Triumph has updated its Scrambler 1200 range (aka the favoured choice of transport for 007) with the new X model and flagship XE off-roader copping some seriously impressive updates. For starters, both motorcycles will be powered by the 1200cc Bonneville engine, which dishes up 90PS/110Nm, not to mention a healthy dose of off-road grunt courtesy of a raft of new technology and features.
Looking more broadly at the new Triumph lineup, you can see how the motorcycle marquee has managed to separate the two models. Specifically, the Scrambler 1200 X is the more accessible model with competitive pricing and a 16,000km service interval to lower the cost of ownership. The other highlights for this new motorcycle include new Marzocchi suspension with 45mm USD forks and RSU with piggyback reservoirs and preload adjustability having 170mm wheel travel.
Elsewhere, the X also focuses on better on-road performance with new optimised cornering ABS and switchable optimised cornering traction control. Equipment on offer includes a TFT instrument cluster, all LED lighting, USB charging, turn-by-turn navigation, Bluetooth phone and a host of other features.
The Scrambler 1200 XE, on the other hand, gets Brembo Stylema radial monoblock callipers with twin floating 320mm discs, and a single-piston Nissin calliper on the rear. The new Marzocchi suspension comes with long 250mm wheel travel for the front and rear plus increased adjustability dialled in.
Other updates include intake and exhaust headers delivering more torque at higher revs while a high screen and luggage system with a tail bag are available as an option. Cosmetically, Triumph has also added tweaks to the big daddy 1200 XE, including new ‘slimline’ LED indicators and a new LED tail light.
“Built for both on-road and off-road adventures, the new Scrambler 1200 XE sets an even higher bar for performance, capability, and modern classic style,” Steve Sargent, Triumph chief product officer said. “The Scrambler 1200 X is a new choice for our customers, optimised to deliver the specification riders have asked for, with a lower seat height, even more competitive pricing, and an even better road ride than the previous Scrambler 1200 XC.”
Both the Scrambler 1200 X and XE do have considerable differences and that is due to the way they are positioned. The more off-road focussed XE has a longer swingarm and wheelbase while the shorter wheelbase for the X is meant for better on-road performance. The same goes for the Metzeler tyres with the X getting Karoo Street tyres while the XE gets more hardcore Metzeler Tourance ones. Finally, the XE gets an extra off-road pro mode along with the five rider modes on offer.
An Australian market introduction has been confirmed for early 2024, with pricing for the Scrambler 1200 X starting from AUD$22,600 with the Scrambler 1200 XE being priced from AUD$24,900. Overall, we do love the gorgeous retro-meets-modern styling for the Scrambler 1200 and its torque-filled motor is the perfect choice for some hardcore off-roading while the X variant now further broadens the range.
