I currently ride a VFR800 and just picked up a KLR to fulfill my dual sport appetite. I love the VFR but this bike is a perfect compromise. I think the key to happiness is at least two bikes. subscribed!
Thank you David. I'm glad you found the video useful. The Tenere has continued to be a great bike for me. No issues whatsoever and is still fun to ride.
Lots of thousands of dollars less than a BMW! :-) I'm just now getting real comfortable with my '16ES after 10 years on Harleys and can confirm what you said about the bike. I follow Craig Ripley (in Mass I think) as well and belong to a couple of Ténéré forums plus a FB page. Most people have been real supportive in answering questions and I've found a few other owners in my NorCal area to ride with. The AltRider bars are the best and expensive but the higher the price, the nicer the nice. Still haven't decided on bags as yet but leaning towards the Givi Monkey Trekker line. I'll probably wait until Spring to get them as the weather and my traveling the next 4-5 months will take away lots of my riding time. Enjoy your vids and keep the S-10 vids coming! I may be taking a cross-country trip next year, if I get up your way I'll see if you're free to hit some roads and trails.
Great update Keith, owned my ST for 6 weeks now and have almost 3000 miles on it. I ride 86 miles a day in the Houston traffic. Say enough about how well this bike handles the high-speed beltway and turns. Added a few extras to make it a great commuter motorcycle. I added what I think is a great safety feature and had people in cars comment how visible it makes the bike. And that is the Backoff flasher for the tail lights. We have many people running red lights and sitting still at a stop light is certainly a concern. The LED really show up well. After all your video sold me on the bike. Could not be happier. Owned the BMW K1600GTL and that was a huge mistake. Expensive to maintain and many many problems. Also the water cooled engine in stop and go traffic in the high temperatures has led me to park the 2014 Super Glide which is for sale. Stay safe my friend. Terry....
Wow, thank you Terry. I appreciate the feedback from you and am happy that the videos helped in your decision. I've never owned a BMW, though several good friends ride them. I have to admit they are nice bikes and I have not heard of any problems from them. That's too bad about the K1600GTL...it seems like the ultimate touring bike. The Backoff Flasher is a great idea!
Great video and very informative, thanks for posting. As a r1200gs owner who wants to switch i find this review very helpful. I love my r1200gs but it was very expensive to buy and it's ridiculously expensive to service. So i have decided to switch to a similar but low maintenance bike.
It would be a great choice for you. So far my service costs for this season of ownership are just oil changes. About 7,000 miles now. I need to get my buddy's GS1200 for a day of riding so we can do a true side-by-side comparison.
Good video, Keith. I have the same year and color as yours and we both bought them around the same time if I recall. I have about the same amount of miles as you and I love the bike more and more every time I ride it. I just installed the Mitas E07 last month and they are outstanding as far as I'm concerned. At first I was a bit concerned when riding it aggressively thinking that the tires wouldn't take corners very well, but that is not the case at all. They bite just as well as the stock Bridgestone tires. They are a tad bit noisier but nothing major. I haven't tried them offroad yet. I just bought a used set of Rigid lights last week that are that same as yours. Like you I'm not a fan at all about riding at night but I bought them mainly for daytime running lights as they have factory detachable amber covers.
Gracias amigo. he visto y leido comentarios sobre la Tenere, y tu honestidad salta a la vista. sin lugar a dudas el ver tu video me hace tomar muy en cuenta hacerme de esta moto, y mira que vengo de tener una GS 1200 Adv. Gracias. saludos desde Mexico Valle central. Thanks friend. watching your video makes me seriously consider becoming a Tenere. Without a doubt, your honesty and your comments are very valuable and have been of great value to me. I am telling you because I have just had a GS 1200 Adv. Thanks again for sharing your experience.
goodday Kieth you hit the nail on the head the Tenerey is a good long distance bike to ride and not to bad in the mud ! I have the ES model its a dream to ride with the electronic suspension to be able to make changes on the hop be safe
I have the 2012 version. Love riding it, tours great and goes off road when I want. I use the Madstadd Windscreen mounts, which give you the flexibility for adjustment without interfering with the winglets. Found the 2 inch risers really helpful for off road.
Thanks JollyRgr, I hadn't heard of Madstadd...worth a look. That would be better than the side deflectors I have, which interfere with full movement of the windshield.
good luck. Mine is at 25,000 miles and still running strong. I fully expect to get 100,000 miles on it. I have no intentions of selling it. It still does everything I need it to.
I love my 2012 V-Strom1000 and have always wanted this Super Tenere as a replacement. I have ridden both and find the Tenere more comfortable, although I have NO issues with the Vee and even have the the new control module for an outstanding running bike. I guess I just want another bike?? I have found some bargains on 2012/2013 models. I think I will add this to the "stable" alongside my other bikes. I'm 6'3 290lbs (53 Years Young) and love dual-sport motorcycles for the size-fit of my body. Sad to hear you are not a fan of night-time riding. I live in the country and love riding at night (although I love riding anywhere at night) only having a concern for the billions of deer that are wondering around. Enjoy your bike! Just get out and ride, no matter where! Be Safe-Have Fun-Ride On! Chris
hey keith (it's keith ) awesome review,,looks like a sweeeeeeet bike love all of those electronic controls,,(technology) this is on the top of my list ,,(going to see if our yamaha dealer has any) ride safe bro,,,liked (thumbs up X 10)
Thank you Keith. It would be a perfect bike for riding in Alaska. With all those dirt roads you could gobble them up quickly and comfortably. Looks like your riding season is coming to an end (I see it's 34 degrees in Fairbanks right now). We are in the 40's here so it's time for the Gerbings jacket and gloves.
Great coverage of a great bike. I have a 2016 model, bought as a shop demonstrator in 2018 with only 512 km on board. I absolutely love this bike, having done two Nullarbor crossings (4000 to 5000 km each way) this year alone. As you say, the cruise control is something else and I too would not consider buying an other tourer without it. I have the ES model and find it ideal for carrying the load over the longer distances, and then quickly and easily transitioning into a more sporting setting for unladen fun. The screen, I have the taller optional screen for long distances and it is perfect, to the point where on the first trip I finished up with aching shoulders from not having to hold my weight up ! Having endured crossings in both summer and winter, temp range from -4C to 45C, the only thing I might change is to bigger hand guards. The heated grips are a real bonus as well and have seen much use, but I would like the hand guards a bit bigger for rainy days. I read the reports of the weaknesses of the standard Yamaha cases so went for Givi ones, the left smaller than the right to allow for the muffler (still stock), and I also have the Yamaha crash bars and the alloy sump guard. Once I looked at the BMW GS servicing and parts costs it was out of contention. At 69 years of age it took a lot of persuading to convince my wife that I needed this bike, especially after so many years of financing two of my sons racing....this one was purely for me! And it is a "keeper". I also have a 2018 Triumph Thruxton R for "local work" (an absolutely surprise Xmas present from my wife !), and I have to say that the new Yamaha Tenere 700 is looking good too, just to have a bike for each task, LOL. I have three sons, that would mean I can leave a good bike for each of them when I pass on. Right?
Thanks for your honest personal views on this bike. I'm going to be looking at buying either this, the 1200GS, or Multistrada. I'm leaning toward the Yamaha for the same reasons you bought it, reliability, price and services (shaft drive). I do wish it were a bit lighter though, my curent Ducati Hypermotard is just over 200kg and I love the weight. Thanks again for the review it's helped Cheers.
thanks Scott. I've ridden the past generation of the Multistrada and I'm a former Ducati owner. Those engines are just magical and make every ride a blast. You're right, the Super Tenere is a big, heavy bike. That's my biggest complaint about it. It's not easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The 270 degree crank motor does have it's own unique sound though. The reliability of my Tenere has been perfect. 10,000 miles and counting.
Love my ST, bought it new in Feb 2016 and today 4500mi! no issues at all. Will take it to Alaska next year! (I'm from Toronto). My previous bike was a GS800 and did 63.000mi buy had a lot of reliability issues.
Thanks for the comment. I'm glad your bike has treated you as well. I would love to go to Alaska too! My buddy has a 2010 GS800 with over 30,000 miles on it. He only recently had an issue with the brake calipers. Otherwise, it's been perfect. Sorry you had that experience with your's. I heard on a recent Adventure Rider Radio podcast how a couple named MotoNomads have had a lot of issues with their GS800 as well.
I hope you can too Paul. I had to finance this bike but in the past I've scrimped, saved and sold off stuff to buy other bikes in with very little money out of my own pocket.
Nice video from a real owner. Bought my '14 used with some good stuff on it 2.5 years ago. Since then have taken the forks apart to install Stoltec Moto cartridges with Sonic straight rate fork springs and a Penske rear shock. Flashed the ECU to match the Yosh slip on (without DB killer) that it came from the prior owner with, added panniers and a small top case. Also added a comfy tractor saddle / Russell Day Long shaped Terry Adcox custom seat and ProTaper ADV bend handlebars to get rid of the excess sweep in the stock bars. Between the smooth and much better than stock suspension, ass coddling seat, and perfectly comfy handlebar bend, 500 mile days are cake on this bike. Fun fact - the current motorcycle Cannonball Run record is held by Adam Frasca on his Super Tenere! After the two plus years of ownership and having laid my hands on it making it mine, I really enjoy this bike. It is not flashy, it is not terribly fast (am admittedly jaded by liter class sport bike's blindingly fast power), but the Super T has an easy to access steadfast competence about it and it has the makings of a long term love affair. I can ride my Super T or my sport bike, and more often than not I reach for the Super T's keys. Then I typically ride it for 300 miles or more. The 6 gallon tank and rather thrifty fuel economy conspire in going far also, I always go at least 250 miles, often close to 300 before refueling. With the exhaust can allowing it to vocalize a bit, the 270 degree crank Super T reminds me of my old V8 powered lake boat on the freeway at 70 MPH. It has a beautiful growl, and while I can hear the exhaust note, it is never irritating, just a cool sound track to enjoy along the way while reeling in lots of miles. The Super T is not a cutting edge or a flashy bike, and it is not close to being perfect out of the box. It is a little warped I suppose, but I enjoy owning bikes I can take apart and improve on as improving them makes me feel like they need me. The Super T responds very nicely to easy to perform suspension and external engine tweaks. Some bikes are so over the top awesome they cause me to focus on how inadequate I am. A Ducati Panigale for example - beautiful but she is way outta my league. Not the Super T - I love to get on it and ride the living sh%t outta it for hour and hours. The Super T is my kinda girl... So ya, the Super T at it's core is a bike to get on and ride from here to way the Hell over there without worry. I can be in the middle of Wyoming where it is seemingly always crazy windy, and my Super T hangs tough, leaned over at 70 MPH with the cruise on, utterly unperturbed. The Super T is a comparatively affordable bike, yet it is a bike of "substance" and I love that about it. I suspect my '14 Super T will remain in my garage for a very long time ;)
Thanks Craig. You should make some videos on your Super Tenere. You've done an awesome job describing it here and I know other riders in the community would appreciate it. In the 4 years since I made this video my Tenere just keeps going. I haven't put the mileage on it I've wanted the last few years, but I still ride it regularly. Still no mechanical issues. It just goes and goes, with whatever I pack on it and wherever I go. I laugh at the guys on the GS's because I paid half as much for mine and can do anything they can. Thanks for the comment Craig. For some reason it got flagged for review and I just saw it.
Hey There...I just came across your you tube channel. it's nice to see some info on the Yamaha Super Tenere. I have always thought it was an under rated bike and deserved more consideration. I have a 13 model I bought new. I have aprox 20k miles on mine and have been completely happy with it. my personal preference is for less electronic gadgets and simplicity. but again that's a personal preference. I'm also a mass native so it's nice to know there are other yams out there ! anyways just wanted to say thanks for the videos. I'm looking forward to more. MikeD
I'm looking to pick up a really clean 2013, 6K miles, kept inside, never dropped for $7,500. Best I can find on a 2014 with cruise is about $10,500. Can't see the cruise being that important, cramp buster or throttle lock should suffice. Thoughts?
It's more than the cruise with the 2014. The bike had a pretty good redesign. I think the biggest improvement is the engine mapping. In my research I saw where 2012 and 2013 owners were putting money into power commanders and custom engine maps to try to smooth out the delivery. I've seen nothing about this regarding the 2014 and up models. There are a lot of pre 2014 Teneres for sale online (relative to their numbers) so that leads me to suspect there might be something to that. The number of older Teneres on the market are probably why you are seeing so many under $8,000. I think the 2014 is worth the extra money. The cruise is nice for sure. Once you have it it's hard to imagine living without it. But a Go-Cruise can work well enough for $20. It's just a more modern motorcycle. The 2014 is the same as the 2016 and it won't feel obsolete. The price you quoted for the 2014 is a good one.
I have the Mitas E-07 Dakar on my 14 Tenere and love them. Did a 2500 mile trip last summer of which 400 was dirt. The were fantastic. Have about 5000 on them now and are still in great shape. I love my Tenere as well. Looked at BMW, KTM Super Adventure....etc It may not be as high tech but no maintenance worries and the price makes it an incredible deal. Enjoy...
Thanks Maine Rider! My stock tires are pretty worn at 7,000 miles. I'm trying to decide now between the Mitas or Heidenau, both of which have had good reviews from friends. Thanks for the comment!
This will be my next bike for doing long distance European trips. Unfortunately my wife informs me I haven't got the money to buy it yet 😞. Maybe in a year or 2 I'll take the plunge. Can't wait. Great video BTW.
2013 Super Tenere owner. I didn't ride last year at all. I was thinking of selling it as I haven't felt like riding. Took it out yesterday and put 200 miles on it. I'm definitely NOT going to sell it now. I've owned many bikes over the years from Hondas to Harleys and this is by far the most comfortable and versatile bike out of all of them. The only things I wish mine had are the electronic cruise and heated grips. Throttle lock is a pain to use and can be dangerous. I really enjoyed your review. Well done.
Thanks for the comment! I'm glad you were able to get out on the bike. I know that feeling...when the bikes are sitting in the garage for a couple of weeks and it's tough to get the time or motivation to ride. But yeah, that feeling goes away pretty quick once you get out on the road. I'm not sure which throttle lock you have, but I've been using a Go-Cruise on other bikes and it's pretty easy to switch on/off. It's only about $20.
Great review - very useful as I'm about to buy either a second hand R1200GS or Super Tenere. I'm leaning towards the ST - maybe a year or two old - and obviously you get a lower mileage and newer Tenere compared to a GS but I'm hesitating on just one thing: cross winds. I hate 'em and I do know from having a GS previously that they are really pretty stable compared to some bikes in cross winds. I would love to hear of your experience and thoughts about the ST in this regard. Many thanks.
Thanks for the comment. I'm scratching my head because I don't have an answer on the crosswinds. I just don't recall them ever being an issue. I may not have really ridden in any of them, though I do have my fair share of highway mileage in the last 6 months. I just don't know. It may be that with bikes of this size and weight that it's not really an issue. Sorry, I'm just grasping here.
Hey Keith, really enjoy your presentation style ...a lot of information packed into a small space. I'm looking at picking up a Super tenere out of state, I was curious how you handled the licensing in your state. Here in WA state, we have to pay a use tax on vehicles purchased out of state. Anyway keep up the good work. TC
Thank you Brian, I really appreciate the feedback! When I bought my Tenere out of state I made the arrangements through email and phone calls. I drove down to pick it up and brought a bank check with me. I passed the check and got the title right there from the dealer. I put the bike in the back of my truck and drove it home. When I got back home I just took the title to the Registry of Motor Vehicles. In Massachusetts you have to pay a sales tax on the blue book value (6.25% - ouch). There is no use tax or penalty for buying a vehicle out of state. The tax is the same regardless of where you buy it. I paid my fees and then was given my license plate. If I wanted to do a fly and ride it would be tougher. I'd have to send the check to the dealer and then wait to receive the title from them. Then I could take that title to the Registry, pay the tax and get a plate. Then I could bring the license plate with me when I pick up the bike and ride it away. I don't think I would do this with a private seller. Massachusetts doesn't have temporary tags either. I hope that helps!
Great evaluation there Keith. I have 7 bikes all japanese. Being a Japanese bike fan since I was a kid passed on really from my dad & his bikes and I am in my 40's now. Have a sports bike a custom & super moto & dirt bikes. These are ok for short ride outs but my next bike is definitely going to be an adventure tourer as I really would like to cover some serious mileage and explore new places and basically endure what the motorcycling is all about. Having experienced the hassles & expenses of chain &;sprockets chain lubrication adjustment and wheel alignment on every adjustment it has become a pain & rather tedious. That's where a shaft drive bike really appeals to me it is a major thing not to worry about & save time & energy on the maintenence list. I have tried to like the BMW G'S. I have ridden my friends with all the accessories & rider aids and it did impress me. from the get goI felt I could ride hundreds of miles all day. BUT parts are ridiculously expensive the bike is ridiculously expensive I don't like how the engine cylinders stick out and it really is pig ugly. And it is german & not jaoanese. When you park up a G'S sit down for a rest and look at the bike it really doesn't have any awe or pretty Ness about it like the Super Ten does. The yam looks an aesthetically beautiful bike that Is nice to look at. The Africa Twin is also a lovely bike fit for the job but chain drive puts me off. It makes you question thought Why do only BMW & Yam aha make shaft driven adventure bikes?
it's an interesting question why only BMW and Yamaha make the shaft driven big ADV bikes. Not sure. KTM and Ducati seem to choose the chain in favor of the off road advantages I guess. I do hear what you say about the advantages of a big ADV. I'm getting ready to leave for a three day trip to Vermont where our hotel is 200 miles away by interstate. We'll take a mix of dirt and 2 lane roads to get there. A bike like the GS or the Tenere is perfect for that. My riding partners have a GS1200 and a Multi-strada. I've tried this trip on a 650 and it is not nearly as fun. With the BMW GS, it just left me cold. I was prepared to like it but when I've ridden it, it didn't do anything for me. For the money the Tenere is a much better value for me. Thanks for the comments!
Thanks! I'm getting ready to take mine out for a day of fall riding here. It's really the perfect bike for what I've got planned. Thanks for the comment!
Rob Ells hi Rob, no, I didn't look at the Triumph. No good reason, the Triumph just didn't do anything for me. I was looking for more of a touring bike. Like a 1200
Thx, great review. I want a Super 10 and it's my first choice, not me second choice. I own 2 Harleys, love Harleys, also own an 06 Yamaha Stratoliner and love it. I want an S10 for my next horse in the stable.
One thing to watch out for is leaky fork seals on the inverted forks. Brake dust will get in there and degrade the seals, so keep this area clean. I would recommend putting some covers (dirt-skins) on the front forks. I had a fork seal go bad on my 2012 Super Tenere and I decided to change it myself. I was amazed how dirty the fork oil was when I drained it (contaminated with brake dust). It only has about 6000 miles too.
Thanks for your video Keith... I own a 2016 ST ES model.... The only concern that I have that really annoy me is the high pitch sound coming from the lower part of the windshield or upper fairing when ridding above 50 mph. (not sure yet the source of the noise). Ridding this bike makes me feel more happy than a dog with two tails...
I LOVE my 2013 Super Tenere!! Rode it yesterday. It's a joy to ride. Love the 6 gallon tank too. Unfortunately they didn't put the cruise control on these until the 2014s I believe.
Great review! Like many responses here, I'm contemplating adding a new bike to my stable (have a k1600b) with a recent year tenere/gsa/NEW 2022 triumph tiger/ or multistrada.
Those are all great bikes Fred. I rode a Multistrada about 10 years ago and it was a phenomenal road bike. I didn't have a chance to ride it off-road, but the bike was so sexy that I would give one a strong look. I still have the Tenere, it has been very reliable, but it can be a little boring compared to the others on your list.
I have a 2014 S10. Liked the gray better than my 2012 Yamaha blue. Little difference between the two (except cruise control). Funny, my 2012 is on consignment at 191 Motorsports -- same place you bought yours. You certainly got a great deal with all those add-ons. Especially the Alt-rider bars.
That's hilarious Walter. When you see the guys from 191 tell them hi from the guy who drove down from Massachusetts to make a deal with them. lol They were great to deal with and I saved many thousands over buying locally. I heard there was some changes in engine management between 2012 and 2014, but I'm not sure.
Thank you for the informative videos on this bike. I'm trying to decide between the base and ES models. Do you ever regret not having the electronically adjustable suspension? Do you often change your suspension settings when going on a different surface? Thank for your input in advance!
If I had the option to buy the ES, I would have spent the extra money for it. I ride on enough different surfaces that I would use it regularly. But I got a screaming deal on the bike as it was so I couldn't pass it up. What I did was just adjust the suspension for my weight and leave it alone. I honestly haven't noticed any big differences in how it handles. Maybe the ES is overblown, but I personally think it would be worth having. Thanks for your question...it's a good one.
Thanks for the great review. Do you do your own scheduled maintenance? I rely on my dealers (2 bikes, neither a Super Tenere) for that, but I would consider doing it when I retire in a few years. The reason I ask is that I noticed in the US the maintenance interval is every 4,000 miles. That's too frequent for my taste on a bike I plan to use for touring and commuting and day rides, and makes it more likely I'll need a dealer stop in the middle of a tour. So, how frequently do you service your bike?
Yes, I do my own maintenance. Years ago I started relying on the dealers to do it but I wasn't sure it was worth the money. Then I got a manual or youtube and started doing it myself. Historically what I've done with my Japanese bikes is to change the oil every 5,000 miles and flush out the fluids every two years. I've done valve adjustments on the easier bikes (Kawasaki KLR and 2V Ducati Monster) but avoided them on the complicated ones. I had a Honda VFR with 111,000 miles with only 1 valve adjustment (I wasn't sure the dealer even performed it). It continued to run great until I sold it. There are youtube videos for nearly every maintenance procedure. I would start with doing fluid flushes and brake jobs and see where it goes.
ketih: Proporcionas una excelente informacion sobre la Super Tenere y espero poder tener una en los proximos meses. Ahora tengo la tiger 1050 y es una moto excelente, Lo unico que no me gusta es que es de Cadena y eso de estarla manteniendo como que no me gusta.. Gracias por tu informacion y sigue adelante amigo
Gracias Abraham! Mi amigo tiene un tigre y le encanta. Sin embargo, estoy de acuerdo con usted, tener transmisión por eje es un beneficio real para el Tenere. Espero que puedas conseguir uno pronto.
As I am in the market for a new scoot, I have ridden the BMW GS1200, Super Tenere, and the Triumph Explorer. Due to many factors (comfort, performance, dealer network, and just general "feel") I am leaning heavily toward the Yamaha. I have not ridden the Africa Twin yet, but due to the fact that my use is mainly on-tarmac touring, I don't feel I need the off road capability of the Honda and prefer shaft drive to chain. Thanks for the review
I love mine 60k since 2013. I have not had issues other than what some others experienced. The high 3000rpm idle ramp when starting or dead stall when you stop, to not starting at all then you need to let it sit and use WOT (Wide open Throttle). It's a heavy bike and a beast to get it upright but simply a no frills dependable utility truck like motorcycle. Many of us owners have had our ECU's re flashed with a new program that smooths out the twitchy throttle and seriously brings the motor to a whole new level. It is what it should be from the factory now no restrictions. Did I say that? Good video it's hard not to like this bike it makes you want to ride more. Another thing is I am a big guy and with weight. This is the first bike that I didn't have to fuss with suspension or replace it.
Thanks Pete, that's a great testament to the Tenere. I haven't had any of those issues yet. I know there were some changes made with the 2014 model and my understanding is the ECU doesn't really need the reflash. I know what you mean about wanting to ride it more. It's hard for me to park it. Thanks for the feedback and the tips for other owners!
I am trying to wrangle up the folks that are having this issue and send a petition to Yamaha U.S. A couple of these riders seemed to have tracked it down to stater issue and wiring harness. A replaced harness on one has solved the problem replaced for free by Yamaha, his YES warranty was expired. The sudden no warning stall is dangerous at busy city intersections as you know as a rider people behind your are forever impatient. You stall while they are rear ending you is not what I call a good thing. And the high idle start is eventually going to grenade someones motor or at the least weaken a seal. In short Yamaha knows very well this is going on but refuses to put out a recall to at least address it and make the bike safe for their loyal customers. It's not like the Super Tenere is the fastest selling bike in the Yamaha stable, I would hate to see it get discontinued. The new Honda African Twin has been in my sights but no cash. It looks Hooligan ADV but has no tubeless tires on them..
oh wow, those are serious issues. I didn't realize it was that bad. I was commenting about the 60,000 miles you've got on the bike. I'm wondering if Yamaha worked on those issues in the 2014+ models. I agree, those issues are not acceptable with a new motorcycle, no matter what they cost.
The 2014 on up not having these issues maybe in fact the electronics have been changed to accommodate the cruse control as well as the electronically adjustable shock. They could if in theory from the video I watched and my darker theory. One: rerouted the Stater wires in another location. or Two: Yamaha knew about this issue and blew it off and fixed it along with a new face job on the 14 and does not GAS for the Generation 1 owners..
thanks for the nice explanations. I am currently riding on a BMW F800GS and are looking for a one more bike with a engine 1000cc so maybe this will be my next choose
hedlundk Yes I are going to keep also my BMW, because I are invested a lot of money in additional equiipment, currently I are in Mexico for a job, there is a lot of places to riding the bike, my house are in Miami, if you some day are planning to visit Mexico in your bike let me know, I am are working now in Toluca airport
The cruise control is a really nice feature. It would be hard to go back to a touring bike without it. 160 miles is a really nice day. Not too tiring and you still get to see a lot.
Excellent video summary! Yamaha - extended warranty? Yamaha is rated as the world's most reliable motorcycle brand, followed by Suzuki/Honda, and then Kawasaki. Good call on not getting the extended warranty. Yamaha also has the longest valve check intervals at 42,000 kms, or 26,000 miles. Gotta love that.
Forget the warranty, Keith, check out the RU-vid video called Nick Sanders Yamaha Super Tenere. He rode 30,000 miles non stop from Alaska to Argentina then back again. I met him at our local Yamaha shop in the UK. He sleeps at the traffic lights until they turn green. On another video the bike engine was stripped to check condition. Enjoy.
That's an awesome point. I'm familar with Nick's trip, heard him on the Adventure Rider Radio podcast and read about him online. Last year I got an issue of the UK magazine Bike that showed how Yamaha tore down the engine on the S-10 after that trip and found minimal wear on the components. The engine looked like new. Good enough for me. Thanks for the reminder!
OMG, Satz, it's been forever. What are you riding now? Yeah, I love the Tenere. It's as good of a sport touring bike as the VFR800. Maybe better. Plus it gets me on the dirt roads I love so much. Add in that it's a great value for the money and as reliable as an anvil. Lots to love!
I owned the first gen R12GS for 80k km and an HP2 Enduro for 50k km. I love them both and agree with you pov re BMW and the Yamaha. If you are a gadget guru and must have the latest full suite of electronic toys then it is what it is. But my GS and HP never had them and I haven't missed esa, tsc, etc. Wish my HP had abs. - that's it. Tenere is an awesome choice. When I bought my GS then HP there was a limited market. Today I wouldn't consider the $30K CAD bikes when I can get a Yamaha or Honda if I could live with chain drive for just over half the price.
I couldn't agree more. I was in a BMW dealership a few weeks ago and the prices just turn me off from consideration. I was more drawn to the vintage boxer twins.
Hi! I'm novice rider but i really like this bike,you think it will be difficult to ride it?I am a mountain bike racer if that helps the riding of a motorcycle,thanks a lot and congrats for your videos.
On 2Sep’16, along with my girlfriend, we departed Medellin Colombia and embarked on what would be a 23day 9836 km adventure to Peru (passing thru the Canon del Pato). In Cusco (+-4200km) we changed the oil & oil filter. For the rest of the trip we just added fuel. Proud owner of the 2016 Super Tenere 1200 ES. Have a look at the Canon del Pato. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-gcPcVH8_Trk.html
Amer Paisa can you share anything on the passenger's comfort for long distance trips? it's one of the criteria for me to choose an adv bike over my current sport-touring.. so any comment would be grateful.. tks
+TheJeepees: The 2016 Super Tenere 1200 ES offers phenomenal comfort to both driver and passenger. My girlfriend, throughout our entire adventure, was truly relaxed. I believe this is directly due to the Tenere's touring aids: wide plush seats, electronic suspension (an absolute must and to be able to adjust on the fly), its vibration dampening ability, shaft drive, excellent windscreen, cruise control and its physical weight (no wind fatigue). Now that being said it's imperative you take breaks along the way (sometimes in between fuel stops). Be sure you both dismount. Literally..."take 5". Our routine: Depart +-5am and finish +-3pm. This allows you to explore the area, eat a good meal, have a beverage or two and most importantly achieve a good night’s sleep. Also it’s imperative you both have quality riding attire. Look into attire that’s effortlessly interchangeable thereby insuring maximum comfort and minimizing changing times. We used Tourmaster’s Flex 3 jacket & pants set. For your girlfriend (depending on climate) consider heated gloves (you will be utilizing your Teneres’ heated grips). Bottom line: The Super Tenere will play its role to perfection keeping you and your girlfriend safe as well as comfortable.
Amer Paisa I went through Peru last April. Did a 1,300 mile journey with 7 other GS800 bikes. I was the camera man for the whole trip. One of my stops was Cuzco, cool city isn't it?
I did a 300 miles trip on the day I got it as it was far from me. 5,5 hours in the saddle and all I got out of it was a bit of bum pain but that's normal sitting for 5 hours anyways... and even that was gone in almost 2 minutes after I got off the bike. My dream bike lived up to all the hopes I had for it! The standard wind shield on the '11 model in its tallest setting is baaaaad for a guy like me - 6'4"- as all the air hits the visor... need to get a screen extension for this bike if you're this tall. - I had mine from my 660 Tenere when I rode the bike back home - . Managed to get 50mpg out of it at the speed of 80mph. Don't forget that this guy has 6 gears so use it! I don't feel the need for cruise control thx to the fly-by-wire throttle, so if it is not standard on newer models from the '11 then might should skip it, as it doesn't require any effort to keep it at a constant speed as you have to keep your hand somewhere anyway... I do 20mph@2500rpm in 2nd, 30 in 3rd same rpm, 40 @2200rpm in 5th, 80 @4000rpm in 6th, 90mph comes at about 4500rpm... If you want a twin exhaust on it , look up NONE exhaust here on YT. Costs about £870. It feels great even while filtering through traffic between cars.
Thank you Ferenc! Those are some good experiences with your Super Ten as well! It's starting to thaw out around here and I'm day dreaming about getting on the bike again.
That's the reason why I've moved to the southern bit of the UK so I can ride the bike all year around;))) Also, I just started to use the current fuel consumption function of the bike the figure out what rev range and speeds do I have to use to be more fuel efficient in the city while commuting. I hope that spring will hit you sooner than later!;)) Thank you and ride safely!
I wish I did. The Africa Twin is in short supply here. I considered buying one because it seems to check all the boxes on what a ADV bike should be. But I didn't want to pay a premium for it and knew I could get the Tenere for a great price. I would love to get my hands on an Africa Twin though. Great question!
Thanks for the video, just a small point i would like to add, mine doesnt have self canceling indicators, and unlike your dashboard my indicator bulbs are on the left and right side of this unit, i was constantly leaving them on. So i made up a green led bulb heat shrinked onto the end of a piece of 5mm plastic irrigation pipe, i inserted a piece of fence wire inside to allow me to bend it to any shape i like. I attached the fence wire to a bolt under the dashboard, then connected to my left and right indicator wires via 2 x 12v diodes and a resistor to knock the voltage to the led down from 12v to 24v, works well, and because it sits about half way up the windshield i cant help but notice it. The circuit diagram for one of these is freely available on Mr google, or just buy one on ebay, most come with buzzers, but just remove this and replace it with a green LED from Radio Shack.
I like this review. I agree with you, the windshield adjustement method sucks (I played with it at the moto show, I do not have a Tenere). I will probably replace my VStrom with that model, when the Strom is beaten to the ground!
I've heard great things about the VStrom, both generations. I think you would be happy moving up to a Tenere when that time comes. Very similar styles.
its actually 575lb and its great in the dirt, loose rocks etc when not loaded. What he might be talking about is how it handles compared to a 300lb the harder stuff. Its not more difficult to ride and actually the weight help to push rock out of the way and to dig into the dirt and adding 50/50 wont make a difference if your just riding dirt roads. He even talks about not riding offroad and that bike needs 50/50 and that made for public dirt roads.
Would you consider soft bags? If so have you done any research on which ones? I just bought a 2016 ST and where I plan on taking it, I think the soft bags will be much more durable. Thanks for your input.
Hi, thanks for the comment. I'm not a big fan of soft bags, primarily because they don't hold as much and they are tougher to waterproof. I understand why people prefer soft bags on these bikes. I have them on my WR. I just find them a compromise. I ride mostly on public roads where I'm less worried about taking a spill and causing myself injury.
Hope you pulled the two screws out of each of the locks and put them back in with the highest grade Lock-Tite you can find. Two of my boxes had the screws vibrate out and the top case was/is impossible to put back together. Even the local Yamaha Shop was clueless on how to fix it. One of the side bags vibrated out too, I inserted they key, turned it and the key and tumbler came out. I had to make a tool to open the lock and both screws were still in the box, obviously. Lesson learned.
The screws are at the very back of the lock and hold the round plate that moves to activate the latch mechanisms. You'll need a very small phillips screwdriver. You'll be glad you lock-tite them in place as they are a bear. I'm pretty patient at putting stuff back together but the top case latch requires six hands with a least two of them double jointed to hold everything in place while tightening the right screws (not the ones referenced with the lock-tite comment). Side pannier locks are much, much simpler than the top case, fortunately.
Hey AdventureswithMe.! .I like it. What is your inseam? I'm inseam challellenged at 33".I want to buy one.I have 2 other scoots that I love, However ,I want to explore and learn the finer points of Adventure riding.
Reliability is a given. Recently I know one that was ridden for 1500 miles a day for 10 days in a row! Not only is the bike tough but the rider is an "Ironman"!
hedlundk The guy that did the ride is an Iron Butt Rider. He left on Tuesday to go to Gerlach for Gerlachfest. He won't be far away from where he did his 10 day ride. You were talking about tires...Dan uses Metzeler Tourrance in case you hadn't considered them.
I would definitely look at tires like that if I was going to keep the bike 90% on the street and do a lot of touring with it. I've found that my actual usage is 50/50 and some of the dirt trips are adventure touring weekends.
I'm looking to buy a S Tenere and I want to find a Pre owned bike with low miles.. my question to you is what source did you find this bike ? Thank you for the great videos!
Hi Lange, I found this one through a friend. He was traveling 800 miles away and found this bike for me. But there are a lot of used Super Tenere's in the flea market section of ADVRider.com. I saw a few there the other day and the prices were very reasonable. The trick would be finding one near where you live. Good luck!
I concur. I was looking a Triumph Tigers and many other bikes through various sources. As I was about to give into buying a used Moto Guzzi Stelvio, which have no real good parts sources in the USA, or settle for a smaller but new Tracer GT, I just hit Craigslist for a quick look. A father who marine son, just bought a home was selling his son’s S10 for $7500 with 3411 miles and it’s almost mint plus he has a good amount of options already purchased. It was a no brained from there. While I work on most of my bikes myself my full time mechanic/shop owner said I couldn’t go wrong with a S10. The price of Triumph Explorers is just so high now, it would have cost me almost $10-$11k more. I couldn’t justify that. I’m also a previous 2004 VFR800 owner. Loved that bike, but I’m older now and thrilled to have the S10. Thanks for the video.
Still trying to figure out how those spot lights hit the fairing whilst attached to the forks. The forks are upside down, so were the spots attached to the lower legs?? Or are you talking about during turns?
they were attached to the lower legs and when the fork would compress they would bottom into the fender. I remounted the spotlights below the headlight, but they didn't really work there either. I ended up removing them and selling them on ADV. I don't ride at night much anyway.
You are very lucky Sir.I'm in Kenya and trying to find one for not more than 10k .But you know something, the price of a new one closely compares with ktm 1290.Anw just checking which one would do well here.Thank you
That's a tough position to be in Moses. I know the KTM has a large following here...I see those more than the Tenere. I guess you have to consider the dealer network too.
Hi, Keith. I own a BMW R1200 GS (2006) model and the main issue I have with this bike is the ludness of gear change especially in the low gears (1 & 2) up or down. In your opinion having driven both Tenere and BMW is the Tenere more silent and smooth in gear change than the BMW. Secondly I find that all arts on the BMW are very pricy. It seems as if you pay extra just because of the brand. I am considering selling the BMW for a Tenere as I have always been a Yamaha fan. My previous bike was a Yamaha R1 but started liking touring more than speed. Your opinion would be appreciated.
Hi Riann, thanks for the comment and question. I haven't ridden both bikes back to back in months. It's winter here so my Tenere is put away for at least 2-3 more months. I don't recall any kind of noticeable loudness between the lower gears. The Tenere is smooth...it doesn't have any type of "engine characteristic" that affects how it runs. It's like a sewing machine. It just runs up quickly and quietly. You barely notice it. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful.
That is more than helpful. If you haven't even noticed it there is obviously no noise. It is a clear "Clunk" noise on the GS. I will now definitely go and take a test-drive on a Tenere. Thanx for the reply. Enjoy the cold. It is summer here in South Africa:)
thanks, glad to help a fellow rider in South Africa. One of my riding buddies is a diehard GS guy. We swapped bikes this summer and he gave the Tenere a good, hard run. He came away finding no faults with it at all. I think you'll be happy.
Goeie dag Riaan. My vriend ry ook BMW (Ek dink 2013 model), en ek stem saam met jou met die ratte. Dis nogal 'n bliksem om sy fiets in Neutral te kry as dit stilstaan. Hy kla ook dat sy throttle sy gewrig bietjie uitput, maar ek het hom 'n manier gewys om dit te verminder. Ek is 'n Yamaha XT660R (2007 model met amper 114,000 op die odo) ryer, en ek vind my fiets is baie gladder met ratwisselings as syne. Suspension is ook lekkerder as sy BMW.
Riaan van Rensburg the GS 1200 is an excellent running bike for 3 years, then the warranty expires and the GS begins to fall apart, at this point the GS becomes very very expensive to own!
I think there is a pretty decent difference between the BMW and the Super T. However none of those differences is worth the extra money for the bike and for any service you need done.
What differences do you see? I've ridden the GS1200 and am not sure it's a huge difference. With the service I agree. It's unlikely by Tenere will go back to the dealer for service other than a valve adjustment. I can do everything else on it myself.
Hi,from Athens Greece my name is Christos Costopoulos .Please what factory made the crash bars in front looks good .Hope i can buy those in Europe .Thanks .far not fast!
Youre fast .I hear in youtube about bad couality of the side bags yamaha any way nice to now you and to know i have the 660 xtz super tenere 5 valve single 1991 year but i am looking for the the1200 2014 year . Christos
We can't get that 660 here in the states, it's supposed to be a great bike. I like the Yamaha side bags. There is a video about them on my channel. I did break the right bag on a fall and it needs to be replaced. But overall the bags are waterproof, roomy and relatively easy to get on and off.
Karma got me for joking about this. On my GS yesterday, the windscreen adjuster knob snapped off and slipped through my fingers while going about 70 up 128 to Rockport.
too late James Bond! I already bought a new case. The crack was too big to "bond" back together. I wish I could have. Who likes spending $500 to replace something you already have?
