Part 6: Triumph Scrambler Family – Retro Meets Adventure

 Part 6: Triumph Scrambler Family – Retro Meets Adventure


The Scrambler series is Triumph’s nod to the 1960s era when riders modified their road bikes for desert racing and dirt trails. Triumph kept that rugged retro look but added serious off-road capability.


 Scrambler 900 (Previously Street Scrambler) – The Entry Scrambler

Overview:
The Scrambler 900 is based on the Bonneville 900 engine but tuned for better low-end torque. It’s lighter, stylish, and perfect for casual riders who want an urban retro with mild off-road ability.

Technical Specs:

  • Engine: 900 cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin
  • Power: ~64 hp @ 7,250 rpm
  • Torque: 80 Nm @ 3,250 rpm
  • Weight: ~223 kg wet
  • Seat Height: 790 mm
  • Brakes: Brembo front caliper, single disc, ABS
  • Electronics: 3 riding modes (Road, Rain, Off-Road), switchable ABS/TC

Ride Feel:
Light, easy-going, good for mixed use (city, gravel roads, light trails).

Pros: Stylish, accessible seat height, torque friendly.
Cons: Limited suspension travel, not a hardcore off-roader.


 Scrambler 1200 XC – Classic Adventure

Overview:
The Scrambler 1200 XC is where Triumph gets serious about blending retro looks with true off-road performance. Built on the 1200 cc Bonneville twin, but with long-travel suspension and adventure-ready geometry.

Technical Specs:

  • Engine: 1,200 cc parallel twin (High Torque tune)
  • Power: ~89 hp @ 7,400 rpm
  • Torque: 110 Nm @ 3,950 rpm
  • Weight: ~230 kg wet
  • Seat Height: 840 mm
  • Suspension: 200 mm travel, Showa USD forks, Ohlins twin shocks
  • Brakes: Brembo M50 radial calipers (front), ABS
  • Electronics: 5 riding modes, TFT screen, switchable off-road ABS

Ride Feel:
Balanced for both road and light off-road. Smooth highway touring, but capable on trails.

Pros: Long suspension travel, tech features, authentic scrambler look.
Cons: Tall seat may be difficult for shorter riders.


 Scrambler 1200 XE – Extreme Edition

Overview:
The XE is the most hardcore scrambler Triumph makes – essentially a retro adventure bike with class-leading off-road gear.

Technical Specs:

  • Engine: Same 1,200 cc as XC
  • Power: ~89 hp
  • Torque: 110 Nm
  • Seat Height: 870 mm (tall)
  • Suspension: 250 mm travel, Showa + Ohlins fully adjustable
  • Brakes: Brembo Stylemark calipers, ABS
  • Electronics: 6 riding modes (including Off-Road Pro), cornering ABS & traction control, TFT dash

Ride Feel:
Truly off-road capable – can handle deserts, trails, and rocky terrain. Yet still smooth on highways.

Pros: Best off-road retro bike on the market, premium components.
Cons: Heavy for serious off-road, tall seat intimidating for some.


 Legacy – Steve McQueen Edition

Triumph also launched a Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition, inspired by the bike used in the 1963 movie The Great Escape. It was limited production, with unique paint, badges, and numbered plaques.


 Common Features of Scramblers

  • Retro design with high-mounted exhausts
  • Spoked wheels for off-road strength
  • Ride modes, ABS, traction control
  • Classic Bonneville engine sound
  • Wide handlebars for control on rough roads

 Manufacturing & Availability

  • Built in Thailand plant, designed in the UK.
  • Sold in Europe, USA, India, Australia, Japan, and other major markets.
  • Scrambler 900 = urban/adventure hybrid.
  • Scrambler 1200 XC/XE = true off-road retro adventure bikes.


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