Yamaha Super Tenere the Adventure Touring 7 Problems

The Yamaha Super Tenere is a motorcycle known for its durability and adventure capabilities, but like any vehicle, it’s not immune to problems.

In this guide, we’ll dive into:

• Some common issues that Super Tenere.
• Possible solution to each problem.
• Technical specification chart of Super Tenere.

Let’s begin!

Yamaha Super Tenere Problems

The Yamaha Super Tenere is known as an adventure touring motorcycle that comes equipped with 1199 cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, and forward-inclined parallel 2-cylinder engine.

However many users and owners over time faced different issues with this bike and reported on different platforms and also reported to Yamaha.

Most of the problems are very simple and easy to fix on your own for example airbox temperature sensor failure, rattling noise, engine failure, and overheating issues.

On the other hand, this motorcycle also faces some serious issues that result in recalls for example electrical problems, clutch basket failure, and transmission problems.

1. Inaccurate Airbox Temperature Sensor

One common issue Yamaha Super Tenere owners may encounter is an inaccurate airbox temperature sensor. 

This sensor is pivotal in providing data for the engine’s fuel management system to adjust the air-fuel mixture based on the temperature of the air entering the engine.

An inaccurate reading can lead to a lean or rich mixture, and results in reduced performance, stalling, or increased emissions.

To resolve this, you should inspect the sensor for any signs of damage or corrosion and ensure its connection to the wiring harness is secure.

You can also use a diagnostic tool to compare the airbox temperature reading with a known good thermometer to confirm the sensor’s performance.

If the sensor is found to be faulty, it should be replaced with an OEM part to ensure compatibility and reliability.

2. Recurrent Rattling Noise

Owners of pre-2014 Super Tenere ES models have reported excessive rattling noises, particularly from the clutch, skid plate, or exhaust heat shielding.

Sometimes loose hardware or a misaligned skid plate can create an unsettling rattle at certain RPMs. 

To resolve this, a systematic check of all fasteners should be undertaken, ensuring they are tight and correctly seated.

If the noise persists, you’ve to add rubber washers or gasket material between the skid plate and the bike’s frame may dampen the vibration.

You should also inspect the exhaust heat shields for security and, if necessary, adjust them to prevent contact with other parts that might cause rattling.

3. Bike Shuts Off While Riding

Some riders have experienced their motorcycle suddenly cutting out, particularly at low speeds or while idling.

This could be due to an overheated engine, an electrical fault, a clogged fuel filter, or an issue with the bike’s side stand switch.

If your bike’s engine is overheated, you should ensure that the coolant levels are adequate and that the radiator is not blocked by debris.

Related: Yamaha R6 Motorcycle Not Starting

If an electrical fault is suspected, inspect all connections and fuses, and consider the health of the battery and the charging system. 

Faulty wiring can sometimes be the culprit, requiring professional diagnosis and repair.

Sometimes clogged fuel filters would starve the engine of fuel, and lead to a shutdown. You can restore proper fuel flow by replacing the fuel filter.

4. Oil Consumption and Overheating

Some Yamaha Tenere riders have reported issues with excessive oil consumption and overheating.

This problem is particularly when riding in high-temperature conditions or during extended periods of heavy use.

To resolve the problem you should ensure consistent oil level checks, especially before long trips or riding in demanding conditions.

If the oil level is low, replenish it with the recommended type and grade of oil as specified in the owner’s manual.

Regularly check the engine coolant level and replace it according to the service manual’s schedule.

This helps prevent overheating and maintains optimal engine performance.

Also, ensure that nothing obstructs the flow of air to the radiator. Keep the radiator clean to aid in proper heat dissipation.

You should consider using high-quality, synthetic oil that can withstand higher temperatures and improve engine lubrication.

Lastly modify your riding style to avoid pushing the bike hard when temperatures soar, as this adds stress to the engine.

Instead, opt for a gentler approach during hot weather or heavy traffic conditions.

5. Electrical Issues Leading to Recall

A specific issue with the 2013 Yamaha Super Tenere involved a wiring problem that led to a recall.

The issue was related to the wiring splice on the Gen1 bikes, which could develop a resistive connection and cause problems like not returning to idle​​.

To resolve the problem, Yamaha has recommended that owners bring their motorcycles to authorized dealers for inspection.

The solution is checking the wiring harness for any signs of wear or damage and ensuring that all connections are secure.

If any faults are found, you should replace the damaged components with improved parts designed to resist wear and thermal damage better.

Moreover, you should clean and tighten the battery terminals to maintain a solid electrical connection.

6. Clutch Basket Failure

This problem is often due to the stress and strain of heavy usage, particularly in off-road conditions.

The effective solution to a failing clutch basket is you inspect and replace the affected components.

You should also inspect the clutch basket for signs of damage or wear. Look for notches or grooves that could impede the clutch plates’ movement.

If wear is significant, replace the clutch basket along with any worn plates or springs to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Upgrade to an aftermarket basket which may offer improved durability over the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.

Some aftermarket options feature reinforced construction and improved materials to resist wear.

Finally, adjust the riding style if necessary. Aggressive starts and hard shifting can contribute to quicker wear. 

7. Transmission May Fail

It manifests as difficulty in gear shifting, unusual noises, or even the inability to engage gears.

The problem often stems from worn-out bearings, damaged gear teeth, or a defective clutch assembly.

To resolve the problem you should carefully inspect your bike and ensure there are no kinds of damaged parts.

If you find faulty components you should replace them with genuine Yamaha parts to maintain the integrity of the transmission system.

Yamaha Super Tenere Technical Specification Chart

Specification	2012 Model	2015 Model	Twin-Sided Swing Arm	2020 Model (1200ZE)
Engine Size	1199 cc	1199 cc	1199 cc	1199 cc
Engine Type	Parallel Twin, Four-stroke	Twin, Four-stroke	Twin, Four-stroke	Twin, Four-stroke
Power	–	–	113.2 HP @ 7250 RPM	112.0 HP @ 7250 RPM
Torque	–	–	117.0 Nm @ 6000 RPM	117.0 Nm @ 6000 RPM
Compression	11.0:1	11.0:1	11.0:1	11.0:1
Bore x Stroke	98 x 79.5 mm	98 x 79.5 mm	98 x 79.5 mm	98 x 79.5 mm
Fuel System	Injection, Fuel Injected	Injection, YCC-T	Injection, YCC-T	Injection, YCC-T
Cooling System	Liquid	Liquid	Liquid	Liquid
Transmission	6-Speed, Shaft Drive	6-Speed, Shaft Drive	6-Speed, Shaft Drive	6-Speed, Shaft Drive
Fuel Consumption	–	5.47 L/100 km	6.00 L/100 km	5.47 L/100 km
Front Suspension	Inverted Fork	Telescopic Fork	Upside-down Telescopic Fork	43mm Inverted Fork, Electronically Adjustable
Rear Suspension	Twin Sided Swing Arm	Monoshock	Monoshock	Swing Arm
Front Brake	Dual Hydraulic Disc	Double Disc, ABS	Double Disc, Hydraulic	Double Disc, ABS and UBS
Rear Brake	Hydraulic Disc	Single Disc, ABS	Single Disc, Hydraulic	Single Disc, ABS and UBS
Weight	260.8 kg	262.2 kg	257 kg	265 kg
Seat Height	844.8 mm	846 mm	846 mm	845 mm
Fuel Capacity	22.7 Liters	23.09 Liters	23.09 Liters	23 Liters