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.
2012 Yamaha Super Tenere
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