The 2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 review is here, and this time it’s Liam Simm behind the bars, testing it on UK roads and B-roads. The Tenere has built a reputation for being the no-nonsense adventure bike – rugged, simple, and reliable. But with Yamaha adding a little more tech for 2025, has it strayed from its original ethos, or is it still the go-to choice for UK riders who want a proper middleweight adventure machine?

Liam’s test ride shows the Tenere 700 in its natural element – balanced, confident, and with that unmistakable CP2 twin heart. He’s clear: this is still very much a rider’s bike, with enough refinements to make life easier without losing the off-road credibility that makes the T7 such a cult favourite.

Summary

• Engine 689cc parallel twin (CP2)
• Power 74 hp @ 9,000 rpm
• Torque 68 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
• Weight 204 kg (wet)
• Fuel Capacity 16 litres
• Price From £10,044 (UK)

Buying Advice: Who is this bike for? Who should skip it?

The Tenere 700 is built for riders who want a simple, reliable adventure bike that can handle both UK B-roads and green lanes with confidence. If you’re planning big off-road adventures, weekend trail riding, or simply want a versatile commuter that feels solid and commanding, the T7 is a great fit. However, if you’re after a long-distance motorway tourer with plush electronics and maximum rider aids, you may find it too stripped back compared to rivals like the BMW F850GS or Triumph Tiger 900 GT.

Design & Aesthetics

The Tenere’s Dakar-inspired look is more than just marketing. The gold KYB forks, rally-style fairing, and spoke wheels shout adventure. Liam noted the tidy LED indicators, sharp front end, and reinforced luggage mounts. Even the stock exhaust blends well with the bike’s rugged vibe. A neat touch is the forged carbon-effect trim on the Rally Raid version – fake, yes, but visually striking.

Engine & Gearbox

Powered by Yamaha’s 689cc CP2 engine, the Tenere 700 is Euro 5 compliant and tuned for smooth torque delivery. Shorter intake ducts and revised mapping make it friendlier at low revs, especially off-road. The gearbox feels refined and the ride-by-wire throttle makes it more forgiving compared to twitchier rivals. Liam found it intuitive, easy to ride, and perfectly balanced for UK B-roads.

Suspension & Handling

The 2025 Tenere benefits from fully adjustable KYB forks (210 mm travel on standard, 190 mm on lowered versions) and a new rear shock with a piggyback reservoir. Yamaha has also introduced anti-squat geometry, improving traction on loose surfaces. On the road, the 48/52 weight distribution makes the bike surprisingly balanced for its size.

Comfort & Ergonomics

Despite its stature, the Tenere is accessible. The lowered version helps shorter riders, though it loses preload adjustability. The slim profile, upright stance, and comfortable footpegs make long days in the saddle feel natural. Visibility is commanding, and Liam was impressed by the footpeg design, which offers solid grip for standing up off-road.

Technology: Too Much?

Yamaha has added a TFT-style display, traction control, and switchable ABS. Some might worry it’s strayed too far from simplicity, but the tech is minimal compared to rivals. It’s more of a rider aid than a burden, with the ability to turn aids off when needed.

Ownership, Running Costs & Reliability

The Tenere 700 is one of the most affordable middleweight adventure bikes to run. Servicing intervals are every 6,000 miles, with valve checks at 24,000 miles. Yamaha offers a standard 2-year warranty, extendable in the UK. Riders report 45–55 mpg, meaning a real-world range of around 200–230 miles per tank. Reliability is strong, with Yamaha’s CP2 engine already proven in the MT-07. Resale values remain high thanks to the bike’s cult following.

How the 2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 compares to its rivals?

Against the Honda NX500, the Tenere is more off-road capable thanks to longer travel suspension and a stronger chassis, though the Honda is easier for beginners. Compared to the KTM 890 Adventure, the Tenere is simpler and cheaper, but lacks the tech and power of the KTM. Versus the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally, the Tenere is lighter and more rugged, but the Tiger offers better touring comfort. For UK riders, the Tenere hits the sweet spot if you prioritise off-road confidence over long-distance luxury.

Verdict

The 2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 continues to do what it does best – offering an accessible, rugged adventure bike that just works. Yamaha hasn’t ruined the formula with tech, and the balance, comfort, and design make it as appealing as ever. Liam’s day on the T7 shows it’s a bike that makes you want to ride further, whether on tarmac or trails. If your riding leans towards off-road and UK backroads, this is still one of the best options out there.

Check out our 2025 Yamaha Tenere 700 parts & accessories to get your bike adventure-ready.