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5k miles on my Norden in three months, been a great bike so far! I don’t look for reliability problems, seems a good way to spoil your time with a great motorcycle. Thanks for the reviews!
Had my 901 for a year and so far no issues and a ton of fun. Love the channel, interesting, entertaining and honest. Always look forward to the next one.
Great comparison. Having had the 890R, I agree with your views on the Norden. I’ve thought about the Tenere, but I’d miss the nice features of more complex bikes. Sadly the perfect bike doesn’t exist. The bad news is you have to go get a Tuareg now so we can get that in the comparison. 😅
Good comparison. Thinking about replacing my Vstrom, starting to lean hard towards a T7. Problem is 2 of my buddies have them. I suppose that's OK as long as we don't get matching riding outfits.
Great video bud. I just bought a Norden 901 Expeditin. I love it but was thinking it was a little big. I was sort of thinking I should have bought a Tenere. Thankfully after hearing the pros and cons, it reassured me that I have the right bike for me. FYI I just picked up a CRF 300 L Rally to help me get better in the dirt. I appreciated your videos on it as well. Keep up the great work.
Your bike reviews/ comparisons videos are spectacular brother!!!! You’ve come so far in knowing what to look for, and how to convey your thoughts. Awesome job Ben.
@@mindwalkerpod No, I don't have $18k or a dealer around to do all the maintenance. I did touch one at a dealer near Philly, it was nice, but never made it to 2nd base after seeing the note on the seat that said "please don't sit on me".
I took the Fortnine video as making fun of Ducati. A dealer to adjust the chain lol I always thought people were exaggerating when they talked about Ducati maintenance
Enjoyed the comparison. I have the T7 and bought it for off road. I have a BMW GSA for the long haul on road adventures with some Dirt/gravel roads along the way. Both bikes are great - and make a well rounded stable.
AJP-PR7 is THE bike (if you live in a non-leftoid state as the current US model is not street legal, but very easy to make legal in a free state) Imagine a bike that handles like your 650L but more nimble, weights about the same but with 2x the fuel range, 3x better suspension, a very comfortable seat, modest wind protection, fuel injection, and 2x power. That is the PR7. T7 is a great bike for gravel grinding and highway travel, but is too heavy for real off-road.
Most people don't know that the Husky 901/KTM 890 engine is manufactured in China...and a lot of other parts as well. The KTM family of bikes are overpriced. They have more power than you need and way too much tech to glitch out. Simple is better. T7 is still too heavy.
Nice comparison👍 I think the Tuareg may be that ADV unicorn 🦄 Most of the electronics,tubeless, more power than the tenere, more gas, even better suspension! In return you give up 2 G’s and that Yamaha dependability. Might just be a fair deal 🤓🤓
There is no such thing as a 450 to 500 pound unicorn adventure sport bike if the intention is to do any serious off road work. I think the Tuareg would be a huge mistake.
A lot of your videos show you on a different bike you are testing out for us. I appreciate that to no end! With that said a lot of them show your buddy on the same road, trail and track on his trusty Honda Africa Twin. Might be something to say for that bike! KTM 990 adv r owner myself but have been tempted by the AT and the T7. Great video!
I test rode the Tenere world raid it was so top heavy and it had minimal fuel so understand your point. I’ve yet to test ride the Norden but pleased to hear the lower center of gravity. The Norden is the bike I like the most.
I'd say a very fair evaluation on both bikes based on your experiences and knowledge of both bikes. I had to smile though when you said one of the nuances with the Husky is forgetting your settings and of course that doesn't happen with the T7 because it doesn't have all the settings to forget. Nice job. Thanks.
Great video, Ben!!! Loved all of the unbiased, thoughtful commentary on strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle and how each type of rider would appreciate them! You know we're big KTM fans over here but I had a chance to ride the piss out of a T7 and you really can't go wrong with that one either!
Yeah. I can't imagine not having the electronic traction control now that I've had it for so long. I'm with you. I love pushing the bike into corners and testing the TC!
After hearing you Ben on these two awesome bikes you helped me to make my mind up on getting a KTM 890 Adventure R (2023 just waiting for when they arrive)! Ben all your videos are great!
I love my 790R and will keep it forever, but I am jealous of the Tenere's exhaust note. It is the best sounding thing I've heard since my Ducati 750SS or 996. Cheers
Thanks Ben your vids on the Norden I’ve watched countless times, all of them. Also Ian at Big Rock Moto helped in making my decision both you guys gave many unbiased evaluations on the Norden, and it led me to purchasing a great Norden. This go anywhere any time is a true trouble free joy to own. Prepping for the BDR now, what a bitchen bike 👍🏆 Also I enjoy all your vids, as I watch everyone at least twice, some three times. You’re in my top 10 for TH-cam easily.
I think the big question here is that if you're in North America and decide to go for a Tenere 700 or Norden 901, can you actually get one? For MSRP? Chances are no for both. Considering several dealers have marked new and used Tenere prices up close enough to where the Norden retails for, that value proposition disappears rather quickly. The Norden appears to be a more limited production, with the focus being production on the KTM 890 Adventure. As such, both bikes are hilariously scarce right now. However, Aprilia Tuareg 660s and Ducati Desert X's seem to be more available at the moment. FYI per Moto-Hunt as of 11/28/22 in the United States: New Tenere 700's listed for sale - 65 New Norden 901's for sale - 17 New KTM 890 adventure's (all trims) - 145 New Tuareg 660's for sale - 108 New Desert X's for Sale - 103
@@mxbadboy263 Indeed they are, this was from a quick search, I couldn't tell if any of those were ads for placing reservations or bikes on the floor. Going off of my local dealerships though my local Aprilia dealership has two tuaregs in stock and my local Ducatti Dealership has 1 Desert X in already. None of my local Yamaha Dealers have any Teneres in stock.
Good breakdown. One caveat tho, not all singletrack is remotely equal and these bikes would be a big liability on a lot of the single track in the cascades and tight woods of the western PNW, it can certainly be done on some trails and more with the right riders but I feel like this side of adventure bikes is oversold.
I feel like most people know that? The single track I would take either of these on is a world apart from what I would do on my 450L. The only similarity is that there is only one track. 😂
Great comparison video. I bought a Tenere 700 but considered a Norden since it took me so long to find the Yamaha. The Norden felt big from the saddle which I was trying to get away from (I sold my BMW 1200 GSA to buy the Tenere). So far I like the Yamaha a lot but I am sure I would have liked the Norden.
Nice assessment Ben! Really excellent breakdown and to the point delivery. My own perspective is the bikes have a similar value for money. The question is do you want to pay extra for extra stuff. $3k buys you a quick shifter, cruise control, rider modes, more HP, etc.
I agree with almost everything, they only thing I would put some remarks is the reliability of the Norden. Indeed some maintenance has to be done meticulously, like changing the nozzle on time. But the reliability issues in the Norden group were mostly from the US. I wonder how good the pre-delivery checks were done by the dealers. And I'm no not considering the faulty batch of rear shocks some got. I know of no Norden owners that I met personally that had any issues. Is that a coincidence? Maybe, I'm not certain. But both bikes are indeed great bikes, same for the aprillia, ducatie, honda at,... So many great choices to be made.
I had a t7 for a year but sold it after having to pick it up 3 times in quick succession on a really slippery trail. It's too top heavy when the speed drops. I have a 901 on order that i will use mainly on the road but if the conditions are right I'll happily take on to the dirt. If i want to just ride dirt, I'll take my Husaberg. Great content as always. Thanks
Had a T7 on order as my first choice but last year they couldn't get me one after waiting 8 months. So I ordered a Norden which arrives in a couple of weeks. Hopefully it was the right choice! Great review, I liked that realism
Great and interesting comparison. I’ve got a 890AR and have ridden a few T-700’s. The traction control on the Norden/890’s is just so good for climbing technical rocky terrain. I think someone that is leaning towards the T-700 for its simplisty, reliability and off road bias should really consider the KTM/Husky 690/701. I’ve owned a late generation 701. The 690/701 has as much horsepower as the T-7 but nearly 100 pounds lighter, same range, long service interval but way better suspension than the T-7.
I would generally agree, but the frame and shape of the 690/701 sucks for adventure riding. They need to put it in a comparable Dakar capable frame and styling like the T7 and it would be the top selling bike in the mid weight category. No question.
Technical difficulties oh. good comparison of both bikes. Nailed it again. T 7 for me as you have ride it & keep you on your toes & the power snap on the spot. Also the ability to just send it.
Thank you for your input on both. Having ridden a Kawi Vulcan for my street riding, and a DR 650, for my dirt fun...I have an idea of how each riding style is approached. Since I will be retiring in a few months and plan to do some significant on road, more than off road, I think the Norden 901 Expedition will be the way to go, to start with. Due to the fact that half the roads in Alaska are dirt, or somewhat maintained dirt, I will definitely be stupid and buy the Tenere' also. I think it might be more for at home here in Alaska, while using the Norden for transiting across Canada, and enjoying riding in the lower 48. Now to figure out how to afford both...LOL.
I've been a KTM for years. Snice 1995 I've've been riding KTM dirt bikes. Brand loyal until the end. Bought a new YZ450FX in 2021. Changed my whole view on bikes. Don't get me wrong, I love my old 300EXCs and 300XCWs still. The KTM group has gotten it seems far to proud of what they have. The prices have become ridiculous. Reliability and finsih seems to have been sacrificed. The price points of Yamha is excellent and thier reliability is top notch. I've been eyeing a Tenere 700 for a couple years to replace my well ridden 950 adventure. I'll probably end up with a Tenere this spring.
Wow what a nice and honest comparison. I love it. Thank you for those information and by the I'm your new subscriber and follower from the Philippines.
The only problem with the tenere is finding one, and second problem is that is even harder to find one it at MSRP As an owner of a KTM and a lover of the electronics assistant I will probably go for the T7
I know this comment is of no use to you across the pond, but on England 🏴 and Europe we've never had and problems with supply. This is probably because our T7's are built in France 🇫🇷 and we never pay more than the MRRP for them. I have owned my T7 since March 2020, always starts on the button and has 21,000 miles on the clock. I do like the Husky's and KIM'S but my love is the simple life and this includes tech on my bikes. P.S. Ben this has been a great unbiased review, well done and keep up the great work mate. 👍
@@colin20cal I mean partially because unless your name is Harley-Davidson, the market for motorcycles here in the States is way smaller than in Europe, so manufacturers don't bother to send a lot of supply here. Also because the tenere 700 debuted over there back in 2018 I think, and here in the States right when COVID started ramping up and production shutdowns hit. Yamaha just hasn't been able to catch up.
@@TheSocialliberal They debuted here in England around August 2019, I got mine March 21st 2020, two days before we went into covid lock down. How's that for bad luck 🤔 I believe the USA T7's come from Japan, I could be wrong. More than 40,000 T7's have been sold across Europe 👍
@@colin20cal no, you're right, ones sold here are made in Japan. Also fun story, from March of 2020 I had an opportunity to buy a Tenere 700 and turned it down because I had been riding for less than a year at that point. When it came time for me to get a new bike, they were gone and tracking one down was next to impossible. That's why I eventually ended up getting a 2016 Africa Twin, which end up being the better bike for where I live.
I was a Boyscout growing up, so I internalized their mantra of "be prepared!". I'd much rather have something and not need it (the Norden) than need it and not have it (the Tenere). Ben, to answer your question about "why would you pay all that money for the Norden, and then turn off the features you paid for"... to hone your skills. If both bikes are so very close in the areas that matter, then why not get the one with all of the extra features, if you can afford it, but especially if you can turn those features off, whenever you want. Reliability is a massive concern for me, which is why I'd rather go for the Honda Africa Twin. Yeah, from the sounds of it, the Africa Twin isn't as responsive and powerful as the Norden is, even though the AT has a larger engine. But as Ian at Big Rock Moto pointed out, the AT also doesn't require premium fuel. You can run 87 octane, and be just fine.
Really enjoyed that review. I'm a 1290 SAS owner, and prior to that a 990 Adventure. Looking at the 901 Expedition or the 890 Adv R. (UK based). Not really an off-road guy, but want to get into it a little more. Buying an old AJP 250 PR4 for practice/dropping! I love the look of the new 890, but buy sensible head is saying the kit on the Expedition is really good. Your summary of the Nordon character and attributes was helpful, thanks. Ed
Great review. One angle I think of is that I love the idea of the T7 and yes it’s cheaper than the norden or 890 however in my opinion the T7 NEEEEEEDS a suspension upgrade and Tubeless wheels/tires for me to consider it. After that I wonder if there were still be any cost savings. Another shortcoming that I would do anything about…fuel capacity on the T7 is a little low but I’d carry extra fuel if needed.
That’s the best way to look at it. After bringing up the T7 to speed with its euro competitors, you’re still lacking traction control, cruise control, and other creature comforts - for the same price as the euro bikes. The only pro’s I see for the T7 is it’s reliability and the beautiful motor. However, for $15k all said and done, I’d expect a lot more than the bare minimum offerings it provides.
What an excellent comparison. I currently own the Norden 901 and was thinking of selling and getting the Expedition version because of all the wonderful extras like heated seat, grips, Explorer mode, center stand and more. However, I lost my road only biking friends and my new biking partner is a BDR fan. I'm 62 and come from a dirt bike background and you are totally right the Norden does things in the background that you do not realise till you stop and think about it but seeing as I go forward it will be less highway riding I feel the 2024 Tenere 700 is the bike for me. I am curious what seat cover you have on the T7? I'm a big guy and seat comfort is just about top of the list for me which is something the Norden excelled at very well indeed. Off to the Yamaha dealer tomorrow to see if they have any coming in. Thanks so much for your honest straight forward no BS thoughts :)
Great review and footage. It's very frustrating to hear the price point of the t7 as it cannot be purchased for that price. My local dealership had it listed at $13999 but they would kindly give me the local deal of $12999.
B/c its a dealership. Hard reality to learn about the dealer and assembly fees. You usually have to take that into account when looking at MSRP but you've clearly learned by now. I am going to negotiate as best I can for $12k.
I just bought a 2015 V Strom 650 with 15,000 miles on it it’s so comfortable and runs so smooth I still think I want a tenere or a sometimes but then I cruise along at 75 getting 58 miles to the gallon with a seat like butter and Good wind coverage. But for $5,800 it also came with all the luggage and tubeless tires. I will just go a little slower down the dirt path lol
Great video thx...... so if you already own a 1290 adventure which bike would you choose? I'm looking for another bike in my stable and the t7 looks to fit the bill but I had a KTM 690 and sold it within 500 miles, hated that bike for too many reasons, do you think the Norden would be a better choice?
2 days time.. thats when i have my 24 tenere 700.. way too excited.. this will be my first brand new bike.. grew up on quads and dirt bikes and years ago I had a bike stolen. I'm so excited for this bike I cant wait to rip!.. for the norden, more electronics = more failures.. yamaha tenere is basically a pure riders bike.
Owned a T7 for 2 years and 15k kms and loved it I got a norden now and love it even more than the T7. More comfort and handles better. T7 is too top heavy in my opinion
I'm an old(er) trail and single track rider looking to get into ADV riding to "expand my horizons". Even though I love my Husky TE250 the Norden is not even on my list(pretty much for all the reasons you mentioned). For me, its down to the Tenere 700 or Tuareg 660... Leaning heavily on the T7
T-7 all the way. Based on my electrical issues with the Pan Am. The PA and Norden have some similarities, they are a hoot to ride with all that power in a lightweight bike. On the road, totally amazing and off-road as capable as the rider. How can you be confident in a bike that way not start if you ride it deep into the off-road? These are advertised as ADV bikes reliability should be the main priority. IMHO My dealer still can’t get an allotment of T-7’s, after the first of the year I’m going to widen my search or maybe a Husky 701.
You keep talking about the price difference on the Tenere but the markup on those things is just stupid. I'd go for the Husky all day ... but I already have a 701 for off road focus and a 1090 for adv touring. If I had to have one, it would be a Norden or 890R
A very well done comparison video. For me cost is a factor so it's the Tenere for me. The Tenere is also a motorcycle I can ride to the gym, store etc and that's where it's a perfect fit. I live in the Midwest and the off road riding area is twenty minutes away so I don't need a large gas tank. I don't like riding any motorcycle on the interstate or above 60 mph so that also makes the Tenere perfect for me. I don't understand why someone would buy the Husky 901 over the ktm 890. The Husky is a cheap ugly version of the Ktm and the KTM is no beauty queen!
The fact that the Tenere has the CP2 engine which is more reliable is already a good enough reason for me to lean that way. Reliability is the most important aspect of a bike to me, especially if it's being used for long trips. My inseam is 28-29inches so after sitting on a T7 at a dealership it was a little tall but I've ridden on CRF450s and WR250 offroad and it wasn't that bad. You learn to adapt and shift your weight. Picking your lines is important so you don't tip over in the first place. The weight on the T7 will be an issue but again, ill have to adapt. Can always get a lower after market seat anyways.
I am the type that overthink things, like oh if I'll get stranded, if the bike will break down, can I squeeze the money to fix or maintain it in the future. I'm not the type that just buy something and say I'll fix it when sh!t hit the fan. The feeling of reliability is extremely important for me, far more than any other feature. Hence the T7 is the one for me, I was lucky enough to buy one this year after someone pulled their deposit. So far, I love it. Is there some complaints about it? Yes. But I'm very satisfied with it. Some has also point out, the T7 is very hard to find at MSRP. Maybe, for me, I bought it a but over MSRP because these days, dealership are trying to sell you a 5 year extended warranty by forcing it on you when you buy a new bike. The upside I guess is I will have to worry about nothing for the next 6 years.
I’m decided on t7 only because reliability is always my focus and even though the husky is reliable, it’s performance biased, meaning they need a lot of extra love to keep them happy. I would rather save some money and have a bike that won’t leave my solo riding ass stranded in Narnia
Loved the "Rom-com" analogy! (Not everyone could afford to have a two girlfriend like you!) 😹😻 And of course the entire reivew. Quite details yet kept my delivered in more digestible and interesting chuncks with great references to specifc use cases. Thanks. 👍
The problem with the survey is your owners group is that KTM and Husky owners always lie about their bike’s reliability. They say they’ve never had any problems when they’ve really had a lot of problems! Sold my 790 R because of all the issues I had!
Hi 6 months owner Norden 901 after had cp2 in my past! For now Norden in 7k km never had a problem. My old cp2 in the first yr had to come back for a starter issue.
It's a tricky one that's for sure dad and I got two 390 advs both ended up rejected at 147 and 269 miles full off issues. I'm on a 300 Rally at the moment which I'm giving to my dad then I'm gonna get something a bit bigger as we are moving to Scotland an going to Norway / Iceland next year most likley I might end up getting a t7 from a reliability point of view. The Norden looks ace though. (Had a 1200gsa te, 1200gs te, 1000xt, 650xt, n a f800gs as well)
If you compare the factory service manual vs the owners manual, a lot of the time the owners manual has grossly overstated service intervals vs the factory one. I like to adhere closer to the fsm than the owners.
Great review, HOWEVER, If It’s the Zombie apocalypse (the slow moving kind with numerous herds like on the Walking Dead not the fast Z-kind). They are headed toward your house. You walk out into you garage and both your Tenere and Norton are fully fueled, both have your favorite tires and mods on each, all your other bikes and vehicles are not running. Both bikes are packed the way you want them to be. To get to your well provisioned bug-out cabin and ride out the apocalypse, you must travel 30 miles of highway, 10 miles of fire-road and a mile of not tough or technical, wide, dry, 2 track trail that had low to medium hills. Which bike do you climb on to make good your escape? Which would the Dork choose? We want to know!!!
Dork, you seem to really like the T7 suspension, but Big Rock Moto says it's way undersprung. As a, how shall I say this, not small person, you don't find this to be the case? Have you talked to Ian about it?
And if you want really simple bike that will take you everywhere these bikes can go, get an RE Himalayan! Just be prepared to do it in a slower more relaxed way...🤪 Cheers! I am thinking of picking up a Norden Expedition sometime next year. I have an RE Himalayan, and an NC700X.
Decided on a Norden mostly because the T7 is more similar to my extensivly modded Suzuki Dr 650 (which I am keeping), but the Norden much better for Highway use and almost as good off the pavement as the Yamaha. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying a Dr is as capable as a Tenre, just that it is a simple old school "non tech" bike. The Tenere kind of splits the difference between the two. The reliability concerns are not as much of a factor if "old reliable" is in the garage as well. By the way Dork, I know this is an old post and you probably wont read this, but you really need to buy a new Dr and do all the common (mandatory?) mods and tell us what you think.
Thank you for the excellent content man - I've discovered your channel researching the Norden and have been hooked since - loved the BDR videos. I want to get a mid sized ADV - I've test rode the Teneré, the Norden, the 890 (non R) and the Tuareg. I'm very leaning towards the Tuareg. Would you say it's a compromise between the Tenere and the Norden? For reference, I'm in europe and I've got better access to dealerships and parts and all that. Would love to have your thoughts on it.
I like the looks of T7 more. But the norden is the more modern bike all around. Also the T7 is more expensive than the Norden where I live (11.5k vs 10.5k) The stock T7 to me also feels like an "old" bike from the 90s, I don't really get all the hype. Its a 9.5k bike that now costs 11.5k, thats the free market I guess. What I don't get regarding the "simplicity" & "no electronics" of the T7 is: What sensors that can fail does the Norden have, that T7 doesn't? Isn't it more about the software ?
I ride a 2020 Goldwing Tour DCT on the street, been looking for a Tenere for some off road shinanigins. As this would be a second bike , I'm gonna stick to looking for the Yamaha. I've got enough technology on my wing, and just want the low cost of ownership, and reliability of the Tenere.
I love my T7 but the top heaviness and picking it up hasn’t been fun. I wish it had cruise control but other than that it’s enough for me the motor is so smooth.
I got a KLX300 really thinking of getting either a sport tourer or Adventure bike as a second bike. Really want the Aprilia but no dealerships near by. Think I'm gonna go with the Tenere I'm not the kind of person to want to deal with reliability issues.
Had a tenere for over a year now, the only thing i dont like about it is the height of the bike and also if your drop it then its really really hard to lift it up again. Other wise im really happy with it
It's almost an unfair comparison because the Norden is a *significantly* more expensive bike. I'd argue virtually every single would be buyer has a dollar limit they're looking to meet. If you're comparing both, you'd compare a bone stock Norden with, for example, a T7 with a full aftermarket suspension, a set of Motoz GPS tires, a Seat Comfort's Comfort seat, crash bars and soft luggage. Honestly though both are such awesome bikes. If I was looking for a One True Forever Bike, it'd probably be the Norden, because it's simply better on long rides. Hell, I have a Tracer 900GT and a Tenere 700 now, and if Yamaha releases a Tenere 900 with the CP3, I'd strongly consider trading both in. But, when you've got a street ride already and want a rough-and-tumble offroad bike that's never going to strand you somewhere, that's pure business, it's arguably the best bang for the buck there while still not just being road capable but road fun(I mean, I do 180kph twisties rides on mine all the time). What I'm gonna highlight that you missed, however? The Tenere is a better commuter. It's *super fun* in town, because that CP2 is so glorious at city speeds where quickness is all that matters, the tall suspension and offroad chops make it delightful hopping over curbs, and giving you excellent traffic visibility (for you, and for people looking for you). I'm gonna repeat, though, seriously: pull the baffle out of the stock exhaust, give it a listen. It's outstanding. It's a 5 minute readily reversible job, but is probably a great little T7 video.
@@jimsnyder1742 that's because it's supposed to be like that. It's actually Ténéré, which is french and the name of a dessert in Africa. All the "e"s in Ténéré are pronounced equally and like the first one.
I always have serious doubts with brands like Husqvarna and the like. You can still see some +20 year old Africa Twin, Transalp or DR650 for example (at least here in Europe), but I don't think we will see in 2043 a bunch of 2023 Norden 901. Great video and incredible landscapes!
I find the whole forgetting or ignoring maintenance such a strange thing. It would never be an issue for me, and I just dont understand what type of person buys a nice bike then skimps maintenance.
I really enjoyed that, thanks! Since you also used to own one... I would SOOO liked to have seen the Africa Twin in this comparison. Perhaps it sits more in the "big bike" class, instead of mid-size, but it seems like it would appeal to similar riders? It seem like with the Honda, you could get the Norden " high tech bells and whistles" (especially with the DCT) while still having that "Yamaha reliability"? Perhaps a follow up video? ;)
I too sold my AT and do not regret one bit. If you only do light off-road and a lot of highway the AT wins. That’s not to say that the a T can’t do harder off road as I have done the entire alpine loop and blackbear pass, etc. on the AT however I would much rather do it on the T7. I road the Transamerica Trail, the summer of 2021 on the T7. I included 3 days in Moab Hells Revenge, Slickrock etc, some Continental divide trail, up to Jackson Hole, PCH, Barstow to Vegas, then highway back to Virginia. Excellent bike for that however the seat is not the most comfortable. I now have 22,000 miles on it with no issues at all. I did a De-cat header pipe and muffler then remapped the ECU. Better 3rd gear wheelies now. I can loft the front in 3rd at 30 mph and ride it out to 78 mph. I still would like a Norden also but keep the T7
Kawasaki and pump out a ton of KLR650's and Yamaha can't even put one Tenere 700 in my local dealer (NY) The Tenere especially the 2023 model with the upgrades is almost a perfect bike. If Yamaha put Cruise Control and Tubeless on it it would be perfect. If reliability wasn't a factor the Taureg 660 is already my perfect bike. Still have at least another year before I pull the trigger so who knows what may come to market.
Why did you get crash bars on Norden? KTM says you don't need bcs of the same gas tanks. Thanks love your stuff! My street bike here in Medellin is a 950 Yamaha Bolt. Traffic and dring here are crazy. I have a friend with a newer (1yr old) every time we go riding in the city my bike eats him alive. I think bcs of the belt drive! Wish this bike had 6 gears!
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Dork in the Road’s Adventure Bike Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3zGFHxg
5k miles on my Norden in three months, been a great bike so far! I don’t look for reliability problems, seems a good way to spoil your time with a great motorcycle. Thanks for the reviews!
Had my 901 for a year and so far no issues and a ton of fun. Love the channel, interesting, entertaining and honest. Always look forward to the next one.
Great comparison. Having had the 890R, I agree with your views on the Norden. I’ve thought about the Tenere, but I’d miss the nice features of more complex bikes. Sadly the perfect bike doesn’t exist.
The bad news is you have to go get a Tuareg now so we can get that in the comparison. 😅
LoL yup agree
Good comparison. Thinking about replacing my Vstrom, starting to lean hard towards a T7. Problem is 2 of my buddies have them. I suppose that's OK as long as we don't get matching riding outfits.
Put a sticker kit on it, problem solved
Great video bud. I just bought a Norden 901 Expeditin. I love it but was thinking it was a little big. I was sort of thinking I should have bought a Tenere. Thankfully after hearing the pros and cons, it reassured me that I have the right bike for me.
FYI I just picked up a CRF 300 L Rally to help me get better in the dirt. I appreciated your videos on it as well.
Keep up the great work.
Your bike reviews/ comparisons videos are spectacular brother!!!! You’ve come so far in knowing what to look for, and how to convey your thoughts. Awesome job Ben.
for my part reliability, when it comes down to it is like food, water and shelter, it's a basic need and takes precedence over other concerns
Team T7 for me, it has been 10,650 glorious miles so far and unlike that traitor Fortnine, I would never trade it for a DesertX!
Have you tried a desertx?
@@mindwalkerpod No, I don't have $18k or a dealer around to do all the maintenance. I did touch one at a dealer near Philly, it was nice, but never made it to 2nd base after seeing the note on the seat that said "please don't sit on me".
@@l3ulldozer that's fair, however you never know what's to come in the near or far future. Cheers to $18k being a throwaway amount later in life
I took the Fortnine video as making fun of Ducati. A dealer to adjust the chain lol I always thought people were exaggerating when they talked about Ducati maintenance
@@AskformeJohnT that definitely was satire on Ducati and it's ridiculousness for even the most mundane maintenance tasks of a motorcycle!
Enjoyed the comparison. I have the T7 and bought it for off road. I have a BMW GSA for the long haul on road adventures with some Dirt/gravel roads along the way. Both bikes are great - and make a well rounded stable.
As a Honda xr650l rider who rides mostly freeway, but dreams of the trails on the weekends the Yamaha seems like the natural upgrade.
Rode an Xr650L for years. Upgraded to T7. Amazing bike. You will not regret it.
DR rider here, doing a lot of dirt and gravel roads. I agree the Ténéré could be an awesome future bike!
Did you end up making the change? My situation is very similar to yours, just wondering how it played out if you ended up pulling the trigger.
AJP-PR7 is THE bike (if you live in a non-leftoid state as the current US model is not street legal, but very easy to make legal in a free state) Imagine a bike that handles like your 650L but more nimble, weights about the same but with 2x the fuel range, 3x better suspension, a very comfortable seat, modest wind protection, fuel injection, and 2x power. That is the PR7. T7 is a great bike for gravel grinding and highway travel, but is too heavy for real off-road.
Most people don't know that the Husky 901/KTM 890 engine is manufactured in China...and a lot of other parts as well. The KTM family of bikes are overpriced. They have more power than you need and way too much tech to glitch out. Simple is better. T7 is still too heavy.
It is the best video I have seen on the subject, thank you very much for the honesty, greetings from Colombia, David Ortega.
Nice comparison👍
I think the Tuareg may be that ADV unicorn 🦄
Most of the electronics,tubeless, more power than the tenere, more gas, even better suspension!
In return you give up 2 G’s and that Yamaha dependability.
Might just be a fair deal 🤓🤓
There is no such thing as a 450 to 500 pound unicorn adventure sport bike if the intention is to do any serious off road work. I think the Tuareg would be a huge mistake.
A lot of your videos show you on a different bike you are testing out for us. I appreciate that to no end! With that said a lot of them show your buddy on the same road, trail and track on his trusty Honda Africa Twin. Might be something to say for that bike! KTM 990 adv r owner myself but have been tempted by the AT and the T7. Great video!
I test rode the Tenere world raid it was so top heavy and it had minimal fuel so understand your point. I’ve yet to test ride the Norden but pleased to hear the lower center of gravity.
The Norden is the bike I like the most.
I'd say a very fair evaluation on both bikes based on your experiences and knowledge of both bikes. I had to smile though when you said one of the nuances with the Husky is forgetting your settings and of course that doesn't happen with the T7 because it doesn't have all the settings to forget. Nice job. Thanks.
Great video, Ben!!! Loved all of the unbiased, thoughtful commentary on strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle and how each type of rider would appreciate them! You know we're big KTM fans over here but I had a chance to ride the piss out of a T7 and you really can't go wrong with that one either!
Wow, your commitment to quality content is inspiring! Great vid man!
Thank you very much!
Yeah. I can't imagine not having the electronic traction control now that I've had it for so long. I'm with you. I love pushing the bike into corners and testing the TC!
After hearing you Ben on these two awesome bikes you helped me to make my mind up on getting a KTM 890 Adventure R (2023 just waiting for when they arrive)! Ben all your videos are great!
I love my 790R and will keep it forever, but I am jealous of the Tenere's exhaust note. It is the best sounding thing I've heard since my Ducati 750SS or 996. Cheers
Thanks Ben your vids on the Norden I’ve watched countless times, all of them. Also Ian at Big Rock Moto helped in making my decision both you guys gave many unbiased evaluations on the Norden, and it led me to purchasing a great Norden. This go anywhere any time is a true trouble free joy to own. Prepping for the BDR now, what a bitchen bike 👍🏆
Also I enjoy all your vids, as I watch everyone at least twice, some three times. You’re in my top 10 for TH-cam easily.
I think the big question here is that if you're in North America and decide to go for a Tenere 700 or Norden 901, can you actually get one? For MSRP? Chances are no for both. Considering several dealers have marked new and used Tenere prices up close enough to where the Norden retails for, that value proposition disappears rather quickly. The Norden appears to be a more limited production, with the focus being production on the KTM 890 Adventure. As such, both bikes are hilariously scarce right now. However, Aprilia Tuareg 660s and Ducati Desert X's seem to be more available at the moment.
FYI per Moto-Hunt as of 11/28/22 in the United States:
New Tenere 700's listed for sale - 65
New Norden 901's for sale - 17
New KTM 890 adventure's (all trims) - 145
New Tuareg 660's for sale - 108
New Desert X's for Sale - 103
Those are interesting numbers.
@@mxbadboy263 Indeed they are, this was from a quick search, I couldn't tell if any of those were ads for placing reservations or bikes on the floor.
Going off of my local dealerships though my local Aprilia dealership has two tuaregs in stock and my local Ducatti Dealership has 1 Desert X in already. None of my local Yamaha Dealers have any Teneres in stock.
I saw a couple of northerns here in Austin,TX like 3 months ago, they were listed at only 2 hundred over msrp
Get a BMW GS, you will be happier Un the long run.
@@TimRHillardyeah, if a huge status symbol is what you want
Good breakdown. One caveat tho, not all singletrack is remotely equal and these bikes would be a big liability on a lot of the single track in the cascades and tight woods of the western PNW, it can certainly be done on some trails and more with the right riders but I feel like this side of adventure bikes is oversold.
I feel like most people know that? The single track I would take either of these on is a world apart from what I would do on my 450L. The only similarity is that there is only one track. 😂
@@DorkintheRoad you would be surprised, I assume nothing.
diff horses for diff courses , i dont think anyone buys multi-cyl adventure bikes thinking they are going to do hard enduro
So wich one do you like better?
Great comparison video. I bought a Tenere 700 but considered a Norden since it took me so long to find the Yamaha. The Norden felt big from the saddle which I was trying to get away from (I sold my BMW 1200 GSA to buy the Tenere). So far I like the Yamaha a lot but I am sure I would have liked the Norden.
Nice assessment Ben! Really excellent breakdown and to the point delivery. My own perspective is the bikes have a similar value for money. The question is do you want to pay extra for extra stuff. $3k buys you a quick shifter, cruise control, rider modes, more HP, etc.
I agree with almost everything, they only thing I would put some remarks is the reliability of the Norden. Indeed some maintenance has to be done meticulously, like changing the nozzle on time.
But the reliability issues in the Norden group were mostly from the US. I wonder how good the pre-delivery checks were done by the dealers. And I'm no not considering the faulty batch of rear shocks some got. I know of no Norden owners that I met personally that had any issues. Is that a coincidence? Maybe, I'm not certain.
But both bikes are indeed great bikes, same for the aprillia, ducatie, honda at,... So many great choices to be made.
I had a t7 for a year but sold it after having to pick it up 3 times in quick succession on a really slippery trail. It's too top heavy when the speed drops. I have a 901 on order that i will use mainly on the road but if the conditions are right I'll happily take on to the dirt. If i want to just ride dirt, I'll take my Husaberg. Great content as always. Thanks
Had a T7 on order as my first choice but last year they couldn't get me one after waiting 8 months. So I ordered a Norden which arrives in a couple of weeks. Hopefully it was the right choice!
Great review, I liked that realism
T7. I would sacrifice some on road comfort for more off road performance. Also, reliability.
Damn good video Dork !!
I went with the T7 and I'm very happy.
Now, more beer drinking-camping vids please :)
Congratulations, another reviewer who pronounces Husqvarna correctly.
Great and interesting comparison. I’ve got a 890AR and have ridden a few T-700’s. The traction control on the Norden/890’s is just so good for climbing technical rocky terrain. I think someone that is leaning towards the T-700 for its simplisty, reliability and off road bias should really consider the KTM/Husky 690/701. I’ve owned a late generation 701. The 690/701 has as much horsepower as the T-7 but nearly 100 pounds lighter, same range, long service interval but way better suspension than the T-7.
I would generally agree, but the frame and shape of the 690/701 sucks for adventure riding. They need to put it in a comparable Dakar capable frame and styling like the T7 and it would be the top selling bike in the mid weight category. No question.
Technical difficulties oh. good comparison of both bikes. Nailed it again. T 7 for me as you have ride it & keep you on your toes & the power snap on the spot. Also the ability to just send it.
Thank you for your input on both. Having ridden a Kawi Vulcan for my street riding, and a DR 650, for my dirt fun...I have an idea of how each riding style is approached. Since I will be retiring in a few months and plan to do some significant on road, more than off road, I think the Norden 901 Expedition will be the way to go, to start with. Due to the fact that half the roads in Alaska are dirt, or somewhat maintained dirt, I will definitely be stupid and buy the Tenere' also. I think it might be more for at home here in Alaska, while using the Norden for transiting across Canada, and enjoying riding in the lower 48. Now to figure out how to afford both...LOL.
I've been a KTM for years. Snice 1995 I've've been riding KTM dirt bikes. Brand loyal until the end. Bought a new YZ450FX in 2021. Changed my whole view on bikes. Don't get me wrong, I love my old 300EXCs and 300XCWs still.
The KTM group has gotten it seems far to proud of what they have. The prices have become ridiculous. Reliability and finsih seems to have been sacrificed.
The price points of Yamha is excellent and thier reliability is top notch. I've been eyeing a Tenere 700 for a couple years to replace my well ridden 950 adventure. I'll probably end up with a Tenere this spring.
Wow what a nice and honest comparison. I love it. Thank you for those information and by the I'm your new subscriber and follower from the Philippines.
The only problem with the tenere is finding one, and second problem is that is even harder to find one it at MSRP
As an owner of a KTM and a lover of the electronics assistant I will probably go for the T7
See my reply above, just seems like Yamaha can't make enough of them.
I know this comment is of no use to you across the pond, but on England 🏴 and Europe we've never had and problems with supply. This is probably because our T7's are built in France 🇫🇷 and we never pay more than the MRRP for them. I have owned my T7 since March 2020, always starts on the button and has 21,000 miles on the clock. I do like the Husky's and KIM'S but my love is the simple life and this includes tech on my bikes.
P.S. Ben this has been a great unbiased review, well done and keep up the great work mate. 👍
@@colin20cal I mean partially because unless your name is Harley-Davidson, the market for motorcycles here in the States is way smaller than in Europe, so manufacturers don't bother to send a lot of supply here. Also because the tenere 700 debuted over there back in 2018 I think, and here in the States right when COVID started ramping up and production shutdowns hit. Yamaha just hasn't been able to catch up.
@@TheSocialliberal They debuted here in England around August 2019, I got mine March 21st 2020, two days before we went into covid lock down. How's that for bad luck 🤔 I believe the USA T7's come from Japan, I could be wrong. More than 40,000 T7's have been sold across Europe 👍
@@colin20cal no, you're right, ones sold here are made in Japan. Also fun story, from March of 2020 I had an opportunity to buy a Tenere 700 and turned it down because I had been riding for less than a year at that point. When it came time for me to get a new bike, they were gone and tracking one down was next to impossible. That's why I eventually ended up getting a 2016 Africa Twin, which end up being the better bike for where I live.
Wow, never thought I would hear bikes be compared like a Hallmark movie, but the analogy actually works.
I was a Boyscout growing up, so I internalized their mantra of "be prepared!". I'd much rather have something and not need it (the Norden) than need it and not have it (the Tenere).
Ben, to answer your question about "why would you pay all that money for the Norden, and then turn off the features you paid for"... to hone your skills.
If both bikes are so very close in the areas that matter, then why not get the one with all of the extra features, if you can afford it, but especially if you can turn those features off, whenever you want.
Reliability is a massive concern for me, which is why I'd rather go for the Honda Africa Twin. Yeah, from the sounds of it, the Africa Twin isn't as responsive and powerful as the Norden is, even though the AT has a larger engine. But as Ian at Big Rock Moto pointed out, the AT also doesn't require premium fuel. You can run 87 octane, and be just fine.
Really enjoyed that review. I'm a 1290 SAS owner, and prior to that a 990 Adventure. Looking at the 901 Expedition or the 890 Adv R. (UK based). Not really an off-road guy, but want to get into it a little more. Buying an old AJP 250 PR4 for practice/dropping! I love the look of the new 890, but buy sensible head is saying the kit on the Expedition is really good. Your summary of the Nordon character and attributes was helpful, thanks. Ed
My first thought(without watching first) they’re both just the flavor of the season. I’ll keep my Africa Twin. Will watch, maybe I’ll change my mind.
Informative and helpful, honest review, Ben. Excellent delivery, too.
Great review. One angle I think of is that I love the idea of the T7 and yes it’s cheaper than the norden or 890 however in my opinion the T7 NEEEEEEDS a suspension upgrade and Tubeless wheels/tires for me to consider it. After that I wonder if there were still be any cost savings. Another shortcoming that I would do anything about…fuel capacity on the T7 is a little low but I’d carry extra fuel if needed.
That’s the best way to look at it. After bringing up the T7 to speed with its euro competitors, you’re still lacking traction control, cruise control, and other creature comforts - for the same price as the euro bikes. The only pro’s I see for the T7 is it’s reliability and the beautiful motor. However, for $15k all said and done, I’d expect a lot more than the bare minimum offerings it provides.
I haven’t had the chance to throw a leg over a Norden but I love the simplicity of my T7. It’s just a big old dirt bike.
What an excellent comparison. I currently own the Norden 901 and was thinking of selling and getting the Expedition version because of all the wonderful extras like heated seat, grips, Explorer mode, center stand and more. However, I lost my road only biking friends and my new biking partner is a BDR fan. I'm 62 and come from a dirt bike background and you are totally right the Norden does things in the background that you do not realise till you stop and think about it but seeing as I go forward it will be less highway riding I feel the 2024 Tenere 700 is the bike for me. I am curious what seat cover you have on the T7? I'm a big guy and seat comfort is just about top of the list for me which is something the Norden excelled at very well indeed. Off to the Yamaha dealer tomorrow to see if they have any coming in. Thanks so much for your honest straight forward no BS thoughts :)
Great review and footage. It's very frustrating to hear the price point of the t7 as it cannot be purchased for that price. My local dealership had it listed at $13999 but they would kindly give me the local deal of $12999.
B/c its a dealership. Hard reality to learn about the dealer and assembly fees. You usually have to take that into account when looking at MSRP but you've clearly learned by now.
I am going to negotiate as best I can for $12k.
I just bought a 2015 V Strom 650 with 15,000 miles on it it’s so comfortable and runs so smooth I still think I want a tenere or a sometimes but then I cruise along at 75 getting 58 miles to the gallon with a seat like butter and Good wind coverage. But for $5,800 it also came with all the luggage and tubeless tires. I will just go a little slower down the dirt path lol
Great video bro! I will add that in my region, one will never find a T7 for MSRP. They are priced the same, or very close to what the 901 is
Great video thx...... so if you already own a 1290 adventure which bike would you choose? I'm looking for another bike in my stable and the t7 looks to fit the bill but I had a KTM 690 and sold it within 500 miles, hated that bike for too many reasons, do you think the Norden would be a better choice?
I love that kind of comparisons. If you will do CRF1000L vs T7 I’ll be super happy 😅
2 days time.. thats when i have my 24 tenere 700.. way too excited.. this will be my first brand new bike.. grew up on quads and dirt bikes and years ago I had a bike stolen. I'm so excited for this bike I cant wait to rip!.. for the norden, more electronics = more failures.. yamaha tenere is basically a pure riders bike.
Excellent review! Drop the mic. I'm thinking about the T-7
Owned a T7 for 2 years and 15k kms and loved it
I got a norden now and love it even more than the T7. More comfort and handles better. T7 is too top heavy in my opinion
Excellent comments and recommendations!
I'm an old(er) trail and single track rider looking to get into ADV riding to "expand my horizons". Even though I love my Husky TE250 the Norden is not even on my list(pretty much for all the reasons you mentioned). For me, its down to the Tenere 700 or Tuareg 660... Leaning heavily on the T7
T-7 all the way.
Based on my electrical issues with the Pan Am.
The PA and Norden have some similarities, they are a hoot to ride with all that power in a lightweight bike. On the road, totally amazing and off-road as capable as the rider.
How can you be confident in a bike that way not start if you ride it deep into the off-road?
These are advertised as ADV bikes reliability should be the main priority. IMHO
My dealer still can’t get an allotment of T-7’s, after the first of the year I’m going to widen my search or maybe a Husky 701.
You keep talking about the price difference on the Tenere but the markup on those things is just stupid. I'd go for the Husky all day ... but I already have a 701 for off road focus and a 1090 for adv touring. If I had to have one, it would be a Norden or 890R
A very well done comparison video. For me cost is a factor so it's the Tenere for me. The Tenere is also a motorcycle I can ride to the gym, store etc and that's where it's a perfect fit. I live in the Midwest and the off road riding area is twenty minutes away so I don't need a large gas tank. I don't like riding any motorcycle on the interstate or above 60 mph so that also makes the Tenere perfect for me. I don't understand why someone would buy the Husky 901 over the ktm 890. The Husky is a cheap ugly version of the Ktm and the KTM is no beauty queen!
Me, on a fixed income, barely avoiding homelessness, will never be able to afford either of these bikes, even used: 😐👍
Amen
And to be honest an old Japanese dual sport from the seventies offers up plenty of fun times.
The fact that the Tenere has the CP2 engine which is more reliable is already a good enough reason for me to lean that way. Reliability is the most important aspect of a bike to me, especially if it's being used for long trips.
My inseam is 28-29inches so after sitting on a T7 at a dealership it was a little tall but I've ridden on CRF450s and WR250 offroad and it wasn't that bad. You learn to adapt and shift your weight. Picking your lines is important so you don't tip over in the first place. The weight on the T7 will be an issue but again, ill have to adapt. Can always get a lower after market seat anyways.
super easily lowered
I am the type that overthink things, like oh if I'll get stranded, if the bike will break down, can I squeeze the money to fix or maintain it in the future. I'm not the type that just buy something and say I'll fix it when sh!t hit the fan. The feeling of reliability is extremely important for me, far more than any other feature. Hence the T7 is the one for me, I was lucky enough to buy one this year after someone pulled their deposit. So far, I love it. Is there some complaints about it? Yes. But I'm very satisfied with it. Some has also point out, the T7 is very hard to find at MSRP. Maybe, for me, I bought it a but over MSRP because these days, dealership are trying to sell you a 5 year extended warranty by forcing it on you when you buy a new bike. The upside I guess is I will have to worry about nothing for the next 6 years.
I’m decided on t7 only because reliability is always my focus and even though the husky is reliable, it’s performance biased, meaning they need a lot of extra love to keep them happy. I would rather save some money and have a bike that won’t leave my solo riding ass stranded in Narnia
Loved the "Rom-com" analogy! (Not everyone could afford to have a two girlfriend like you!) 😹😻
And of course the entire reivew. Quite details yet kept my delivered in more digestible and interesting chuncks with great references to specifc use cases. Thanks. 👍
PS: Love the beard too! 👌
The problem with the survey is your owners group is that KTM and Husky owners always lie about their bike’s reliability. They say they’ve never had any problems when they’ve really had a lot of problems! Sold my 790 R because of all the issues I had!
LoLoL everyone else is a liar but for you then ?? interesting take
What issues?
@@paulh4943 he probably never even had one
Hi 6 months owner Norden 901 after had cp2 in my past! For now Norden in 7k km never had a problem. My old cp2 in the first yr had to come back for a starter issue.
It's a tricky one that's for sure dad and I got two 390 advs both ended up rejected at 147 and 269 miles full off issues. I'm on a 300 Rally at the moment which I'm giving to my dad then I'm gonna get something a bit bigger as we are moving to Scotland an going to Norway / Iceland next year most likley I might end up getting a t7 from a reliability point of view. The Norden looks ace though. (Had a 1200gsa te, 1200gs te, 1000xt, 650xt, n a f800gs as well)
If you compare the factory service manual vs the owners manual, a lot of the time the owners manual has grossly overstated service intervals vs the factory one. I like to adhere closer to the fsm than the owners.
Great review, HOWEVER,
If It’s the Zombie apocalypse (the slow moving kind with numerous herds like on the Walking Dead not the fast Z-kind). They are headed toward your house. You walk out into you garage and both your Tenere and Norton are fully fueled, both have your favorite tires and mods on each, all your other bikes and vehicles are not running. Both bikes are packed the way you want them to be. To get to your well provisioned bug-out cabin and ride out the apocalypse, you must travel 30 miles of highway, 10 miles of fire-road and a mile of not tough or technical, wide, dry, 2 track trail that had low to medium hills. Which bike do you climb on to make good your escape?
Which would the Dork choose? We want to know!!!
Dork, you seem to really like the T7 suspension, but Big Rock Moto says it's way undersprung. As a, how shall I say this, not small person, you don't find this to be the case? Have you talked to Ian about it?
If only the t7 was available then it's a no brainer but considering that I think I'm going to go with the africatwin
And if you want really simple bike that will take you everywhere these bikes can go, get an RE Himalayan! Just be prepared to do it in a slower more relaxed way...🤪
Cheers!
I am thinking of picking up a Norden Expedition sometime next year. I have an RE Himalayan, and an NC700X.
Decided on a Norden mostly because the T7 is more similar to my extensivly modded Suzuki Dr 650 (which I am keeping), but the Norden much better for Highway use and almost as good off the pavement as the Yamaha. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying a Dr is as capable as a Tenre, just that it is a simple old school "non tech" bike. The Tenere kind of splits the difference between the two. The reliability concerns are not as much of a factor if "old reliable" is in the garage as well. By the way Dork, I know this is an old post and you probably wont read this, but you really need to buy a new Dr and do all the common (mandatory?) mods and tell us what you think.
Thank you for the excellent content man - I've discovered your channel researching the Norden and have been hooked since - loved the BDR videos.
I want to get a mid sized ADV - I've test rode the Teneré, the Norden, the 890 (non R) and the Tuareg. I'm very leaning towards the Tuareg. Would you say it's a compromise between the Tenere and the Norden? For reference, I'm in europe and I've got better access to dealerships and parts and all that. Would love to have your thoughts on it.
Great review, thanks Ben
So lucky to have both!!
I like the looks of T7 more. But the norden is the more modern bike all around. Also the T7 is more expensive than the Norden where I live (11.5k vs 10.5k) The stock T7 to me also feels like an "old" bike from the 90s, I don't really get all the hype. Its a 9.5k bike that now costs 11.5k, thats the free market I guess. What I don't get regarding the "simplicity" & "no electronics" of the T7 is: What sensors that can fail does the Norden have, that T7 doesn't? Isn't it more about the software ?
I ride a 2020 Goldwing Tour DCT on the street, been looking for a Tenere for some off road shinanigins. As this would be a second bike , I'm gonna stick to looking for the Yamaha. I've got enough technology on my wing, and just want the low cost of ownership, and reliability of the Tenere.
I love my T7 but the top heaviness and picking it up hasn’t been fun. I wish it had cruise control but other than that it’s enough for me the motor is so smooth.
Excellent ! thanks helped me make my decision
I got a KLX300 really thinking of getting either a sport tourer or Adventure bike as a second bike. Really want the Aprilia but no dealerships near by. Think I'm gonna go with the Tenere I'm not the kind of person to want to deal with reliability issues.
I'm interested to see which one you are going to keep? Or will you keep both or neither? I mean, for comparison to the Transalp you ordered. ;-)
Had a tenere for over a year now, the only thing i dont like about it is the height of the bike and also if your drop it then its really really hard to lift it up again. Other wise im really happy with it
It's almost an unfair comparison because the Norden is a *significantly* more expensive bike. I'd argue virtually every single would be buyer has a dollar limit they're looking to meet. If you're comparing both, you'd compare a bone stock Norden with, for example, a T7 with a full aftermarket suspension, a set of Motoz GPS tires, a Seat Comfort's Comfort seat, crash bars and soft luggage.
Honestly though both are such awesome bikes. If I was looking for a One True Forever Bike, it'd probably be the Norden, because it's simply better on long rides.
Hell, I have a Tracer 900GT and a Tenere 700 now, and if Yamaha releases a Tenere 900 with the CP3, I'd strongly consider trading both in.
But, when you've got a street ride already and want a rough-and-tumble offroad bike that's never going to strand you somewhere, that's pure business, it's arguably the best bang for the buck there while still not just being road capable but road fun(I mean, I do 180kph twisties rides on mine all the time).
What I'm gonna highlight that you missed, however?
The Tenere is a better commuter. It's *super fun* in town, because that CP2 is so glorious at city speeds where quickness is all that matters, the tall suspension and offroad chops make it delightful hopping over curbs, and giving you excellent traffic visibility (for you, and for people looking for you).
I'm gonna repeat, though, seriously: pull the baffle out of the stock exhaust, give it a listen. It's outstanding. It's a 5 minute readily reversible job, but is probably a great little T7 video.
What do you mean when you say the Tenere was based on the 890 Adventure R - it was based on a KTM ?
Mad props for not adding an "a" after the Husq part of Husqvarna when pronouncing it. I'm not sure why Americans do that.
Because Americans generally have no respect for other cultures or languages. Limited worldview.
Interesting that we do add an "a" at the end of tenere
@@jimsnyder1742 that's because it's supposed to be like that. It's actually Ténéré, which is french and the name of a dessert in Africa. All the "e"s in Ténéré are pronounced equally and like the first one.
@@DorkintheRoad what a remarkably ignorant statement.
Do you agree with Fortnine's chart at minute 10:00 of "The Best Adventure Motorcycle - Ducati DesertX Review"?
cracking presentation.. super review ..
I always have serious doubts with brands like Husqvarna and the like. You can still see some +20 year old Africa Twin, Transalp or DR650 for example (at least here in Europe), but I don't think we will see in 2043 a bunch of 2023 Norden 901. Great video and incredible landscapes!
Do you still have the 16 Twin? I'm jealous you got a T7... back on a klr myself(#7), but I sure do miss that twin.
Great video!
I find the whole forgetting or ignoring maintenance such a strange thing. It would never be an issue for me, and I just dont understand what type of person buys a nice bike then skimps maintenance.
I really enjoyed that, thanks! Since you also used to own one... I would SOOO liked to have seen the Africa Twin in this comparison. Perhaps it sits more in the "big bike" class, instead of mid-size, but it seems like it would appeal to similar riders? It seem like with the Honda, you could get the Norden " high tech bells and whistles" (especially with the DCT) while still having that "Yamaha reliability"? Perhaps a follow up video? ;)
Friend of mine has both, he's selling the Twin. He says the Tenere feels a lot lighter and easier to handle.
I too sold my AT and do not regret one bit.
If you only do light off-road and a lot of highway the AT wins. That’s not to say that the a T can’t do harder off road as I have done the entire alpine loop and blackbear pass, etc. on the AT however I would much rather do it on the T7.
I road the Transamerica Trail, the summer of 2021 on the T7. I included 3 days in Moab Hells Revenge, Slickrock etc, some Continental divide trail, up to Jackson Hole, PCH, Barstow to Vegas, then highway back to Virginia. Excellent bike for that however the seat is not the most comfortable.
I now have 22,000 miles on it with no issues at all.
I did a De-cat header pipe and muffler then remapped the ECU. Better 3rd gear wheelies now.
I can loft the front in 3rd at 30 mph and ride it out to 78 mph.
I still would like a Norden also but keep the T7
Kawasaki and pump out a ton of KLR650's and Yamaha can't even put one Tenere 700 in my local dealer (NY) The Tenere especially the 2023 model with the upgrades is almost a perfect bike. If Yamaha put Cruise Control and Tubeless on it it would be perfect. If reliability wasn't a factor the Taureg 660 is already my perfect bike. Still have at least another year before I pull the trigger so who knows what may come to market.
Didn’t you have Explorer Mode on the BDR? When I’m off-road, I put it in Explorer Mode and leave it there.
Is it necessary to put crash bars on the Noden? I thought one of the selling points was "ready to race".
Thanks as allways, Excellent.
Do yourself a favor and get a Norden 901 Expedition. I did and it’s an unbelievable deal.
🏍️💨
That was pretty interesting for sure I think now I'd be more happy with the T7 but I'm wondering if you feel as though the T7 is a more capable KLR
Why did you get crash bars on Norden? KTM says you don't need bcs of the same gas tanks. Thanks love your stuff! My street bike here in Medellin is a 950 Yamaha Bolt. Traffic and dring here are crazy. I have a friend with a newer (1yr old) every time we go riding in the city my bike eats him alive. I think bcs of the belt drive! Wish this bike had 6 gears!
To protect the fairing. Gas tank only protects the engine
T7 will be the choice ❤ I will buy one soon