2014 Yamaha Super Tenere ES

A look at the new Canadian-spec version of Yamaha's adventure-touring class bike.

Whether it's company strategy to gauge consumer response in other markets first or simply a necessity of tooling up for US-bound machines, Yamaha USA has not yet released any official announcement of adventure touring models for the 2014 model year. According to a source at Yamaha, we'll get official word on the category as soon as March; in the interim, Yamaha Motor Canada and Europe are already luring in buyers with full website details of the revamped Super Tenere and new-for-2014 Super Tenere ES, an upscale version of the Super-T with KYB electronic suspension system featuring push-button adjustable preload and damping settings (much like the 2014 FJR1300ES with electronically adjustable suspension that was also released to markets abroad before landing on American shores).

All 2014 Super-T models, according to Canadian specs, get a new cruise control, heated grips, redesigned multi-function LCD gauge, tapered alloy bars and risers, new LED signals, new muffler cover and a no-tools-required, four-way adjustable windscreen. The ES-equipped model scales in with a wet weight of 584 pounds, 0.8 pounds more than the base Super-T. Canadian buyers will be paying a $1,000 premium for a Super Tenere ES, which carries an MSRP of $17,499. Actual U.S. specifications and pricing may vary so stayed tuned for a complete First Look with updated information on the 2014 Yamaha Super Tenere ES sometime in March.