PREVIEW – 2020 Yamaha Tenere 700
After what seems like an interminable wait, Yamaha’s Tenere 700 is finally on its way.
Since it was unveiled as the ‘T7’ concept at EICMA in 2016, Yamaha has been testing prototypes and teasing us with the ‘World Raid’ ride, which saw the Tenere visit Australian shores in 2018 with Rodney Faggotter in the saddle. Aussie fans also got a taste of the new model at last year’s Tenere Tragics gathering.
A handful of pre-production units reached our shores in late June, but the nationwide dealership rollout has only recently been confirmed: the new Tenere will be available from December.
Tenere History
Described as a rally-bred dual-sport machine, the Tenere 700 is the latest expression of a Yamaha heritage that dates back to 1983, when the first model to bear the Tenere name was released – the Tenere XT600Z. Powered by an air/oil-cooled 595cc single producing 33kW and 51Nm, the ’83 Tenere was the first Dakar replica, inspired by Yamaha’s XT500 models that won the Dakar Rally in 1979 and 1980.
This template was developed over the years, with more power added in 1986 and a rear disc brake and twin-headlight fairing added in 1988.
In 1989, the twin-cylinder ‘Super Tenere XTZ 750’ made its debut. Defined by a parallel twin engine that increased performance to 51kW and 66Nm, the Super Tenere also added twin front brake discs and a larger fuel tank. In this form, the Tenere won Dakar six more times and remained in production until 1996.
The original Tenere single evolved again in 1991, adding liquid-cooling and a five-valve head to create the XTZ660 version, also toning down the ruggedness to make it more suitable for tarmac use. The XTZ660 model was modified once more in 1994, adding a twin-headlight fairing inspired by the Super Tenere, before being discontinued in 1998.
In 2006, the Tenere single was revived as the XT660Z Tenere, based on the XT660X, while a new Super Tenere arrived in 2010, powered by a 1200cc twin and featuring shaft drive, ABS and Traction Control amongst its high spec level. Both models are still part of Yamaha’s lineup today, but the arrival of the Tenere 700 will likely see the 660cc single discontinued.
Modern Spec, Modern Tech
At the heart of the new Tenere 700 is the same ‘CP2’ 689cc parallel twin engine used in the MT-07, producing maximums of 54kW at 9,000rpm and 68Nm at 6,500rpm, but the fuel injection, cooling system, airbox and exhaust have all been redesigned to suit the bike’s adventure touring role. Australian-delivered models will come with an oiled foam air filter as standard.
Described as torquey, smooth and responsive in this application, the CP2 twin is matched to a 6-speed transmission, with a 46/15 final drive ratio to optimise mid-range torque.
While the engine is familiar, the Tenere 700’s frame is all new and not a modification of an existing road or trail bike chassis, according to Yamaha. The double-cradle steel tube frame features a double-braced headstock and removable downtubes for engine access.
Weighing just 17.75kg, the Tenere 700’s frame is part of a slimming program, including an aluminium swingarm, that has made the upcoming model only 204kg wet – that’s 5kg lighter than the XT660Z Tenere.
Suspension is made up of fully-adjustable KYB 43mm USD forks and a preload-adjustable KYB link-type rear monoshock. Listed travel from this combination is 210mm at the front and 200mm at the rear.
A 21/18-inch front/rear spoked wheel combination, Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres, dual 282mm front brake discs and a single 245mm rear disc with Brembo calipers and switchable ABS also feature. ABS is the only form of rider-assistance tech offered, though, with no traction control, launch control or switchable engine modes on the Tenere 700’s spec sheet.
A powerful set of four LED headlights, dual LED position lights, aluminium engine bash plate, hand guards, windscreen, 126-litre fuel tank and a headstem designed to take GPS units are all standard, while the 870mm seat height can be adjusted with an optional lowering kit.
Riding position is neutral, aided by a slim cross-section that, along with the light weight, drew particular attention at the Tenere 700’s recent Australian media preview.
The high position of the LCD multi-function instrument display makes it easier to view without taking your eyes off the road or trail. A large speedometer and gear position indicator, ribbon-style rev counter, two trip meters and multiple fuel level and range readouts feature, with the positioning also designed to allow for the addition of smartphone and conventional GPS units, or even a roadbook for the more adventurous.
Aus Availability
Pricing for the new Tenere 700 has been confirmed at $15,499 (+ ORCs), with a range of three colours available – Tech Back, Ceramic Ice and Competition White.
Yamaha dealers are taking orders now ahead of December delivery. See your Yamaha dealer for more details.
Yamaha Tenere 700 – essentials
• High-torque 689cc parallel-twin
• Lightweight double cradle tubular steel frame
• Slim, compact body and seat
• LED headlights and position lights
• Fully-adjustable 43mm USD forks with 210mm travel
• Remotely adjustable link-type monoshock with 200mm travel
• Rally style cockpit with tapered handlebars
• 21-inch/18-inch lightweight spoked wheels
• 16-litre fuel tank for 350km+ range
• Rally-style multi-function instrument display
• Switchable ABS
