Master the Art of Jacking Up Tenere 700: Step-by-Step Guide

The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is a beast of a motorcycle, built for adventure and conquering rough terrain. But when it’s time for maintenance, repairs, or even just a good cleaning, you’ll need to know how to safely jack it up. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently lift your Ténéré 700 without any mishaps.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Jack

Before we dive into the steps, let’s address the elephant in the room: the jack. Choosing the right jack is crucial for safety and stability. A motorcycle-specific jack is your best bet, as it’s designed to support the weight of your bike without causing damage. Look for a jack with these features:

• Adjustable Height: This ensures you can lift your Ténéré 700 to the desired height for your task.
• Wide Base: A wide base provides stability and prevents the jack from tipping over.
• Strong Construction: A sturdy jack can handle the weight of your bike without bending or breaking.

The Essential Tools and Equipment

To jack up your Ténéré 700 safely and efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Motorcycle Jack: As mentioned above, a motorcycle-specific jack is non-negotiable.
• Chocks: These are crucial to prevent the bike from rolling while it’s jacked up.
• Work Gloves: Protect your hands from potential scratches or dirt.
• Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
• Torque Wrench: If you’re performing any maintenance that requires tightening bolts, a torque wrench is essential to avoid overtightening.

Step-by-Step Guide to Jacking Up Your Ténéré 700

Now, let’s get into the actual process of jacking up your Ténéré 700:

1. Choose a Safe and Level Surface: Find a flat, solid surface like concrete or asphalt. Avoid lifting your bike on uneven ground or soft surfaces like grass.
2. Engage the Side Stand: Make sure your Ténéré 700 is securely engaged on its side stand.
3. Place the Chocks: Place chocks in front and behind the rear wheel to prevent the bike from rolling.
4. Position the Jack: Place the jack underneath the Ténéré 700, focusing on the designated lifting point. This point is usually located on the swingarm or frame, depending on your specific jack model. Consult your jack’s manual for precise placement instructions.
5. Start Lifting: Slowly crank up the jack, lifting the bike off the ground. Avoid lifting the bike too high, as this could strain the jack or cause instability.
6. Double Check Stability: Once the bike is lifted, double-check that it’s stable and won’t roll. Adjust the jack if necessary.
7. Perform Your Task: Now you have access to the area you need to work on. Remember to be careful and use proper safety procedures.
8. Lowering the Bike: When you’re finished, slowly lower the bike back onto the ground. Be sure to do this carefully, as a sudden drop could damage the bike or the jack.
9. Remove the Chocks: Once the bike is fully on the ground, remove the chocks.

Jacking Up for Specific Tasks

Now let’s dive into some common reasons you might need to jack up your Ténéré 700 and how to do it safely:

• Chain Maintenance: To access the chain for cleaning, lubrication, or adjustments, you’ll typically jack up the rear wheel. Place the jack under the swingarm, ensuring it’s centered and stable.
• Tire Changes: For tire changes, you’ll need to jack up the corresponding wheel. The procedure is the same as for chain maintenance, but you’ll need to use a tire iron to remove the wheel.
• Engine Work: Accessing the engine for repairs or maintenance might require lifting the entire bike. This is usually done using a jack with a wider base and a higher lifting capacity. Consult your jack’s manual for specific instructions.

Additional Tips for Safe Lifting

• Always Use the Correct Jack: Never use a jack that isn’t specifically designed for motorcycles. Doing so could result in damage to your bike or injury.
• Inspect the Jack Before Use: Make sure the jack is in good condition and free of any damage.
• Never Lift the Bike Too High: Lifting the bike too high could strain the jack or cause the bike to tip over.
• Always Use Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
• Never Work Under the Bike When It’s Jacked Up: If you need to work under the bike, use a stand to support it.

The Final Lift: Beyond the Basics

Mastering the art of jacking up your Ténéré 700 opens up a world of possibilities for maintenance, repairs, and customization. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. By following these steps and using the right equipment, you can confidently lift your bike and tackle any task with ease.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: What is the best type of jack for a Ténéré 700?

A: A motorcycle-specific jack with adjustable height, a wide base, and strong construction is the best option for your Ténéré 700. Look for jacks specifically designed for adventure bikes or those with a lifting capacity of at least 500 pounds.

Q: Can I use a car jack to lift my Ténéré 700?

A: It’s not recommended to use a car jack for your Ténéré 700. Car jacks are not designed to support the weight of a motorcycle and can easily tip over or damage the bike.

Q: How often should I check the jack before using it?

A: It’s a good practice to inspect the jack before every use. Look for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. If you find any issues, replace the jack immediately.

Q: What are some alternative lifting methods for my Ténéré 700?

A: Some riders prefer using a paddock stand or a rear stand. These stands are specifically designed to support the weight of a motorcycle and provide more stability than a jack. However, they can be more expensive than a jack.

Q: What are some common mistakes people make when jacking up their Ténéré 700?

A: Some common mistakes include using the wrong type of jack, not using chocks, lifting the bike too high, and not inspecting the jack before use. Always prioritize safety and follow proper procedures when lifting your bike.