2012 Yamaha Super Tenere Review

2012 Yamaha Super Tenere Review

The 2012 Yamaha Super Tenere is an all-new entry in the adventure genre that was kick started by the venerable BMW GS-series bikes thirty years ago. Going up against the mighty BMW— as well as newer adversaries like the KTM 990 Adventure, Triumph Tiger 1050, and Ducati Multistrada 1200— is no small feat.

How does this lower-priced newbie from Japan take on the European competition? I spent two days in Arizona riding the Yamaha Super Tenere across trails and highways to see if this $13,900 adventure bike lives up to its superlative name.Engine: 1199cc liquid-cooled Parallel Twin, 8-valve Motorcycle-USA readers asked for it, and after making its European debut for 2010, Yamaha has wisely chosen to import its flagship adventure touring motorcycle, the Super Tenere, to the U.S. in mid-2011 as the early-release 2012 model.

Bore x Stroke: 98.0 x 79.5mm

Compression Ratio: 11.0:1

Fuel Delivery: Fuel-injection

Clutch: Wet multi-plate, cable actuation

Transmission: 6-Speed

Final Drive: Shaft

Front Suspension: Soqi 43mm inverted fork with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping; 7.5 in. travel

Rear Suspension: Soqi shock absorber with remote adjustable spring preload and rebound damping; 7.5 in. travel

Front Brakes: 310mm disc, 4-piston caliper

Rear Brake: 282mm disc, 2-piston caliper

Front Tire: Bridgestone 110/80-19

Rear Tire: Bridgestone 150/70-17

Curb Weight: 575 lbs.

Wheelbase: 60.6 in. Length: 88.6 in. Width: 38.6 in.

Rake / Trail: 28 deg. / 4.9 in.

Seat Height: 33.26 or 34.25 in.

Fuel Capacity: 6.0 gal.

MSRP: $13,900

Colors: Raven; Blue