Yamaha Tenere 700: Long-Distance Touring

The Yamaha Tenere 700 has captured the hearts of adventure riders worldwide, and for good reason. Its blend of ruggedness, reliability, and reasonable price makes it a fantastic platform for long-distance touring. But transforming it from a capable weekend warrior into a true distance machine requires careful planning and the right modifications. In this article, we'll dive deep into what it takes to set up your Tenere 700 for extended adventures, covering everything from comfort and luggage solutions to performance upgrades and essential maintenance.

Enhancing Comfort for the Long Haul

Let's face it, the stock Tenere 700, while decent, isn't exactly a luxury touring bike straight off the showroom floor. For long days in the saddle, addressing comfort is paramount. This is where investing in a few key upgrades can make a world of difference, turning those grueling rides into enjoyable explorations. We're talking about transforming your Tenere 700 from a trusty steed into a throne of adventure! Comfort on those long rides makes all the difference, and the first thing to consider is the seat. Many riders find the stock seat becomes uncomfortable after a few hours. Upgrading to an aftermarket seat, such as those from Seat Concepts, Sargent, or Corbin, can provide significantly better support and cushioning. These seats often feature wider profiles and improved foam density, distributing weight more evenly and reducing pressure points. I have seen some adventurers even get custom seats made for the long haul to ensure that they are as comfortable as possible on their trip.

Another crucial aspect of comfort is wind protection. The stock screen offers some protection, but for long-distance touring, it might not be enough to deflect windblast effectively. Consider upgrading to a taller or adjustable windscreen. Brands like Touratech, Puig, and Givi offer a variety of options that can significantly reduce wind noise and fatigue. Getting a windscreen is a must if you intend to spend the majority of your trip on the highway. Don't forget about your hands! Handlebar risers can help you achieve a more comfortable and upright riding position, reducing strain on your wrists, shoulders, and back. Brands like Rox Speed FX and SW-MOTECH offer risers in various heights and offsets. Additionally, heated grips are a godsend in colder climates or during chilly mornings and evenings. Oxford and Koso are popular brands for heated grips, offering adjustable heat settings to keep your hands warm and nimble. You can even install handguards, this will not only protect you hands from the wind, but also protect your levers in case of a crash. The last comfort is noise. Wearing earplugs is essential for long-distance riding to prevent hearing damage and reduce fatigue caused by wind noise. Even with a good windscreen, wind noise can be significant, especially at highway speeds. Invest in a quality pair of earplugs, either disposable foam plugs or custom-molded ones, to protect your hearing and stay fresh on the road.

Luggage Solutions: Packing Smart for Adventure

No long-distance tour is complete without a reliable luggage system. The Tenere 700 is well-suited for carrying a variety of luggage options, from soft bags to hard panniers. The choice depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the type of riding you'll be doing. Hard panniers offer the most security and weather protection. Brands like Touratech, Givi, and SW-MOTECH offer robust pannier systems specifically designed for the Tenere 700. These systems typically consist of a metal rack that mounts to the bike's frame and hard cases that attach to the rack. Hard panniers are ideal for carrying valuable items and for riding in challenging weather conditions. Soft bags, on the other hand, are lighter and more flexible. They are a great option for riders who prioritize weight savings and off-road capability. Brands like Mosko Moto, Giant Loop, and Enduristan offer high-quality soft bags that are durable and water-resistant. Soft bags typically attach to the bike with straps and buckles, making them easy to install and remove. A top box is a convenient way to carry extra gear and essentials. It's ideal for items you want to access quickly, such as rain gear, snacks, or a first-aid kit. Givi and Shad are popular brands for top boxes, offering a range of sizes and styles. Don't forget about tank bags! A tank bag is a great place to store items you need to access frequently, such as your phone, wallet, maps, or camera. SW-MOTECH and Givi offer tank bags that are specifically designed for the Tenere 700. Tank bags typically attach to the bike with straps or a magnetic mount. I always recommend packing light. Overpacking is a common mistake among long-distance riders. Before you start packing, make a list of everything you think you'll need. Then, carefully evaluate each item and ask yourself if you really need it. Remember, you can always buy things along the way if you run out. Consider weight distribution to ensure that you distribute the weight evenly on the bike to maintain stability and handling. Place heavier items lower down and closer to the center of the bike. This will help to keep the bike balanced and prevent it from feeling top-heavy. Use packing cubes or stuff sacks to organize your gear. This will make it easier to find things and prevent your gear from shifting around during the ride. It's also a good idea to waterproof your gear, even if you're using hard panniers. Use dry bags or waterproof liners to protect your gear from rain and moisture.

Performance Upgrades: Enhancing the Ride

While the Tenere 700's CP2 engine is known for its reliability and smooth power delivery, there are a few performance upgrades that can enhance the riding experience, especially on long-distance trips. I always recommend upgrading the suspension. The stock suspension is adequate for general riding, but it can be improved for long-distance touring, especially if you're carrying a lot of luggage. Upgrading to aftermarket suspension components, such as those from Öhlins, Wilbers, or Touratech, can provide a more comfortable and controlled ride. These components typically offer adjustable damping and preload, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to your specific needs and preferences. A new exhaust system can improve the bike's performance and sound. An aftermarket exhaust system can reduce weight, increase power, and improve the bike's exhaust note. Brands like Akrapovič, Arrow, and Yoshimura offer exhaust systems specifically designed for the Tenere 700. However, be aware that some exhaust systems may require modifications to the fuel injection system to ensure proper performance. You should also consider a fuel controller to fine-tune the fuel injection system for optimal performance, especially if you've made modifications to the exhaust or air intake. Brands like Power Commander and Cobra Fi2000 offer fuel controllers that allow you to adjust the fuel-air mixture. Improving your bikes air intake can also improve the performance. Upgrading to an aftermarket air filter can improve the bike's airflow and increase power. Brands like K&N and BMC offer air filters that are designed to flow more air than the stock filter. This can improve throttle response and overall performance. Improving the performance is not necessary but it sure does add to the overall riding experience when you have your bike for a long time.

Essential Maintenance: Keeping Your Tenere 700 Running Smoothly

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the reliability of your Tenere 700 on long-distance trips. Before you embark on a long journey, it's essential to give your bike a thorough inspection and perform any necessary maintenance. Start by checking the oil level and condition. Change the oil and filter if necessary. It's also a good idea to carry extra oil with you on the trip. Check the coolant level and condition. Top off the coolant if necessary. Flush and replace the coolant if it's old or contaminated. Inspect the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary. A dirty air filter can reduce engine performance and fuel economy. Check the spark plugs and replace them if they're worn or fouled. Worn spark plugs can cause misfires and reduce engine performance. Inspect the chain and sprockets. Clean, lubricate, and adjust the chain if necessary. Replace the chain and sprockets if they're worn. Check the brakes and replace the brake pads if they're worn. Inspect the brake rotors for damage or wear. Bleed the brakes to remove any air from the brake lines. Check the tires and inflate them to the proper pressure. Inspect the tires for damage or wear. Replace the tires if they're worn. Check all the nuts and bolts on the bike to make sure they're tight. Loose nuts and bolts can cause problems and even be dangerous. Carry a basic tool kit with you so you can perform basic maintenance on the road. This should include tools for changing a tire, adjusting the chain, and tightening nuts and bolts. Knowing how to fix a flat tire is a crucial skill for any long-distance rider. Carry the necessary tools and supplies to fix a flat tire on the road. This should include a tire repair kit, tire levers, and a pump or CO2 inflator. Always be prepared when you are going on long trips so that you can ensure that you will arrive safely at your destination.

Final Thoughts: The Tenere 700 - Your Long-Distance Companion

The Yamaha Tenere 700 is a fantastic machine for long-distance touring, offering a great balance of performance, reliability, and affordability. By investing in the right comfort upgrades, luggage solutions, and performance enhancements, and by staying on top of essential maintenance, you can transform your Tenere 700 into the ultimate adventure companion. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the world on your trusty Tenere 700! Remember to plan your route, pack smart, and be prepared for anything. Safe travels!