Yamaha Tenere 700: Long Distance Touring

Hey guys! If you're dreaming of hitting the open road on two wheels, the Yamaha Tenere 700 might just be your perfect companion. This bike is built for adventure, and we're going to dive deep into why it's such a fantastic choice for long-distance touring. We will explore everything from its rugged design and comfortable ergonomics to essential modifications and packing tips. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Why the Tenere 700 is a Great Choice for Touring

The Yamaha Tenere 700 has carved out a special place in the hearts of adventure riders, and for good reason. At its core, this motorcycle strikes a harmonious balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort, making it an exceptional choice for long-distance touring. The heart of the Tenere 700 is its reliable and torquey 689cc parallel-twin engine. This powerplant provides ample power for long highway stretches, ensuring you can maintain comfortable cruising speeds while also delivering the punch needed for overtaking. What's even better is that this engine is known for its durability, so you can confidently rack up the miles without constant worry about mechanical issues. The fuel efficiency is also commendable, allowing for extended rides between fill-ups, a crucial factor when you're adventuring in remote areas. Beyond the engine, the Tenere 700's long-travel suspension is a game-changer for touring. It soaks up bumps and potholes with ease, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride even when the road gets rough. This is particularly important when you're spending hours in the saddle each day. The bike's overall design is intentionally minimalist, reducing the number of electronic complexities that could potentially fail. This simplicity translates to greater reliability and easier field repairs, essential for any serious long-distance journey. Its comfortable riding position also makes those long days in the saddle much more bearable, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than battling discomfort.

Key Features That Shine on Long Rides

When it comes to long-distance touring, certain features can make or break the experience. The Yamaha Tenere 700 boasts several key attributes that make it exceptionally well-suited for the demands of extended journeys. One of the standout features is the bike's long-travel suspension. With generous suspension travel both at the front and rear, the Tenere 700 effortlessly absorbs road imperfections, providing a comfortable and controlled ride even on poorly maintained surfaces. This is especially beneficial on long rides where fatigue can quickly set in if you're constantly battling a harsh suspension. The upright riding position of the Tenere 700 is another significant advantage for touring. This relaxed posture reduces strain on your back, wrists, and shoulders, allowing you to maintain comfort over long distances. Unlike sportbikes that require you to lean forward, the Tenere 700 lets you sit upright and enjoy the scenery without excessive physical stress. The reliable and fuel-efficient engine is another crucial feature. The 689cc parallel-twin engine not only delivers ample power for highway cruising but also offers impressive fuel economy. This means fewer stops at gas stations, allowing you to cover more ground and spend less time worrying about fuel availability. Its robust construction also contributes to the bike's overall reliability, giving you peace of mind on long journeys. The Tenere 700's chassis is designed for stability and control, even when fully loaded with luggage. This is essential when carrying camping gear, clothing, and other essentials for an extended trip. The bike remains planted and predictable, inspiring confidence in various riding conditions. Finally, the minimalist design of the Tenere 700 is a major advantage. Fewer electronic gadgets mean fewer potential points of failure, and the bike's simple construction makes it easier to diagnose and repair issues in the field. This is a huge benefit when you're far from civilization and relying on your own skills to keep the bike running.

Essential Modifications for Long-Distance Touring on the Tenere 700

Okay, so the Tenere 700 is great out of the box, but with a few tweaks, you can transform it into an unstoppable long-distance machine. Let's talk mods! Investing in comfortable seating is paramount for long-distance touring. The stock seat on the Tenere 700 is decent, but it may not provide adequate support for extended rides. Consider upgrading to an aftermarket seat designed specifically for touring, such as those offered by Corbin, Sargent, or Seat Concepts. These seats typically feature improved padding, ergonomic shaping, and pressure relief zones, significantly enhancing your comfort on long journeys. Proper wind protection is essential to minimize fatigue and discomfort caused by wind blast. The stock windscreen on the Tenere 700 provides some protection, but it may not be sufficient for all riders, especially at higher speeds. Consider installing a taller or adjustable windscreen to deflect more wind away from your body. Brands like Puig, Givi, and Madstad offer a variety of windscreen options designed to improve wind protection and reduce turbulence. Luggage solutions are critical for carrying your gear on long-distance tours. The Tenere 700 is compatible with a wide range of luggage options, including hard panniers, soft bags, and top boxes. Hard panniers offer the best protection for your belongings and are ideal for carrying valuable items, while soft bags are lighter and more flexible, making them suitable for off-road adventures. A top box provides convenient storage for items you need quick access to, such as rain gear or snacks. Protection is key to safeguarding your Tenere 700 from damage during off-road excursions and unexpected mishaps. Install essential protection components such as engine guards, skid plates, and handguards to shield vulnerable parts of the bike from rocks, debris, and impacts. Engine guards protect the engine cases and frame in the event of a fall, while a skid plate shields the underbelly of the bike from rocks and obstacles. Handguards protect your hands and levers from impacts and wind chill. Navigation and electronics are crucial for staying on course and connected during long-distance tours. Invest in a reliable GPS navigation system to help you plan routes, track your progress, and locate points of interest. Consider adding a USB charging port to power your electronic devices, such as smartphones and GPS units. If you plan on using a communication system, such as a Bluetooth headset, make sure it is compatible with your helmet and smartphone.

Must-Have Accessories

Beyond the essential modifications, a few key accessories can significantly enhance your long-distance touring experience on the Yamaha Tenere 700. Here's a rundown of some must-have items. A good quality GPS unit is indispensable for navigation, especially in unfamiliar areas. Garmin and TomTom offer rugged, motorcycle-specific GPS devices with features like route planning, turn-by-turn directions, and off-road navigation capabilities. Choose a unit with a bright, sunlight-readable display and glove-friendly controls. Heated grips or heated gloves can make a world of difference in cold weather. Heated grips provide warmth directly to your hands, while heated gloves offer even more comprehensive coverage. Look for grips or gloves with adjustable heat settings to customize your comfort level. A comfortable and supportive backrest can greatly reduce fatigue on long rides. Backrests provide lumbar support, helping you maintain good posture and prevent back pain. Consider a backrest that is adjustable to suit your individual needs. Auxiliary lighting can improve visibility in low-light conditions and make you more visible to other drivers. LED auxiliary lights are a popular choice due to their brightness, energy efficiency, and long lifespan. Mount the lights securely to your bike and wire them to a switch for easy operation. A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) allows you to monitor your tire pressure in real-time, alerting you to any sudden drops or fluctuations. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for optimal handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. A TPMS can help you identify and address tire issues before they become serious problems. A tool kit with essential repair items is a must-have for any long-distance motorcycle trip. Include items such as wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, a tire repair kit, and a basic electrical tester. Familiarize yourself with basic motorcycle maintenance tasks, such as changing a tire and adjusting the chain, so you can handle minor repairs on the road. A first-aid kit is essential for dealing with minor injuries and medical emergencies. Include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need. Consider taking a first-aid course to learn how to properly administer treatment in emergency situations.

Packing Strategies for Long Tours

Packing smart is crucial for any long-distance motorcycle trip. Overpacking can add unnecessary weight and bulk, while underpacking can leave you unprepared for unexpected situations. Start by making a list of everything you think you'll need, then carefully evaluate each item to determine if it's truly essential. Prioritize lightweight and compact items to minimize weight and save space. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. Use compression sacks to further compress bulky items like sleeping bags and jackets. Distribute the weight evenly on your bike to maintain stability and handling. Place heavier items in the bottom of your panniers and lighter items on top. Avoid overloading your top box, as this can negatively affect the bike's balance. Keep essential items within easy reach, such as rain gear, snacks, and a water bottle. Store these items in a tank bag or a small backpack that you can access while riding. Use waterproof bags or liners to protect your belongings from rain and moisture. Even if your luggage is water-resistant, it's a good idea to use waterproof bags to ensure that your gear stays dry in heavy rain. Secure your luggage properly to prevent it from shifting or falling off during the ride. Use straps, bungee cords, or cargo nets to secure your panniers, top box, and other items to the bike. Check the security of your luggage regularly, especially after riding on rough roads. Pack a small emergency kit with essential items such as a flashlight, a multi-tool, duct tape, and zip ties. This kit can be invaluable for dealing with unexpected repairs or emergencies on the road. Remember, less is more. The lighter you pack, the more enjoyable your ride will be. Be ruthless in eliminating unnecessary items from your packing list. You can always buy things you need along the way if necessary.

What to Pack: The Essentials

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of what to pack for a long tour on your Yamaha Tenere 700. This list covers the essentials to keep you comfortable, safe, and prepared for almost anything. Pack moisture-wicking base layers to regulate your body temperature and keep you dry in all weather conditions. Choose lightweight and breathable materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics. Pack a set of waterproof and breathable riding gear to protect you from rain, wind, and cold. Look for gear with features like sealed seams, adjustable vents, and reflective accents. Bring a pair of comfortable and durable riding boots that provide good ankle support and protection. Choose boots with waterproof membranes and slip-resistant soles. Pack a pair of riding gloves that offer good grip, protection, and comfort. Consider bringing two pairs of gloves: one for warm weather and one for cold weather. Bring a DOT-approved helmet that fits properly and provides adequate protection. Choose a helmet with good ventilation and a clear, scratch-resistant visor. Pack a basic tool kit with essential tools for performing minor repairs on the road. Include items like wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, a tire repair kit, and a multi-tool. Bring a first-aid kit with essential medical supplies for treating minor injuries and illnesses. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need. Pack a GPS unit or smartphone with a reliable navigation app for planning routes and tracking your progress. Consider bringing a paper map as a backup in case of electronic failure. Bring a portable charger or power bank to keep your electronic devices charged on the road. Choose a charger with multiple USB ports and a high capacity battery. Pack a small flashlight or headlamp for navigating in the dark. Choose a lightweight and compact light with a long battery life. Bring a multi-tool with a variety of functions, such as a knife, pliers, screwdriver, and bottle opener. A multi-tool can be invaluable for performing minor repairs and tasks on the road. Pack a roll of duct tape for making temporary repairs to your bike or gear. Duct tape is incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide variety of purposes. Bring a supply of zip ties for securing loose items and making temporary repairs. Zip ties are lightweight, strong, and easy to use.

Conclusion: The Tenere 700 - Your Long-Distance Adventure Awaits

The Yamaha Tenere 700 is more than just a motorcycle; it's a gateway to adventure. With its blend of ruggedness, reliability, and comfort, it's an outstanding choice for long-distance touring. By making a few thoughtful modifications, packing smart, and preparing for the unexpected, you can transform this already capable machine into the ultimate touring companion. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream adventure today, and let the Tenere 700 take you there. Safe travels, guys!