Triumph Scrambler XE & XC 1200 reviews: The new ‘flavours’ that will knock your socks off
The all-new 1200 Scramblers XE and XC will grab the attention of anyone serious about off-roading. We took the bikes through Portugal, taking them on a mix of on and off-road routes, and it was absolutely brilliant.
TRIUMPH is the daddy when it comes to modern classics.
It offers something that appeals in pretty much every sector and this all-new 1200 Scrambler will grab the attention of those who are serious about off-roading but want to look good doing it.
It comes in two flavours, XC and XE. The XE is the pick of the two. It has longer travel suspension, more choice of riding modes and generally looks cooler, thanks to its gold fork legs.
We rode both bikes in Portugal on a mix of road and off-road routes. Both bikes performed brilliantly. The first day was all about off-road riding. The road-friendly Metzeler tyres were swapped out for Pirelli Scorpion Rally rubber and we were away.
Considering the weight – about 225kg ready to ride – the Scrambler was incredibly easy to live with. It was also great fun.
Clever stuff, well thought out with a premium finish.
Jumps, sliding out of corners and plummeting off huge drops were all easy thanks to just the right amount of assistance in off-road mode.
The big 21in front wheel was sure when the going got tough and the leverage available thanks to the wide bars made placing the bike easy.
Day two was a soggy road ride, giving us a chance to try rain mode. With nigh on 90bhp and 110Nm of torque, the 1200 Scrambler delivered an entertaining ride, without feeling like it was about to get you into trouble speed-wise.
Cornering traction control and ABS are on hand to help when you need it, but the Brembo brakes and perfect road manners mean you could turn off all the rider systems and still maintain total control.
MOST READ IN MOTORS
The technology fest continues with a new turn-by-turn navigation system, along with GoPro connectivity, all managed using the switch gear on the bike. It’s clever stuff, well thought out and built to a premium finish.
There is just £800 difference between the models. It is £12,300 for the XE, which will be in dealers late next month.
The £11,500 XC is out at the end of February. Order now for the perfect post-Christmas present.
For more bikes search Bike World on or find it on .
- GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]