Tenere 700 Chain Guide⁚ A Comprehensive Guide
This comprehensive guide explores the importance of a chain guide for your Yamaha Tenere 700, delves into OEM and aftermarket options, and provides factors to consider when choosing the right chain guide for your needs. We cover installation, maintenance, and care to ensure a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
Introduction
The Yamaha Tenere 700, a versatile adventure motorcycle, is renowned for its off-road capabilities and long-distance touring prowess. However, the rigors of off-road riding can take a toll on the motorcycle’s components, particularly the chain and its surrounding system. A chain guide serves as a crucial component in safeguarding the chain from damage, preventing it from derailing, and ensuring smooth and reliable operation. It is an essential investment for any Tenere 700 owner who plans to venture beyond paved roads. This comprehensive guide explores the world of Tenere 700 chain guides, covering the importance of this component, the diverse range of options available, and the key factors to consider when choosing the right one for your riding style and needs.
Importance of a Chain Guide
A chain guide plays a vital role in protecting the chain and swingarm of your Yamaha Tenere 700, especially during off-road adventures. It acts as a barrier, preventing the chain from derailing and impacting the swingarm. The chain guide effectively deflects debris and rocks away from the chain, minimizing damage and ensuring smooth operation. Additionally, it helps to prevent the chain from slapping against the swingarm, reducing noise and wear and tear. A well-functioning chain guide also contributes to the bike’s overall performance by ensuring proper chain alignment, which translates to improved power transfer and efficient gear changes. In essence, a chain guide is a vital component that enhances the durability, reliability, and performance of your Tenere 700, particularly when tackling challenging off-road terrain.
OEM Chain Guide
The Yamaha Tenere 700 comes equipped with an OEM chain guide, designed to provide basic protection for the chain and swingarm. While it fulfills its purpose, it may not be sufficient for riders who frequently tackle demanding off-road conditions. Some users have reported that the OEM chain guide is prone to wear and tear, particularly when exposed to aggressive riding and harsh terrain. Its design might not offer the same level of protection as aftermarket options, which are often made with stronger materials and feature more robust construction. However, for riders who primarily stay on paved roads or moderate trails, the OEM chain guide might suffice. If you plan on venturing into more challenging off-road environments, upgrading to an aftermarket chain guide could significantly improve protection and durability, ensuring a more reliable and enjoyable riding experience.
Aftermarket Chain Guide Options
The aftermarket offers a wide range of chain guides specifically designed for the Yamaha Tenere 700, catering to various riding styles and budgets. These options often surpass the OEM chain guide in terms of durability, protection, and features. Some popular brands include Acerbis, BRP, and Touratech, each with their own unique strengths and characteristics. Acerbis, known for its high-quality plastics and off-road accessories, offers the Chain Guide 2.0, known for its robustness and resistance to wear and tear. BRP’s Pro-Line Chain Guide is renowned for its strength, durability, and performance, particularly in extreme conditions. Touratech, a brand synonymous with adventure touring, provides a beautifully designed chain guide made from laser-cut aluminum and stainless steel, offering both aesthetics and durability. These are just a few examples, and other reputable brands also offer chain guides specifically tailored for the Tenere 700, providing a diverse selection for riders to choose from.
Acerbis Chain Guide 2.0
The Acerbis Chain Guide 2.0 is a popular choice for Tenere 700 owners seeking a robust and reliable aftermarket chain guide. It’s designed to replace the entire OEM unit, offering enhanced durability and resistance to shock and wear from the chain. The guide block is constructed from durable, high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of off-road riding. The Acerbis Chain Guide 2.0 is known for its ease of installation, seamlessly integrating with the Tenere 700’s design. The guide is also well-regarded for its sleek aesthetics, blending seamlessly with the motorcycle’s overall appearance. Many riders appreciate the Acerbis Chain Guide 2.0 for its ability to minimize chain slap, reducing noise and vibration while enhancing chain protection. It’s a popular choice for those who frequently take their Tenere 700 off-road, seeking a chain guide that can handle the demands of challenging terrain.
BRP Pro-Line Chain Guide
The BRP Pro-Line Chain Guide is a high-performance option designed for riders who demand maximum strength, durability, and reliability. BRP’s design utilizes UHMW-PE polymer material, renowned for its low friction coefficient, exceptional abrasion and impact resistance, and self-lubricating properties. This material can absorb impacts without bending, contributing to the guide’s long-lasting durability. The Pro-Line Chain Guide is CAD designed and CNC machined, ensuring precision and quality construction. Its robust design provides enhanced chain guidance and reliability, even when riding in extreme conditions. The BRP Pro-Line Chain Guide is a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts who prioritize durability and performance. It’s a reliable choice for those who frequently encounter demanding terrain and require a chain guide that can handle the rigors of extreme riding conditions.
Touratech Chain Guide
The Touratech Chain Guide stands out for its robust construction and sleek design, making it a popular choice among adventure riders seeking both protection and aesthetics. Crafted from a blend of laser-cut anodized aluminum and stainless steel, the Touratech Chain Guide boasts exceptional durability and resilience. Its design is meticulously engineered to withstand the rigors of long-distance expeditions and off-road adventures, providing reliable protection against chain breaks and malfunctions. The Touratech Chain Guide not only enhances the Tenere 700’s performance but also adds a touch of elegance to its appearance. Its high-quality materials and precision craftsmanship contribute to its overall appeal, making it an ideal choice for riders who appreciate a combination of functionality and aesthetics.
Other Chain Guide Brands
Beyond the prominent brands like Acerbis, BRP, and Touratech, a diverse range of manufacturers offer chain guides specifically designed for the Tenere 700. These brands often cater to niche preferences or prioritize specific features, providing riders with a wider array of options to match their individual needs and riding styles. Some brands focus on lightweight and minimalist designs, while others prioritize maximum durability and impact resistance. Certain manufacturers offer a variety of materials, including high-strength aluminum alloys, impact-resistant plastics, and durable composites. It’s essential to research the specific offerings from these lesser-known brands, considering factors like material, durability, ease of installation, and price, to find the best chain guide for your Tenere 700.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chain Guide
Selecting the right chain guide for your Tenere 700 involves careful consideration of several key factors. The material used in construction plays a vital role in determining durability and longevity. High-strength aluminum alloys offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios, while impact-resistant plastics provide excellent shock absorption. Durability is paramount, especially for off-road riding, ensuring the chain guide can withstand the rigors of challenging terrain and prevent chain damage. Ease of installation is another crucial factor, as a straightforward installation process saves time and effort. Price also plays a significant role, with various options available at different price points. Ultimately, the ideal chain guide balances performance, durability, ease of installation, and price to meet your specific needs and riding style.
Material
The material used in a chain guide significantly impacts its performance and longevity. High-strength aluminum alloys are a popular choice due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratios. These alloys provide robust protection for the chain and swingarm, resisting bending and deformation under impact. Impact-resistant plastics, such as UHMW-PE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene), offer exceptional shock absorption and wear resistance. UHMW-PE’s low coefficient of friction, outstanding abrasion resistance, and self-lubricating properties contribute to its durability. Some chain guides incorporate a combination of materials, leveraging the strengths of both aluminum and plastic for optimal performance. Ultimately, the material selection depends on your riding style and the type of terrain you frequently encounter.
Durability
Durability is paramount when choosing a chain guide for the Tenere 700, especially for those who frequently venture off-road. A durable chain guide safeguards the chain, swingarm, and sprocket from damage caused by rocks, debris, and other hazards encountered on rugged trails. Chain guides made from high-strength aluminum alloys are generally known for their durability. They can withstand significant impacts and resist bending and warping, even in extreme conditions. UHMW-PE, with its exceptional impact resistance and abrasion resistance, is another material commonly used in durable chain guides. Its ability to absorb impacts without bending or breaking makes it ideal for protecting against chain slap and other forms of wear and tear. Look for chain guides with robust construction, thick material, and reinforced mounting points to ensure long-lasting performance.
Ease of Installation
Ease of installation is a key consideration when choosing a chain guide for the Tenere 700. Some chain guides require specialized tools and expertise, while others are designed for straightforward installation. Bolt-on chain guides are generally the easiest to install, often requiring only basic hand tools and minimal mechanical knowledge. These guides typically feature pre-drilled mounting holes that align with existing points on the swingarm, making installation a simple process. Some chain guides come with detailed installation instructions and diagrams, further simplifying the process; However, some aftermarket chain guides may require modifications or adjustments to the swingarm or other components, increasing installation complexity. If you’re not comfortable with mechanical work, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance for installation.
Price
Chain guides for the Tenere 700 vary in price, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium choices. The OEM chain guide, while offering decent quality, can be relatively expensive. Aftermarket options present a wider range of price points, with some offering cost-effective alternatives to the OEM. Acerbis chain guides, for example, are known for their affordability, while BRP Pro-Line chain guides are positioned at a higher price point due to their superior materials and design. The price difference often reflects the material quality, durability, and features offered by each chain guide. When choosing a chain guide, it’s important to weigh the price against your budget, riding style, and the level of protection you require. While a more expensive chain guide may offer superior durability and performance, a budget-friendly option might be sufficient for casual riders.
Installation Guide
Installing a chain guide on your Tenere 700 is generally a straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Most aftermarket chain guides come with detailed instructions and necessary hardware. Start by removing the OEM chain guide, if applicable. Then, position the new chain guide on the swingarm and align it with the sprocket. Use the provided mounting brackets and hardware to securely fasten the chain guide to the swingarm. Ensure that the chain guide is properly aligned and that all fasteners are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. If you’re unsure about any part of the installation process, consult a qualified mechanic or refer to the chain guide’s installation manual. Properly installed, a chain guide will provide reliable protection for your chain and swingarm, enhancing your riding experience.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance of your Tenere 700 chain guide is crucial for ensuring its longevity and effectiveness. Regularly inspect the chain guide for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, scratches, or excessive wear on the guide block. Clean the chain guide regularly using a soft brush and mild detergent to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the chain guide’s material. Pay close attention to the mounting hardware and ensure that all fasteners are securely tightened. If you notice any signs of damage or wear, replace the chain guide promptly to prevent potential issues with your chain and swingarm. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can prolong the life of your chain guide and ensure it continues to provide reliable protection for your Tenere 700.
Investing in a quality chain guide for your Tenere 700 is a wise investment that can significantly enhance your off-road adventures. A well-chosen and properly installed chain guide provides crucial protection for your chain and swingarm, minimizing the risk of chain derailment, damage, and potential accidents. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can select the perfect chain guide to meet your specific needs and riding style. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and inspection, will ensure your chain guide remains in optimal condition, offering long-lasting protection and enhancing your overall riding experience. With a robust chain guide in place, you can confidently tackle any terrain, knowing your Tenere 700 is equipped for adventure.