Yamaha Tenere 700 for a RTW Trip

A Yamaha Tenere 700 for a RTW trip? That’s a hell yes from Nuno Castanheira, a Portuguese adventurer currently prepping for his upcoming ride around the world.

In this interview, Nuno takes us on a journey from his humble beginnings on a scooter to the thrilling pursuit of off-road adventures, his RTW trip prep, and more.

Nuno’s Background and the Road to Adventure

“My background with motorcycling is not that extensive,” Nuno confesses, “but I was determined to find a more exciting way to navigate my daily commute.” It was during the summer of 2020, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, that fate intervened. “Boredom and a stroke of luck led me to trade my scooter for a Honda NC700X,” Nuno recounts. Little did he know that this seemingly innocuous decision would forever change the trajectory of his two-wheeled journey.

The Discovery of Adventure Riding

As Nuno explored YouTube, he came across many adventure riding channels that caught his attention. “I was instantly hooked,” he says with excitement. These channels featured amazing scenery and thrilling adventures of other riders. Watching their videos sparked something inside Nuno, and he became eager to experience off-road exploration for himself.

Choosing the Yamaha Tenere 700

When the time came to choose his adventure companion, Nuno deliberated between two options in his garage: the Tenere 700 and the CRF250L. He shares his thought process, saying, “My heart was drawn to the Tenere 700, with its modern yet uncomplicated design. The absence of excessive electronics gave me the confidence to handle any challenges on the trails.”

Ultimately, Nuno made the decision to embark on his epic journey with the bike that brought him the most joy.

Gearing Up for the Adventure

From protective gear to luggage, Nuno leaves no stone unturned in his quest for the perfect setup. Collaborating with Touratech Portugal and Cross-Country Adventures, he carefully selected essential accessories that strike a balance between functionality and comfort. “I’ve added crash bars, a bash plate, handguards, and auxiliary lights to ensure my safety on rugged terrains,” Nuno explains.

Furthermore, he opted for soft bags, emphasizing their practicality and seamless integration with his riding experience.

Another addition to the Yamaha Tenere 700 setup was rally footpegs.

“For me, the Cross Country ADV rally footpegs are game changer. It’s a massive upgrade compared to the original footpegs that I had on my T7. Their larger size gives me more confidence to stand and manouver the bike, and the grip is no longer an issue!”, Nuno shares.

Funding the Dream

Nuno’s determination to turn his dreams into reality led him to find solutions for funding his grand adventure. “While I’ve been saving diligently over the past six years, I recognized the need for additional resources,” he admits. As a result, Nuno seized the opportunity to obtain a Work & Holiday visa for Australia, where he can simultaneously replenish his funds and immerse himself in new experiences.

The Anticipation of the Unknown

When asked about the most exciting aspect of his upcoming journey, Nuno’s eyes light up with anticipation. “I can’t wait to see how this adventure will transform me,” he shares. “It’s the uncertainty, the meeting of new people, and the opportunity to push myself outside my comfort zone that truly excite me.” Nuno recognizes that this trip will challenge him in ways he never imagined, and he eagerly embraces the personal growth that lies ahead.

Favorite Bike Mods and Personal Touches

Nuno’s passion for adventure riding shines through in the thoughtful modifications he has made to his beloved Tenere 700. “While some riders may prefer fancy blings or upgraded suspensions, my favorite modifications are the ones that truly make the bike feel uniquely mine,” Nuno reveals with a smile. For an in-depth look at these upgrades, Nuno encourages readers to check out the highlights on his Instagram profile, where he shared the entire journey.

As Nuno prepares to embark on his epic adventure, he reflects on the remarkable transformation that awaits him. “This journey is about more than just traveling the world on a motorbike,” he muses. “It’s an opportunity for self-discovery, a chance to challenge my limits, and to embrace the unknown with open arms.” With a mix of excitement and a tinge of nervousness, Nuno eagerly awaits the moment he sets off on the open road.

In a Nutshell

Nuno’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing new experiences. From a simple scooter ride to the awe-inspiring world of adventure riding, his journey has been one of self-discovery and personal growth. As he gears up for the trip of a lifetime, Nuno’s enthusiasm and determination are palpable. We eagerly await the tales he will share and the incredible landscapes he will traverse.

Safe travels, Nuno! We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.