Feedback on new XT660 please

**jim** · #1 22 Jul 2005

With a heavy heart im beginning to face the reality that my old 34l is unlikely to survive another continental crossing and so Im looking to replace the old steed.

Im of the old school that believes bikes should be purely mechanical things that can be fixed with a few basic tools on the side of teh road in Sudan if necessary -so things like fuel injection worry me. As does the new trend in bikes and cars that almost look rugged, but actually cant manage more off roading than a pavement mount. And what of my hard luggage that is sure to bend the frame of a lesser machine? So what id really like to hear is weather anyone has done any hard riding, like trans Africa, on the new bike and how it went and what if any modifications were necessary.

Thanks, in anticipation,

Jim

**FredXTZ** · #2 22 Jul 2005

Take an old XTZ660 Ténéré!
With only a few mods it will do the job. That is : new model voltage regulator with cooling fins, and suspension job. And check the battery mounting rubber, they tend to wear through within about 12 years.

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Fred, XTZ660, Holland.

**jim** · #3 27 Jul 2005

Thanks Fred
I dont think we get the 660 in SA. Any idea where to find a picture? Does it also have a 27L tank?
J

**FredXTZ** · #4 28 Jul 2005

It has a 22 litre tank and will give you at least 20 kms/l. when travelling. Probably 23 if you set the carbs right and have a good [read K&N] air filter.
I'll send you pics of the 660 by email.
I think there is one for sale in Cape Town. I'll check and let you know.

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Fred, XTZ660, Holland.

**jim** · #5 28 Jul 2005

Cool!
Thanks Fred

**Dex** · #6 22 Aug 2005

Jim SFC

Tell you what. Buy my 1980 XT 500 so i can get a new XT660R, and ill tell you all about it?!

Ja im also desperate for any useful info on the new XT660R!!

Please guys someone must know if its any good??

Thanx

Dex

**Iain** · #7 30 Sep 2005

I posted this on another XT660 question, but it is worth considering:

If you look at the picture below of the new XT660, the exhaust pipes are very exposed, so a protection bash plate, if you can get one would be a good idea.

http://www.yamaha-motor.co.uk/includ....html?modelnam e=XT660R&img=/Images/2005_XT660R_Photo_05_tcm46-50958.JPG.

If you look at the old XT600E, the exhaust and sump are much more protected:

http://www.motoservices-uk.co.uk/new...e-good-pic.jpg

**Scoobie Doo** · #8 30 Sep 2005

Hi,

Try - www.xt660.com

There are also links there to after market parts and owners gripes/praises.

May be of some help.

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Scoobie Doo

**Bossies** · #9 3 Oct 2005

Borrowed one from the local Yamaha dealer yesterday. No off road but on paved roads: very light and responsive. Handlebars feel very close as if on you lap so you feel like going over them when had stopping. Very sharp/immediate on corners.

First impression on looks: fantatic weekend toy but not robust enoughfor any serious loaded offroad work. Guess that's why it's been included in with the latest supermoto fad for every yuppie.

**jim** · #10 7 Oct 2005

As i thought. Surely it would pay Yamaha to bring back the Tenere?

**NHamilton** · #11 7 Oct 2005

Scoobie Doo
That's the so-called street or supermoto version (XT660X). The dual sport or so-called adventure version (XT660R) looks more useful, although it still has exposed under-slung pipes
and is a bit pretty. I think it would otherwise be quite adequately robust, however. I'm toying with giving it a try myself.
Neil.