Yamaha has officially unveiled its new Tenere models for 2025, and adventure bike enthusiasts have a lot to be excited about. The Tenere 700 has long been a favorite among those who appreciate a rugged, versatile bike that’s as capable off-road as it is on the highway. With the new updates for 2025, Yamaha looks set to build on the success of this iconic machine. In this blog post, we’ll take a deeper look at what’s changing with the Tenere 700 for the upcoming model year and explore how these updates enhance an already great bike.
A Quick Recap: The Iconic Tenere 700
Since its release, the Yamaha Tenere 700 has made waves in the adventure motorcycle world. Why? Simply put, it’s a bike that gets back to the basics, offering a no-nonsense approach to adventure riding. With its relatively simple design, solid build, and reliable CP2 engine (a 689cc parallel-twin that powers several Yamaha models), the Tenere 700 quickly became a hit among riders who prefer a less complicated, more raw riding experience.
Its ruggedness and versatility on various terrains, from rocky mountain trails to long-distance highway cruises, have made it a reliable companion for both seasoned adventurers and casual riders alike. The Tenere 700’s balance of weight, power, and durability has helped it stand out in the highly competitive adventure bike market.
2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 689cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, DOHC, 4-stroke |
| Horsepower | Approx. 72 HP |
| Torque | 50 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed, constant mesh |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.2 gallons |
| Seat Height | 34.6 inches |
| Weight | 452 lbs (wet) |
| Suspension (Front) | 43mm inverted fork, adjustable |
| Suspension (Rear) | Linkage-type monoshock, adjustable |
| Brakes | Dual 282mm disc (front), single 245mm disc (rear) |
| Tires | Front: 21-inch, Rear: 18-inch |
| Fuel Efficiency | Estimated 47 MPG |
| Electronics | Optional ABS, traction control |
What’s New for 2025?
As with any successful model, Yamaha has opted to refine and evolve the Tenere 700, rather than overhaul it completely. The result is the 2025 Yamaha Tenere 700, which retains all the qualities that made the previous model a success, while introducing a handful of new features aimed at improving the riding experience.
Let’s dive into the key changes and new features for the 2025 model:
1. Ride-by-Wire Throttle: New Riding Modes
One of the most notable updates for the 2025 Tenere 700 is the ride-by-wire throttle, which replaces the traditional mechanical throttle cable. This upgrade allows for greater control over throttle response, and it introduces two distinct riding modes: Sport and Explorer.
- Sport Mode: This is essentially the “classic” Tenere experience. It provides the same throttle response and performance that riders have come to know and love. If you’re in the mood for quick, spirited riding, Sport mode delivers.
- Explorer Mode: This mode offers a softer throttle response, which is perfect for off-road situations or when you want a more relaxed ride. The Explorer mode helps smooth out the power delivery, making it easier to handle tricky terrain, such as loose gravel, mud, or rocks.
Switching between these two modes is as easy as pressing a button on the right-hand switchgear, allowing riders to quickly adapt to different riding conditions without having to stop.
2. Switchable Traction Control
Another exciting update is the switchable traction control system, a feature that brings more flexibility and control to the Tenere 700. For 2025, Yamaha has introduced two traction control settings:
- On: This setting keeps the traction control system active, helping to prevent wheel slip during slippery or loose conditions.
- Off: For those who want full control over the bike, turning traction control off allows for maximum throttle response, which is especially useful for experienced riders tackling more challenging terrain.
Having the ability to turn traction control on or off means that riders can fine-tune their bike to their riding style and the specific conditions they encounter, whether they’re navigating slick mud or carving through tight corners on a paved road.
3. Updated ABS Modes for Enhanced Control
The 2025 Tenere 700 also benefits from an updated ABS system that allows riders to choose from three ABS modes:
- Mode 1: Standard ABS mode, with ABS active on both the front and rear wheels.
- Mode 2: Rear ABS is disabled, but the front ABS remains active. This is ideal for off-road riding, where rear-wheel lockup can sometimes help with maneuvering.
- Mode 3: ABS is turned off entirely, giving riders full control over braking. This mode is best suited for experienced riders who are comfortable with off-road conditions where traction and control are key.
These options ensure that riders can make adjustments based on the terrain they’re tackling, giving them more control over the bike’s braking performance.
2025 Tenere 700 Engine and Performance
At the heart of the 2025 Tenere 700 is the same 689cc CP2 parallel-twin engine that has made this bike so popular among adventure riders. Known for its smooth power delivery, reliability, and solid torque throughout the rev range, the CP2 engine remains one of the standout features of the Tenere 700.
The engine is paired with a 6-speed transmission, which makes long-distance cruising as comfortable as blasting through trails. The Tenere 700 continues to offer a great mix of on-road comfort and off-road capability thanks to its responsive engine and balanced chassis.
Yamaha’s decision to retain this engine shows that the Tenere 700’s core strength lies in its simplicity and performance, and there’s no need for a complete overhaul of the powerplant.
Top Speed
While official top speed figures for the 2025 model are not yet available, earlier versions of the Ténéré 700 have achieved top speeds around 201 km/h (125 mph).
Given the consistent engine specifications, it’s reasonable to anticipate similar performance in the 2025 model.
Acceleration (0-60 mph and 0-100 km/h)
The 2020 Ténéré 700 demonstrated a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of approximately 4.5 seconds.
This swift acceleration is attributed to the bike’s favorable power-to-weight ratio and responsive engine characteristics. The 2025 model, maintaining similar engine and weight specifications, is expected to offer comparable acceleration performance.
New Electronics for 2025
Along with the new ride-by-wire throttle, Yamaha has improved the electronics package for the 2025 Tenere 700. In addition to the ride modes and traction control features mentioned earlier, the new model also comes with a revised LCD dashboard, providing riders with clearer information and easier-to-read data while riding.
The new dash is sleek and modern, offering an improved user interface that’s easier to navigate at a glance. The new setup is designed to keep the rider informed on critical metrics like speed, gear selection, fuel level, and more—all while ensuring the screen remains readable in a variety of light conditions, whether you’re out on a dusty trail or cruising through the city.
Competitors of 2025 Yamaha Ténéré 700
2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 remains a strong player in the adventure motorcycle category, facing tough competition from several noteworthy models. Here’s a closer look at some of its primary competitors and their specifications:
2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 and its competitors:
| Feature | Yamaha Tenere 700 | Honda Transalp XL750R | Aprilia Tuareg 660 | KTM 790 Adventure | Suzuki V-Strom 800DE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 689cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin | 755cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin | 659cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin | 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin | 776cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin |
| Power | Approx. 72 hp | Approx. 71 hp at 9,500 rpm | Approx. 79 hp at 9,250 rpm | Approx. 95 hp | Approx. 84 hp at 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 50 lb-ft | 47 lb-ft at 7,250 rpm | 51.6 lb-ft at 6,500 rpm | 65 lb-ft | 57.5 lb-ft at 6,800 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed with quickshifter | 6-speed with optional quickshifter | 6-speed with optional quickshifter | 6-speed with bi-directional quickshifter |
| Suspension (Front) | 43mm USD fork, adjustable | Non-adjustable | Fully adjustable 43mm Kayaba USD | WP Apex 43mm, fully adjustable | Fully adjustable Showa 43mm inverted fork |
| Suspension (Rear) | Monoshock, adjustable | Non-adjustable | Adjustable shock | WP Apex, fully adjustable | Adjustable shock |
| Front Brakes | Dual 282mm discs | Dual 310mm discs | Dual discs | Dual 320mm discs | Dual 310mm discs |
| Rear Brakes | 245mm disc | 250mm disc | Single disc | 260mm disc | 260mm disc |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.2 gallons | 4.5 gallons | 4.8 gallons | 5.3 gallons | 5.3 gallons |
| Seat Height | 34.4 inches | 33.7 inches | 33.8 inches | 33.5 inches | 33.7 inches |
| Weight | 452 lbs (wet) | 459 lbs (wet) | 412 lbs (dry) | 464 lbs (wet) | 507 lbs (wet) |
| Notable Features | Adventure-focused simplicity | Street-oriented design, accessible seat height | Advanced electronics, multiple ride modes | Low center of gravity, cornering ABS | Touring comfort, comprehensive electronics package |
1. Honda Transalp XL750R
Honda has reintroduced the Transalp with the XL750R, targeting the mid-weight adventure segment. It comes with a 755cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, delivering around 71 hp at 9,500 rpm and 47 lb-ft of torque at 7,250 rpm. The 6-speed transmission includes a standard up/down quickshifter, while the suspension setup features non-adjustable front and rear, providing 7.9 inches of front travel and 7.5 inches at the rear.
It’s equipped with dual 310mm front discs, a 250mm rear disc, a fuel capacity of 4.5 gallons, a seat height of 33.7 inches, and a wet weight of around 459 lbs. The Transalp is designed with a slightly lower seat height and a street-oriented layout, making it accessible to a broad range of riders (Cycle News).
2. Aprilia Tuareg 660
Aprilia’s Tuareg 660 caters to those who want a blend of on-road comfort and off-road prowess. It features a 659cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that delivers approximately 79 hp at 9,250 rpm and 51.6 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. Its 6-speed transmission offers an optional quickshifter, while suspension duties are handled by a fully adjustable 43mm Kayaba USD front fork and an adjustable rear shock.
The braking system includes dual front discs and a single rear disc, and it has a fuel capacity of 4.8 gallons, a seat height of 33.8 inches, and a dry weight of about 412 lbs. The Tuareg 660 is equipped with advanced electronics, such as multiple ride modes and traction control, appealing to both novice and seasoned riders (Wikipedia).
3. KTM 790 Adventure
Designed for riders who value off-road capability without compromising on-road comfort, KTM’s 790 Adventure is powered by a 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, generating approximately 95 hp and 65 lb-ft of torque. It has a 6-speed transmission with an optional quickshifter and is supported by WP Apex 43mm front forks and a WP Apex rear shock, both fully adjustable.
Braking is handled by dual 320mm front discs and a 260mm rear disc. With a fuel capacity of 5.3 gallons, a seat height of 33.5 inches, and a wet weight of about 464 lbs, the 790 Adventure is praised for its low center of gravity and advanced features like cornering ABS and multiple ride modes.
4. Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
Suzuki’s V-Strom 800DE is tailored for adventure riders looking for reliability and versatility. It sports a 776cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, delivering approximately 84 hp at 8,500 rpm and 57.5 lb-ft of torque at 6,800 rpm. This model includes a 6-speed transmission with a bi-directional quickshifter and fully adjustable Showa 43mm inverted front forks along with an adjustable rear shock.
It has dual 310mm front discs, a 260mm rear disc, a fuel capacity of 5.3 gallons, a seat height of 33.7 inches, and a wet weight of approximately 507 lbs. The V-Strom 800DE is built for comfort and touring, featuring a sturdy frame and an electronics package with traction control and multiple ride modes.
2025 Yamaha Ténéré 700 Price
2025 Yamaha Ténéré 700, a highly-anticipated adventure bike, has been updated for enhanced rider comfort and functionality. The model will be available at an MSRP of $10,999 in the U.S., reflecting its added features, including a larger TFT display with smartphone connectivity, Yamaha’s ride-by-wire system, selectable ABS modes, and upgraded lighting.
This pricing places it competitively in the mid-weight adventure segment, alongside models like the Honda Transalp and KTM 790 Adventure, both popular for their off-road capability and robust electronic aids.
2025 Yamaha Ténéré 700 Release Date
2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 is expected to be unveiled at the EICMA show in November 2024. It will feature updated styling, including a new headlight design, broader fairing for better wind protection, and revised handguards.
