Hey everyone! Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of adventure motorcycling, and we've got a heavyweight clash on our hands: the Yamaha Tenere 700 going up against the BMW F800GS. These two bikes are legendary in the adventure motorcycle scene, known for their off-road prowess, comfortable riding experience, and ability to devour miles on end. But which one comes out on top? Let's break it down and see how these two titans stack up against each other, comparing everything from their engines and handling to their features and overall appeal. Get ready for a deep dive into the nitty-gritty details, so you can decide which bike is the perfect fit for your next epic journey.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Beast

First up, let's talk about what makes these bikes tick: their engines. The Yamaha Tenere 700 rocks a 689cc parallel-twin engine, derived from the popular Yamaha MT-07. This engine is a real gem, delivering a smooth and predictable power delivery, with a strong mid-range that makes it perfect for both on-road and off-road riding. The Tenere 700's engine is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, meaning you can go further between fuel stops, which is a huge plus on those long adventure rides. It offers about 72 horsepower, a punchy and tractable power band, and it’s a blast to ride, especially when you're navigating technical trails or cruising on the open road. The parallel-twin configuration contributes to the bike's narrow profile, making it easier to maneuver in tight spots and giving it a balanced feel overall.

Now, let's move on to the BMW F800GS. It's powered by a 798cc parallel-twin engine that's known for its robust performance. The BMW offers a slightly larger displacement, translating to a bit more power and torque compared to the Tenere 700. The F800GS pumps out around 85 horsepower, providing a noticeable step up in performance, especially at higher speeds and when fully loaded with gear. This extra oomph is great for highway riding and tackling challenging terrain where you need that extra grunt. The BMW engine is a solid performer, but some riders find it has a slightly less characterful feel compared to the Yamaha’s. The BMW's engine also provides a bit more vibration, but it's still a comfortable ride for long distances. Both bikes have their strengths, with the Tenere 700 focusing on user-friendliness and fuel efficiency and the F800GS offering a bit more power and performance. The choice really depends on what you value most in an adventure bike: whether you crave the simplicity and predictability of the Yamaha or the extra power and features of the BMW.

Handling and Suspension: Conquering Any Terrain

Alright, let’s get into how these bikes handle the rough stuff, because that's what adventure bikes are all about! The Yamaha Tenere 700 is renowned for its exceptional off-road capabilities. It's built with a focus on simplicity and agility, featuring a lightweight chassis and long-travel suspension. The front suspension offers about 8.3 inches of travel, while the rear suspension provides about 7.9 inches. This setup is tuned to soak up bumps and ruts, making it incredibly capable on trails, gravel roads, and even more technical off-road sections. The Tenere 700's handling is balanced and predictable, giving riders the confidence to push their limits in the dirt. It's easy to steer, nimble, and feels incredibly planted, even when things get loose. The bike's overall design prioritizes off-road prowess, making it a joy to ride on any surface. Its relatively simple design also means it's easy to maintain, which is a big win for adventure riders who often find themselves far from a dealership.

On the other hand, the BMW F800GS also brings some serious handling chops to the table. The F800GS comes equipped with a slightly more sophisticated suspension system, with about 9.1 inches of travel up front and 8.5 inches at the rear. This setup provides excellent bump absorption and stability, making it feel composed on both paved roads and unpaved trails. The BMW often includes features like electronic suspension adjustments, which allow riders to tailor the bike's handling characteristics to different riding conditions and preferences. This can be a huge advantage for those who want to fine-tune their ride. While the F800GS is an excellent off-road machine, some riders feel it's not quite as nimble as the Tenere 700 in tight, technical terrain. However, the BMW's superior suspension and handling characteristics make it a great choice for long-distance adventures, where comfort and stability are key. Ultimately, the best bike for you depends on your priorities: if you're looking for a dedicated off-road machine, the Tenere 700 might be the better choice. If you want a more versatile bike with advanced features, the F800GS is worth a closer look.

Features and Technology: Gadgets and Gizmos

Let’s dive into the tech and features that these adventure bikes have to offer. The Yamaha Tenere 700 keeps things relatively simple. This is part of its charm. It focuses on offering a raw, unfiltered riding experience. The bike features a basic but functional instrument panel, providing essential information like speed, gear position, and fuel level. The focus is on functionality and durability rather than a long list of fancy features. It is equipped with switchable ABS, which is a great safety feature that can be turned off for off-road riding. The Tenere 700 is designed to be a rugged and reliable adventure companion. This approach makes it a great choice for riders who want a bike that's easy to maintain, simple to operate, and less prone to issues caused by complex electronics. This simplicity also contributes to its lower price point compared to the BMW.

Now, let's turn to the BMW F800GS. BMW is known for packing its bikes with tech, and the F800GS is no exception. It usually comes with a more advanced instrument panel, often including a color TFT display that provides a wealth of information. You can expect features like riding modes (rain, road, enduro, etc.), traction control, and electronic suspension adjustment. These features allow you to tailor the bike's performance to match the conditions and your riding style. The F800GS also often includes optional extras like heated grips, cruise control, and keyless ignition, making it a more comfortable and convenient option for long-distance touring. While these features add to the bike's overall appeal, they also increase its complexity and cost. However, for riders who value advanced technology and convenience, the F800GS delivers a more sophisticated riding experience. The BMW’s advanced features make it a great choice for those who want a bike that is packed with tech and offers a more customizable riding experience.

Comfort and Ergonomics: The Long Haul Factor

When you're planning to spend hours in the saddle, comfort becomes a critical factor. The Yamaha Tenere 700 offers a comfortable riding position that's well-suited for both standing and sitting. The seat is relatively flat and supportive, though some riders might find it a bit firm on long rides. The ergonomics are generally good, with the handlebars positioned at a comfortable height. The bike's narrow profile makes it easy to move around on, whether you're navigating through traffic or tackling technical trails. Wind protection is basic, with a small windscreen that deflects some of the wind. However, it's not the best for extended highway use. The Tenere 700 is designed to be a versatile and adaptable machine, providing a comfortable riding experience for a wide range of riders and riding conditions. The simplicity of the design also means there are fewer parts that can fail, making it a reliable companion for long trips.

The BMW F800GS also offers a comfortable riding position, though it has some key differences. The seat is generally more plush and supportive, which can be a real advantage on those all-day rides. The ergonomics are well-designed, and the bike offers a more upright riding posture. This makes it a great choice for riders who prioritize comfort. The F800GS comes with a larger windscreen, providing better wind protection, which is particularly useful for highway riding. The bike's overall design is geared towards comfort, making it a great choice for long-distance touring. The BMW's focus on rider comfort is a major selling point. The F800GS is a bike designed for serious miles, and the comfortable ergonomics, combined with features like heated grips, can make a huge difference on those longer rides.

Price and Value: Bang for Your Buck

Finally, let's talk about the bottom line: price and value. The Yamaha Tenere 700 has a competitive price point, which is one of its biggest advantages. It offers a lot of performance and capability for the money, making it an excellent value proposition. Its simplicity and reliability also contribute to its long-term value, as it typically requires less maintenance than more complex bikes. This affordability makes it a great option for riders who are new to adventure riding or those who want a capable bike without breaking the bank. The Tenere 700 provides a fantastic balance of performance, features, and price, making it a popular choice in the adventure bike market.

The BMW F800GS, on the other hand, comes with a higher price tag. This is due to its more advanced technology, superior features, and the premium brand name. While the initial cost is higher, the F800GS can offer a good value for the features and performance it provides. It's important to consider what you're getting for the extra money. The BMW often includes features like electronic suspension, riding modes, and advanced rider aids. These can significantly enhance the riding experience, especially on long trips. Ultimately, the best value for you depends on your budget and what you prioritize in an adventure bike. If you're looking for the most affordable option with excellent performance, the Tenere 700 is a great choice. If you're willing to spend more for advanced features and a premium brand, the F800GS can be worth the investment.

Final Verdict: Which Bike Should You Choose?

So, after weighing all the factors, which bike comes out on top? The answer, as always, depends on your needs and preferences.

Choose the Yamaha Tenere 700 if:

• You prioritize off-road performance and handling. The Tenere 700's lightweight and agile nature make it a blast on trails.
• You value simplicity and reliability. This bike is known for its bulletproof engine and ease of maintenance.
• You're on a budget. The Tenere 700 offers a great value for the money.

Choose the BMW F800GS if:

• You want more power and advanced features. The BMW's engine has a bit more grunt, and it's loaded with tech.
• You prioritize comfort and long-distance touring. The F800GS is designed with all-day rides in mind.
• You want a bike with more refined handling and suspension. The BMW has a sophisticated suspension system that adapts to different conditions.

Both the Yamaha Tenere 700 and the BMW F800GS are fantastic adventure bikes, each with its own strengths. Take your time, do your research, and consider what you need in an adventure motorcycle. Happy riding!