2010 Yamaha Super Ténéré First Ride [motorcycledaily.com]

[UFO]

Let's start with the new motor. An 1199cc parallel twin with four valve heads, DOHC, and fuel injection, peak power is 110 hp at 7250 rpm. With a broad, smooth band of torque it provides rapid acceleration. The MotoGP-inspired crankshaft firing interval is one of the most interesting points, and is similar to, in some ways, the crankshaft employed on the four-cylinder R1 sportbike.

The engine also incorporates balance shafts to minimize vibration. The dry sump design allows a lower placement of the engine.  Despite the size and weight of the Super Ténéré, it handles very easily, and lightly.



Read the whole first ride here:  http://motorcycledaily.com/12may10_yamaha2010supertenere.htm

[Sarchi]

I've never had the least interest in the big GS's, but for some reason I find this Yamaha very appealing.  Sounds like they've got a winner.

(is Yamaha Canada planning to import it?)

[BigBen]

Lookout Wee-Strom and BMW Gs!!! Yamaha is out to kick some behind.  They should bring to the US now!

[Cablebandit]

I don't think prospective weestrom riders are the audience for this beast.  As much as I love the idea of the big Yamaha I couldn't stomach the price which is reported to be more than the big GS.

After all us weestrom folks are frugal bastards.

[R Doug]

Unfortunately, for our U.S. readers, at this point we will not be able to buy a Super Ténéré in the States.

 

Though I can't see being wooed to the Tenere from the Adventure, I do like to see increased competition in the market.  I would love to test this bike someday.  Please Yam, bring this to the U.S.!

[st ryder]

I get uncomfortable just *looking* at that "sit up and beg" seating position with that way wide bar placement.   I like to lean forward especially for longer rides.

Good to se some serious comeptition for the GS though.  

[xbud]

 I would be surprised if this engine did'nt make it to some future model to be released here in the states. 110Hp and 84 Ft pounds of torque is definately GS territory. Would be nice in a street bike.

[Dan K]

Looks more like the Benelli Tre-K than the GS...

- Dan

[garry]

550 pounds wet. She's a porker...

[mustang28027]

TDM 850... look what it did.    I  wish Yamaha luck with this one.

[R Doug]

550 pounds wet. She's a porker...

The additional weight plus the fact it costs more than a GS and it appears to have lessor quality bits (i.e. brake lines, calipers, etc...) just doesn't make any sense to me.  

[tvpierce]

Is Yam completely unaware that there are other bikes in this class?    How can they possibly justify that price?  

[sammyseaman]

 I would be surprised if this engine did'nt make it to some future model to be released here in the states. 110Hp and 84 Ft pounds of torque is definately GS territory. Would be nice in a street bike.

That motor in a cafe style bike (ala Triumph Thruxton)  

[forester]

I don't think prospective weestrom riders are the audience for this beast.  As much as I love the idea of the big Yamaha I couldn't stomach the price which is reported to be more than the big GS.

After all us weestrom folks are frugal bastards.

Plus I don't see an advantage over the weestrom.  I continue to look for this everywhere in motorcycles, and I never see an advantage.  The only bike I think that I could even consider being a contender in the "do it all well" category would be the BMW F800GS.  The rest of them just don't cut it.

[R Doug]

The weight listed for the Stroms and Tenere have been adjusted from the manufacturer's listing of wet weight to deduct the weight of a full tank of gas at 6.25 lbs and oil at 4 lbs per qt.  

The USD price of the Tenere is a simple conversion of what it's listed at in Euros.  I know you can't always do this to estimate what the list price would be in the US.  But, from what I have read, the Yamaha is listed at the same price as a BMW 1200 GS.  

[SLK50]

  BMWs are more "affordable" in Europe than in the U.S. As a result they are priced closer to their Japanese counterparts. While this places the Tenere close to the cost of a GS in Europe, expect it to be a bit less in the U.S. Yamaha isn't crazy and knows it's market ( competition ) fairly well. Don't expect them to price it out of the reach of that market. ( i.e. consider the value of an FJR vs the competition )
  My best guess: a Tenere WITH hard bags for 12 large.

  And oh yeah, I want one.

[eye.surgeon]

I get uncomfortable just *looking* at that "sit up and beg" seating position with that way wide bar placement.   I like to lean forward especially for longer rides.

Good to se some serious comeptition for the GS though.  

That riding position is probably the most comfortable and ergonomically correct long distance position for most people. There's a reason people tour on GS's and that's one of them. Tons of leg space, ability to stand up while riding, modest forward lean, widespaced arms without bearing weight. Try standing up and stretching your legs while doing 70 on the ducati. I guarantee you for eating miles 8 out of 10 people will chose that position over any other.

[Cablebandit]

My 2007 Weestrom with ABS owners manual lists the dry weight as 434lbs.  Subtract a couple pounds for no ABS.   Also the fuel capacity is the same as the 1000 Strom. 5.8 Gallons

[R Doug]

My 2007 Weestrom with ABS owners manual lists the dry weight as 434lbs.  Subtract a couple pounds for no ABS.   Also the fuel capacity is the same as the 1000 Strom. 5.8 Gallons

My bad, I listed imperial gallons (4.8) in stead of US gallons.  

It appears my estimated dry weight on the ABS model is about spot on then.  The Suzuki website shows a difference of 7 lbs between the ABS and non ABS versions wet.

For some reason, I can't believe the listed weight of the big GS.  Hos is it that much ligher than the other 1,000 cc bikes?

[Mac]

Whats the price on this bike? I couldn't find it in the article or in any of Yamaha's info.

[R Doug]

Whats the price on this bike? I couldn't find it in the article or in any of Yamaha's info.

13,500 Euros (as per Yamaha's UK website)

[Sarchi]

Weight is just a number- from sitting on the GS it feels pretty top-heavy to me..and I've owned a Connie.  If you read the review that Neal posted, the Tenere seems to be impressing the journos in every way, including braking, handling and off road.  Just sayin'.

[maddjack]

I was intrested till I saw the price comparo, holy heck whats the extra money for , a rear drive that doesn't break??      

[R Doug]

I was intrested till I saw the price comparo, holy heck whats the extra money for , a rear drive that doesn't break??      

Converting the Euro price to USD isn't always an accurate way to estimate what the bike would cost Stateside.  I agree with Chris, the bike will most likely be priced around $13K maybe $14K.

[Mac]

From what I've read the extra price is due to the first year being a special addition with the full luggage package.

[Wanderer]

  BMWs are more "affordable" in Europe than in the U.S. As a result they are priced closer to their Japanese counterparts. While this places the Tenere close to the cost of a GS in Europe, expect it to be a bit less in the U.S. Yamaha isn't crazy and knows it's market ( competition ) fairly well. Don't expect them to price it out of the reach of that market. ( i.e. consider the value of an FJR vs the competition )
  My best guess: a Tenere WITH hard bags for 12 large.

  And oh yeah, I want one.

I would completely agree with you, if Mama Yama had plans to bring it to these shores.

I could see myself owning one of these in 15 years, when they finally get imported here and can be found used for a decent price.  They seem to be well sorted.

[Cablebandit]

Well we're still waiting for the 650 Tenere so I'm not holding my breath.

[st ryder]

That riding position is probably the most comfortable and ergonomically correct long distance position for most people. There's a reason people tour on GS's and that's one of them. Tons of leg space, ability to stand up while riding, modest forward lean, widespaced arms without bearing weight. Try standing up and stretching your legs while doing 70 on the ducati. I guarantee you for eating miles 8 out of 10 people will chose that position over any other.

I can't see how being turned into sail and having your spine stacked going over bumps could be ergonomically correct. I have plenty of leg room on my ST, more than my K75 and more than my old FJR, and it's more comfortable as well, due to the lean forward position, as once at highway speeds, there's just enouggh blast to keep the weight off the wrist, and no buffeting at higher mph's. Now, I can understand making a case for leverage on the bars in the tight turns or lose stuff, and for standing on the pegs for off roading, but for paved roads and long days, I can't see myself being happy with that position. I must be one of the 2 who don't find sit up and beg comfy.  But then again, it is a "real" *adventure* bike, and not meant as a "real" touring bike. That's why I like it, but I think I'd be getting lower/narrower bars if I had one.

[R Doug]

  But then again, it is a "real" *adventure* bike, and not meant as a "real" touring bike. That's why I like it, but I think I'd be getting lower/narrower bars if I had one.

I seem to remember a few fellows who traveled around the world on two "adventure" bikes (Long Way Around).  While you may find your ST comfortable, don't sell adventure bikes short.  More people I talk to find adventure bikes (Stroms, Multi, Tiger, GS, etc..) to be more comfortable than other touring bikes.  

Sorry to seem so cranky, but I purchased my adventure bike for touring and I get frustrated when people try to pingeon hole bikes.  For goodness sakes, I toured on my Super Duke and I found it to be more comfortable than ANY bike I've ever owned, including a Duc ST3.  If it weren't for the very limited luggage options available for the Super Duke, I wouldn't have purchased my Adventure.   I prefer lockable luggage when I tour long distances.  

[st ryder]

I seem to remember a few fellows who traveled around the world on two "adventure" bikes (Long Way Around).  While you may find your ST comfortable, don't sell adventure bikes short.  More people I talk to find adventure bikes (Stroms, Multi, Tiger, GS, etc..) to be more comfortable than other touring bikes.  

Sorry to seem so cranky, but I purchased my adventure bike for touring and I get frustrated when people try to pingeon hole bikes.  For goodness sakes, I toured on my Super Duke and I found it to be more comfortable than ANY bike I've ever owned, including a Duc ST3.  If it weren't for the very limited luggage options available for the Super Duke, I wouldn't have purchased my Adventure.   I prefer lockable luggage when I tour long distances.  

Yes, going around the world the long way round seems more of an adventure tour than a sport or luxury tour, given the varying roads/conditions they encountered, as opposed to say going coast to coast on paved highways which though somewhat adventurous, is not really an adventure in comparison to going to less hospitable, and much farther away places with far fewer resources. Certainly not a trip well suited for a bike like my ST, not to say it couldn't be done, but certainly not with the same aplomb as a proper adventure bike like a GS or the new Yammie. Just like paved road touring cannot be done with the same aplomb as my ST if done on an adventure bike due to the sit-up and beg body position that will leave one more fatigued at the end of the day by way of much greater exposeur to the wind blast, and a stacked spinal cord which will be compressed over bumps.    It's just a matter of horses for courses *IMO*, though any horse can be ran on any course as we all know.

I'm not selling adventure bikes short, just saying sometimes, they are NOT the best choice for some type of riding, though they do everything well, they are not speclialists outside the "real" adventure realm for which the new Yammie is best suited. If  bought one, it would be to go to places like Alaska, not the Blue Ridge, but that's just me. Ride what you like, where you like, there are no hard and fast rules. It's all good.

[BlueRidgeKat]

Please Yam, bring this to the U.S.!

Its really easy to get this bike to the U.S.

We just all get together and call Yamaha, tell them we want the new Super Tenere "Cruiser". If they think we Americans all believe its another damn cruiser they will ship it here as fast as they can make them.

[R Doug]

It's just a matter of horses for courses *IMO*, though any horse can be ran on any course as we all know.

I'm not selling adventure bikes short, just saying sometimes, they are NOT the best choice for some type of riding, though they do everything well, they are not speclialists outside the "real" adventure realm for which the new Yammie is best suited. If  bought one, it would be to go to places like Alaska, not the Blue Ridge, but that's just me. Ride what you like, where you like, there are no hard and fast rules. It's all good.

You make a good point.  If I were getting ready to head from my home to Alaska and back and someone tossed me the keys of the Sprint ST and a Super Tenere, I would pick the Yamaha.  On the other side of the coin, if I were going to run the entire Blue Ridge Parkway and the choice of my Adventure and a Duc ST, I would pick the Duc.  

 

[kevrider]

Just like paved road touring cannot be done with the same aplomb as my ST if done on an adventure bike due to the sit-up and beg body position that will leave one more fatigued at the end of the day by way of much greater exposeur to the wind blast, and a stacked spinal cord which will be compressed over bumps.  

no argument that some bikes are better for some rides than others, but i think you've misjudged the riding position.  i put about 44kmi on a vfr800 and 60kmi on a transalp (during the same time span, not sequentially) so i've had plenty of time for comparison.  the transalp position is not the same as a sit-up-and-beg cruiser position.  the foot placement makes a difference.  for one, it effects spinal curvature (in a bad way for cruisers).  additionally, it allows you to weight the pegs (unweight your arse) when you need to.  also, at least on my bike, windblast was not an issue; the airstream came over the screen and hit me in the chinbar, same as on the vfr.  fatigue definitely arrived faster on the vfr.  after all those miles, it was clear to me that the ultimate traveling machine would be a transalp with vfr power.  KTM builds a couple of bikes like that.  you should try one sometime.  so should i.  

i was looking forward to this new yamaha, but i think it is too hefty for me.  

[aaronsmith304]

This is a wonderful opinion. The things mentioned are unanimous and needs to be appreciated by everyone

Aaron

[jamesgino]

Looks like an awesome bike and I would rather have one than my Vee. Look at how nice the seat looks! Of course the price of the Vee is a whole lot better.

[protondecay123]

Thanks for posting the link. Time for Yamaha USA to get it's act together.

[Davy F.]

Well, I have ridden the new Super Tenere (100+ miles demo ride) and as I have previously owned a BMW R1200GS, I guess I'm reasonably qualified to give a general idea of how the ST compares.

A lot of people are griping about the posted weight figures. Forget the fact sheet, this thing feels really light on its feet. Yamaha have done a good job of distributing the weight and have hidden the bulk well. The engine is a nice unit, reasonably smooth, tho' you need to be in the correct gear and it doesn't like being laboured. My GS was a better machine for low speed tractability and could easily sit in 6th gear at 30mph and pull away smoothly. The ST dosn't like this and is rather lumpy should you do the same. However, it felt quite lathargic and didn't seem that quick. But it was actually very deceptive and picked up speed easily enough and it was maybe about 40 miles into my ride before I started to appreciate just how good it goes. Part of the problem tho' is the exhaust note as it is rather flat and unexciting. The riding position (for me @ 5' 11") is fine. The difficult to adjust screen was set at its most forward position and it suited me nicely with no real buffeting even at 90/100 mph. The riding position is very roomy (so roomy that when I got back onto my Gen1 Yamaha Fazer 1000, I felt like I was perched on a 125cc bike) but the seat is horrendous. 65 miles and I had such a sore butt. Saying that, I suffered the same problem on my GS and only after buying a Sargent saddle was I able to cover hundereds of miles in comfort on said GS. The brakes are typically superb Yamaha items and the ABS isn't as intrusive as the BM's system and doesn't activate as quickly. The handling is excellent, really flickable and sure-footed (the weight helps in that respect) and even off road, which was limited to thrashing around a farmers newly harvested field, it performed with aplomb. Riding a demo bike means you can't really tinker with the suspension settings. However, I found the standard set-up to be more than acceptable and it was able to soak up the worst bumps of a certain road I know and use often. The shaft drive is fantastic ! Much nicer than the BMW offering (which is still very good and a vast improvement of the older BM's) and really does feel like a well set up chain drive system.

But the biggest downside to the Yamaha is that is compares favourably to my 2005 model GS and I don't think it is as good as a 2010 model GS (which in effect has been upgraded twice compared to my GS model). Yamaha just haven't done enough to compete totally with the BMW, especially in the pricing dept and the fact that you can personalize a BMW to your needs/depth of wallet. Would I buy one ? Err, no. It doesn't have the character of the GS nor all the toys that can be specced on the German machine. The one area you just know it will excel at will be in the reliability stakes. The GS hasn't been without it's (well documented) faults, although personally I had no real issues with mine in the 25,000 miles I put on it.

Yamaha have built a good bike. Build quality and finish is good and there are lovely details all over the bike which takes a while to spot. But it's just not a great bike.

Oh, btw. I have previously owned a Yamaha Super Tenere 750 and a Yamaha TDM850, so don't think I'm a fervent BMW fan.