The Yamaha Tenere 700, a middleweight adventure bike, has captured the hearts of riders worldwide with its rugged simplicity, capable off-road performance, and reasonable price point. But like any motorcycle, it’s not without its quirks and potential pitfalls. While the Tenere 700 enjoys a reputation for reliability, understanding the common issues owners encounter can help you make an informed purchase, properly maintain your bike, and address problems proactively. Let’s dive into the real-world concerns of Tenere 700 owners.

The Suspension Situation: Good Enough, But…

One of the most frequently discussed aspects of the Tenere 700 is its suspension. Straight from the factory, the suspension is often described as adequate for general riding but quickly reveals its limitations when pushed harder off-road or when carrying luggage and a passenger.

  • Soft Springs: The stock springs are often too soft for riders weighing over 180 lbs, especially when loaded with gear. This can lead to excessive sag, bottoming out on bumps, and a generally unstable feeling, particularly at higher speeds.
  • Under-Damped: In addition to soft springs, the damping (the control of spring movement) is often criticized for being insufficient. This can result in a bouncy ride and reduced control, particularly over rough terrain.
  • Non-Adjustable Rear: While the front forks have preload adjustment, the rear shock only offers preload adjustment. This limits the ability to fine-tune the suspension to suit different riding conditions and rider preferences.

The fix: Upgrading the suspension is a common modification for Tenere 700 owners. Options range from simply replacing the springs with stiffer ones and re-valving the existing dampers to installing aftermarket cartridges in the forks and a new rear shock. Several reputable suspension companies offer solutions tailored specifically to the Tenere 700.

Wind Protection: A Bit Lacking for Long Hauls

While the Tenere 700's minimalist design is part of its appeal, the stock windscreen offers limited wind protection, especially at highway speeds. This can lead to wind buffeting, fatigue, and noise, making long-distance rides less enjoyable.

  • Small Size: The stock windscreen is relatively small and doesn't deflect much wind away from the rider's chest and head.
  • Buffeting: Many riders experience significant wind buffeting around the helmet, which can be tiring and noisy.

The fix: The aftermarket is flooded with windscreen options for the Tenere 700. Taller screens, wider screens, and screens with adjustable spoilers are all popular choices. Experimenting with different options is often necessary to find the best solution for your height and riding style. Consider also a windscreen deflector which is an adjustable add-on to the original windscreen.

Seat Comfort: Not Exactly a Luxury Experience

The stock seat on the Tenere 700 is functional but far from luxurious. It's often described as being too firm and uncomfortable for long rides.

  • Thin Padding: The seat has relatively thin padding, which can lead to pressure points and discomfort after a few hours in the saddle.
  • Narrow Profile: The narrow profile of the seat can also contribute to discomfort, especially for riders with wider hips.

The fix: Aftermarket seat options are readily available. These range from gel-filled seats to custom-made seats that are tailored to the rider's individual needs. A sheepskin cover can also offer a short-term comfort boost.

Fuel Gauge Accuracy: A Tendency to be Optimistic

The Tenere 700's fuel gauge is known for being somewhat inaccurate, particularly towards the end of the fuel tank. This can lead to riders running out of fuel unexpectedly if they rely solely on the gauge.

  • Inconsistent Readings: The fuel gauge readings can be inconsistent, fluctuating even on level ground.
  • Optimistic Estimate: The gauge tends to be optimistic, indicating that there's more fuel in the tank than there actually is.

The fix: Many owners rely on the trip meter to track their fuel consumption. Knowing your bike's average fuel economy and resetting the trip meter at each fill-up is a more reliable way to estimate your remaining range. Also, pay attention to the low fuel light, but don't wait until it comes on to start looking for a gas station.

Electrical Gremlins: Keep an Eye Out

While the Tenere 700 is generally reliable, some owners have reported electrical issues. These are typically minor but can be frustrating.

  • Loose Connectors: Vibration can cause connectors to come loose, leading to intermittent electrical problems. Regularly check and secure all connectors, especially those in high-vibration areas.
  • Battery Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the stock battery, particularly in cold weather.
  • Accessory Wiring: Improperly installed aftermarket accessories can sometimes interfere with the bike's electrical system.

The fix: Regularly inspect your bike's wiring and connectors. Consider upgrading to a higher-quality battery. If you're installing aftermarket accessories, ensure that they are properly wired and fused.

Exhaust Header Corrosion: A Common Sight

The exhaust header on the Tenere 700 is prone to surface rust and corrosion, especially in wet or salty environments. While this is primarily a cosmetic issue, it can detract from the bike's appearance.

  • Material Quality: The exhaust header is made of stainless steel, but the grade of stainless steel used is not particularly corrosion-resistant.
  • Exposure to Elements: The exhaust header is exposed to the elements, including water, salt, and road grime.

The fix: Regularly cleaning and protecting the exhaust header with a heat-resistant protectant can help to prevent corrosion. Some owners opt to replace the stock header with an aftermarket header made of higher-quality stainless steel or titanium.

The Side Stand Switch: A Potential Trouble Spot

The side stand switch, which prevents the bike from being ridden with the side stand down, can sometimes malfunction. This can lead to the bike cutting out unexpectedly or refusing to start.

  • Dirt and Debris: The switch can become contaminated with dirt and debris, causing it to malfunction.
  • Damage: The switch can be damaged by impacts or rough handling.

The fix: Regularly cleaning the side stand switch can help to prevent malfunctions. Consider installing a side stand switch protector to prevent damage. Some owners choose to bypass the switch altogether, but this is generally not recommended for safety reasons.

Clutch Basket Noise: A Characteristic, Not Necessarily a Problem

Some Tenere 700 owners have reported a rattling noise coming from the clutch basket, particularly at idle. This is often described as a "marbles in a can" sound.

  • Normal Operation: In many cases, this noise is simply a characteristic of the CP2 engine and doesn't indicate a problem.
  • Clutch Basket Wear: In rare cases, excessive clutch basket noise can be a sign of wear or damage.

The fix: If you're concerned about clutch basket noise, have your bike inspected by a qualified mechanic. In most cases, the noise is harmless and doesn't require any action.

Rear Brake Pedal Position: Not Ideal for Everyone

The position of the rear brake pedal can be awkward for some riders, particularly when standing up off-road.

  • Low Position: The pedal is positioned relatively low, which can make it difficult to reach when standing.
  • Limited Adjustment: The pedal has limited adjustability, making it difficult to customize its position.

The fix: Aftermarket rear brake pedal risers are available to raise the pedal position. Some riders also modify the pedal itself to improve its ergonomics.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is the Tenere 700 reliable? Yes, the Tenere 700 is generally considered a reliable motorcycle, thanks to its simple design and proven engine. However, like any machine, it can experience problems.
  • Is the suspension on the Tenere 700 bad? The stock suspension is adequate for general use but often needs upgrading for serious off-road riding or carrying heavy loads. It’s a common upgrade for many owners.
  • Does the Tenere 700 have a fuel gauge problem? The fuel gauge can be inaccurate, especially when the tank is low. Relying on the trip meter is a more reliable way to track fuel consumption.
  • Why is my Tenere 700 making a rattling noise? A rattling noise, particularly at idle, can be normal clutch basket noise. However, if you're concerned, have your bike inspected by a mechanic.
  • Is the Tenere 700 comfortable for long rides? The stock seat and windscreen can be uncomfortable for long rides. Aftermarket options are available to improve comfort.

The Takeaway

While the Yamaha Tenere 700 has its share of common issues, most are relatively minor and can be addressed with simple fixes or aftermarket upgrades. By understanding these potential problems and taking proactive steps to maintain your bike, you can ensure many miles of enjoyable and trouble-free riding. Investigate the suspension for your needs, and keep an eye on fuel levels!