🏁 The Tenere 700 World Rally – Heritage & Specs
Yamaha’s World Rally trim builds on the standard CP2-powered T7 (74.8 hp), but ups the game with longer travel suspension, dual 23L tanks (for a 400–500 km range), Öhlins fork, adjustable steering damper, and a titanium Akrapovič exhaust. The same deep note championed by Stéphane Peterhansel in ’93 Dakar blue-white-red livery. This model is a rare gem in France, not available new since 2023, but still turning heads on back roads and trails.
Why Soft Saddlebags on a Rally Bike?
Rally bikes usually flaunt aluminum panniers, but they add weight, bulk, and that cold, industrial look. Many trail riders (ours included) crave something lighter, more agile, and visually warm. Soft bags deliver:
- Improved maneuverability in the twisties and gravel
- Versatility for quick detaches and different trip profiles
- Distinctive styling that matches the bike’s vintage rally vibe
Our French rider, who sticks to department roads and rallies rather than highways, reflects this, reserving hard cases for big trips, and opting for soft when a light, nimble setup is key, especially for day rides, festivals, or weekend trips. 
Meet Saddleback: The Chameleon Mounting System
From Longride’s Saddleback line, “SB” models (Super Patriot SB and Racer SB) come equipped with their universal Saddleback mount. It works beautifully on any luggage rack or frame without tools.
Two leather straps and a vertical harness let you fine-tune height and position. 
On our rider’s Tenere, SB saddlebags "clip" into place in under a minute and can be moved aside when the Yamaha racks and aluminum panniers return for longer adventures.
Real-world kit: Super Patriot SB + Racer SB
The customer’s choice offers both charm and high usability:
- Super Patriot (right side): ample space for a full riding pack, gear, bike cover
- Racer (left): enough room for rain gear, locks, tools, and comes with a pocket perfect for an insulated bottle
Canvas look, waterproof liner, shoulder strap, and rings ready for a security cable... nothing’s been overlooked.
Fitment is snug, mounting is effortless.
Supporting the Choice: Why a trail bike + soft saddlebags works
Online discussions and test setups reinforce this trend. Riders often prefer soft luggage like Kriega, Enduristan, or Mosko for their reliability, weight savings, and adaptability.
Longride’s Saddleback brings a fresh styling edge, veering into vintage canvas and leather, blending classic looks with rugged terrain readiness. Great for trail riders who appreciate nimble handling, heritage aesthetics, and real-world simplicity.