Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 7, 2008 What about a Tenere? As long as we are talking bikes we don't have here but we want Make & Model Aprilia BMW Buell Ducati Harley-Davidson Honda Kawasaki Suzuki Triumph Yamaha -----More----- Arlen Ness Benelli Beta Bimota BMS Choppers Bombardier Cagiva Cpi Ecosse Fischer Gilera Husqvarna Hyosung KTM KYMCO Moto Guzzi Moto Morini MV Agusta MZ Norton OCC Peugeot Piaggio Revolution Roehr Motorcycles Royal Enfield Rucker Performance Scorpa Vespa Victory Voxan Motorcycle News Motorcycle Reviews Motorcycles Parts Accesories Motorcycle shows motorcycle games Motorcycle Videos motorcycle directory Home » Motorcycles » Motorcycle Reviews » Yamaha Register login 2008 Yamaha XT660Z Tenere Preview Review Picture Gallery Posted on 02.11.2008 11:00 by Anthony Kodack Filed under: Yamaha | trail | Yamaha Tenere Rebirth of the famous Yamaha Tenere The name Tenere has been synonymous with Yamaha’s rugged Adventure Sport dual-purpose models since the original machine was first launched in the early 1980’s. Developed from Yamaha’s highly successful Dakar race-winning factory bikes, the original Tenere models built up a huge following of loyal owners during the 1980s and 90s. With an unrivalled reputation for durability, strong on and off road performance, high levels of long-distance comfort, and the ability to handle hostile off road terrain, the machine was one of Yamaha’s best-selling models throughout Europe. Such was its ‘go-anywhere, do-anything’ reputation, that it became the machine of choice for numerous round-the-world travellers, and to this day the original Tenere and its successors have probably clocked up more ‘orbits’ of the earth than any other single-cylinder motorcycle. And at the same time as being the number one choice with adventure-seekers, the original Tenere also became a favourite with riders looking for a tough, reliable and stylish all-rounder that could perform well in almost any environment. The all-new XT660Z Tenere The rugged and reliable go-anywhere big-single For 2008 Yamaha introduce the all-new XT660Z Tenere that is designed offer a new generation of adventure-seeking riders the opportunity to explore a new world of possibilities. True to the original ‘go-anywhere’ design philosophy. Engine Tenere 660 Yamaha: the leading big-single specialists Yamaha has more experience in the design of rugged and reliable large-capacity 4-stroke single-cylinder engines than any other leading manufacturer. The famous Dakar Rally was inspired by the original XT500 model way back in the 1970s, and since then Yamaha has been at the very forefront of big-single design. High-torque 660cc liquid-cooled engine Powering the new XT660Z Tenere is a 660cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder SOHC engine which has been tuned to deliver strong low to mid-range power. This gutsy powerplant makes the Tenere 660 a strong performer in a wide range of riding situations, from urban commuting through to highway touring and off road exploring. 4-valve head and fuel injection Equipped with a highly efficient 4-valve cylinder head with a 10:1 compression ratio, and featuring bore x stroke dimensions of 100mm x 84mm, the new fuel-injected Tenere engine delivers excellent throttle response for lively off-the-line and roll-on acceleration. 5-speed transmission The smooth-shifting 5-speed transmission is equipped with carefully chosen gear ratios that are designed to optimise the bike’s strong low to mid-range torque output, and the 2.9 litre transmission oil capacity ensures efficient engine operation even under severe conditions. XT660Z Tenere Technical Highlights 660cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke, single cylinder 4-valve SOHC Fuel injection 10.0:1 compression ratio Bore x stroke 100.0mm x 84.0mm Dry sump 5-speed transmission Tuned for strong low to mid-range torque Electric start Mono chamber up-muffler EU3 compliant ---- Chassis Tenere 660 Rugged dual-purpose frame The XT660Z Tenere is equipped with an all-new chassis whose rugged, go-anywhere character perfectly complements the big-single engine. The extremely strong yet new light semi-double cradle frame is compact and slim, and has been designed to offer an optimum balance of strength and rigidity for good handling qualities on and off road. Long travel suspension; aluminium swinging arm In order to deliver high levels of rider and passenger comfort, and to be able to take handle a variety of off road terrain, the new Tenere is equipped with long-travel forks which give 210mm of front wheel movement. Complementing this rugged front suspension is a lightweight aluminium swinging arm, which reduces unsprung weight for enhanced rear suspension performance, and offers 200mm of rear wheel movement that’s designed to soak up the bumps. This generous amount of suspension travel at the front and rear not only makes the Tenere one of the most comfortable machines to ride in any situation – it also ensures good handling performance over poorly maintained paved roads and across pure off-road terrain. Long-range fuel tank Underlining the machine’s serious long-distance potential is a large-capacity 22-litre fuel tank which blends seamlessly with the beautifully sculpted front cowl. Despite its generous capacity, the width and height of the fuel tank is kept to a minimum by extending the fuel tank beneath the rider’s seat, which has the added advantage of helping to centralise mass for neutral handling characteristics. Wind-beating front cowl With its upright riding position and long dual seat, the Tenere is an extremely comfortable machine, whatever the journey, whether it’s from home to work or across a continent. To help reduce rider fatigue on long journeys this rugged new all-rounder is equipped with a stylish front cowl and tall screen which deflect wind away from the upper body. For a distinctive new look, a new dual-bulb headlamp assembly with a vertically stacked low and high beam is used. As well as projecting a powerful beam, this new ‘over and under’ assembly keep the cowl’s frontal width to a minimum for improved aerodynamics. Dual 298mm front discs For efficient stopping power the new Tenere is equipped with dual 298mm discs gripped by 2- pot calipers. This high-specification system ensures strong and controllable braking performance, as well as offering plenty of feel . Bodywork and engine protectors With its class-leading go-anywhere abilities, the XT660Z Tenere is ready to encounter rugged terrain, and in order to handle the most severe conditions the new model is equipped with a range of lightweight protectors. The front cowl features durable protectors on either side of the bodywork which help prevent accidental damage, while the engine is also equipped with lightweight guards on either side of the cylinder. And to help prevent damage when riding off road, the engine cases are also fitted with compact guards. Each of these protectors can be easily replaced if they are damaged, allowing the owner to keep their machine in first class condition. Wide range of quality accessories Yamaha have also developed a comprehensive range of accessories for the new Tenere, allowing riders to enhance the specification of their bike to suit their own requirements. Riders wishing to enhance the luggage carrying capacity of their bike have the option to fit genuine Yamaha side cases or a top case, as well as a tank bag. Hand guards, engine guards and a skid plate are available for owners looking for extra protection on their riding adventures – while the wind deflectors help keep hands warm and also act as brush guards when riding off road. An optional main stand is available to facilitate tasks such as wheel removal when repairing punctures on long trips, and a tank pad is available to help prevent the minor scratching to the paintwork that can sometimes be caused by zips and buckles. And finally, riders wishing to give their new Tenere an even gutsier exhaust note may wish to fit the slip-on Akrapovič muffler offered by Yamaha. XT660Z Tenere Technical Highlights Designed to handle long-distance adventure touring Lightweight diamond shaped frame Aluminium swinging arm 245mm ground clearance Oil-in-frame design 210mm travel front forks 200mm travel rear suspension Large-capacity 22-litre fuel tank Dual 298mm diameter front discs 245mm rear disc Lightweight front cowl for good wind protection Integral cowl, frame and engine protectors Vertical dual-bulb headlamp Dryweight 183kg Smart luggage system Rear carrier 130/80-17 rear tyre, 90/90-21 front tyre LED tail lamp Wide range of accessories: Side cases Top case Tank bag Wind deflector Tank pad Akrapovič slip-on muffler Hand guards Side case stay Main stand Tubular engine guard Skid plate The new XT660Z Tenere The rugged, stylish and practical all-rounder The overwhelming success of the original Yamaha Tenere can be attributed to its winning blend of style, practicality and affordability, and these same fundamentals can be found in on the new model. Yamaha has always believed in offering the widest choice of unique and exciting motorcycles to our customers, and the new XT660Z Tenere complements and expands our current range. Available colours Competition White Desert Khaki Midnight Black ---- Specifications Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valve, single cylinder, SOHC Displacement: 660 cc Bore & stroke: 100.0 x 84.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Max. power: NA Max. torque: NA Lubrication: Dry sump Carburettor / Fuel supply: Fuel injection Clutch type: Wet, multiple-disc coil spring Ignition: TCI Starter system: Electric Transmission: Constant mesh, 5 speed Final transmission: Chain Primary reduction ratio: 75/36 (2.083) Secundary reduction ratio: 45/15 (3.000) Gear ratio: Gear ratio 1 30/12 (2.500) Gear ratio 2 26/16 (1.625) Gear ratio 3 23/20 (1.150) Gear ratio 4 20/22 (0.909) Gear ratio 5 20/26 (0.769) Chassis Frame: Steel tube diamond shaped Front suspension: Telescopic forks Front wheel travel: 210 mm Rear suspension: Swingarm (monocross) Rear wheel travel: 200 mm Caster angle: 28° Trial: 113 mm Front brake: Double disc, Ø 298 mm Rear brake: Single disc, Ø 245 mm Front tyre: 90/90-21 M/C Rear tyre: 130/80-17 M/C Dimensions Overall length: 2,246 mm Overall width: 865 mm Overall height: 1,477 mm Seat height: 895 mm Wheelbase: 1,505 mm Min. ground clearance: 245 mm Dry weight: 183 kg Fuel tank capacity: 22 Litres Oil capacity: 2.9 Litres Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bikeslut 1 Posted August 7, 2008 I am hereby officially notifying all middle-weight dual sport manufacturers... Put a flippin 6 speed on the thing...whatta bunch of dipsticks Yeah; a bigger bike could get by with 5, but why would you? How much does a cog weigh?!?! (And yes; I have the same complaint about the DRZ...the 93 DR350 had a six speed...how about "progress"? The DRZ is better in almost everyway, except this... The DR did have better snap off the bottom) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jaynen 0 Posted August 7, 2008 My WR250R has a 6 speed and I like it! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 8, 2008 I am hereby officially notifying all middle-weight dual sport manufacturers... Put a flippin 6 speed on the thing...whatta bunch of dipsticks Yeah; a bigger bike could get by with 5, but why would you? How much does a cog weigh?!?! (And yes; I have the same complaint about the DRZ...the 93 DR350 had a six speed...how about "progress"? The DRZ is better in almost everyway, except this... The DR did have better snap off the bottom) The 6 speed is not as strong as a 5 speed. 6 speeds dont last (raceing Baja) and are not used by team Honda. Craig. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin 0 Posted August 8, 2008 The 6 speed is not as strong as a 5 speed. 6 speeds dont last (raceing Baja) and are not used by team Honda. Craig. The longest and toughest race in the world uses 6 speed gearboxes but Honda's cant seem to win the Dakar. That's a sting at ya Craig. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RogerTOWM 0 Posted August 8, 2008 After reading all these responses (except the cut and paste books) I’m thinking that the “Best all-round, big multi-day multi-surface adventure touring bike” is more then likely a large displacement multi-cylinder motorcycle. I’m not discounting the KTM 640 adventure or the BMW 650. And we don’t know enough about the BMW 800 to make an educated decision on that bike at this point. I put the mid-sized thumpers in the good category but not the “best all-round”. The reason for this is the lack of smoothness and performance. I know these bikes are good and they go all around the world. Just look at all the KLR650 and BMW 650 trip reports on adventure rider. The smaller bikes are better on the single track and also better for fuel mileage. If I was only going to ride from here to terra del fuego in South America I’d choose the pre-08 KLR650. But I did specify that the bike would be traveling on the roads of North America as well as dirt. For those long smooth journeys I think the thumpers might leave something to be desired. I think the long days of riding from here toward the Arctic Circle would tire you out way before you got to Alaska. I would rather ride my Harley on that ride then Hammer’s Honda 650. The 650 (without surf board) would handle the snotty gravel roads of the north better, but it would kill me getting up there. I would not tire out going north on the Electra Glide even though the bike would get ruined on the final Northern Road. The trip would be much faster on the larger bike even though it is a slower bike. I would much rather have the KTM 950 / 990 adventure for gravel roads in Alaska and the eastern sections of the Trans America Trail. A good rider like Randy can take the KTM on single tracks and would find the western sections of the Trans America Trail to be not difficult at all. (I would rather use a lighter bike when I ride the TAT). As good as the KTM is on the road, and it is very good, the BMW would be less tiring in the long run from San Diego to the North. The BMW is a good road bike like the V-Strom, but much better off road. I think that those jugs sticking out the sides are a disaster waiting to happen off road, but we were not talking about going up the tightest single tracks you could find. These BMWs have run major portions of the TAT and go to Alaska all the time. All that is why I think the current best adventure bike for this type of trip might well be the BMW 1200GS. (That being said I’ll take the KTM. I don’t need to carry all that much beer, sorry Kevin. Besides Randy is my hero.) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 8, 2008 The 6 speed is not as strong as a 5 speed. 6 speeds dont last (raceing Baja) and are not used by team Honda. Craig. The longest and toughest race in the world uses 6 speed gearboxes but Honda's cant seem to win the Dakar. That's a sting at ya Craig. It's not the longest , toughest (POINT TO POINT )race. I don't know why, but I fall asleep every time I try to watch that race. It was kinda like the long way down. I don't think Honda even enters that race. They do so well selling all their other bikes, and dont see the need to sell more Translap's. Maybe they make more money selling 450R's and x's and the awesome 650L. I was told this by someone who works with team Honda in Baja. He also lold me the wide ratio trans doesn't last as well as the 5 speed. I have more beer than you any way. Craig. Craig. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bikeslut 1 Posted August 8, 2008 Craig- you drink the red kool-aid without smelling it first...explain, in physics terms, how an additional cog will cause additional problems... Also; we're talking adv bikes, not baja racers...also we're talking mildly tuned, long term engines, not high strung rockets with tons of HP and a chase truck... I stand by my original statement Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 8, 2008 I have thought, long and hard, and am now looking for a like new 2007 KLR. to build into the ultimate 2 up baja surf Adventure bike. The search is on, found 1 with 600 miles for 4,800.00 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RogerTOWM 0 Posted August 8, 2008 I have thought, long and hard, and am now looking for a like new 2007 KLR. to build into the ultimate 2 up baja surf Adventure bike. The search is on, found 1 with 600 miles for 4,800.00 Ya could have had a 08 with some farkels and less then 2000 for $4100. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 8, 2008 Craig- you drink the red kool-aid without smelling it first...explain, in physics terms, how an additional cog will cause additional problems... Also; we're talking adv bikes, not baja racers...also we're talking mildly tuned, long term engines, not high strung rockets with tons of HP and a chase truck... I stand by my original statement Since, I plan to mostly ride Baja, I study what wins, and lasts in Baja. Makes sense to me. You just can't get parts for those other bikes in Baja. I need reliability because, I dont use a chase truck. Were is the Adventure in that. Craig. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 8, 2008 I have thought, long and hard, and am now looking for a like new 2007 KLR. to build into the ultimate 2 up baja surf Adventure bike. The search is on, found 1 with 600 miles for 4,800.00 Ya could have had a 08 with some farkels and less then 2000 for $4100. The 2007 and older bikes are more valuable now, than when they were first sold. I could have got a brand new KLR from the dealer 2 years ago for about 4,000.00 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bikeslut 1 Posted August 8, 2008 I have thought, long and hard, and am now looking for a like new 2007 KLR. to build into the ultimate 2 up baja surf Adventure bike. The search is on, found 1 with 600 miles for 4,800.00 Do not discount the dohickey as an internet hoax...eagle mike...I learned the hard way, out in anza...ruined my weekend Roger- you're right- a twin with minimum 6" travel and minimum 5 gallon tank- which I believe you now have Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 8, 2008 I have thought, long and hard, and am now looking for a like new 2007 KLR. to build into the ultimate 2 up baja surf Adventure bike. The search is on, found 1 with 600 miles for 4,800.00 Do not discount the dohickey as an internet hoax...eagle mike...I learned the hard way, out in anza...ruined my weekend Roger- you're right- a twin with minimum 6" travel and minimum 5 gallon tank- which I believe you now have Whats the dohickey, No red cool aid yet. I'm not going to the bar till my wife. finishes watching (So You Think You Can Dance) I have 2 friends that love the KLR 1 with over 30,000 ! with over 70,000 hard miles. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin 0 Posted August 8, 2008 I don't think Honda even enters that race. Craig. Craig. Johny Campbell on a Honda 2006 Dakar. He did pretty good-in the top ten I think. Of course he wasn't riding an antique, heavy, underpowered 650L, He was riding a 650R! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin 0 Posted August 8, 2008 . sorry Kevin. Besides Randy is my hero.) You told me that Wonder Woman was your hero! Besides, what does a Harley guy know about smooth. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 8, 2008 # I don't think Honda even enters that race. Craig. Craig. Johny Campbell on a Honda 2006 Dakar. He did pretty good-in the top ten I think. Of course he wasn't riding an antique, heavy, underpowered 650L, He was riding a 650R! I was just reading about yor 650, You say its heavy. I think my back still hurts, from when XR bum and I, had to help you drag that bike, up the EASY( for me and PYRO on his KLR.) hill it could't climb At the best night ride. I have decided not to ride any bike that I can't climb HA. on Craig. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin 0 Posted August 8, 2008 I think my back still hurts, from when XR bum and I, had to help you drag that bike, up the EASY( for me and PYRO on his KLR.) hill it could't climb At the best night ride. Craig. I think your back hurts from shoveling all the sh*t that you type, or from riding that old Model T Bike. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 8, 2008 I think my back still hurts, from when XR bum and I, had to help you drag that bike, up the EASY( for me and PYRO on his KLR.) hill it could't climb At the best night ride. Craig. I think your back hurts from shoveling all the sh*t that you type, or from riding that old Model T Bike. OK i gota go the bar is sounding better. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin 0 Posted August 8, 2008 [ OK i gota go the bar is sounding better. Have a Miller Lite for Me! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 9, 2008 The 6 speed is not as strong as a 5 speed. 6 speeds dont last (raceing Baja) and are not used by team Honda. Craig. The longest and toughest race in the world uses 6 speed gearboxes but Honda's cant seem to win the Dakar. That's a sting at ya Craig. The Honda XRV750, also known as the Africa Twin, is a motorcycle manufactured by Honda. The motorcycle was based on the NXR-750 which won the Paris Dakar rally 3 times in the late eighties. The Africa Twin XRV is available in 650cc and 750cc configurations. It is no longer manufactured. It's considered by many to be the most robust motorcycle that Honda has ever manufactured. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin 0 Posted August 9, 2008 Paris Dakar rally 3 times in the late eighties. I said cant seem to win the Dakar/not havent. I didnt expect to go back 20+ years. By the way, the late 80's was also when you antique 650L was designed/made. Batter up!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Hammerin Hammon Posted August 9, 2008 Craig. The longest and toughest race in the world uses 6 speed gearboxes but (Honda's cant seem to win the Dakar)Yep, thats what you said. The Africa Twin looks alot like your BMW. I think Honda paved the road for BMW and KTM. I have been looking realy close at all the bikes that each company sells. Honda doesn't sell a bike suited for Dakar. I guess thats why they don't throw money into the wind. have a nice night, Kevin Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin 0 Posted August 9, 2008 The Africa Twin looks alot like your BMW. I think Honda paved the road for BMW and KTM. have a nice night, Kevin BMW has been making motorcycles since 1922. Honda started in the late 50's or early 60's. So who paved the road for whom! Craig, I have owned many Honda's and were great bikes. I assume you have not owned a BMW motorcycle, so you are not dealing from personal experience/facts. I have owned Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, ATK, and BMW. Out of all these, I beleive BMW makes the best/most reliable bike I have ever owned. Yes, they are expensive-but by the time you buy the other brands, and add on all of the aftermarked components, you could have just bought the BMW. Then when you sell it, the resale valuable is where you get your money back. For a fact, I added the BMW heated grips to my bike. These heated grips are so well engineered, the are installed into the factory wiring harness without the need of cutting wires, soldering, or using electrical tape. These heated grips even come with new handlbars-why-because they run the wire through the bars to keep them out of the way and for a clean, relaiable installation. Yes, this kit is $200, but when your are riding on the road and they work-eventually the cost is not important. Try that with the JC Whitney ones. You are welcome to take my GS for a ride, maybe you will see there is other options besides Honda-Its Pizza/Beer night-have fun Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Strega 0 Posted August 9, 2008 Kevin, you can't teach and old dog new tricks. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
