Introduction

If you are looking for a scrambler that can handle both the asphalt and the dirt, but also offers a low seat height and a reasonable price tag, you might want to check out the new 2024 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X. This bike is the latest addition to the Scrambler 1200 family, and it replaces the previous XC model as the more road-oriented and accessible option.

The Scrambler 1200 X is not just a cosmetic update of the old XC model. It is a completely revamped bike that features a lower seat height, a shorter suspension travel, a revised engine, and a new set of features and technology.

Design and Ergonomics

The first thing that struck me about the Scrambler 1200 X was how well it looked in person. The bike has a classic scrambler silhouette, with a long and flat seat, a round headlight, a teardrop fuel tank, and a pair of upswept exhaust pipes. The bike is finished in a matte black color scheme, with silver accents on the engine, the wheels, and the badges. The bike also has some nice details, such as the brushed aluminum fenders, the leather tank strap, and the Triumph logo on the side panels.

The bike’s design is not only attractive but also functional. The seat height is 31.1 inches (790 mm), which is 1.6 inches lower than the XE model. This makes the bike more accessible for shorter riders and also improves the center of gravity and stability. The seat is also comfortable and spacious, offering enough room for the rider and a passenger. The handlebar is wide and high, giving a relaxed and upright riding position. The reach to the bar is easy, and the grips are soft and ergonomic. The footpegs are also well-positioned, allowing a natural bend of the knees and a good balance between comfort and control.

The bike’s ergonomics are suitable for different rider heights and can be adjusted to some extent. The seat can be swapped for a lower or higher one, depending on the rider’s preference. The handlebar can also be moved forward or backward, using the adjustable risers. The footpegs can be replaced with more off-road-oriented ones if the rider wants more grip and clearance. The bike also has a generous ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which is enough for most off-road situations.

Engine and Performance

The Scrambler 1200 X is powered by the same 1200cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that is used in the XE model but with some updates. The engine now has a single 50mm throttle body, instead of the dual 45mm ones, and a revised exhaust header, for improved airflow and torque delivery. The engine also has a new catalytic converter, which is relocated to reduce the heat to the rider’s right leg.

The engine produces 89.5 horsepower at 7,250 rpm, and 81.1 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm. These numbers are slightly higher than the previous XC model, which had 86.4 horsepower and 78.2 pound-feet of torque. The engine also has a scrambler-specific tune, which gives it a smooth and linear power delivery, with a strong mid-range and a decent top-end. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox, which has a light and precise clutch action, and a quick-shifter that works both up and down. The bike also has a slipper clutch, which prevents rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.

The engine’s performance is impressive, both on the road and off it. The bike accelerates briskly, with a satisfying roar from the exhaust. The bike can reach 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph. The bike also has plenty of torque, which makes it easy to overtake or climb hills. The bike can cruise comfortably at highway speeds, with enough power in reserve for sudden bursts. The bike also has a good fuel economy, averaging 47 mpg, and a decent range, with a 4.2-gallon (15 liters) tank.

Handling and Suspension

The Scrambler 1200 X has a tubular steel frame, with an aluminum swingarm and a bolt-on subframe. The bike’s suspension is provided by Showa, with a 45mm upside-down fork at the front, and a piggyback reservoir shock at the rear. Both the fork and the shock are fully adjustable, with 7.9 inches of travel at both ends. The bike’s suspension is shorter than the XE model, which has 9.8 inches of travel at the front, and 9.4 inches of travel at the rear.

The bike’s handling is agile and stable, both on the road and off it. The bike has a balanced and neutral steering, which makes it easy to maneuver and corner. The bike also has good stability and composure, which makes it confident and predictable. The bike can handle various road conditions, from smooth tarmac to bumpy asphalt, with poise and comfort. The bike also has good feedback and communication, which makes it engaging and fun.

Conclusion

The 2024 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X is a scrambler that can handle both the road and the dirt, with style and substance. It has a classic and attractive design, comfortable and adjustable ergonomics, a powerful and smooth engine, agile and stable handling, and a range of features and technology. It is also accessible and affordable, compared to the XE model, and offers a good value for money.