Yamaha’s iconic Ténéré should need no introduction.
The bike which dominated the gruelling Paris Dakar Rally in the 1990s will forever be remembered as one of the many legendary motorcycles in Yamaha’s storied history, and the Ténéré 700 honoured that heritage when the path to the Next Horizon was unveiled in 2018.
Powered by the acclaimed CP2 engine and delivering genuine go-anywhere adventure riding in a lighter and more accessible package, the Ténéré 700 was an immediate success that has transformed the world of adventure motorcycling.
Despite increased competition, the Ténéré 700 has remained the best-selling bike in its class and now, for 2025, comes a new generation of Ténéré 700 set to build on the Ténéré legacy. It remains an exciting machine inspired by Yamaha’s rally successes but is now even more accessible to a wider range of motorcyclists.
Alongside a new standard Ténéré 700 comes a lower seat height variant with shorter travel suspension to create a motorcycle which appeals to riders who don’t want the tallest riding position while, conversely, the new Ténéré 700 Rally offers a true pumped-up off-road style ride and higher specification for the more discerning off-road enthusiast.
With a higher specification, bold new rally styling and subtle but important developments to the critically acclaimed CP2 platform, the 2025 Ténéré 700 range is a serious evolution which keeps Yamaha at the forefront of this increasingly popular class.
And while Yamaha has increased the specification of the Ténéré 700, witness the introduction of the YCC-T electronic throttle, riding modes and upgraded suspension, the design team has been careful not to add technology for technology’s sake. Electronic aids increase the rider’s engagement with the motorcycle, while never becoming overwhelming or unnecessary, while adjustments to meet the rider’s personal needs or road conditions are always simple to make and effective in delivery.
More than ever, the Ténéré 700 is the go anywhere motorcycle which enables riders to travel without limits. Its broad appeal makes it the go-to bike for a wide variety of riders, from daily riders who enjoy the appeal and presence only the iconic Ténéré brings, to serious off-road riders looking to take on more challenging terrain. With an A2 licence version available, the Ténéré 700 has riders of all ages and experience covered.
Where Ténéré leads, others are sure to follow in pursuit of the Next Horizon.
Latest Yamaha Adventure Design
Inspired by Yamaha’s famed rally raid bikes past and present, the 2025 Ténéré 700 sports an all-new look combined with ergonomics developed to be more effective for both road and off-road riding.
The silhouette of the Ténéré 700 has become iconic, standing tall and upright at the front end, before tapering to a compact tail unit. It takes on board the lessons gained through decades spent winning rally raids, harmoniously blending functionality, ergonomics and performance to deliver the most engaging ride in all conditions. The frontal design offers both excellent visibility and protection for the rider, thanks in no small part to the large one-piece windscreen, while the minimalist mid-to-rear section contributes to a riding position which gives the rider plenty of space in which to position their body, with special attention paid to riders who want to stand up and redistribute their body weight while riding off-road.
Compared to the previous model, the fuel tank has been moved forward, with great consideration taken to balance size with optimal ergonomics, while retaining the classic Ténéré design language. The top of the 16 litre tank now sits lower down than the one found on the previous generation model and these changes contribute to a more balanced weight distribution and better all-round handling.
The mid-section of the 2025 Ténéré 700 has been designed not only to facilitate a balanced visual transition between the front and rear of the bike, but also to provide a comfortable and effective saddle for the rider – an area in which they can easily move their body weight around as they hustle off road. The design is uncomplicated, with an emphasis on giving a secure contact patch between the bike and the rider’s legs, and to facilitate good air flow in both seated and standing positions. The new one-piece rally inspired seat is also classic Ténéré, being long and narrow in design and, compared to the previous two-piece design, provides greater freedom of movement while riding.
For all the practical reasons behind the styling, Yamaha’s design team have been keen to ensure they created an eye-catching motorcycle which captures the essence of off-road riding – after all, it is a Ténéré.
Viewed head on the Ténéré 700 gives the classic ‘rally tower’ look. The new headlamp design features four individual LED light units stacked in an aluminium structure, in the style of Yamaha’s contemporary rally racers, with the ‘Y’ shaped mount giving a distinctively fresh look. Where many adventure bikes can look bulky, the Ténéré 700’s new body panels convey a sense of lightness, yet remain tough and ready to handle whatever the rider throws at it. It’s a motorcycle which has genuine off-road capabilities and the 21″ front wheel is not just there for show. It has been designed to take on any roads, whether paved or not, with plenty of ground clearance and long travel suspension set to soak up even the worst of conditions. New colour-matched handguards not only confirm the Ténéré 700’s off-road credentials but have the practical benefits of giving the rider protection from the elements and any shrubbery which may be blocking the way.
Completing the Ténéré’s distinctive look are two emotive new colour schemes designed to emphasize the bike’s abilities. The standard and lower seat height models come with the choice of a Frozen Titan