Are you torn between the KTM 690 Enduro and the Yamaha Tenere 700? You’re not alone. Both bikes offer thrilling rides and impressive capabilities, but they cater to different styles and needs. Whether you’re hitting the trails or cruising on highways, choosing the right adventure bike can make all the difference in your experience.
Key Takeaways
- Distinct Riding Styles: The KTM 690 Enduro excels in off-road agility, while the Yamaha Tenere 700 is more versatile, catering to both highways and trails.
- Engine Performance: The KTM 690 features a powerful single-cylinder engine for robust off-road performance, whereas the Tenere 700’s parallel-twin engine provides smooth power delivery for varied terrains.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The 690 Enduro is lighter (304 lbs) and more nimble, making it ideal for aggressive trail riding, while the Tenere 700 (452 lbs) offers stability on longer journeys.
- Comfort Features: The Yamaha Tenere 700 emphasizes rider comfort with a relaxed ergonomics and comfortable seat for long rides, in contrast to the KTM’s aggressive stance suited for shorter, intense sessions.
- Fuel Efficiency: The KTM 690 outperforms the Tenere 700 in fuel efficiency (70 MPG vs 50 MPG), making it better for those prioritizing long distances between fill-ups.
- Pricing and Value: Both bikes are competitively priced ($10,500 for the KTM and $10,900 for the Yamaha) but offer different values based on their strengths in off-road performance versus riding comfort.
Overview of KTM 690 Enduro and Tenere 700
The KTM 690 Enduro and Yamaha Tenere 700 cater to different riding preferences. Knowing their unique features helps you choose the right motorcycle for your adventures.
Key Specifications Comparison
| Specification | KTM 690 Enduro | Yamaha Tenere 700 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke | Parallel-twin, 4-stroke |
| Displacement | 693 cc | 689 cc |
| Power Output | 74 hp | 72 hp |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12 liters | 16 liters |
| Weight | 145 kg | 204 kg |
| Seat Height | 890 mm | 875 mm |
| Suspension Travel | 250 mm front / 250 mm rear | 210 mm front / 200 mm rear |
Engine Performance Review
The KTM 690 Enduro excels in agile handling and responsiveness. Its powerful engine delivers strong torque across a wide RPM range, ideal for steep trails and rough terrain. This motorcycle provides an exhilarating ride that appeals to off-road enthusiasts.
The Yamaha Tenere 700 offers a balanced mix of power and control. Its parallel-twin engine provides smooth torque delivery, making it suitable for both highway cruising and off-road exploration. This versatility allows you to ride comfortably on varied landscapes.
When selecting between these two motorcycles, consider your primary riding goals. If off-road performance matters most, the KTM 690 Enduro likely stands out. For a more versatile adventure bike, the Yamaha Tenere 700 may be the better choice.
Design and Build Quality
Examining the design and build quality of the KTM 690 Enduro and Yamaha Tenere 700 highlights their distinct approaches to adventure riding.
Weight and Dimensions
KTM 690 Enduro weighs about 304 lbs (138 kg) fully fueled, making it lighter and more nimble on trails. Its compact dimensions, including a seat height of 36.2 inches, contribute to agile handling. You can maneuver easily through tight spots.
Yamaha Tenere 700 weighs approximately 452 lbs (205 kg), designed for stability over a variety of terrains. A lower seat height of 32.7 inches combined with a longer wheelbase enhances comfort on longer rides. The increased weight offers better stability at higher speeds.
| Motorcycle | Weight (lbs) | Seat Height (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| KTM 690 Enduro | 304 | 36.2 |
| Yamaha Tenere 700 | 452 | 32.7 |
Ergonomics and Comfort
KTM 690 Enduro features aggressive ergonomics, promoting an active riding position. High handlebars and narrow seat improve control during off-road rides. Enhanced grip on the seat keeps you planted on rough terrain.
Yamaha Tenere 700 provides a more relaxed riding posture, suitable for long-distance journeys. The padded seat enhances comfort on extended rides. Footpeg positioning accommodates various riding styles, allowing for comfortable transitions between standing and sitting.
Both motorcycles cater to different rider preferences, whether you prioritize agility or comfort during your adventures.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the KTM 690 Enduro and the Yamaha Tenere 700 excel in off-road environments, but they offer different advantages tailored to various rider preferences.
Suspension and Handling
KTM 690 Enduro features long suspension travel with 12.6 inches (320 mm) at the front and 12.4 inches (315 mm) at the rear. This setup allows for superior absorption of bumps and obstacles, enhancing agility on rugged terrain. The lightweight design aids in quick maneuverability, making it a favored choice for aggressive off-road riders.
Yamaha Tenere 700 boasts 8.3 inches (210 mm) of travel in the front and 7.9 inches (200 mm) in the rear. While this design prioritizes stability over extreme maneuverability, it provides a smooth ride on varying surfaces. Riders seeking a more comfortable journey over long distances often prefer this model for its balanced handling.
Traction and Stability
KTM 690 Enduro’s single-cylinder engine delivers instant torque, allowing you to tackle steep inclines and navigate through loose gravel with ease. The bike’s lightweight frame enhances traction in challenging conditions, giving you the confidence to test your limits.
Yamaha Tenere 700, with its parallel-twin engine, offers excellent low-end torque that excels in maintaining traction on different terrains. The bike’s slightly heavier build contributes to better stability, particularly when navigating rocky paths or uneven ground. For riders focused on versatility, this model seamlessly transitions from off-road trails to highway riding.
On-Road Performance
On-road performance significantly impacts your riding experience, particularly if long highway trips interest you.
Comfort on Long Rides
Comfort is crucial during long rides. The Yamaha Tenere 700 shines in this area. Its ergonomics feature a relaxed riding position, wide seat, and adjustable windscreen, making it easy to cruise for hours without fatigue. The seat height of 32.7 inches allows for easy handling at stops, which is beneficial in traffic situations.
The KTM 690 Enduro offers an aggressive stance that supports active riding on trails but can lead to discomfort over extended distances. Riders often find the narrow seat less accommodating for long highway stretches. If you’re planning long rides, prioritize comfort features when choosing a bike.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency plays a vital role in long-distance riding. The KTM 690 Enduro has a single-cylinder engine that delivers impressive miles per gallon. It achieves around 70 MPG, allowing you to go further between fill-ups.
In contrast, the Yamaha Tenere 700, with its parallel-twin engine, averages about 50 MPG. While it’s slightly less fuel-efficient, it compensates with a larger fuel tank, often providing a greater overall range. Choose based on your priorities—if you desire longer distances between refuels, the KTM’s efficiency is advantageous. If you prefer capacity and stability on the highway, the Tenere’s design is appealing.
Price and Value for Money
When comparing the KTM 690 Enduro and Yamaha Tenere 700, price plays a crucial role in your decision.
KTM 690 Enduro Pricing
The KTM 690 Enduro typically retails around $10,500. Its value lies in its advanced engineering, lightweight design, and powerful single-cylinder engine. This model excels in off-road performance, making it ideal for dedicated off-road enthusiasts.
Yamaha Tenere 700 Pricing
The Yamaha Tenere 700 is generally priced at approximately $10,900. It offers excellent value for those seeking a versatile bike suitable for both highways and trails. Its construction combines comfort and stability, catering to long-distance riders.
Value Comparison
Both bikes provide distinct advantages for their respective prices:
- KTM 690 Enduro:
- Designed for off-road agility.
- Higher mpg rating, about 70, reduces fuel costs during adventures.
- Excellent suspension travel enhances off-road capability.
- Yamaha Tenere 700:
- Provides more comfort for long rides.
- Lower mpg rating around 50, but compensated with a larger fuel tank.
- Features reliability for diverse riding conditions.
Cost Considerations
Consider additional costs like maintenance, aftermarket modifications, and insurance. The KTM tends to have slightly higher aftermarket part prices. In contrast, the Yamaha’s broad appeal means more available options and potentially lower costs for custom parts or repairs.
Resale Value
Both motorcycles maintain solid resale values. However, the tendency for the KTM to appeal mainly to off-road enthusiasts can impact its resale depending on market demand. The Tenere’s adaptive design may provide broader interest, increasing its resale potential over time.
By weighing these factors, you can determine which bike provides better value for your specific riding needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Choosing between the KTM 690 Enduro and the Yamaha Tenere 700 really comes down to your riding style and preferences. If you’re all about tackling tough trails and need that lightweight agility the KTM offers, it might just be your perfect match.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a bike that can handle both highways and off-road adventures with comfort, the Tenere 700 could be the way to go.
Ultimately, both bikes bring something unique to the table. So think about where you’ll be riding and what you want from your adventure bike, and you’ll find the right fit for your next journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the KTM 690 Enduro and Yamaha Tenere 700?
Both motorcycles cater to different riding styles. The KTM 690 Enduro is lightweight and ideal for off-road enthusiasts, while the Yamaha Tenere 700 offers balanced performance for both highway and off-road riding.
Which motorcycle is better for off-road riding?
The KTM 690 Enduro excels in off-road conditions, thanks to its agile handling, powerful single-cylinder engine, and long suspension travel. It’s designed for aggressive riders looking for trail performance.
How does the Yamaha Tenere 700 perform on highways?
The Yamaha Tenere 700 is well-suited for highway cruising with a relaxed riding position, wide seat, and adjustable windscreen, making it ideal for long-distance journeys.
What is the fuel efficiency of these motorcycles?
The KTM 690 Enduro achieves around 70 MPG, while the Yamaha Tenere 700 averages about 50 MPG. However, the Tenere has a larger fuel tank, providing a greater overall range.
How do the seat heights compare?
The KTM 690 Enduro has a seat height of 36.2 inches, making it taller and suitable for off-road riders. In contrast, the Yamaha Tenere 700’s seat height is lower at 32.7 inches, offering more comfort for various rider heights.
How much do these bikes cost?
The KTM 690 Enduro typically retails for around $10,500, while the Yamaha Tenere 700 is priced at approximately $10,900, reflecting their engineering and design features.
Which motorcycle offers better resale value?
The Yamaha Tenere 700 is believed to have a slight edge in resale value due to its versatile design and broader market appeal compared to the more specialized KTM 690 Enduro.
What should I consider when choosing between these bikes?
Consider your primary riding goals. If you prioritize off-road performance, the KTM 690 Enduro is preferable. For comfort and versatility during long rides, choose the Yamaha Tenere 700.
