Here at Overland Expo, we’re big fans of the Yamaha Ténéré 700— it is, after all, our Ultimate Overland Motorcycle Build. This middleweight, go-anywhere bike is ready for whatever adventure you throw at it. For 2023, Yamaha Europe is adding some choice features to both the standard T7 and the Rally Edition that are guaranteed to take your ride to the next level.
TFT Display and Connectivity
Front and center for 2023, the Ténéré’s new 5-inch dual theme TFT display replaces the analog dash of previous years. The display features two different themes designed to suit different riding situations. The Explorer view focuses on the RPM scale, giving you a clear view of the tachometer so you can tune your torque for effective dirt riding. The Street screen view has a more conventional look with analog style circular dials. Both views feature a clean layout with easy-to-read icons and warning lights so you can stay focused on the road ahead.
Both the Rally and the standard Ténéré come equipped with a Communication Control Unit (CCU) that enables smartphone connectivity. The bike’s CCU communicates with Yamaha’s MyRide app so that text messages and incoming call alerts are displayed on the screen, keeping you connected at all times. This connectivity also allows you to monitor key parameters of the motorcycle through the app.
ABS and Quick Shift Enabled
As much as we love the simplicity of toggling the previous Ténéré’s ABS on or off, the three-mode ABS upgrade is sure to come in handy as riding conditions change. In addition to the fully-on and fully-off ABS, Yamaha has added a front wheel-on, rear wheel-off mode to provide added confidence on loose gravel tracks. Additionally, both the Ténéré 700 and Ténéré 700 Rally Edition are pre-wired for the fitment of an optional quick-shifter system that is now available as a Yamaha Genuine Accessory.
Additional Features
On both models, the front brake lever has been redesigned to withstand accidental damage when the machine falls down, which it occasionally will if you’re riding the Ténéré as it wants to be ridden. The Ténéré 700’s aggressive face is designed to remind you of the iconic Dakar factory race bikes. Still featuring the 4-LED headlight design, Yamaha has added LED flashers to the lighting kit. They have also swapped out the 12V port with a USB socket for 2023.
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Other premium components on the Rally Edition include a heavy-duty 4mm thick skid plate that gives extra frame and engine protection in tough terrain, as well as a radiator protector and laser-cut chain guard. The Rally also gets a lightweight slip-on muffler by Akrapovič, which combines performance with rally looks and a beautiful throaty-rich sound without being loud. The one-piece Rally seat is 20mm higher than the standard seat and makes it easier to get up on those pegs when the going gets tough.
This news of the 2023 Ténéré is coming from Yamaha Europe, so only time will tell as to what we’ll see in North America. Either way, with the Ténéré’s high-torque engine, slim chassis, and tough rally-bred design, this rugged motorcycle will unleash your spirit of adventure.
