Will I Make It All the Way to Japan on This 40-Year-Old Yamaha Ténéré?
In a world that often feels dominated by modern technology and sleek, high-performance machines, there’s something incredibly charming about taking a journey on a vintage motorcycle. Join adventurer Noraly Schoenmaker as she tackles the ultimate test of grit—and her trusty steed, Frankie, a 40-year-old Yamaha XT600z. After spending winter hibernating in the rugged landscapes of Mongolia, Noraly returns to her well-worn companion, who is in desperate need of some TLC.
With a lineup of challenges ahead, including a blown rear suspension, excessive oil consumption, and a series of wiring mishaps, this isn’t just an ordinary road trip. It’s a heart-stopping adventure filled with unexpected hurdles that will put both rider and machine to the test. Will Frankie rise to the occasion, or have the years finally caught up with her?
Tune in for an exciting ride packed with determination, breathtaking scenery, and the undeniable spirit of adventure. As Noraly sets off on this quest to make it all the way to Japan, you won’t want to miss a moment of this exhilarating journey. Will they make it? Buckle up; it’s time to find out!
Watch the video by Itchy Boots
Video “Will I make it all the way to Japan on this 40 year old Yamaha Ténéré?? |S8, EP135” was uploaded on 06/14/2026 to Youtube Channel Itchy Boots






























![Challenging First Night of Wild Camping in New Zealand [S11-E18] Challenging First Night of Wild Camping in New Zealand [S11-E18]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/6ry5ibdms5c/maxresdefault.jpg)







Beautiful video really. I really enjoyed watching pro motorcycle mechanic working and techniques. Did he install a new cylinder or just hone it? Nice people there and especially at the house.
So nice to see Noraly is back on the road. Winter was not the same without you Greetings from Red Deer, Alberta, Canada.
Lot of nice people there, except for the thieves …
Special award for Moritz, who came to rebuild Frankie.
And thanks for sharing, you've got a big heart to go into these countries at those times …
Wow, so informative and great that Moritz was willing to support you in getting Frankie straightened out!!
Moritz! There are no words to describe your expertise. To have a bike built by Moritz is an honor. ❤ And I ditto what a follower noticed about you Noraly. You look amazing! 🥰
هلوا
It makes us so happy to see you sooooo happy. 😁 God bless you (and Moritz and Frankie).
Forget the bike, you look 20 years younger 😊
Did anyone catch what app she’s using??
30,000 km is a lot of mileage…. I’m surprised he didn’t bring a second oversized piston (or did he?) are bore the cylinder but I imagine they didn’t have the equipment. Just change the oil, it’ll be down a little on power.🎉
German engineering to the rescue 😃😃😃
Can't wait for the adventures ahead cheers from Canada
So much 😍 fabulous 😍
Good work, this man is an incredible mechanic, and now good travel.
It may be training done, it may be the extra makeup but I see you more beautiful😉😘
🙋♂️🙋♂️🙋♂️👍👍👍🌼❤️🌻
Moritz is the man. I wish I had a motorcycle guru in the U.S. for the Suzuki DR650. haha I would order a windshield extension to cover the tablet! When you're riding in the rain it's going to run right up the lower windshield into your tablet.
Fellow Yamaha 600 rider here.
I've been riding them for 30 years. Moritz is my hero. Mechanical genius.
حتي فلوووق الصيانه كان رووووووووعه ❤❤❤
pre-ordered your book @Broekhuis. Looking forward to it. Enjoying your trips