09 Tenere - Key Points for new owners
 

Greetings all - new to the board, picked up my 09 XT660Z on Saturday and spent the week-end riding and sorting it out. This post summarises a hundred others on this board, so new owners can just read this one!

Summary:

Lovely bike, excellent on-road manners and was superb on the (admittedly mild) trails I threw at it. Despite what follows, all is good and I'm very happy with the purchase - every bike has its glitches.

Potential Issues:

It seems apparent that Yamaha have 'run out money' in the last stages of design/manufacture of the Tenere. Whatever the original budget was, it must have been cut down to aggressively price the bike in the showrooms. Only that could explain a couple of real 'howlers' - which essentially amount to electrics exposed to the elements in a way I've never seen on any bike, let alone one with 'off-road' aspirations (if it has fork protectors, surely open wiring is a no-no? :dontknow:)

I found & resolved three items so far:

1. Connector box and wiring near the alternator - just behind the horn and wide open to all the cr*p coming off the front wheel. Amusingly, the alternator area is armoured with a metal plate. Now, Mr Yamaha, what is more likely in life of an average Tenere - an unfortunate rock going there or a bike going through a puddle? What happens when these wires rot is well documented on this board, but solution is simple - plenty of grease and a bicycle inner tube tightly wrapped and ziptied around there should keep things dry.

2. Brake light wiring on the handlebar - individual cables+contact plates exposed. Grease+inner tube, job done.

3.Tail light bulb assembly - as above.

4. Posts on here suggest a similar state of affairs behind the front sprocket - the side-stand switch circuitry. I haven't had the time to look, but from the rest of it is sounds very plausible. Will get it seen to asap.

Another generic top tip for any new bike owner - especially UK-based ones - when you collect it take 30 mins to go around the bike with a tub of engine oil/grease and a small paintbrush, and put oil on every nut, bolt, fitting, screw, spring, exposed bits of clutch cable etc. Exercise common sense of course and keep off the brake discs/rubber hoses.

This will save me reading another anguished post about 'build quality'. All bikes rust in our climate and 10 mins of prevention is better than 5 recalls under warranty.

Also next time you do your own servicing, you will 'round off' far fewer nuts!

uscincpac - Welcome to the forum, normally folk just say "hello", not write a dissertation, well done you.

I've got 14,000 miles on mine, it really has had a hard life, but I keep up with the maintenance stuff, and your point about a bit of pre-maintenance being better that 5 warrenty repairs is a rather good one. to set the picture, I'm still on the 1st chain'n sprocket set and only on the second mark for adjustment.

I'd be carefull about covering the connectors, do it wrong and you could actually trap moisture in there, with no way of drying. Grease is a better way forward IMHO. Or, I've just got some muc-off water displacement spray, 'post wash spray' they call it, got it free with some cleaner so I'll be interested to see how that stuff goes.

top tips, yeah it does seem yamaha cut some corners but its a great bike and most are proving reliable

I think the guys who used to do Ducati's wiring are now working down the road at the Tenere factory...

xxx

Ooh.... Don't say that Jenny ........ I really am worried now!

Barry.

Great post uscincpac, i use ACF50 which will protect anything from electrics to metalwork and providing you don't use an aggresive cleaner will last for months. **** sticks to it though so if you do the whole bike it does tend to look dirty but under the ACF it will be as new.

Thanks guys!

The Ten just had its first fill-up after picking it up from the dealer, averaged:

44.1 (Imperial) MPG, or 15.6 km/l

This is excellent, as operating conditions are harsh - runs to work in heavy London traffic + the engine is just starting to break in, and I've put in 15/40 mineral oil after first 20 miles. (I am using the 'mototune' break in method after experience proved it to be effective)

Given this, a couple of months down the line on decent oil I would realistically expect 55+ mpg.

Tyres - came with Michelin Siracs. Excellent on road so far, and get really hot very quickly. Hope they can put up with the heat cycles ::001:!

I did 8700 km on the original Sirac so far, including 4600km ireland to Italy and temperatures were high (30C +).
No problem whatsoever whether on motorways, small roads, city busy traffic.

Had the fan coming on twice only.

Yesterday popped the cover off and had a good look for exposed wiring behind & around the front sprocket. Not much luck to be honest - everything looks wrapped up, including the sidestand switch.

Gave everything the good news with WD40 just in case! Anyway, may not be an issue for '09s then.

Half way to 1st service, engine is bedding in nicely. Lovely powerplant, huge torque from literally tickover (low-speed torque wheelies possible :evil:), and revvy and lively for a big single. Fuel injection is spot-on.

Will go against popular opinion on here and say that the seat is the most comfortable I've experienced on any bike, and I could endure the Ten's massive tank range without a leg-stretch. Mind you, I've been exclusively riding sportsbikes before! Also the passenger seat 'hump' is quite high and ends up supporting my rucksack, so no weight on the shoulders - quite nice!

Last week's 1000mile trip round Scottish Highlands soon found the Achilles Heel.....rain-soaked reg/rectifier connector behind front wheel enforced a breakdown recovery to a dry garage where a telephone tutorial from my home Yam agent soon had fault 'isolated'. Borrowed voltmeter & starter battery & was able to clear the management warning lights & re-start. Fault recurred 3 times later but was cleared by gently 'working' the reg. connector at roadside. The grease & WD40 permanent fix is next, with a waterproof boot of my own design. Begs the question, though, why a bike intended for use in UK should be so susceptible to a little bit of Scottish rain. Lots of it,actually but it was only an inch deep.
Thanks to:-
Road&Track for phone workshop tutorial
Stag Garage Lochgilphead for use of facilities and recovery
Norwich Union/Aviva for arranging recovery

And another thing................................

No thanks to YamahaAssist for being absolutely no use at all. Whatsoever. Chocolate fireguards all. Refused to get the bike any further than the garage who recovered it.

(Because the Stag Garage can not fix Yamaha engine management, they should not be a 'place of repair' according to YamAssist's terms & conditions. YamAssist should have offered recovery to a Yam agent instead of expecting me to borrow Stag's facilities while phoning home to my local agent for advice on how to fix my own bike. But then I suppose I didn't need the 'assistance' because I'd been provident & bought Europe-wide recovery. I'd been clever enough & resourceful enough to arrange recovery through the insurance company, phone for instructions from a dealer & convince a commercial garage that I was ok to fix my bike using their workshop & their tools. Which is ok for me because all I lost was my time. Had I been mechanically inept &/or reliant on the 'assistance' which came with my new bike I would have had a bill for �700+. I know this because I asked how much it would've cost.)

My Pegaso Trail (similar motor) has the same exposed regulator/rectifier connector (located in the belly pan). I simply cut the connector out, soldered the wires together, and covered in tape. Bike has never let me down and its seen a lot of water. I also removed the entire sidestand cut-off switch and wiring to prevent future problems here. I would fit bars or something to protect the exposed waterpump from a fall (Off-the-road has a nice protector) - I fitted Givi engine bars.

Georgeb, my bike is now in it's fifth week in my local dealer to have the reg/rectifier issue sorted. In my case the terminals have not made a good conact and have burnt. You need to raise this issue with Yamaha UK and insist on a proper solution, 'cos the next time you might not have enough ooooomph in the battery to get going again even if you do know what the problem is.
Everyone who has had this problem need to register this with Yam UK on 01932 358042 and ask for Don or Moira.

see ya bike at ernshaws mine has cracked frame cracked sump gard and naw cracked engine bars not good yam........................

I'm not the most bike tech literate guy out there
So can someone please post some pictures of these common faults?
These things may effect my decision on buying one.

Thanks

Hi Premises - I really wouldn't worry about any of it...

It is true that a few people have had a problem with the connector that goes into the regulator/rectifier, but it is by no means common, and seems to have affected mainly a batch of late 2008 models (if someone wants to compose a poll I'd be interested to see how many early '08s and if any '09s have been affected with this issue? (and I don't mean '09 registrations, I mean model year bikes)...

As Uscincpac suggests, a length of bicycle inner tube zip tied around the connector (and perhaps a dab of grease on the contacts themselves) is a good precaution, even though it may not necessarily be water ingress that is causing the damage, rather misalignment of the pins during connection, causing the earth contact to recede and arc between the male pin.

As for the other things on the list, I (and I suspect every other owner) have never has an issue with any of them - that is not to say Uscincpacs suggestions are not good ones, just perhaps being overly cautious?

He is right that generally Japanese manufacturers can be a bit miserly with grease during the initial assembly stage - but nothing that can't be rectified during regular maintenance or come service time. Of course, if you are preparing the bike for a RTW trip and want to minimise any electrical 'issues', then making sure contacts are sealed (or even removing switches such as the side stand and clutch override) can be included in your preparation...

Please, don't not buy one because of the odd post on the Internet!

xxx

Just wondering, I am sure i read somewhere about being careful about what you apply around connectors i.e silicon grease, or silicon sealer as they are a conductor? is this correct, and if so would this not cause a short circuit then????:073:
I am not a spark just a tinkerer so a reply by sumbody who knows would be great???

:glasses2:

Hi

Mine is a blue 09 with 300 miles and never ever got wet and it failed just a easy as any 08 tenere

Thanks

Gary

I really, really, really don't want to post this, as I feel I am sealing my fate.
My '08 has had no issues with the reg/rect at all, in almost 9,000 miles of everyday use.
That includes rain, lots of rain, Scottish rain, Irish rain, snow, and Welsh snow.
The only thing I have done is to unplug the connector once, dab some ACF-50 Corrosion Block grease ( http://www.brmc.co.uk/acf-50.htm ) around the connector and inside and replug it.
I think problems occur when the plug itself has duff connectors.
I would recommend applying the grease everywhere else where there is exposed metal, as the plating is not of particularly high quality...

I've checked mine a couple of times since Steves failed. The contacts inside mine are just as they should be, however I also sealed the plug with some grease. I've also turned the horn through 90 degrees and put a short guard plate over the regulator to stop the driving weather.

One thing I did notice, the connector is very stiff and has two 'clicks' to push it home. It is very very possible that during asembly, then later at PDI these are not being connected correctly, and as we've seen from SteveD's connector the increased resistance from a bad connector overheats the whole connector block, and then it fails....

I've got 16,022 miles on my 08 Tenere, which was one of the first (if not the first) on the road in the UK, and I've no problems in that area. I have had other warrenty issues that have all been resolved by my dealer without any issue at all.

I haven't done anything to my bike and never had any problems. No greasing or spraying (except the chain), just driving. Have done the 1000 and the 10000 km services, part from that I just had to change a light bulb. Everything else I've done have been because the driver couldn't keep the right side up on the bike. =)

I live in a much dryer and less salty climate then you UKers though.

I'd add that my Tenere has been amazingly reliable also. Bought November 08 and used 5 days a week since (baring holidays and the odd day here and there). Covered 22k miles over the year and now coming up to it's second winter.

Things replaced so far

sidelight bulb * 1
headlight bulb * 2 (these were OSRAM +90% 55W bulbs so had a MUCH shorter life than standard OEM which)
chain @ 9500 miles (winter and too low a setting on my scottoiler killed it)
rear tyre * 2 (11000 miles from the Sirac, 8000 from a BT45, now using an Anakee)
front tyre (11000 miles from a sirac and currently using a BT45)
airbox breater box (replaced under warranty to stop the breater tube filling so much)
front brake discs + pad (my disc's had warped a bit so the dealer replaced the lot for me FOC)

Bike has been dropped 5 times while stationary and only received superficial scratches on the panels/bar ends and bent brake levers (front and rear)

Bike only ever failed to start once which was after it got washed and left without me starting it for another day so was water ingress. Easily sorted and lesson learned (don't wash the bike lol, seriously that was my fault and I let the bike run for a minute after now if it's gonig to be left just in case.

XT660Z Review and Fuel Guage Issue
 

Greetings from Singapore!

I have just run in my Tenere after a few months on the road.
Overall pleased with it and its fun to back in the saddle.

Key issue for me so far is that the fuel guage is telling me I'm running out of fuel and when I refuel, it only takes 13 litres...I did see a thread somewhere but can't locate it now. Anyone else have this issue?

Others....It back fires alot - even from new - something I never had on my other XT's.

The windscreen buzzzzzzzzzzz's - even if I loosen off the nuts or tighten, can't get it to be quiet. Also wonder how effective it is.

Also, sometimes its just cuts out for no reason but starts up again.

Using silver foil under the rear mudguard is a bit mickey mouse and suprised me as this would definitely not last long.

A few things, but nothing major except fuel guage, anyone else face the same issue?

cheers / Kevin / Singapore

Hi Kevin - glad you're liking your new bike!

The optimistic fuel gauge is common knowledge amongst owners now - they all read empty when you still have a good third of a tank left in there - you ought to be able to get around 250miles/400kms before you really need to look for a filling station...

Some people have also commented on the effectiveness of the screen, although not it vibrating - is it due to particular engine revs, or just at high speed? - the bikes do smooth out with a few miles on them... and depending on your height, you might find a taller screen helps - I didn't find the stock one a problem, but certainly the taller screen I now have offers less wind noise at high speeds...

When you say it cuts out? do you mean just the fuel, or do the electrics (dashboard) go blank too? - you might find that on the overrun (closed throttle) the bike leans out a little too much (with the AIS and O2 sensor etc) and 'cough' stalls - do you just fire it up again on the starter button?

As for the tin-foil - believe me it is surprisingly sticky stuff! My lasted 25,000 hard miles before I eventually peeled it off myself (when fitting the new exhaust)...

Jen xx

'09 Blue XTZ with 4.5K Kms.
No problem so far.
Great bike for tarmac, gravel and easy off-road.
I must admit that with Leovince SBK exhaust, blocked AIS, and TKC80 tyres the Tenere is really a different bike :041::041::041::041::041: a much better one.

Regards
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/d...p/DSCN1026.jpg

Hi 10 XTZ 900km no problems :smilies0944:
sold my 1150GS to get this, NO regrets.Love the seat and ergos.
Getting first service this week and fitting Akrapovics.
In NZ these are sold as 10 models and made in italy,are they all made in italy?
HI to everyone Wayne.
New Zealand

Hi, Interesting reading this thread. Let me tell you my Tenere tale, owners beware! I bought a new 08 Tenere 3 months ago got it a bit cheaper so happy there. After being let down by my KTM lc4 trying to get to Morocco. I thought I would give it another go but with a new bike etc. So all kitted up and ready to go 70 miles form London on my way to plymouth to catch the ferry engine warning light comes on and it starts to run a bit rough. I pull over for a quick inspection. Now will not restart dead battery! RAC can't do anything so I relay home and miss the ferry! Couple of days later upto my dealer for repair, they say reg/rectifier is blown and swap one out for me! All seams well. Next Ferry now to late to catch so another failed attempt. But wait engine light comes on again on monday and dash goes out completely...back to dealer today bike registered a surge in the electrics. Yamaha say put in a new loom and replace rectifier again...will keep you posted as to the new fixes...!!

Ashlander you really must read my thread on the reg/ rectifier issue. My bike has just come back from the dealers after a 2 month duration. The problem is that the connector going into the regulator on some bikes has not been clipped in correctly, this makes the terminals heat up and consequently burn and leave you with a flat battery!. I have just had a new Loom and all is now well. Last weekend i thoroughly checked it, checkout the Camping in Dent thread.:smilies0119:

On a more possitive note,
 

I took the bike into the dealers a couple of weeks ago for a few jobs, one of which was the large lump of paint that is falling away from the swingarm. This is just an asthetic problem and in no way prevents me from using the bike, sure enough though, the dealer though this shouldn't happen and put through a warranty request along with photographic evidence.

Earlier this week, I got a call to say the brand new swing arm was in, and ready to be fitted, although I'm waiting until my rear Hyperpro spring arives so they can do the job all together.

The swingarm is not an off-the-shelf item, much like the loom, yet I am in the possition of having the work done after a two week wait, and the only reason it hasn't yet been done is down to me, not Yamaha or the dealer.

Not all dealers are the same, some are crap! some are very good indeed and will do all they can to make sure you are back on the road as soon as possible. I have to say I'm very happy with mine and they do a great job with all my bikes.

Mine's a late '08 model and suffered from this problem so I coated the area with silicone grease (the dealer suggested this) and it's been ok since. When I collected the bike after it had been recovered to the dealer they asked if I'd had reason to take the connector apart because it wasn't locked in properly so it looks as if in my case it was an assembly issue.

I suppose I should go and re-pack the connector now I've said it's ok or it'll let me down when I least want it :icon_confused:

I used a black ballon creating a shroud for it after greasing the connector so hopefully that will be all it needs .....Pull of the plug and pull up a ballon , cut the end off and it fits snuggly around the connector.

I'm loving this site. Just the sort of info I need!... Just as another alternative to the other products, is Scottoiler FS365. Penetrates every where and neutralises the salt.

I used it on my TDM which had 5 years of use and ridden through 4 winters of salt-crap-treacle-gunge and the bolt heads were as shiney as the day it was bought. I also copper slipped bolts etc when I took things apart.

So that comes with the Avo Approval of high Standard...

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y56...mprovement.jpg

Avo, thanks for the praise, look at this link, http://www.yamaha-motor.co.uk/commun...s_overview.jsp

Not a lot of websites or forums gets the seal of approval from Yamaha and a link on their "unofficial" club listings. We are quite proud of that.

:CM:
:kneel:

Respect!

"bicycle inner tube tightly wrapped and ziptied around there should keep things dry"

It will be very difficult to make this arrangement watertight. There is a risk that it will end up retaining moisture and making the situation worse.

Dry it and spray it with chain-lube.

Fuelling glitches
 

Howdy people, my 09 Tenere has done 6000kms now and has developed the dreaded surges and jerkiness at steady throttle openings. Trying to ride in traffic at a steady 50km/hr in 3rd (3000rpm) is becoming a bit tiresome. These issues are well documented with earlier X/R models but was supposedly sorted for the Z. It's been back twice to the dealer but alas no joy. Has anyone else had these issues and what's the solution? Don't want to invalidate warranty by modifying airbox etc. Otherwise she's lovely and I'm off to ride it around Oz in JUly.:icon_wink:

try the cush drive mod, it works a treat

http://www.xt660.com/showthread.php?...ght=cush+drive

As Zou says, that is most likely your cush-drive rubbers starting to wear, and what you feel is backlash through the transmission, not fueling...

If you've got play in the cush-drive, that will be it - there is a mod, or you can just replace the rubbers of course...

J xx

Check your chain tension as well. The Tenere is the most tension sensitive bike I've ever owned. Bloody annoying.

Hi All, took the XTX into Keys Yamaha in Worthing for a new rear tyre, they made me an offer I couldn't refuse to px the XTX against a new black XT660Z and hey presto, am now a very happy Tenere owner

http://i588.photobucket.com/albums/s...00628-1450.jpg

Only 250 miles in, engine loosening up nicely, standard tyres terrific, want to take the wife on the back around Brittany in September.

Still love my R1200S though, especially after this ride a few weeks ago!

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=594357

[QUOTE=


1. Connector box and wiring near the alternator - just behind the horn and wide open to all the cr*p coming off the front wheel. Amusingly, the alternator area is armoured with a metal plate. Now, Mr Yamaha, what is more likely in life of an average Tenere - an unfortunate rock going there or a bike going through a puddle? What happens when these wires rot is well documented on this board, but solution is simple - plenty of grease and a bicycle inner tube tightly wrapped and ziptied around there should keep things dry.

[/QUOTE]

Thanks for the advice. I never would have looked there but I can see your point. Couldn't get a cycle inner tube completely over it but did manage to suspend a rubber apron in front of it to keep the crud off (and it's open at the back so it can dry naturally if needs be). And it provided a use for 2 of the 96 cable ties I had left over from the 100 pack I had to buy for the car wheel covers. (And I found some ancient handbar muffs at the back of the garage while looking for an inner tube).