Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC & XE test

Menus

• Free spirit
• Discovery
• In the saddle
• In the city
• Motorway and expressways
• Departmental
• Off-road
• Part-cycle
• Braking
• Comfort / Duo
• Consumption
• Conclusion
• Video comparison of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE

Free spirit

A dynamic leader in the neo-retro segment, Triumph draws novelty after novelty for 2019, articulated around its two twin cylinders of 900 and 1200 cm3. There was the update of its 900 Street Twin and Sreet Scrambler, which we just tested. More recently, the static presentation of the remarkable Speedtwin 1200 bodes well for an attractive machine. Now it’s the turn of the eagerly awaited Scrambler 1200 to reveal itself between our gloves.

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC review

We’ve told you all the good things about the “small” version. However, the image of Scrambler more than a real adventurer, the 900 version is ultimately much further in capacity than in displacement from its new sister. Because the new strong head of the family takes full the historical style of these English modified to get off the roads. Back to the 60’s! It was the heyday of the Triumph T120 TT, the TR6 SC and a flamboyant Steve McQueen. At the same time, he his size the wad from Bartow (Florida) to Baja (Mexico) with Bud Ekins, stuntman of the film The Great Escape who made the legendary leap there…. Yes, sorry for your dreams, but Steeve didn’t feel "up to it".

In short, for style, there is legitimacy and for performance on and off asphalt, the Hinkley firm pulls out all the stops with suspensions capable of swallowing all your delusions. The Scrambler 1200 comes in two versions, the XC and the XE. The latter is the "Extreme" version, further boosting the capabilities of the machine, its finishes and its equipment. !

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE review

It is around Faro, Portugal, that we discover the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE, for a test drive and track without complexes.

Discovery

The novelties occupy the top of the English range with a 1200 cc engine, placing themselves more alongside the two Thruxton models. Same pairing, same philosophy of declination towards the ultimate. Aesthetically and mechanically, the Scrambler 1200 shares the modern-classic Triumph lineage. They share most of their components, but also differ in certain points essential to their use..

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC

Powerful, elegant, timeless, the aesthetics of machines from across the Channel impose an unusual presence. Their narrowness contrasts with the power released by uncompromising style. At first glance, the success of the design is obvious, taking up and sublimating the codes of the genre by projecting them into the 21st century. An important element, elegantly combining curves and side flats, the domed 16-liter tank with a metal strap hooked to the frame is crowned with a Monza-type cap..

Triumph Scrambler 1200 tank cap

A long and welcoming flat saddle runs towards the stern, surrounded by an aluminum passenger handle. A metal that is found in abundance on these machines, especially on the satin mudguards. A Scrambler is also, above all, an exhaust line running horizontally in two superimposed barrels. Incorporating imperceptibly the catalysts, collectors and silencer satin are made of stainless steel. Perforated and meshed protective plates run their length, the passenger benefiting from a large deflector.

Silencer of the Triumph Scrambler 1200

Other distinctive elements, the front and rear lights, deliver a unique light signature. The first, in a compact format, surrounded by a black metal bezel and framed by strong aluminum plates, visually lightens the front face. It also incorporates a diurnal lighting device in a semi-circle forming a diadem…. royal. The second, ovoid, is fitted with a soft diffuser cabochon taking up the internal design of the front light. This fits between the long fork legs of the XC and XE. Black on the first, ensuring a classic style, the gold coating of the massive sheaths of the second enhances the perceived quality.

Headlight of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC

The Scrambler 1200 are based on a tubular steel frame, with aluminum cradle, specially designed for them. Particularly reinforced at the level of the steering column, it supports the superb twin-cylinder of 1200 cm3 with single ACT controlling 8 valves. Obviously liquid cooled (cylinder head and cylinders) its traditional appearance still perfectly imitates old mechanics. Large fins still cut out the top of the engine, helping to keep the temperature down as well. Capped with a magnesium cylinder head cover, the engine block takes care of its vintage style with its manifold crimping rings. Likewise, the satin-finished and perforated plates of the injection bodies effectively mimic fictitious carburetor protections…. Derived from the Thruxton R power unit, the English twin benefits from even reduced mechanical inertia! Its crankshaft, set at 270 °, its balancing pendulums and its alternator reduce their mass for even more reactivity. The intake and exhaust timing is dedicated to its mixed use and the compression ratio is 11.0: 1. Delivering 90 hp at 7,400 rpm, almost at the limit of the breaker and 110 Nm of torque at 3,950 revolutions-minutes, the British boiler knows how to lose its composure, as we will see later. And the engine curves are eloquent, ideally relaying each other, ensuring the Scramblers a first-rate engine pleasure. Finally, for good measure, the power assisted clutch is lightened, controls a 6-speed gearbox..

Twin cylinder of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

As usual at Triumph, mechanical modernity hardly appears. Cooling circuit, expansion tank or sensors are stashed in various places. A challenge on a naked machine. The radiator remains a little more visible than the other elements, but remarkably integrated into the frame upright.

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC engine

And when it comes to contemporary equipment, there is no shortage of machines. The injection management by a handle of the Ride-by-wire type throttle is coupled, on the XC with 5 driving modes ((Rain, Road, Sport, Offroad and Custom) modulating the injection mapping and controlling ABS and traction control. In offroad mode, a more permissive ABS is maintained on the front axle, but deactivated at the rear and the traction control is very reduced, allowing drifts. A sixth mode, off-road Pro, equips the XE model, cutting all assistance for the most seasoned and adapts the engine mapping. But above all, the ultimate Scrambler embeds a 6-axis inertial unit (IMU), developed with Continental. It continuously calculates roll, pitch, yaw rate, lean angle and rate of acceleration for optimal management of ABS and traction control, especially when cornering. The assistances can also be deactivated independently.

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE controls

Cycle part and geometry also show major differences. Showa and Ohlins equip inverted forks and double shock absorbers, fully adjustable. But when the XC adopts a 45mm sheath and 200-unit suspension travel, the XE is perched on top-of-the-range 47mm tubes and similar rear shocks, sliding over 250mm…. Because the ultimate version is really designed for committed all terrain. Thus, 40 mm longer in wheelbase, its superb aluminum swingarm is 32 mm longer than the element of the XC. Similarly, the more open caster angle of the XE (+ 1.1 ° or 26.9 °) gives it greater stability out of bitumen..

Swingarm of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC

For this purpose, the machines are fitted with 17-inch tangential spoke aluminum rims for the rear, but 21 inches on the steering gear! Metzeler Tourance mixed tires in 90 and 150 mm fit the machines.

Metzeler tire of the Triumph Scrambler 1200

On the braking side, there is a front axle of Brembo monobloc radial M50 calipers with four pistons and radial master cylinder…. The top for racing machine. They attack 320mm discs when the two piston rear clamp grips a 255mm fret.

The overall quality of the Triumphs is particularly remarkable, ensuring a level of finish of excellence. Polished or satin aluminum parts are numerous on the machines, optimizing the care given to the engine. It is also sheltered, in the lower part, by a thick and long aluminum shoe. The XE embeds even more rewarding elements, listed at the end of the test. One of the most interesting is the brake pedal whose lug can be adjusted in height by rotating it on its axis. Finally, the maintenance intervals are reduced to 16,000 km (simple overhaul) and the valve clearance is every 32,000 …. !

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

Kits also offer sets of accessories already paired for customization. standardized. 80 dedicated accessories will also enhance the style and protection of your all-road jewelry.

In the saddle

If you’ve eaten soup or porridge in your youth, you’ll have easy access to the 840 and 870mm seat height of the XC and XE. The latter does not allow approximations in maneuver if you are the short-boot type. Fortunately, the machines are narrow at the junction with the tank. And it is possible to gain 2 cm with the optional low saddle (but no lowering kit).

Handlebars of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC

Providing good leg comfort, the off-road-type footrests are lined with removable rubber and the passenger’s plates are bolted to the frame…. they can therefore be easily discarded or repaired. The bust position is straight, the hands resting on a handlebars with variable diameter and little marked horns. Wider by 65 mm (!), Mounted on higher saddles, that of the XE offers ample aluminum reinforced hand guards. Another beautiful piece !

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE footrest

A brand new TFT counter composes the instruments, offering two display themes; one relatively classic and the other inspired by watch dials. Superb, although decidedly less readable. For my part, a needle tachometer is a nice LCD window would have been enough for me. The screen has the good taste to adapt its brightness according to the ambient one and switches to night mode automatically. It displays a plethora of information, all controlled from the handlebars via different push buttons. Good point, the driving modes can be changed in an instant while driving.

Instrumentation of the Triumph Scrambler 1200

With Bluetooth connectivity, the electronics offer two world premieres on the motorcycle market: piloting a GoPro from the screen, which is nice, but also and above all a navigation system developed with Google, the first partnership of its kind. Via the Triumph app, the direction indications (no map) are displayed on the dashboard screen in the form of simple icons, grouping the route planner and the display of the final destination and points of departure. interests (hotels, gas stations, restaurants….). Unfortunately, all this was not yet validated for our test. Finally, a space under the saddle accommodates your phone and a 5V USB power supply and the start is by contactless key.

Triumph Scrambler 1200 transponder

In the city

Making this twin "crack" is a delight at all times. Rumbling, hectic, the Hinkley Boiler is a rebel, free and flippant that each twist of the handle sends unrestrained into the towers. Do not look for it, if you know what I mean…. He has a good face, but not that ….

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC road test

The mechanics quickly take off the 205 and 207 kilos (dry) of the XC and XE. High, the torque available from the lowest revs energizes urban developments at will. Easy, the Scrambler 1200 naturally leads in traffic, giving the strange impression of being at the controls of a roadster-trail…. what they are! Because Triumph has really succeeded in this conception of a mixed vehicle, giving the sensation of piloting an atypical machine. What they are also….! Riding on their long legs, XC and XE are already charming in the streets of Lusitania, barely hampered by their 21-inch front wheel.

The Scrambler 1200 XE in the mist

Precise selection, neutral gearbox and extremely smooth clutch control contribute to the approval of a hyper available engine. Able to evolve at 1,500 rpm in town on fourth gear, the twin is a gentleman. We can have character and good manners, Steve.

Thus, the turning radius of these machines is surely the best in the family, making the city another playground. Vibration-free, whatever the pace, the mirrors offer a somewhat narrow field..

Sequence of turns with the XC

But during these urban journeys, the Triumphs quickly release calories on the exhaust side. The right leg does not appreciate the horizontal line of the collectors. No risk of burns, but warming up. Also pay attention to the use of synthetic clothing or rain suits. A Scrambler, needs space, is built for the great outdoors and the 1200’s begging to roar in the distance.

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE in curve

Motorway and expressways

If you are on the tariffed ribbon, either you have opted for a fast and short connection, to reach more winding places. Either you adore the friend Vinci and you have planted a purchase. In both cases, the result is the same, it is painful. Once an almost double hecto kilometer-hour has been reached, we wait for the end of the legal penalty, at 4,000 laps. Big vibrations inhabit the machine, some will complain of tingling. For my part, I only felt pleasant tremors. Stalled right on maximum torque, the Scrambler relaunched vigorously on the last report, the power then blowing without weakening to the red zone. If you also entered it by dint of making the flag, take the secondary tangent.

The XE in a straight line

Departmental

Time for fun isn’t it? Certainly. XC or XE give the same pleasure, but distill it differently. On the handlebars of the first, the impression of driving a roadster is more sensitive. More agile on asphalt, the XC is less compact on the revivals with its less extreme suspensions and logically limits more mass transfers. Less long, the inertia on the changes of angle and in particular by chaining the pins, is appreciably reduced.

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC on the road

With its higher suspension travel, its greater height, the XE is less lively, of course. But no less effective. Especially since, when taking the brakes, the sag management is particularly well mastered at mid-race. You have to take the machine more and, for that, its extra-wide handlebars are an asset. We take advantage of a higher ground clearance, handy when the pace becomes almost outrageous and the footrests scratch the asphalt. On the raises, the more adventurous wedges more on its shock absorbers.

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE road test

And what reminders! Without drowning its pilot under a surge of unnecessary horses, the English twin gives full play to its entire character, growling and taking the crew with a wide thrust. Hinkley’s twin-cylinder engine is most appreciated on the intermediaries. Fat, but lively, snoring, making you feel each stroke of the piston, it gives an unusual mechanical life to Scramblers 1200. From 3,500 to 7,400 revolutions, it pushes without stopping, torturing the rear envelope which, sometimes, skids nicely, notwithstanding the ‘excellent anti-slip. Because if the Rain mode calms acceleration, Sport and Road do not offer much difference, except on this traction assistance. In short, it’s even more fun. Especially as the throttle grip is finely linked to the engine, ensuring precision and consistency on a trickle of gas and perfect control. Only downside, the front axle does not give much information, probably filtered by a connection to the very rigid frame..

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE at acceleration

Finally, it is difficult here to judge the relevance of the inertial unit…. except in psychological terms. However, having angle modulated ABS and traction control is a great thing. To see as a longer test.

And if you have to dawdle, we will appreciate the ease of cycle part of the Triumph. Stalled in 5 or 6, the crew takes advantage of the omnipresent couple and a typically English soundtrack, as rough as can be. Charming in every way, the Scrambler 1200 XC and XE allow as much to look at the landscape from the road as to cross it by the paths if the desire takes you..

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC in a corner

Off-road

The great seduction of these Triumphs is done in the mud. It’s not necessarily glamorous, but it’s really convincing. Our roadster-trails…. yes, our Scramblers therefore, prove to be in conformity with their name.

Electronic question, the off-road mode is required (ABS reduced to a minimum on the front, ditto for traction control). Shod for the occasion with Pirelli Scorpion Rallye tires, with the most suitable notch, XC and XE reveal real aptitudes for crossing, passage in mud, sandy tracks and other enduro joys. However, it is also difficult here to obtain all the information from the front axle..

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE off-road

It was the XE’s moment of glory, demonstrating its superiority in committed offroad at will. Absorbing all the pitfalls of off-roading, its high-travel suspensions and top-of-the-range cartridges allow you to drive fast and hard off asphalt, as in the controls of a trail. Because the position induced by the footrests and the handlebars is similar, even better than on some ….

Narrow, the Scrambler fit perfectly with the legs despite the horizontal collectors. It heats up a bit, but nothing annoying. And the downforce on the handlebars is excellent, letting the pilot dominate the front axle. Especially on the XE where the extra-large handlebars optimize control. With their 21-inch, the Triumph sisters set off on the track without a second thought, protecting the frame and engine behind a wide and long aluminum skid plate and numerous additional plates..

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC off-road

Especially since, here again, the availability of the twin makes it possible to evolve on the second report at very low speed and its electronic management of the throttle is of the best. Ideal for controlling the slightly more complex passages on the handlebars of machines of more than 220 kilos fully loaded…. They will not go back to a 250 enduro…. but the ability of the Scrambler 1200 to evolve where it sees fit is really pleasing. The XE allows the more experienced to ride hard, without fear. And even to fly to the Steeve (I have not found a stuntman). More limited, the XC will have no fear of playing truant, but will be more limited in the most demanding parts. Finally, note the remarkable solidity of the machines, often leaving without irremediable damage after a fall, both on land and on the road..

TT cornering with the Scrambler XE

Part-cycle

Very classic and offering excellent rigidity, the chassis provides first-class performance to the Scrambler 1200. The rear suspensions feature an original design, combining two springs. The shorter one, positioned on the top of the element, is more flexible, better absorbing weak jolts. The second, of the progressive type, receives the greatest demands. Taken together, they provide the Roadsters with damping that is as effective on roads as it is off-road. More dynamic on the road, the XC leaves more scope for its off-road sister. On the corner, the Scrambler 1200 stay the course and offer a convincing general neutrality. The front end, however, remains a little sluggish.

Adjustable fork of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

Braking

With their speed competition calipers, Scrambler 1200 XC and XE deliver first-rate decelerations, but above all remarkably flexible. Equipped with softer pads, the elements provide progressiveness and power on any occasion. The excellent action of the rear brake is to be emphasized, both on road and on land.

Front brake of the Triumph Scrambler 1200

Comfort / Duo

If the Portuguese had succumbed to the charms of our steeds, she would have benefited from a comfortable space, a pleasant round grab handle and well-placed footrests. Only his right leg would have been noticeably pushed aside by the mufflers. The sound of the exhausts quite present can also limit its approval over long distance. But if you want to garden as a duo, these are good motorcycles.

Seat of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC

Consumption

Not raised.

Conclusion

Forget all your repositories in terms of mixed neo-retro machines. Revisiting its history, Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC or XE ensures continuity of spirit in a "traditional modernity". In short, the best of both space-time. Riding these machines, the motorcycle spirit, raw, devoid of artifice (but no marketing) is tangible. Improved roadster, sleek trail, these are Scramblers, real ones, those who will give you back the key, but will let you practice urbanity with efficiency. To Steve.

Only 1,000 euros separate the English women. € 14,800 for the XC, € 15,800 for the XE. A high price that will convince 90% of buyers to take the most extreme. As for the Thruxton R according to the manufacturer.

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC & XE test

They will be opposed to motorcycles much less capable, less versatile, less designed for offroad. Starting with the BMW Nine T Scrambler priced at € 13,550, whose ergonomics cannot compete. Likewise, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 priced as standard at € 12,990, in the Special version at € 14,290 and € 14,990 for the Scrambler Sport equipped with Ohlins suspension, cannot under any circumstances compete with the intrepid Albion..

A real new segment on the market, the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE guarantee you escape; neither small nor large, but yours.

XC strengths

• Powerful, timeless aesthetics
• Personality and engine availability
• Saddle comfort
• High-performance suspensions
• Precise and gentle selection
• Superb sound
• Quality of finishes
• Overall dynamic efficiency
• Appreciable offroad capacity

XC weaknesses

• No analogue tachometer
• Perfectible tires in the wet
• Price not far from that of the XE

XE strengths

• Powerful, timeless aesthetics
• Personality and engine availability
• Offroad ergonomics
• Saddle comfort
• Extreme performance suspensions
• Precise and gentle selection
• Superb sound
• Superior quality of finishes
• Overall dynamic efficiency
• Amazing offroad capability
• Service / price ratio

XE weaknesses

• No analogue tachometer
• Perfectible tires in the wet

The technical sheet of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE

Test conditions

• Itinerary: winding roads with variable surface, dry, wet, greasy and expressways
• Offroad on oily, dry and sandy tracks
• Weather: humid mist and sun
• Motorcycle km: 220 km + offroad
• Problem encountered: ras

Test equipment

• Vanucci Tifoso jacket (offroad)
• AllOne Heritage Jacket (Road)
• Jean Vanucci Armalith 2.0
• Dainese Centauri GoreTex Boots (offroad)
• Dainese Tempest Boots (Road)

Video comparison of the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE

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