Are you torn between the Yamaha Tenere 700 and the KTM 790? You’re not alone. Choosing the right adventure bike can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Both models promise thrilling rides and rugged capabilities, but they cater to different styles and preferences.
This article breaks down the key differences between these two popular bikes, helping you make an informed decision. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out, understanding what each bike offers will enhance your riding experience. Let’s explore the features, performance, and overall value of the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 so you can find the perfect match for your next adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Distinct Riding Styles: The Yamaha Tenere 700 excels in off-road terrain with its rugged design and suspension, while the KTM 790 Adventure offers a sportier option with quick acceleration and better handling on paved roads.
- Engine Performance: The Tenere 700 features a 689cc engine delivering 72 horsepower, suitable for balanced riding, whereas the KTM 790 Adventure’s 799cc engine provides 95 horsepower for those seeking more power.
- Suspension Features: With 8.7 inches of front suspension travel, the Tenere 700 is built for rough trails, while the KTM 790 Adventure has adjustable suspension for versatile riding across different terrains.
- Technology Comparison: The Tenere 700 has a minimal LCD display focusing on essential information, whereas the KTM 790 Adventure boasts a TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and advanced ride modes.
- Pricing and Value: The Tenere 700 is more affordable at approximately $10,999, appealing to budget-conscious riders, while the KTM 790 Adventure starts at around $12,499, offering premium features that justify its higher price.
- Long-Term Considerations: Evaluate maintenance costs, resale value, and the specific riding conditions you expect to encounter to determine which bike provides the best long-term value for your needs.
Overview of Yamaha Tenere 700 Vs KTM 790
The Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 Adventure represent two distinct choices in the adventure motorcycle segment. Each bike caters to unique rider preferences while offering strong performance and versatility.
Design and Ergonomics
- Yamaha Tenere 700: The Tenere 700 features a taller seat height of 34.4 inches and a rugged, adventure-oriented design. Its wider handlebars enhance control, making it suitable for off-road terrain.
- KTM 790 Adventure: The 790 Adventure offers a lower seat height of 33.5 inches, promoting accessibility. Its lightweight frame and sharp aesthetic appeal to those seeking a sporty look combined with practicality.
Engine Performance
- Yamaha Tenere 700: Powered by a 689cc parallel-twin engine, the Tenere 700 delivers 72 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque. This configuration supports both on-road and off-road riding with smooth power delivery.
- KTM 790 Adventure: The 790 Adventure features a 799cc parallel-twin engine. With 95 horsepower and 60 lb-ft of torque, it offers quicker acceleration and a more aggressive riding experience.
Suspension and Handling
- Yamaha Tenere 700: Equipped with a 43mm telescopic fork and a rear monoshock, the Tenere 700 provides 8.7 inches of front and 8.1 inches of rear suspension travel. This setup excels in tackling rough trails and uneven surfaces.
- KTM 790 Adventure: The 790 Adventure boasts a fully adjustable suspension, including WP APEX forks. It offers 7.9 inches of front and 7.5 inches of rear travel but stands out with better handling on paved roads.
Technology Features
- Yamaha Tenere 700: The Tenere 700 includes a minimalist LCD display showing essential information. It lacks advanced electronics, focusing instead on a pure riding experience.
- KTM 790 Adventure: The 790 Adventure offers a more advanced TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and ride modes. These features enhance the riding experience and adaptability for various conditions.
- Yamaha Tenere 700: The Tenere 700 is priced around $10,999. Its value lies in its ruggedness and general affordability, making it accessible for a broad audience.
- KTM 790 Adventure: The 790 Adventure starts at approximately $12,499. While pricier, the added technology, performance, and features justify the investment for many riders.
In choosing between the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 Adventure, consider your riding style, terrain preferences, and budget. Each motorcycle offers distinct merits suited to varying adventures.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 Adventure bring unique designs and build qualities to the adventure bike segment. Each model targets specific rider preferences, offering distinct advantages for your riding experience.
Frame and Ergonomics
The Yamaha Tenere 700 has a robust tubular steel frame designed for durability on rough terrains. Its taller seat height, approximately 34.4 inches, accommodates taller riders, promoting better control during off-road maneuvers. The ergonomics support long-distance riding with wide handlebars and a comfortable saddle, allowing you to maintain a relaxed posture.
The KTM 790 Adventure features a lightweight trellis frame made from chromium-molybdenum steel. Its lower seat height, around 33.5 inches, caters to shorter riders, enhancing confidence during stops. The KTM also offers adjustable windshields and a sculpted seat, which improves comfort on extended journeys, making it user-friendly for various rider heights.
Aesthetic Comparison
Aesthetic appeal varies significantly between the two bikes. The Tenere 700 showcases a classic adventure bike design with angular lines and a rugged look, often available in striking color combinations such as blue and black. Its design emphasizes functionality with a tall front fender, adding to the off-road aesthetic.
The KTM 790 Adventure, in contrast, presents a more modern and aggressive appearance. Its sharp design elements, combined with vibrant orange and black colors, emphasize its sporty character. The LED lighting system enhances visibility and contributes to its cutting-edge look.
Both models capture attention, but your preference for traditional ruggedness versus contemporary sportiness will guide your choice.
Performance and Engine Specifications
Performance and engine specifications play a crucial role in the overall riding experience. Here’s a closer look at how the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 Adventure compare in terms of power output, torque, suspension, and handling.
Power Output and Torque
Yamaha’s Tenere 700 features a 689cc parallel-twin engine producing 72 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for off-road adventures and highway cruising. The KTM 790 Adventure, on the other hand, packs a stronger punch with its 799cc parallel-twin engine, generating 95 horsepower and 64 lb-ft of torque. The increased power in the KTM allows for quicker acceleration and better performance in demanding riding conditions. Riders seeking spirited rides may prefer the KTM for its impressive torque delivery and higher power output.
Suspension and Handling
Suspension and handling significantly affect how these bikes perform in various environments. The Yamaha Tenere 700 features a long-travel suspension setup with 8.7 inches of front travel and 8.1 inches of rear travel, ideal for tackling rough terrain. Its rugged build and solid ground clearance offer stability on uneven surfaces.
The KTM 790 Adventure, however, boasts a fully adjustable suspension with 7.9 inches of front travel and 7.5 inches of rear travel. This configuration enhances on-road handling while still providing decent off-road capabilities. The lightweight trellis frame further improves maneuverability, making it more agile in urban settings.
Both models cater to different riding styles. The Tenere 700 shines in off-road scenarios due to its suspension setup, while the KTM 790 Adventure offers versatility with its advanced handling characteristics.
Off-Road Capability
The Yamaha Tenere 700 and the KTM 790 Adventure each offer unique features that enhance their off-road capabilities. Riders looking to explore unpaved trails will find distinct advantages in both models.
Tires and Traction
Tires play a crucial role in off-road performance. The Tenere 700 comes equipped with durable, knobby tires, enhancing grip on loose surfaces like mud and gravel. Its tire size, typically 90/90-21 in the front and 150/70-18 in the rear, promotes better stability and traction during rugged rides.
The KTM 790 Adventure also uses high-traction tires, designed for versatile terrain. It typically features 90/90-21 front tires and 150/70-18 rear tires. These tires provide excellent performance on various surfaces, but the lighter construction allows for quick maneuvering, which can be beneficial in technical off-road scenarios.
Ground Clearance
Ground clearance impacts a bike’s ability to navigate obstacles. The Tenere 700 offers impressive ground clearance at approximately 9.4 inches. This height helps avoid larger rocks and ruts, ensuring a smoother ride over uneven terrain.
The KTM 790 Adventure provides slightly less ground clearance, around 8.7 inches. While this height is still effective for many off-road conditions, it may limit the bike’s ability to tackle particularly challenging landscapes. However, the 790 Adventure’s suspension design aids in absorbing bumps, making up for the difference in clearance during rides.
By examining tires and ground clearance, riders can assess which motorcycle aligns best with their off-road intentions and preferences.
Technology and Features
The Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 Adventure boast distinct technologies and features that cater to varying rider preferences.
Instrumentation and Connectivity
The Tenere 700 has a straightforward LCD display that provides essential information, such as speed, fuel level, and trip data. This minimalist approach ensures ease of readability in different conditions. However, it lacks advanced features like Bluetooth.
In contrast, the KTM 790 Adventure offers a sophisticated TFT display that enhances usability. The screen provides not only critical data but also includes Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone integration. Riders can access navigation and incoming calls directly from the display, enhancing the overall riding experience with modern technology.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount in both models, though they approach it differently. The Tenere 700 includes basic safety elements such as standard ABS, which provides stability during braking. The bike’s rugged construction also contributes to stability on rough terrains.
The KTM 790 Adventure steps it up with additional safety technologies. It features cornering ABS, which adjusts braking performance based on lean angle. This system aids in maintaining control while navigating turns. Furthermore, it offers traction control with multiple settings, allowing customization based on riding conditions, which enhances rider confidence, especially in variable terrain.
By evaluating these technology and safety features, you can determine which motorcycle aligns best with your riding style and safety preferences.
Price and Value Analysis
Evaluating the price and value of the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 Adventure helps you understand which bike offers the best investment for your riding style.
Pricing Overview
| Model | Base Price |
|---|---|
| Yamaha Tenere 700 | $10,999 |
| KTM 790 Adventure | $12,499 |
The Yamaha Tenere 700 starts at approximately $10,999, which presents a compelling value for riders seeking off-road capabilities and rugged reliability. The KTM 790 Adventure, priced around $12,499, offers advanced technology and superior power, which may justify the higher cost for some riders.
Value Assessment
- Performance Value
The Tenere 700 provides a strong balance between power and torque with its 689cc engine. In contrast, the 790 Adventure delivers more horsepower and torque through its 799cc engine, making it ideal for riders prioritizing speed and acceleration. - Feature Value
The Tenere 700 emphasizes functionality with its minimalist LCD display. The KTM 790 Adventure, however, features a TFT display with Bluetooth, providing more connectivity options. Assess how critical advanced features are for your riding experience when comparing value. - Build Quality Value
The Tenere 700’s rugged build focuses on durability and stability, perfect for challenging terrains. The KTM 790 Adventure’s lightweight frame enhances agility, aiding in urban environments and on curvy roads. Depending on your typical riding conditions, one bike may offer better long-term value than the other. - Maintenance Costs
Factor in potential maintenance costs, which can vary based on usage and service intervals for each model. The more advanced components on the KTM 790 Adventure might lead to higher maintenance costs compared to the more straightforward design of the Tenere 700.
Long-Term Value Consideration
Consider the long-term resale value, as both motorcycles appeal to different segments of adventure riders. Research typical resale values in your area to determine expected depreciation over time.
By analyzing these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and riding preferences.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Yamaha Tenere 700 and the KTM 790 Adventure can feel overwhelming but it boils down to your personal preferences and riding style. If you crave rugged off-road adventures the Tenere 700 might be your best bet with its sturdy build and impressive capabilities. On the other hand if you prefer a sportier ride with advanced tech features the KTM 790 Adventure could be your ideal match.
Take the time to assess what matters most to you whether it’s performance comfort or price. Both bikes offer unique strengths that can elevate your riding experience so trust your instincts and choose the one that excites you the most. Happy riding!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 Adventure?
The Yamaha Tenere 700 is designed for rugged off-road capabilities with a taller seat height and a powerful 689cc engine. In contrast, the KTM 790 Adventure has a lower seat height, lighter frame, and a more powerful 799cc engine, tailored for sportier riding and better handling on paved roads.
Which bike is better for off-road riding, the Tenere 700 or the KTM 790 Adventure?
The Yamaha Tenere 700 excels in off-road conditions due to its longer suspension travel and rugged design. It offers better ground clearance and durable knobby tires, making it more suitable for challenging terrains compared to the KTM 790 Adventure.
How do the seat heights compare between the Tenere 700 and the 790 Adventure?
The Yamaha Tenere 700 has a seat height of approximately 34.4 inches, while the KTM 790 Adventure has a lower seat height of about 33.5 inches. This difference may affect rider comfort and control based on individual height preferences.
What kind of technology do these motorcycles offer?
The Tenere 700 features a basic LCD display without advanced tech like Bluetooth. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure includes a sophisticated TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity for accessing navigation and calls, enhancing overall user experience.
What are the price points for the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 790 Adventure?
The Yamaha Tenere 700 is priced around $10,999, making it a more budget-friendly option for riders seeking off-road capabilities. In comparison, the KTM 790 Adventure starts at approximately $12,499, reflecting its advanced features and power.
Which bike is more suitable for urban riding?
The KTM 790 Adventure is designed for better handling in urban settings due to its lightweight frame and lower seat height. Its suspension allows for quick maneuverability, making it a great choice for city commuters compared to the bulkier Tenere 700.
How do the safety features compare between the two motorcycles?
The Yamaha Tenere 700 comes with standard ABS for stability during braking, while the KTM 790 Adventure enhances safety with cornering ABS and customizable traction control settings, providing a more advanced safety suite for diverse riding conditions.
