New to ADV bikes

[Kasey0020]

Howdy folks. New guy here from Texas. Been a big fan of Yamahas for many years and currently ride a '06 Royal Star. But I've pretty much decided that this will be my last cruiser. Just doesn't do it for me any more. I really like the Tenere and I think it may be my next bike. I'm sure I will buy used as I'm a man of modest means. Just wondering if there are any year models to be avoided or anything specific I should look out for.

Also...as a big/tall guy with bad (read inflexible) knees, how is the leg room on the Tenere compared to a typical cruiser. I realize the riding position is very different and the pegs are further back, but the seat height on the Tenere seems so much higher... I'm wondering if the knee bend is comparable or will I get cramped.

Thanks for any insight.

My left knee is held together with screws and plates. I can ride my 2018 s10 ES for a very long time with only the occasional leg extension. I came from sport touring so I cannot compare with cruisers.

 

[Sierra1]

….I came from sport touring....

I have the same background. My last were the ST1300 & FJR. I don't know if had her long enough to push her envelope, but you will find that she can keep up with ANY sport tour in the curves; and, depending on the rider, even pure sports bikes. But, she doesn't "cramp you up" on a long ride.

 

[Checkswrecks]

And when the pavement ends, the rest of the ride is a lot more fun and comfortable than on a sport tourer.

 

[Flat lander]

Welcome from Kansas.
I hope you get your test rides. I wasn't that lucky. Seems to be about impossible at a dealer here. Bought my 2015 es based on this forum, rider reviews and Yamaha's reliability. If you choose the Tenere my only suggestion is by one loaded. Your only buying is the bike. Everything thing else is basically free.

 

[Sierra1]

And when the pavement ends, the rest of the ride is a lot more fun and comfortable than on a sport tourer.

….and with less damage inflicted. We have some PAVED roads around here that my son refuses to take his FJR on due to the condition of the road. The Tenere doesn't even "blink".

 

[trickydc]

I'll let you know that my knees, left one has been replaced, are very comfortable on the S-10. I bought a 2015 used and I couldn't be happier with it. Just wish I had a little more time to ride it. As said in other post the cruise control is great, don't think I could own another bike without that.

 

[ballisticexchris]

Hi there, I too am very new to these huge beasts. It's the biggest and heaviest bike I have ever owned. 1st antilock brakes, cruise control, heated grips, and electronic suspension. It's also the very most comfortable bike I have ever swung a leg over. Just a few weeks ago I did an almost 400 mile morning through afternoon ride and came home as fresh as when I left.

The riding position on this bike is nothing short of phenomenal!! I recommend the Helibars for perfect upper body comfort.

 

[nwrider]

Butterthebean, If you don't already know about this site -- Motorcycle Ergonomics check it out and compare hip, knee bend reach to bars, etc. of the Royal Star and the Tenere'.