2021 Yamaha Ténéré 700 Review

2021 Yamaha Ténéré 700 Review
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At last! The Ténéré 700, Yamaha's highly-anticipated middleweight ADV is finally available in the United States, and Spurgeon wasted no time in getting his hands on one. Ride along as he puts the T7 through its paces. Was it worth the wait?
Spurg's Gear
Bell MX-9 MIPS Dash Helmet
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100% Armega Goggles
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Klim Baja S4 Jacket
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Klim Mojave In The Boot Pants
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Leatt C-Frame Pro Carbon Knee Braces
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Leatt GPX 5.5 FlexLock Boots
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Klim Dakar Gloves
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USWE Patriot 15L Bounce Free Backpack With CE-Certified Back Protector
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[@RevZilla]

To read Spurg's in-depth written review of the Ténéré 700, head over to RevZilla's Common Tread online magazine: rvz.la/3gZKr7g

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

@mld Super bummed to hear that you've had problems with your KTM. My 1090 has been bulletproof, other than things I've broken or modified for performance, it has been one of the most reliable bikes I've owned yet. I think my 1090 is actually easier off-road, but that's only because I've got the suspension modified. The decrease in power didn't bother me at all. The fact that it's lighter means it's actually a lot easier to use the power, especially off-road for jumping burms and water bars. While I think the stock suspension is OK, I would want to modify it for my style of ADV riding (a lot of off-road), and I would suspect you would as well. All in all, I think you could be very happy with this bike. I liked it quite a bit and found it to be quite the capable fun backroad burner/ mid-sized touring rig on the street. Let me know what you decide to do. Good luck!

[@davidsgerson]

Its ‘plain-Jane’, not ‘plane jane’. For the kids...

[@billevans3067]

Is there someplace you have listed how your in-helmet audio recording is being done? I do not see a wire to the GoPro, so I'm wondering if you are using the Sena-looking device on your helmet. Are you linked via Bluetooth to a secondary recorder of some type? The quality of your audio for motovlogging is excellent. Thanks in advance.

[@LtGlenn]

So glad manufacturers are realizing that bigger and more complex isn't always better. These smaller bikes feel like toys in the BEST way, easier to have a silly amount of fun on, and powerful enough to be safe on the freeway

[@leoveroude4492]

Well said 👍

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

A lot of that is driven by profit margin. Larger more complicated bikes are easier to mark up. A $5k bike doesn't have much room for extra profit margin when compared with a $15k one.

[@andrecarvalho9634]

Yes, the more tech loaded the bigger the problems if off-road is intended even bigger

[@J0J0McM0M0]

but 204kgs in weight isn't exactly light... the bike's still kinda large.

[@HiroNguy]

@@J0J0McM0M0 IKR. My old Yamaha XT500s were like 375 lbm but these days it's hard to find a 250cc thumper training bike that light.

[@brandonabbott7574]

Great job. Please do more with this bike. Purchase it and let Ari and Zack use and abuse it, maintenance videos, amazing long, SUPER LONG ADVENTURES, etc...

[@Jason.1999]

yes please id love that too !

[@ridebecauseucan1944]

No electronics is such a bonus for me with any dual sport bike. When those break and your 200 miles from anywhere it’s not easy to fix with regular tools. My hand controls the throttle and I don’t need any help with that.

[@peterpanimg]

47 miles per gallon(US) = 20kmpL Seat height with rally seat is over 36 inches = over 914 mm Weight over 450 pounds = over 204 kg

[@muhammedroshanpk3970]

Thanks you captain

[@marcustiver5635]

It would be easier if Americans would go metric.

[@TheJaxsonjack]

@@marcustiver5635 Funny, I just do some basic, remedial math to get the ' Merican conversion from metric. Not a big deal guys.

[@ezekiel5482]

@@TheJaxsonjack me as metric country didn't understand what is US calculation

[@Astrix_Jaeger]

Damn thats a tall seat

[@tomorrowimportant]

that motorcycle really ties the room together. the spurg abides.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

I really missed a key opportunity to be drinking a White Russian on the picnic bench by the fire....

[@Crouse_Property_Maintenance]

He doesn't ride on Shabbas. The bike's got fuckin' papers. I think it's a pomeranian.

[@hollywoodd3191]

The bike kidnapped itself man

[@dmelson7502]

I think I'm looking for an ATM...

[@jefflebowski3319]

I dig your comment dude

[@davidelizabeth4933]

The limited electronics is a plus. Thank you, Yamaha! 👍

[@davidlemoine9578]

"I have nothing to do for the next two days, except riding this bike and hanging around the camp fire". Life is good ;) Thank you for a great review.

[@tylerattewell9558]

Great review, but to play devils advocate on the electronics side, this is what the "ADV" community asked for and has been begging for, for a long time. No TC, minimal ABS that turns off and no throttle by wire. For me, and for anybody serious about riding these things the way they were intended, this is a win.

[@iLLuzion1st]

1 less thing to go wrong and fix

[@gregorysteffensen3279]

I feel like the Super Tenere is pretty close to this ideal in the heavyweight category, too. Sure, it has TC and ABS and ECC, but those are all pretty simple to make work with just an EFI system and an ABS module - besides the electronic suspension option, the S10 simply doesn't have a whole ton else (and definitely no crazy TFT or other breakables), and the motor and shaft drive are stupid reliable

[@spartan8390]

100% agree. When I had my DR650, I had a lot of ideas to fix things and update the bike. This bike comes ready to go. This is, as you said, what we have all wanted for years. Price is perfect as well. Delayed, but a home run nonetheless. Other dualsports are ridiculously expensive, have too many issues, or require too much maintanence. This is the new leader of the true ADV bike world, in my opinion. I can't wait!

[@jimfeldman4035]

@@spartan8390 spot on. The usual laundry list of DR650 updates are all here. I'm not sure I would have dropped 10k , but whenever someone whines about missing this or that, I point them at the T700 and say this is what those features cost.

[@spartan8390]

@@jimfeldman4035 Exactly my thinking. Even if you updated a DR, it still has a carb to deal with. My experience has shown me ethanol and carbs don't mix. I poured money into my DR before it exploded (2001 model). Then when you compare them both at a new price; you are getting a lot for $3,000 more with the T7.

[@hokogan]

It seems like a great successor to the KLR650. Exactly what I wanted.

[@HJZ75driver]

The KLR doesnt even compare

[@mj_aussie_coaster_travels8310]

I’ve seen a lot of people say similar. I think as long as Yamaha don’t mess with it too much trying to keep it current it may well be the next KLR.

[@thealvaco]

Good point of view.

[@DrazenCika]

No, but it is great successor to the Yamaha XT600, which is even higher goal to achieve, especially if it proves as reliable and trouble free as my old XT600 / Tenere.

[@gamwpanagia]

@@DrazenCika The xt600 is a legend in Greece,they have taken all kinds of abuse through the years and they are still running with minimal cost.

[@SmokinZen]

Man I reallly want this bike I better start saving

[@skiphalbakken859]

Great video Spurg. My only complaint is that I wish it was about an hour and a half longer as I have not received my pre-ordered T7 yet. Keep up the great work ✊️👊✊️👊

[@Britishshooter]

Brilliant light hearted review that sums this great fun bike up! Congrats from Britain my friend! Happy trails!

[@stuarttownsend2868]

You nailed that Spurge, it felt like every section was done in 1 cut. Great content 👍

[@danielvd]

What a good and well produced review Spurge!

[@zell666hell]

So awesome to see somebody from RevZilla reviewing the bike that I want in my neck of the woods!🤘🏻

[@WillysPerformanceCycleCtr]

Great overview of the Ténéré! Thanks. Appreciate the overall quality and effort that Yamaha put into this bike. Ride safe my friend.

[@andyostertag]

Great job Spurg. Thanks for sharing the experience

[@stevecarmack6267]

I’m thinking of the lack of reliability I’m experiencing with my KTM 690 and this bike may be the ticket .

[@cooleyballs1]

yep

[@jessesmith2906]

What problems are you having on your 690

[@TomInBoston]

Love Spurge's reviews. You guys could review any bike and I'd be juiced to watch.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Thanks man!!! Super kind!

[@JMsurYT]

I just miss Lemmy joining Spurge. They were an amazing duo.

[@abaddon7971]

Nice Video spurge its always fun to go on adventures with you guys, greetings from europe

[@BadDirtRider]

Good morning people. Been waiting for this one boys.

[@tomcat6933]

Fast, quick, to the point review. Thank you.

[@andrewd7586]

Kicking goals since launch here in Australia over 12 months ago. I have a couple of mates who absolutely love theirs!👍🏼Good review!😎🇦🇺

[@DrazenCika]

Thanks lot for the straight and specific information about the fuel economy and comfort on a highway with hard luggage and realistic cruising speed! This is exactly the use case where my old KTM 640A is failing to deliver, it is simply stressed to much in getting from point A to point B, working perfectly once you get to the B though. I was not interested in anything weighting more than 50 kg over my old KTM (or even older Tenere 600 I have) when saddled and ready for ride, or any gizmos they are offering for few grands more. Good job Yamaha, and thanks for a good review. Ryan FortNine did and excellent one, but did not touch street side.

[@joncrandall1741]

very well done. you are my go to for bike reviews

[@richardcheatham9490]

This bike has re-lit the fire that old Sherpas and Stilettos of many moons ago buried in me. Arrivals in the US now delayed til Sept. at the earliest. Hey, thanks for the positivism in this review; and many happy trails there.

[@TwistyRoadRiderMotorcycles]

Great review bud, one of the best I've seen! Regards, Twisty Road Rider

[@cwarren4396]

Outstanding report. Thanks for sharing.

[@christopher9626]

Fantastic review! I really enjoyed your take on the bike! I have a friend that is a Yamaha Demo rider, so She has ridden everything yamaha. She has owned and put 130,000 miles on a 1200gs and she couldnt wait to get ahold of this bike and she bought one last week. That says alot coming from her. I cant wait to get seat time on this machine and believe it will be my next bike

[@patricksandeberg8184]

After testing it myself I can say that it lives up to the hype! 👌🏽

[@013nil]

very good review spurg, as expected from RevZilla, top notch. Btw, was that the RevZilla shop in the back ? man its big ! I will surely visit there if i come to New Jersey :)

[@wesleydean1358]

Excellent Spurg....Love the idea go ride have fun ...come back to the campsite and enjoy a beer around the fire.

[@vagelispsimenos]

Excellently composed review

[@TROXXOS]

I've been waiting Revzilla's review of T7 for three years

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Imagine how I've felt waiting to ride this damn thing!!

[@axellness]

It's a shit review honestly.

[@TROXXOS]

@@axellness honestly,,, I agree. I've already heard all information and impression he told in this video. nothing new.

[@xchalibur77]

You got that right motorcycles are used mainly on the tarmac but if you wanna do light off-road almost any two wheels is up to the job. When I had tha shadow 750 I didn’t stop just because the road was finished and it did all right for a custom.

[@crisjeria-adventurerider124]

Great video Spurg. Thanks for sharing. I’ll love to get your comments about T7 vs Tiger Rally Pro. I know is kind of a different segment, but it will help some objective comparison. I saw your video in Marrakesh, It looks like you guys had a good time there.

[@izuksammy]

It’s simpler and more affordable. I don’t want all the electrics. It’s (tears in eyes)perfect.

[@debashismallick9937]

Then Himalayan is gonna make u drown in your tears !! :)

[@debashismallick9937]

H H yeah it is. but it gets the job done. and for thatvprice frankly its harsh to expect more. for the more adventurous type with deeper pockets there are definitely way better and more “interesting” options !

[@talltale9760]

@@debashismallick9937 not if you live in the US. My Himalayan is comfortable at 60 mph but past that it’s not very fun and the only roads near me that have a speed limit less than 70 are small backroads

[@MrPaulo1400]

Exactly what you mentioned regarding the use you want to do with it and the modifications you want to add to this bike made me go for the Tiger Rally pro 900. Not that I dislike the Tenere, but when I summed all the gear I wanted to put in it, I was at the price of the english one with better elements. The Tenere is really fun to ride and also with pillion, but you feel the limits of the suspension wit pillion (not because she is heavy, no no ). Suspension is the number 1 modification to make on this bike. I don't know if it is a fake news, but I heard Yamaha will release a Tenere 700 with a 20L gas tank

[@elindenstein]

Gave up my 1200cc ADV bike for the T7 and couldn't be happier. I've spent quite a bit getting it to be exactly how I want it (tubeless rims, windscreen, rear rack, ECU reflash, 16T front sprocket, different handlebars, etc) - so it's not the same $10k bike that comes from the factory, but even at the $13k all-in or so I am at, I'd take it above any other ADV bike priced at that. I am about 6,000 miles in and It's phenomenal.

[@98durangopack]

Good review Fixer!

[@andrecarvalho9634]

Great review. Desirable machine indeed, after riding a BMW F800 GS for years long I am looking forward to Yamaha start selling in Brazil. As a friend says once, the more technology loaded the more trouble ahead as the machine ages, Ténéré 700 looks have a well dosage of electronics and performance deliver. I will go for it!

[@hubert1142]

Im getting the Rally version of this beauty this year. Will bolt things on over winter and go on an expedition to Scandinavia or SE Europe! :D

[@theonlyredspecial]

Late to this video but what a great review. Spurge you are great!

[@kevinbeilby1495]

Nice review man. Well written, well articulated. Could have been longer maybe. Chizz

[@pistolpete6321]

Great review!

[@joevidya]

Just like the new premium Tracer 900 GT I could see them making a premium Tenere 700 in the future with offroad ABS and cruise control and who knows what else.

[@AndrewM83]

Cool video. Spurge man is a great Narrator!

[@randypullman1155]

It's a great segment of bikes. I find myself making any excuse to get on my adventure bike. It's rugged enough for an epic dump and liggt enough to ride any where any time and the riding position is near perfect comfort. Even after this review and those sweet colored rims I still thinking the african twin. It just looks bigger and i seriously like towering over cars.

[@dansteigerwalt9425]

Good info, and a great riding spot. I'm curious about your opinion of the T7 vs your 1090 in that terrain. I live in eastern PA and ride a 1090, and venture offroad in technical terrain during a good portion of my rides. Is the Tenere significantly better in those situations? More nimble on the steeps and rocks? I love my 1090 but often feel that it's better suited to open terrain which we simply don't have around here. I'm a one bike guy, and will stick with a twin cylinder motor, but am very interested in the current fleet of lighter. more manageable bikes in the 7-800cc displacement range.

[@barryfisher166]

So many great places to ride out there along 45

[@gerritzondag1585]

Excellent video. Well done.

[@royalad]

Lovely video,, I love it special white color classic,, thank you

[@myriad860]

awesome review, i will get this next...

[@patmcguire6867]

Great review

[@Clones2011]

i have alot of injuries and quit riding but this came out and its calling me back big time! think i could take it easy on this or does it beg to be wrung out?

[@roadwarrior8560]

Nice one Spurge, great bike.

[@Jagknorr]

I didn’t think i wanted an adv type bike but this one is pretty damn slick and pretty damn affordable. Im certainly interested!

[@MotoMengy]

Nice review! I love that area up to the east of State College, some good riding around there.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Literally one of my favorite places to ride.

[@MotoMengy]

@@SpurgeonDunbar Yep, I regularly ride up to PSU for lunch and ice cream, then wander my way home via all manner of minor roads up there!

[@davidwallace6224]

I bought one, 1 month ago... I admit I have nothing to compare it too, but I love it....

[@travatron4000]

Looks great! I really wish Yamaha would bring the Tracer 700 to the US. I pretty much stick to pavement or the odd dirt road and the Tracer would fit me just right an have a little more punch than my NC700X

[@AOL0321]

Just get the Tracer 900 GT!

[@FedorAntony]

Don’t forget the Moto Guzzi V85 TT. It’s an Italian beauty with a driveshaft, bigger tank and way more character for a similar price.

[@charlie__w307]

Came here to say this, I don't think revzilla gives them much coverage as guzzis are pretty rare in the states.

[@deadfishparty]

These first ride reviews are far better than the usual press first ride reviews. The only good to come out of covid.

[@alhung5637]

Are you sporting the 100% Armega Hiper's in this video? How'd they handle the change in lightning, like from broad daylight to shade in the forest? Did you ever feel like you needed a different tint when it got shadier?

[@gerboblitz]

Please review the KTM 390 ADV! Cheers. good video.

[@AOL0321]

Great review! Is that engine good on the Highway? I know you said you were doing 85 mph, but was that tapped out on the tach?

[@dalecolegrove6652]

Tapped out is over 110 mph

[@Fahrenheit38]

I didn't know this area had such great trails. I live outside of philly and need to go check it out

[@owen368]

Glad I am not the only one thats not a fan of ever more fancy electronics on a motorcycle the only thing I would add to my old kwacker is a clock and fuel gauge (ex500) other than that speedo, revs and basic idiot lights is fine less stuff to cause issues.

[@BigBambooBong]

Spurge, what's your go-to riding boots? I'm guessing moto/enduros like the Tech-7?

[@cavscout62]

I got my 2021 T7 in April of last year and it’s my 29th motorcycle. I upped the front sprocket 1 tooth and installed a Puig Windshield and soft bags as well as a one and three quarter inch bar riser. That’s it and I can click off 500 mile days with ease and I’m 60 years old. I believe this will be my last bike unless I decide to pick up a T12 so mama can ride with me on occasion. My Brother is waiting on his to arrive and this spring we are going to do a little trip from here (Texas) out to the ghost towns of Arizona for a week or so. The only thing we are going to do is ad the Camel-Adv auxiliary fuel tank so we can spend less time fueling. If you are wanting a Do It All Bike all I can say is BUY A T7!!!

[@aeror115]

Awesome machine! Well done Yamaha 💙

[@andrewanderson1988]

I have been wanting to get into adventure riding, for a really long time but I knew exactly where I wanted to start, and it didn't exist until this bike. Now, if I can actually find one to buy...

[@eliasmora715]

the rally style is so nice.. i love the bike, looks so balance.. .my weapon of choice.. now how the hell i get 10K mmmm..

[@eriklarsson3528]

Picking up my brand new 2022 t7 in the next couple of days!😀 my first adventure bike and really looking forward to gravel roads and maybe some light offroad🤣🇸🇪🇸🇪

[@primedirective00]

Bald Eagle eh? PA represent. I just flew to Altoona from Austin, TX to buy a Beta 500 RR-S and stopped there on my way to rip around my home town of Bloomsburg for a few weeks

[@DamonBates]

Well donate as always, thanks Spurge

[@Dadmoves49]

The spurge!! I see you spurge good vid

[@corriecole4687]

I’m on a waiting list for one. All ready put a deposit on it. Going to be my first adventure bike

[@blackbuttecruizr]

Currently ride a '15 FJ09, no cruise is by far my biggest gripe... Feelin' ya bro.

[@Nexus-6]

I have a 2019 Yamaha Tracer GT 900, and the cruise control is so great to have, especially on longer trips.

[@kevshaw2020]

i'm glad to see the big lebowski is back on his feet and reviewing motorcycles...

[@billy4rocks]

I’ve owned a 1200 explorer for years, and the more 700/800cc bikes i test, makes me realise I don’t really need a 1200cc bike.

[@mckinnonerario2883]

So pumped, I have one on order. I'm in west jersey and have always wanted to get up to that area of PA on my wr. Any trails you suggest?

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Get the Purple Lizard Map: www.purplelizard.com/products/bald-eagle-state-forest-map It has all the answers you seek!

[@mckinnonerario2883]

@@SpurgeonDunbar thank you! That looks great!

[@albertptran]

Spurgeon Dunbar i rode Bald Eagle forest on my TW years ago. Best place ever. Whole place and trails all to yourself, 200 miles

[@MrMegaPerez]

Great motorcycle. Let’s see how it will show itself overtime but I think it will be my next one :)

[@iLLuzion1st]

Me2!

[@marcomiserocchi3064]

I love this bike !

[@doublex632]

When do you think one would be able to just go to the dealership and buy one ? great review

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Supposedly the next shipment (if you didn't get one of the first round) should be in dealers around September.

[@prettydangoodadventures]

Awesome video!!! Thank you. I hope it comes to India.

[@stephtraveler7378]

its still too heavy. given the lack of accessory features, why doesn't it weigh 350 pounds? Thats the bike people want. 75 HP at only 350 pounds and goes 85 on the interstate.

[@starlord872]

I currently ride a dual-sport for weight reason, I like light agile and nimble but if I buy an Adventure bike it will be this one.

[@bradleyalexander5821]

Good job Spurg. You’re a lucky dog for sure. 👍🏼 😎 🌎

[@drady8541]

What brand of chin mount do you usw for the gopro?

[@Tony78432]

Wow very cool bike!

[@birdatkinson1]

Maybe my 2nd bike in the future!

[@kee7678]

Man...I was looking at a used GS, now..might have to look at this a little harder.

[@arjun230190]

Nothing matches Japanese reliability and the experience.

[@more3852]

reliability yes...experience no.

[@KineticTaco]

The GS line would like to have a word

[@daredevil9089]

Yamaha stands for reliability and heritage whereas ktm stands for experience and fun

[@johnroe3915]

@@daredevil9089 what about the R1, MT07 MT09, VMAX. The MT(FZ07) alone has created more riders than any other bike I've known. For its affordable fun factor.

[@daredevil9089]

@@johnroe3915 in this case we're talking about adv bikes as far i'm concerned the fun factor in adv 790 is way higher than tenere 700

[@Robroscob]

11:43 your tanks on fire !!!

[@steve-wu7jp]

Great turn signals!

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

"Yamaha USA, using the same turn signals since 1981."

[@kristianarnaiz388]

Off topic Spurge. How do you setup the voice on your gopro? I don’t see external mic there. Thanks man. Ride safe!

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

So we use an old GoPro 4 that still accepts a Sena Backpack and pairs directly with our Sena's in HD audio. It then has to be synched with our GoPro 7s which we use for the visuals. It's a bit complicated the way we do it. If you're trying to improve audio VO recordings on-bike I'd recommend just grabbing a Sena 10C Pro. I don't love it's video capabilities, but the audio is high quality HD and it's recorded directly over the video which makes it easy to synch with other cameras.

[@kristianarnaiz388]

Spurgeon Dunbar I see. Now i get it. Thank you so much! More power sir!

[@KaushikChandrashekarkc]

@@SpurgeonDunbar Follow up question Spurge. How's the Gopro mounted to the helmet! Seems like its a better way to mount one that's not a permanent adhesive method! Thanks

[@jwrancher1222]

i am your size and getting a tenere, what settings did you end up with?

[@darrylpaterick3108]

Have about the same $ amount including mods in to my 19 zuki Dr650 and I still don't have 6 gears or fuel injection. Damn. Might have to buy one of these.

[@talbertdejong6435]

How come it takes so long for it to come to the states? And why are a lot of models not available?