limey
Well-Known Member
Founding Member
2011 Site Supporter
2012 Site Supporter
2013 Site Supporter
2014 Site Supporter
Do it and be safe, good luck.
Super Tenere, is it big as a first bike?
- Thread starter Mo
- Start date
advswede1981
New Member
Get it and don't let anyone scare you away. It's not a difficult bike to ride at all and as long as you're tall and can comfortably reach the ground with both feet you'll be fine. if you're shorter than 5'10" you might have some issues.
It's a big machine to be sure. I've been riding since 1967-ish, my first experience was on a bike that was too big for me to handle and it did not go well. The S10 can work for a first ride, but I would wholeheartedly endorse a good amount of training and practice before horsing around with traffic or on loose dirt. Can also agree that a 450-650 thumper would be a better choice if you are truly a beginner moving up from scooters. Two cents worth, accounting for inflation and all 
From my perspective, seat height and weight will be the most profound difference. Once you get'er rolling, the S10 is a very forgiving bike. It's just a bear to free it if you're stuck in the mud/dirt off road. Coming in at about 3rd place in the difference category is the manual shift vs V-belt/pulley automatic. Yeah, the power is considerably more, but the delivery is docile and and the TC/ABS combo keep things under control. It's not like you're jumping onto a liter-class supersport, ala, S1000RR, ZX10R, etc. This thing's power curve is sort vespa-like anyway.
The throttle works both ways ::008::
No problem IMO if the attitude is right, the bike has easy power and this is controlled by the throttle, if you can open and close one in a controlled fashion I can see no problem.
Comments about how hard it is to ride off-raod are nonsense to me, I have been riding over 30 years and could not ride a trials bike over anything much more tricky than a flat dry field, for the road it is easy for anyone with basic machine control skills.
Iwould say the most likely issues are toppling off turning around in the road, or in car parks etc. as it is heavy - just fit some crash bars in advance.
I would also advise maybe looking at extra trainin, dunno what's available your way, but in the UK there are a couple of national advanced schemes, and several smaller training outfits.
Good luck ::008::
No problem IMO if the attitude is right, the bike has easy power and this is controlled by the throttle, if you can open and close one in a controlled fashion I can see no problem.
Comments about how hard it is to ride off-raod are nonsense to me, I have been riding over 30 years and could not ride a trials bike over anything much more tricky than a flat dry field, for the road it is easy for anyone with basic machine control skills.
Iwould say the most likely issues are toppling off turning around in the road, or in car parks etc. as it is heavy - just fit some crash bars in advance.
I would also advise maybe looking at extra trainin, dunno what's available your way, but in the UK there are a couple of national advanced schemes, and several smaller training outfits.
Good luck ::008::
The size is big, but the power is is fine. It is forgiving. Some bikes, if you whack the throttle you better be pointed in the right direction or you finished. I'm 5'7" and handle the weight and height fine, but I have experience. If you are vertically challenged, like others have said, it probably a little big. A skills class and some practice in the nearest parking lot and you will be good to go.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
- Joined
- Dec 1, 2010
- Messages
- 258
Your situation is fairly unique and one that I can relate to. Most of the people here have been riding since, er....forever. Similarly, it seems like most have gradually upgraded to more powerful and expensive bikes over a period of years, commensurate with experience, age and accumulation of wealth. They tell me about BSA's, Nortons, and the like, and I have no idea what they're talking about. ::025::
My first bike was a Honda Ascot VT 500, back in 1997 (age 27, owned for two years and sold). Having ridden mini bikes and motocross bikes as a kid, as well as several years of intense single track mountain biking in the western US, the general sensation of a two wheel vehicle made perfect sense to me. I think your experiences on the Vespa and any other two wheeled adventures you've had will also translate.
Having also grown up around farms I had many opportunities to drive IH manual transmission tractors (my father restored them). As a young adult all I could afford were cheap, manual transmission, Datsuns and Toyotas. If you've had any experiences working a clutch then that translators as well. IMHO, put those two things together and you've got the "basics" covered.
You've gotten some really good advice so far. If you can do the MSF, or equivalent, it's a really good idea. Controlling your throttle hand and taking care in slow speed maneuvers, as well as, staying in "touring" mode for a while is good too. Staying out of heavy traffic at first is also a good idea, if possible. When I picked up my new 990 ADV, after not having ridden for ten years, the experience was bewildering. I wasn't ready for the power that was on tap and the traffic was relentless. You'll likely feel that with the Tenere too, but you'll get used to it. I'd also try to avoid off camber exits and entries at slow speed until you get a feel for the weight and power of the bike. Anyway, the big jump you're wanting to make may seem irrational to some, but if you approach it rationally it can be done.
My first bike was a Honda Ascot VT 500, back in 1997 (age 27, owned for two years and sold). Having ridden mini bikes and motocross bikes as a kid, as well as several years of intense single track mountain biking in the western US, the general sensation of a two wheel vehicle made perfect sense to me. I think your experiences on the Vespa and any other two wheeled adventures you've had will also translate.
Having also grown up around farms I had many opportunities to drive IH manual transmission tractors (my father restored them). As a young adult all I could afford were cheap, manual transmission, Datsuns and Toyotas. If you've had any experiences working a clutch then that translators as well. IMHO, put those two things together and you've got the "basics" covered.
You've gotten some really good advice so far. If you can do the MSF, or equivalent, it's a really good idea. Controlling your throttle hand and taking care in slow speed maneuvers, as well as, staying in "touring" mode for a while is good too. Staying out of heavy traffic at first is also a good idea, if possible. When I picked up my new 990 ADV, after not having ridden for ten years, the experience was bewildering. I wasn't ready for the power that was on tap and the traffic was relentless. You'll likely feel that with the Tenere too, but you'll get used to it. I'd also try to avoid off camber exits and entries at slow speed until you get a feel for the weight and power of the bike. Anyway, the big jump you're wanting to make may seem irrational to some, but if you approach it rationally it can be done.
mfletch
New Member
I say get the s10 and put crash protection on it. Stay off the dirt and just get use to the bike. Take the vespa and thrash it in the dirt to get use to dirt riding. The problem with dirt riding is that you can get very rigid because you are looking at simple obstacles and your mind tells you danger ahead. It is often refer to as the death grip, so use the vespa to get use to it. Once you are confident with the s10 on the pavement, then start slowly on smooth dirt roads and work you way up.
Good luck with it you won't regret it.
Good luck with it you won't regret it.
Let us know how it goes, riding skills are a very individual development. Everyone has different spatial and balance perception. If you are reasonably athletic and comfortable with clutch and throttle control I would agree with the supporters. With everything that has been said this is still a big change-up from a Vespa. Go big or go home. The bike handles well for those who have ridden a bit and many of us have had to pick it up from the ground. ::26:: ::26::
Mo
New Member
- Joined
- Apr 19, 2013
- Messages
- 8
Thank you guys for all the responses. It is very helpful. I choose the blue color that will arrive in for weeks. I will be practicing twice a week on big bikes until it arrive. That will give me good time to train. I am not short and I am into pro Kitesurfing since many years. I am used to clutch big time. Will stay off the dirt for now. Thanks
It is a big jump, but it all boils down to the rider. Take your time to get used to the size and power and you'll be ok. Just go easy with the throttle for the fist few k miles.
----
12 Yamaha Super Tenere
04 Kawasaki Vulcan 750
84 Suzuki DR500
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
----
12 Yamaha Super Tenere
04 Kawasaki Vulcan 750
84 Suzuki DR500
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Sierrarider
New Member
I have ridden everything from a 50cc Honda up to the BMW 1200RTP for work. I have owned dirt bikes, street bikes, cruisers, and now my Tenere. As with any bike, you need to respect it for what it can do. It is a fast and agile ride. If you have only ridden your vespa I would take caution on any bike. You have mostly likely learned the fundamentals of balance, steering, and counter steering. I would recommend taking a rider safety class. There are several out there for all types of riding. When I first went through my police motor operation course, I was amazed at what I could make a motorcycle do. You will be also. Learn right the first time and your riding enjoyment will greatly increase as well as your safety.
Is it a good idea? I would say yes. It is a great bike with some great options for newer riders. Just take the precautions you should with any bike.
Is it a good idea? I would say yes. It is a great bike with some great options for newer riders. Just take the precautions you should with any bike.
cesarb
New Member
Go and get it. That dealer gave you a good deal and you will be able to ride and enjoy this bike in that beautiful country. I too have the blue.
Let us know how it goes after you are more comfortable riding the bike. Good luck and congrats!
Let us know how it goes after you are more comfortable riding the bike. Good luck and congrats!
Smellyhound
Member
I think it will suit you just fine. After all the Super Tenere should really be classified as a Farm Implement rather than a motorcycle. I mean anything you can buy a winch as an accessory for is pretty utilitarian in my opinion. Just respect the Tenere. I'm still adjusting from my WeeStrom. It's been a learning experience.
take at least one class on riding a proper motorcycle. buy the BEST gear (Arai, Shoei, AGV helmet, real proper gloves such as Held, Rukkas, etc, good quality boots such as Sidi, and a great jacket, too). and get good medical insurance if you do not have any.
what i stated is not me being a jerk or anything of the like. if you can afford a bike of this caliber and price you should seriously have some great gear to go along with it. i, myself, have all of the above in multiple numbers (3 Arai helmets (one is shot), two Vanson leathers, Sidi Adventures, four pairs of MOTO GP race-type gloves (because they crash the fastest and hardest)).
most crashes you will not see coming until they are right about to happen. my second crash on my first bike ever was due to a kid going to wrong way on a ramp. there was no avoiding this and there was no way to know this may happen at the time. i was wearing one of my Vanson's and one of my Arai helmets at the time. they save me a trip to the hospital.
the safety features are to help you on this bike. but they will not prevent a crash. in fact there is a youtube video of a motorcycle reviewer crashing on his Super Tenere' while going through a large puddle.
here are some other things (because i know you have your mind set and will definitely be getting this motorcycle): the Super Tenere' is a heavy but very well balanced motorcycle. this means that as long as it it mostly upright while you are not moving forward you will be fine. while riding it does a wonderful job doing all that the rider asks of it. in many ways it is boring because of how well it does everything.
there are vibrations at cruising speeds. this is a twin we are riding. do NOT hold onto the grips with a lot of pressure. there is no need for this. keep your hands relaxed on the grips by basically resting them on there with your hands slightly open. this will keep your hands from getting numb. one way that helped me was to keep two fingers resting on the clutch and brake (NO PRESSURE! just resting on them).
DO NOT GET COCKY. just because you have had a good month or two on the bike it does not mean that you are in the clear for everything you want to do. i have 3 years of riding and i am still conscience of my limitations. you have your whole life to learn more so do not cut it shorter by taking "fun risks".
and if you have made it down to here- well just enjoy the ride. you are getting the best motorcycle that i have ridden (very few admittedly) and this bike will be with you a very long time.
what i stated is not me being a jerk or anything of the like. if you can afford a bike of this caliber and price you should seriously have some great gear to go along with it. i, myself, have all of the above in multiple numbers (3 Arai helmets (one is shot), two Vanson leathers, Sidi Adventures, four pairs of MOTO GP race-type gloves (because they crash the fastest and hardest)).
most crashes you will not see coming until they are right about to happen. my second crash on my first bike ever was due to a kid going to wrong way on a ramp. there was no avoiding this and there was no way to know this may happen at the time. i was wearing one of my Vanson's and one of my Arai helmets at the time. they save me a trip to the hospital.
the safety features are to help you on this bike. but they will not prevent a crash. in fact there is a youtube video of a motorcycle reviewer crashing on his Super Tenere' while going through a large puddle.
here are some other things (because i know you have your mind set and will definitely be getting this motorcycle): the Super Tenere' is a heavy but very well balanced motorcycle. this means that as long as it it mostly upright while you are not moving forward you will be fine. while riding it does a wonderful job doing all that the rider asks of it. in many ways it is boring because of how well it does everything.
there are vibrations at cruising speeds. this is a twin we are riding. do NOT hold onto the grips with a lot of pressure. there is no need for this. keep your hands relaxed on the grips by basically resting them on there with your hands slightly open. this will keep your hands from getting numb. one way that helped me was to keep two fingers resting on the clutch and brake (NO PRESSURE! just resting on them).
DO NOT GET COCKY. just because you have had a good month or two on the bike it does not mean that you are in the clear for everything you want to do. i have 3 years of riding and i am still conscience of my limitations. you have your whole life to learn more so do not cut it shorter by taking "fun risks".
and if you have made it down to here- well just enjoy the ride. you are getting the best motorcycle that i have ridden (very few admittedly) and this bike will be with you a very long time.
Mzee
Active Member
I think the jump is drastic. It would be good to grow into riding. I started with a vespa, then a Honda 250, then a DL 650 and then 1200. But that is me.
oilfield_trash
Member
I had a Nighthawk 750, Gen 2 Hayabusa, and the S10. All were a little big when I bought them, but I never really grew out of them either.
Mo
New Member
- Joined
- Apr 19, 2013
- Messages
- 8
Thanks Korie for the information on safety. I will look around for safety clothing. I had my first lesson on a Japanese 400 and went well. Transmissions were smooth and the bike is light. So, I felt really good on the highway. But I agree with you, I would have prefered to have safety clothing as I felt naked and any crash would mean injury. I would blame the instructor but maybe I have to buy mine now.
I will practice for about 20 hrs. on different sized engines. The instructor will stay with me till the purchases and guide me through the S10. I will not jump into that bike till I feel I am well capable.
BR
Mo
I will practice for about 20 hrs. on different sized engines. The instructor will stay with me till the purchases and guide me through the S10. I will not jump into that bike till I feel I am well capable.
BR
Mo
Many many many (+some more) years ago I jumped from a 12HP 125cc 2-stroke TZR125 (Uk learner laws limited me to that size cc/HP) onto a FZR1000Genesis that I bought new once I past my test. I'm still here now and I think a fairly sensible rider that prefers shiney side up/rubber side down .
If your confident in your abilities then I see no problem with the jump. The S10 is a fairly benign bike in that its very stable, low CofG, lots of good safety aids in TC/ABS that I didn't have on my then new FZR1000. It had a fierce power step around 6k revs that would either make the bike wheely or loose traction dependant on gear and road conditions/speed etc. It also had fairly modulation free front brakes that could lock up /howl a front tyre if tempted to do so.
The only issues I can guess would be if short of leg or lacking in body strength it is still a heavy bike when moving at slow speed could result in the odd drop, the weight issue isn't relevant once rolling. Its your money (and your life) spend it how you feel fit.
If your confident in your abilities then I see no problem with the jump. The S10 is a fairly benign bike in that its very stable, low CofG, lots of good safety aids in TC/ABS that I didn't have on my then new FZR1000. It had a fierce power step around 6k revs that would either make the bike wheely or loose traction dependant on gear and road conditions/speed etc. It also had fairly modulation free front brakes that could lock up /howl a front tyre if tempted to do so.
The only issues I can guess would be if short of leg or lacking in body strength it is still a heavy bike when moving at slow speed could result in the odd drop, the weight issue isn't relevant once rolling. Its your money (and your life) spend it how you feel fit.