The Yamaha Tenere 700 (T7) has solidified its place in the international ADV market as a go-to machine for riders seeking a balance of capability and simplicity. It was introduced globally in 2019, combining Yamaha’s renowned engineering with rugged versatility, making it a top choice for seasoned adventurers and newcomers to the segment. It was finally showcased at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 so let’s take a closer look at it.
Styling
The Tenere 700 boasts a purposeful and rugged design. Its minimalist approach is inspired by Yamaha’s Dakar Rally heritage, evident in the rally-style bodywork, tall windscreen and compact LED headlight cluster. The slim fuel tank and ergonomic seat design contribute to both comfort and control, ensuring riders can tackle long journeys and technical trails alike.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Tenere 700 lies Yamaha’s 689cc CP2 parallel-twin engine, a proven powerplant shared with models like the MT-07 and XSR700. Tuned specifically for adventure riding, the engine delivers 72 HP and 68 NM of torque. The CP2 engine’s reliability and efficiency further enhance its appeal. Riders can expect impressive range, owing to the 16-litre fuel tank and a generally economical engine.
Suspension and Handling
The Tenere 700 is equipped with a long-travel suspension designed for serious off-road use. The 43 mm fully adjustable KYB front forks provide 210 mm of travel, while the rear mono shock offers 200 mm. This setup, when combined with a ground clearance of 240 mm, allows the T7 to handle rough terrain with ease.
The bike’s 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels are wrapped with dual-purpose tyres, enhancing its off-road prowess. The Tenere 700 also has a 62.8-inch wheelbase allowing for increased stability in rough terrains. A well-balanced chassis and a weight of 205 kg ensure the Tenere 700 remains nimble and easy to manoeuvre, whether on dirt trails or urban streets.
Features and Technology
In keeping with its “less is more” philosophy, the Tenere 700 eschews overly complex electronics in favour of essential features. The bike comes equipped with a switchable ABS, allowing riders to turn off ABS for the rear wheel when tackling off-road terrain.
The rally-style TFT vertical display provides clear and comprehensive information, including speed, fuel level, trip meters, and gear position. While it lacks some of the advanced connectivity features found in competitors, its simplicity will be appreciated by riders who prefer minimal distractions
Yamaha offers a wide range of accessories to tailor the Tenere 700 to individual needs. From hard and soft luggage options to upgraded skid plates, crash bars, and rally seats, the T7 can be customized for long-distance touring or extreme off-road adventures. Additionally, Yamaha bundles some of the accessories with variants like Rally, Extreme etc. One of the most notable aspects in one of these variants is the World Raid Edition which offers a dual fuel tank increasing the capacity to 23 litres!
The Yamaha Tenere 700 is an invitation to explore. With its blend of rugged design, capable performance, and accessible price point, it appeals to a broad spectrum of riders. Whilst Yamaha is silent on its intentions to launch the T7 in India, it can be an excellent choice for the few who dare to tackle the wilderness.
