Yamaha XTZ 1200 Super Tenere (2013–2023): A Decade of Adventure Dominance
The Yamaha XTZ 1200 Super Tenere isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a passport to the unknown. For over a decade, this adventure-touring titan has carved its name into deserts, mountains, and highways, blending rugged capability with touring comfort. After spending days with this machine, from twisty asphalt to gravel-strewn backroads, it’s clear why the Super Tenere remains a benchmark for riders who demand versatility without compromise.
Engine Performance: Torque Meets Refinement
At the heart of the Super Tenere lies its 1199cc liquid-cooled parallel twin, a masterpiece of engineering designed for real-world adventure. With a 270° crankshaft mimicking the pulse of a V-twin, it delivers 117 Nm (86.3 ft-lbs) of torque peaking at 6,000 RPM—enough to lug you up a rocky incline or cruise effortlessly at highway speeds. The power curve is linear, with 112 HP (81.8 kW) arriving smoothly at 7,250 RPM, avoiding the abrupt surges of some competitors.
Yamaha’s YCC-T ride-by-wire throttle ensures precision, whether you’re picking through mud or overtaking trucks. In Sport mode, throttle response is crisp; Touring mode softens the delivery for slippery surfaces. Fuel efficiency impresses at 5.47 L/100 km (43 MPG), though this dips to 5.88 L/100 km (40 MPG) in off-road-heavy setups. The shaft drive eliminates chain maintenance, a boon for long-haul riders, though purists might miss the tactile feedback of chain-driven bikes.
Chassis and Handling: Confidence on Any Terrain
Weighing 257–265 kg (566–584 lbs) depending on trim, the Super Tenere isn’t light, but its steel backbone frame and low center of gravity mask the heft. The 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear (110/80-R19 and 150/70-R17 tires) strike a balance between stability and agility, while the 190 mm (7.5 inches) of ground clearance shrugs off rocks and ruts.
The suspension deserves applause. Base models feature adjustable 43mm inverted forks and a monoshock, but the ES variants add electronically adjustable damping. With a button press, you can toggle between solo, luggage-laden, or two-up riding—no tools required. Off-road, the suspension soaks up impacts; on pavement, it firms up for sporty cornering. The Unified Braking System (UBS) links front and rear ABS, offering controlled stops whether you’re standing on the pegs or leaned into a curve.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Built for the Long Haul
The Super Tenere’s cockpit feels like a command center. The adjustable windscreen (a 60 mm/2.3-inch range) lacks tool-free operation but reduces buffeting for riders under 1.8 m (5'11"). Heated grips (on ES trims) and cruise control elevate comfort on marathon rides. The seat height adjusts from 845–870 mm (33.3–34.3 inches), accommodating shorter riders without sacrificing legroom for taller pilots.
Yamaha’s focus on practicality shines in details like rubber-damped footpegs (comfortable on-road, grippy off-road) and pre-wired mounts for panniers. The 23-liter (6.1-gallon) fuel tank delivers a 400+ km (250+ mile) range, though the plastic side panels feel less premium than BMW’s GS offerings.
Technology: Adventure-Ready Electronics
Traction control is a standout here. With three modes (TCS1 for strict slip management, TCS2 for loose surfaces, and OFF for experts), it’s less intrusive than KTM’s systems but equally effective. The D-Mode throttle mapping lets you tailor power delivery, while the LCD dash provides clear data on fuel economy, tire pressure, and suspension settings.
Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The Super Tenere’s rivals are formidable, but it carves its niche:
1. BMW R 1250 GS: More powerful (136 HP) and tech-heavy, but pricier to maintain. The GS excels on-road, while the Yamaha’s shaft drive and lower seat height favor off-road accessibility.
2. KTM 1290 Super Adventure: A torque monster (140 Nm) with sharper handling, yet its chain drive and aggressive ergonomics cater to hardcore adventurers.
3. Ducati Multistrada V4: A road-biased rocketship with radar-assisted tech, but less dirt-worthy and higher running costs.
The Yamaha’s trump card? Reliability. Owners routinely clock 100,000+ km (62,000+ miles) with minimal issues—a selling point for riders in remote regions.
Maintenance: Keeping the Tenere in Top Shape
1. Valve Adjustments: Due every 42,000 km (26,000 miles), a lengthy but manageable task. Clearance specs:
- Intake: 0.10–0.16 mm (0.004–0.006 in)
- Exhaust: 0.22–0.28 mm (0.009–0.011 in)
2. Oil Changes: Use 3.4L (3.6 quarts) of 10W-40 oil (API SG+) every 8,000 km (5,000 miles). The spin-on filter simplifies DIY maintenance.
3. Shaft Drive: Replace gear oil (200 mL of 80W-90 GL-5) annually. Inspect seals for leaks after heavy off-road use.
4. Tires: The stock Bridgestone Battlax tires favor pavement. Consider swapping to Michelin Anakee Wilds for mixed terrain.
Pro Tip: Upgrade the windscreen with a taller aftermarket option (available at MOTOPARTS.store) to reduce wind noise on highways.
Verdict: The Swiss Army Knife of Adventure Bikes
The Yamaha Super Tenere isn’t the fastest, lightest, or most tech-laden bike in its class—and that’s its strength. It’s a machine that prioritizes durability and versatility, whether you’re navigating Patagonia’s Ruta 40 or commuting in the rain. While the 264 kg (584 lbs) weight demands respect off-road, the accessible seat height and tractable engine make it forgiving for newer adventurers.
For riders valuing simplicity and longevity, the Super Tenere is a companion that’ll outlast trends. And when it’s time to personalize, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from crash bars to performance exhausts—because every great adventure deserves a bike that’s uniquely yours.
Ready to equip your Super Tenere? Explore our curated selection of upgrades at MOTOPARTS.store and redefine your limits.
