XT1200ZE Super Tenere

One of this engine’s most interesting features — one which makes it particularly suitable for a twin-cylinder dual-purpose bike — is its 270° crankshaft and the superior traction this crank layout delivers. Because both cylinders fire closely together, traction is improved and the rider can better feel the grip at the rear tyre. This is one reason why single-cylinder engines are so widely used for dirt bikes. The 270° crank gives a twin a gutsy traction feel similar to that of a single. This technology was developed by Yamaha for use on its winning Dakar rally racers.

The new system is operated by a multi-function handlebar switch, and allows the rider to select from four preload settings and three damping force settings, to give 12 main options. The system also offers the rider the opportunity to select from another 7 levels, and this easy-to-operate system offers a total of 84 fine tuning settings, all of them available at the flick of a switch.

On the XTZ1200 the engine is mounted as a stressed member, and the frame is designed to reduce rider fatigue over long distances. This is one reason that the main frame is made of steel, because steel offers both strength and flexibility. Steel is very good at absorbing road impacts. Because riders are very sensitive to the location of the crankshaft, this frame locates the crankshaft low and very close to the foot pegs. This makes the XTZ1200 feel lighter than it actually is and makes the bike easier to ride.

The dual backbone tubes extend from the steering head on each side of the engine, and the engine is mounted low in the frame at the cylinder head and crankcase. This layout not only lowers the centre of gravity of the fuel tank, it leaves space at the front for the airbox and throttle bodies and complements the straight, downdraft intake system. Another benefit is easy access to the engine and its related parts for maintenance, a feature that mechanics will appreciate. Components located far from the centre of gravity, such as the rear frame, are made of lightweight aluminium.

To ensure greater comfort in long-distance riding and ease of leg reach to the ground, a front-rear divided seat is adopted that features height adjustment (2-level adjustment with a height difference of 25mm) for the rider’s seat.

Another welcome feature for a dual-purpose bike is the combination ABS/anti-lock and unified brake systems that help prevent wheel lock during braking. This function complements the traction control system, which aims to control drive force on slippery road surfaces. This newly developed ABS/Unified Brake System unit allows the rider to operate both the front and rear brakes simultaneously by simply pulling the front brake lever.

LCD instrumentation that features a comprehensive LCD display which includes a Gear Position Indicator.

Long distance riders will appreciate the fitment of Cruise Control as standard equipment for the new model year. This simple to operate system not only takes the strain out of long haul trips, but it also allows riders to observe speed limits without having to take their eyes off the road ahead.

To reduce rider workload in the rough stuff, the XT1200ZE is fitted with 3-mode traction control. Both wheels are fitted with speed sensors. When the rear wheel spins faster than the front, the sensor signals the ECU to adjust the YCC-T throttle, ignition timing and fuel injection to control the power delivery to the rear wheel.

To answer the needs associated with an adventure tourer model like this, a lineup of specialised option parts and components has been developed simultaneously with the XTZ1200 to be sold as Genuine Yamaha Parts and accessories. These options include the following.
1) Fog lamp kit
2) High windscreen
3) Top and side cases
4) Steel pipe engine guard (protecting the cowling and the sides of the engine)
5) Grip heaters
6) Headlight protector and
7) Large aluminium skid plate (protects engine bottom).