscreens? and what do they do????
Gen 1 bikes suffer from this. Loose springs in clutch basket. From 2014 the basket was modified and the springs eliminated. A conversion to a gen 2 clutch basket is possible.
Nice video! Like you I overlook all those knocks but how about that tall gearing? For a bike positioned as a "world crosser" and expected to encounter less than perfect dirt roads, I could use a shorter first gear. At idle and in first gear my Gen1 is doing 8mph and in urban stop and go traffic, that means I'm slipping the clutch or having to stop and wait for gaps.
I never have noticed the tall gearing. On the dirt roads sometimes I'm trying to decide between 1st and 2nd gear. I never thought of it as an issue or a bother. I don't ride much stop and go traffic with it. Our commutes here are pretty easy.
On gravel, especially when ascending a low-speed trail, the bike feels "sluggish" in the lower gears. It jerks in third, at low speed and you are forced to use 1st/2nd. But you feel that 3rd is actually the gear that you want to be in, for that particular application. Try: "sport" mode, with tc setting on 2 (off - if you are really brave). The motor "peps" up and will handle 3rd. Even with the revs dropping to 2k, pick-up on the throttle out of a relative, low-speed turn, is immediate. And tc2 will allow some wheel spin and not bog the bike down.
have mine for one year (new), it has a terrible noisy fan when the fan turns on. Anybody else with this problem? Anyway, I love this bike. Always ready to go. Thanks for the video, enjoy.
Bob berge . Yes, fan noise is a problem for me, too. It’s more the pitch of the sound than the volume, though. Its high pitch sounds a bit like a siren. Here in South Florida, the cooling fan kicks in quite often. And when it does, if I’m stopped at a street light in traffic, people in adjacent cars will notice and check their mirrors for a cop or fire truck! It’s almost embarrassing. It sure surprised me the first time it happened. But other than that, I love my 2012 S10. I’ve put 18000 miles on her without any major problems!
you forgot to mention the locking system of the stock panniers. I made myself 4 copies of my keys because I was twisting them on this ridiculous system. Already broke 2 in the locks. It's no surprise Yamaha released the "raid edition" this year in Europe with Givi panniers instead. Overall I bought this bike for 2up riding. I would have gotten a lighter bike if it was just me. Like you said, over 10km/h (6 mph) the weight problem is gone. Certainly when I hit a long stretch of pavement I'm glad I got the Beast with its long wheelbase and not a lighter bike. I just feel nicely perched, dominant and confortable. I hesitated between the Super10 and BMG Gs1200. I went for reliability, price, easy maintenance and the dream of crossing the Americas. (one day, one day....sigh)
Thanks Duke! People seem to love/hate the stock panniers. I actually love them, but yes, the keys are a pain. You really have to be careful with the keys and put downward pressure on the lids to avoid breaking the keys. But even then, they can break. I do like how the ignition key is the same as the side cases. I would like to do a GS vs. Tenere video sometime...my buddy has the GS. I think the Yamaha has it all over the BMW in terms of value and reliability (though Craig's GS has been very reliable).
Hi been using your videos as a guide to decide on my purchase of 2015 model Super Tenere - got it two weeks ago. Nice videos overall. Was wondering if have done headlight beam adjustment? Could not find that in the User's manual. Also there seems like oil seepage around the oil filter (not leak) - I checked the floor beneath regularly. When I bought it, I changed all fluids and oil filter. Is there something that I need to know about the oil filter? the one I used it Yamaha original oil filter. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks again for videos from you and people similarly posting useful content on youtube. Helps a lot! Keep up your good work!
Thanks for the comment, I apologize for the delay in responding. I haven't adjusted the headlights yet. I did replace them earlier in the season but they haven't needed adjustment. I had a leaky oil filter a few years ago, but I was using an automotive style filter and thought that was the cause. I haven't had the issue since I went back to the Yamaha filter. Thanks for watching the videos. I'm glad they helped Siddarth!
Every video I see about the ST talks about the abrupt throttle response. The adventure/touring world is new to me, I'm coming from supersport/superbike side of things. Nearly all superbikes have this issue and it is easily corrected with an ECU flash, most of the problem stems from off throttle fuel cut.
Also can result from loose throttle cable adjustment. I do not have abrupt throttles issue on 2022. Occasionally the ECU needs to be reset when it gets out of sync
Wow. I can't believe how fussy people have become with their bikes. The silencers on my 1985 Triumph 750 Bonneville used to fall off but this was great because my valve guides were worn and I used to get blue flames coming out of the downpipes at 80mph. The chrome did glow bright orange when I had to go over 100mph when the police were chasing me. I'd have to slow down because I was afraid they'd melt and so they would catch me up again... That would have been a funny but very loud selfie video...
All of these complaints are sounding like user error instead of design flaws. I have a 2013 ST so mine may be first gen, but I always keep it in sport mode. I've never over filled the oil because I just put in the amount that the manual says and I don't have a problem with cruise control cause I don't have it nor ever found the need for it. I've driven from Houston, TX to Baton Rouge, LA multiple times now--which is about a 5 hour drive--and have never felt the need for cruise control. ABS has never been an issue. I think I've engaged ABS maybe twice since I've had the bike for about a year now. And I prefer sports mode because it's closer to 1:1 throttle engage and I like the heavier engine braking that it gives. Maybe it's just me. I don't know. Sounds like people complaining about their own shortcomings.
Hi . I'm torn between getting a Super Tenere or a FJR1300. They both have what I need but does the tenere have enough wind protection on long motorway runs and could you tell me what make is your screen. Is it an after market one due to the flip up top ? Really enjoy your vids, thanks , Tom.
Hi Tom, thanks for the question. I have ridden the FJR1300 too and it's an exceptional bike. So smooth. The Tenere does have enough wind protection for me for long interstate trips. The windshield I have is stock, but with an aftermarket X-Screen lip. That keeps the wind buffeting off me pretty well. My bottom line would be if you would ride on the dirt/gravel roads with any regularity, the Tenere will work well as a touring bike too. If you rarely go off road, go with the FJ.
For 2014, Yamaha changed to a different type of coupling system between the big driven gear and the basket itself, resulting in a very different feel to the drive train, the coarseness below 3500 rpm had been significant and now it's all but gone.
Well one of the reasons the super Ten gets over filled with oil is the manual. I have a 2012 and the manual is not printed correctly. It has the amount of oil reversed on when you changed the oil and remove the filter is listed at 3. something and when you change the oil and NOT remover the filter it is 4.28 L So if your not paying attention you sure could over fill it/.
I've never heard that before. I use the rear brake only in a lot of dirt applications and I can recall the ABS pulsating at times. I'll have to try it out to be sure.
I have the first gen s10 and I can say that I prefer to ride in S mode because T gives me too much engine breaking and a whole lot more popping on decel…S mode isn’t that jerky in my opinion and it’s nice to be able power wheelie from time to time while in S mode and TC2
Thanks for the comment...I wonder if the two generations are set up differently in the way the Sport vs. Touring modes work? For me on the Gen 2, the sport mode is almost too obtrusive.
I bought a new 2017 super Tenere and have 28,000 miles on it. One think I think needs mentioning is the side stand, if the ground on the left side Is a 1/4 in higher then the tires it won't stand up.
It just needs an exhaust to sound better, stock it sometimes sounds like the jetsons flying saucer hehe Im sure if it sounded better stock they would have sold twice as much, no reasons for a 270 crank 1200cc parallel twin to sound so uninspiring. Really a great adventure touring bike and its why I bought another one (as well as an aftermarket exhaust!)
I have the 2011 and fitted a gear indicator on it and It also will not show the gear when the clutch is pulled in. I am guessing that Yamaha just linked up the new one to the same ECU wiring. The FJR that I owned displayed the gear I was in at all times, so it is possible.
Cool review, oil tip is very handy. For someon sensitive to shocks to my back, how does the ST fare with deep pot holes on the road and such? (Current ride is NC700) Thanks!
Hi, the Tenere is about the same as any bike when it hits a deep pothole. It's not as bad as some, but no bike is going to smooth that out if you have back issues.
Hi Keith, good review. I generally look at about a 6 to 8 hours when I'm riding. My question is how comfortable is the stock seat. Should I look at an after market seat. Thanks
Hi, the Tenere is the only bike out of 4 I've owned that I did not replace the stock seat with something aftermarket. I find the stock seat works well, even when riding all day. If you are looking to buy a Tenere I would ride on it first and see before you buy. You will know pretty quickly whether the seat works for you.
I've looked at all that's available and I keep coming back to this. Yamaha are rock solid and despite their price offer great value for money. Please God I'll get one next year and can't wait to tour Europe on it. Rock on.
Hi there from Switzerland, lovely vids! I ECU flashed my DP01, turned it into a real ripper! However I got a problem, going into turns with throttle closed, then opening it (ever so smoothly) she jerks real hard, upsetting the trajectory bad. Guess it is the ignition going off in idle then coming on again. You know this phenomena? Cheers
There's nothing wrong with the Super Tenere that a good insurance policy and a stick of dynamite can't fix! ;) The gear indicator drives me absolutely nuts, traction control really almost takes it out of the ADV category.
Hi dude, nice vid. Here in my country (Argentina) all the members of the YAMAHA 1200 argentina club, have had certain complains with the poor ilumination of the bike, some tryed some led but its difficult to fit inside the optic case, so most ppl uses aftermarket accesory and auxiliar lights, what do you think? Greetings from far in the south👋🏻
Here is my complaint, when you get a motorcycle take the stupid ass warning sticker off your tank. Its like leaving a foot long warning sticker on a hood of a car. Rant over. Good review of nitpicks on the Tenere.
hello i am from Ecuador south america,, i bought the 2015 big, fun and grate bike,,, sorry if i write wrong, not good english enough,, this is my 20th bike and really likes me, last one was the mt01 and really was a fun and monster bike, the st i use for city and travels, last travel i ride 1200 kms last day coming from cusco, and start giving a overheating problem,, the store says i have to change the blower but really surprise me,, too expensive and not too much kms,, now on 16000 kms. maybe anyone can suggest where to find and price, ahhh another thing to comment is for long distances the sit is really not confortable as another bikes. but i like my bike . ahh good video.
Thanks for the comment...your English is fine, better than my Spanish! I haven't heard of an overheating issue with this bike. Have you checked to see if it's a blown fuse? Otherwise I might go on the Super Tenere forums and see what other owners think. That is a very unusual problem.
I have a 2013 and have read in many places it has a 6 gallon fuel tank. Even in the manual. The problem is I never get more than 4.6 gallons of gas into my bike. The most miles I get per tank is about 170 miles. I don't think you can actually fit 6 gallons into the bike. I grew up in Mass but now live out in Utah. If you ever have any questions let me know. I follow you and Living off the Slab.
Thanks for the comment. I am able to get 200 miles out of my tank most times. I should pay attention to how much gas I can get into the tank. It's weird how the experiences can be different with the same bike.
I am on my 3rd season with the super tenere also. I agree with all the complaints about it. One complaint I have is about the seat. I have tried modifying the stock seat and installing a seat concepts seat kit. Neither of them really helped. The seat is pretty uncomfortable for me still. Currently, I am using a sheepskin seat pad with the seat concepts seat and it is O.K. About as good as I could get it so far.
I'm sorry to hear that amc31b. I didn't mention the seat in the video because it's been fine for me. I actually find it's comfortable, which is weird because on the other 3 bikes I've owned in the last 10 years, I changed all three seats out. I have a Seat Concepts seat on my WR250R. Yes, it's better than stock, but I've found that I still get discomfort after about 90 minutes. On both my KLR and my VFR I used Sargent seats and I was very comfortable. I did some Iron Butt rides on the VFR (24 hour rally, SS1000, BBG1500) and that seat was perfect. If you are still looking I would consider the Sargent seat. You could always sell the Seat Concepts seat and get a good chunk of your money back. Thanks for the reply!
About the seat. Check out Terrys custom seats. I went the seat concepts route too. It was better but not much. Terrys seat is a major improvement. It was $250. He has cores so there was no down time. It gets rid of the forward slant too.
I have the first Gen. so I can turn off the abs. What I heard about the Super Tenere before I bought was the transmission is very clunky and I would have to agree. Some times it clunks so bad I think it is breaking.
I have a 2012 super ten, can someone tell me if you have to disable the abs to allow the bike to wheelie? I can wheelie other bikes but I struggle with this Yamaha, is it me or is the bike stopping me ? All your comments are good practical info, thanks
Congratulations! I really loved my KLR when I had it. I really grew as a rider on that thing. I know you are going to love the S10 though. If you compare what each bike is capable of I think you'll find there is very little the KLR does that the Super Tenere cannot do, or can't do better. No joke, I put $829 into the suspension of the KLR (fork inserts and rear shock) to make it perform reasonably well off road. The Tenere is fine out of the box, especially with the ES. The KLR's forte to me was running graded dirt roads all day long and the Tenere is perfect at that. The big weakness of the KLR was touring. I took it on several extended trips (1 week or more) and the long interstate rides to get there and back were brutal with all the vibration. The Tenere is just a mileage eater. As much as I loved my KLR I found that after I sold it that I didn't miss it that much.
I believe the side deflectors are Yamaha, about $95 on Amazon: www.amazon.com/Yamaha-23P-F83M0-V0-00-Deflector-Super-Tenere/dp/B005GEGAA4 The lip is called an X-Screen. It's about $130 last I checked. I can't say whether it improves buffeting since they came with the bike and I can't easily remove the lip. I can only say that in my 5'8" frame I feel little to no buffeting with them in place. If I sit up really straight I can feel the drag on my helmet, but in my normal position the air goes right over the top.
I'm 230lb and 6'4. I've got a Vstrom 1000 which I love bit my suspension guy had to max out the rear preload and still wanted to add a bit more. So the suspension is a bit lacking for my weight - adding bags would be even worse. How's the S10 for that?
I am 5'8" and 175 lbs so it is difficult to compare. The electronic suspension might make a difference for you. The manual suspension has a lot of adjustability, but I couldn't give an opinion about how it would handle your size. Sorry!
@@AdventuresWithMe00 Hey -- how do you like the suspension with your weight? Do you find it more on the "comfort" side or more on the "sport" side. I am also about 175 without gear and I am considering a leftover 2019 ES model.
nice bike yamahas are well built well thought out at a great price what more could you want as far as a shift indicator if you need to know what gear your in maybe you should get an automatic
Great underated bike. Here in France, you will see plenty of BMW GS and KTM. Yamaha made an excellent bike, but the competition on big trail bikes is hard. If I had the need and the budget for such bike, I would choose the big T, partly because it's a Yamaha and because I would not ride everybody's bike... Power is not an issue for the purpose of such bikes.
Thanks for commenting...I love hearing from viewers outside the U.S.! What you mentioned were also things that drew me to the Tenere: it's very reliable, good dealer network and it's not what everyone else has. I'm very happy with it!
Never had an issue with abs and I ride lots of off-road in Colorado, It always makes me laugh when people look at peak h.p. And judge the bike, it’s about power band and ridebility that makes it a good bike, it’s not a dragster! only beef I had was the cam chain tensioner rattling, after replacing it with a Graves manual one it’s been prefect!
I agree...it's a good bike for what it is and its intended use. There's an expectation that these bikes have sport bike levels of performance nowadays.
The biggest joke of all, with the high-powered competition: the moment the rider selects "off-road" mode, the ecu automatically reduces the max hp to 100 - the KTM 1290 is a case in point, as is the new Multistrada V4.
It has to do with the design of the gearbox. The Gen 1 does not have a gear pos indicator, but an aftermarket unit can be fitted. The gen 2's gearbox has been unchanged, so the gpi works on the same principle as an aftermarket item. It will not show what gear it is in when stationary. On a bike like the Fireblade (2014 - ) there are actually sensors inside the gearbox, which "tell" what gear the bike is in. So the rider will see the selected gear, even when stationary and with the clutch engaged.
Nail on the head here.love my ten but sometimes I get fed up with it's clunky feel in slow city driving yes sometimes I put it in touring mode and that helps a bit.I do wish it had a bit more power.weight doesn't bother me much its a big bike.smoothness and power would be my top 2 here the rest I can totally live with.
AdventureswithMe I kinda go between the modes when I think of it.somtimes I'm in touring mode for a week or 2 and don't even realise.definitely if I'm on the big highways I have it in sport I like the extra grunt to get me out of trouble if it's needed.
The owner's manual says 460 pounds, which includes rider, passenger, cargo and accessories. Not really much if you want to ride 2 up. Is that out of line with other bikes in this class?
The problem with more power means more heat, more maintenance, more wear. Yamaha makes a super reliable product, I would MUCH rather have reliable than ANYTHING else. Fast and broke down isn't fast.
Besides the weight, and intrusive computer annoyances. One thing I don't like about the design of this bike is that there is absolutely no benefit to having 5 valves per cylinder. For some unknown reason Yamaha has been trying this format for years and would hardly have any low end torque if it weren't for advanced computer valve wizardry. It's unnecessary and complicated with no benefit.. and any adventure bike needs to be reliable ..the more complicated it is the more it breaks down..and the more expensive to fix.
Um, the ST engine has 4 valves per cylinder. Adjustment is supposed to be at 24,400 miles, but rarely needs it until around 45,000 miles. You won't find a more reliable motor, anywhere.