Introduction
Triumph Scrambler 400x Review: Triumph has launched its Scrambler 400 X, which is powered by the same engine that powers Speed 400. The Scrambler features a modern style and provides an enjoyable riding experience with a taller seat and a wide split-seat configuration.
The engine produces power in a straight manner, however, there are some noises at higher revs. The suspension was adjusted to perfection, allowing an enjoyable ride on rough roads, without sacrificing the quality of feedback.
The Scrambler has a switchable traction control as well as rear ABS for off-road excursions. Overall this Scrambler 400 X is a well-built and enjoyable motorbike, with a price tag of Rs 2,62,996.
I was awestruck by Triumph’s initial attempt at creating an engine with a small displacement known as it was the Speed 400. It did its job on a variety of aspects and was a great motorbike to take around the city as well as at the track.
Triumph also revealed that the same engine could be used to power a scrambler, called which is the Scrambler 400 X.
While the engine was a success on the roadster I was unsure of how it would work in a scrambler.
So when I finally had the chance to swing my leg over the Scrambler 400 X, I wasn’t expecting it to be as impressive as it did the Speed 400. Oh, how wrong I was!
Triumph Scrambler 400 X Pricing
At the time that Speed 400 was launched, large sections of the media expected an ex-showroom cost of between Rs. 2.70 – 3.0 lakh. To announce the Speed at a staggering price of Rs. 2.33 lakh (ex-showroom) was not much less than pulling the rabbit out of the bag (Rs. 2.23 lakhs for the initial 10000 bookings).
It’s safe to say that potential buyers were expecting the Scrambler with a similar cost, with a price that was being bench-marked with the Speed.
Bajaj as well as Triumph have set the price at Rs. 2.63 lakhs to Rs. 30% more than Speed 400 (and Rs. 40k for customers taking a look at the 2.23 per lakh cost point).
The price difference between the Speed and the Speed has caused some displeasure among the conscious about value when viewed as a whole, however, it’s still a good price for the Scrambler.
In my opinion, it’s a reasonable price for the value you’re getting from the Scrambler however it might not be as aggressively placed as some would have liked.
Triumph Scrambler 400x Review: Pros & Cons
Triumph Scrambler 400 X Pros
- The most iconic Triumph style is distinctly like its larger Scrambler cousins for the largest part.
- Fit, build quality, and finishing are some of the highest in the market
- Because of its higher and wider stance, it is more visually appealing to the 400cc “big bike” sensation than the smaller Speed 400. Speed 400
- More experienced riders will be pleased with its spacious ergonomics when compared to the Speed
- Beautifully crafted touches that add an aesthetic appeal as well as functionality when required – sturdy metal headlight grille, bash plate twin barrel exhaust, the black cladding, the round indicators tanks, tank grips, and a step-up seat that highlights the best features.
- 19″ wheel, greater ground clearance, a wider wheelbase, and more suspension travel all make them for a more stable ride that reflects the Scrambler’s DNA
- 39.5 BHP engine is reasonably manageable thanks to its strong pull. Power delivery is smooth and refined at a weight of 185 kg providing a decently fast performance, further enhanced by a smooth 6-speed gearbox
- Still enjoyable despite its larger standing position and larger wheelbase
- A generous 16,000 km/year service interval. Service and parts costs are anticipated to remain competitive.
Triumph Scrambler 400 X Cons
- Not enough features, such as connected technology, riding modes brake levers and clutches that can be adjusted, and more.
- Unexperienced riders (especially those who are shorter) might be able to find the 835mm seat height a bit challenging.
- Digital instrument clusters and analog do not fit the bike’s design
- A few ergonomic issues, such as mirrors getting clogged by hand or foot pegs flexing downwards during stand-up riding
- Vibrations that occur at higher RPMs
- The rear seat split is small. It is important to consider whether the bicycle is for two-up riding with luggage, especially if this is an important use case
- Only one-sided saddle bags are available from Triumph currently. You’ll have to look into aftermarket options for double-sided saddle bags or larger luggage options.
- The whole experience of service remains unknown territory with Triumph having a negative reputation on this issue in some areas of the country. The possibility of having an enjoyable experience at a dealership under Bajaj’s leadership is something that remains to be judged
Triumph Scrambler 400 X design and styling
When you hear the word Triumph you’re looking for some level of sophistication and that’s the result when you purchase the Triumph Scrambler 400 X.
Similar to the Speed 400, the Scrambler is built with the highest quality care, and you’ll find no area that appears shabbily constructed. The Carnival Black/Phantom Black model featured a sleek fuel tank that immediately attracted the attention of everyone who saw it.
The Scrambler has the same headlamp with LED as the Speed however, you get covered with mesh. The off-road look is accentuated with the hand guards and crossbars that are attached to the bar.
It also includes the metal base plate to protect the engine’s underbelly as well as tank grips and a different style for the left-hand side panel.
The model on the right is similar to the Speed however the one on the left features an enormous brushed metal plate that has Scrambler 400 X etched into the surface. Overall, though not very different from the Speed from a distance, however, the Scrambler is still stunning.
Triumph Scrambler 400 X ergonomics
Comparatively against Speed 400. Compared to Speed 400, you sit higher on the Scrambler due to the higher seat height (895 millimeters). This is especially beneficial for those who weigh 6 feet or taller.
If you think that the Speed 400 is a bit too cramped for you Do try the Scrambler since it is sure to be disappointing. The slim width of the bike allows you to sit higher, putting at minimum an inch of your foot is a breeze.
The Speed 400 comes with the identical semi-digital instrument cluster that is the one found on the Speed 400. Speed 400 and it does an excellent job of delivering the essential information you like to know.
There aren’t many fancy features that connect to the ride However, when you’re having fun you don’t even think about the absence.
The split-seat configuration in the Scrambler 400 X provides enough space for a pillion to sit comfortably and is a comfy cushion to sit on for hours.
There’s an adjustable grab rail in the back so that the pillion could grasp something. Although we were unable to test the pillion riding experience in-depth, I am convinced that it’s a comfortable space compared to the majority of bikes in this segment.
Build Quality, Fit & Finish
Excellent and definitely the best in class. It’s not the cheapest or a low cost by any measure. The time and effort put into the design is also evident in the construction.
The general feeling and touch of the switchgear is conforming to segment standards. The wiring is neatly organized without any ungainly visual components visible. The paint quality appeared to be excellent and I couldn’t see any gaps in quality in the general fit and appearance of the motorcycle.
The build quality of the seats and lighting all the way to the bolts and nuts is outstanding. Every obvious touch point felt comfortable to touch and was constructed to last.
Over the few hours that I spent with the bikes, I could not see any glaring issues and the overall quality exuded by the bike was confidence-inspiring.
The same thing happened when riding, and it appeared to be a well-constructed bike, well-equipped to take on the rough and tumbling of our daily rides.
Features and Instrumentation
Let’s get started with the feature specified in the specification sheet. The bike is equipped with a throttle operated by wire as well as a slipper clutch as well as ABS and an immobilizer. The bike does not have riding modes but instead comes with an adjustable traction control (with simple binary settings which allows it to either be on or off).
The main difference is that, in comparison to the Speed which is more road-biased and more friendly to mud Scrambler also comes with a control binary for ABS that can be turned on or OFF using an off-road setting.
The gear that switches the switch is a classic Triumph and is relatively easy and easy to use as the traditional line has always been.
It displays the most vital information using a simple “Information” switch that toggles through the menus, which include two trip meters live-time FE, an average FE distance from empty (DTE) the traction control settings, and a fuel gauge of any necessary warning indicators.
When on with the Speed and the DTE appeared to be somewhat erratic and occasionally it would display 990 kilometers before changing back to a more real-looking display. I didn’t experience this issue on the Scrambler media bike I was assigned.
The speedometer is not the most impressive design triumph according to me. They could have gone with the traditional twin dial layout or alternatively, an updated single neo-retro circular speedometer. My preference would be the classic and elegant style of the larger Scramblers.
Instead, they’ve chosen an analog round speedo to the left which transforms into a digital instrument to the right.
Overall, it looks sloppy and, from an aesthetic perspective it is a no man’s territory.
The RPM display is also uninteresting, being a small vertical bar, and having it in a prominent position on the speedometer would have been better even if it meant switching the speed itself to a numerical reading.
These aspects are however subjective, and I’m sure that most people will find the design to be perfect.
It is, however, evident that it’s firmly within the analog/semi-digital category and isn’t ready to embrace any type of smart connectivity feature as an additional feature.
Bajaj says that it is providing the bike to the highest level of “relevant tech” and while sure, this is an advertising ploy at a certain level, promoting the choices they’ve made to meet their price and cost goals, I can attest to the decisions. I’m not sure I’d want connected technology on the market in this class and am happy that they’ve provided it with the proper specifications and features in areas that matter the most. As someone who is off-road at every opportunity I really appreciate the ability to toggle ABS “On” and “Off by using”Off Road” and the “Off Road” setting.
Triumph Scrambler 400 X engine performance
The engine that powers the Scrambler 400 X is the same one that powers the Speed 400. The 398.15 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled motor delivers plenty of torque at lower revs and can reach triple-digit speeds with minimal effort.
Triumph hasn’t changed its tuning in the area of power delivery. However, they state that they’ve tweaked the engine’s brakes to accommodate off-road riding. First, let me inform you that the motorcycle has vibration issues over 5k revs.
You can feel the vibrations emanating from the seat as you crank up the revs, and it is transferred to the footpegs, and even the handlebars, too. The vibrations are not too great in comparison to other bikes, but it is one area in which Triumph is able to improve.
Beyond the vibrations, the engine is able to deliver power in a smooth and pleasant way.
You can get plenty of torque in the low gears and are able to cruise easily at slower speeds when you use an upper gear. When you’re required to climb up to triple-digit speeds this bike can pick up speed within seconds of being asked.
The only difference I could see was that Scrambler requires a bit more effort to go past 100 mph than its lighter and more compact cousin.
The gearbox was fun to use and was a joy to use in any way. I was even able to achieve neutrality every time, without fail!
Wheels & Tyres
The bike comes with stronger “for India alloys, which are spec-cast aluminum alloys, with a 100/90 R19 tyre at the front, and a thinner speed 140/80 R17 tyre at the rear.
The design of the alloy wheels differs slightly from the Speed with a stronger structure that contributes to the extra weight that the Scrambler is able to carry.
Contrary to the Speed model, which comes with two OEM tyres and block pattern tires, the tyres that are available with the Scrambler are restricted only to MRF Zapper Kurve F.
Although the international options include Metzelers These tires are priced at a level that is more in line with this segment of price. Due to their tougher compound, they’re also likely to last for a longer period of 18,000-20,000 km in comparison to international alternatives, which could offer a much shorter life.
In the short 120-odd miles of cycling, I felt the tires in good condition. But, I’m not convinced I had the bike pushed far enough on the asphalt or ventured into the extreme off-road terrain to get an accurate perspective.
I’d like to keep my judgment to this issue only when I’m able to experience the bike for more time and in more diverse conditions. Particularly I’m interested in seeing how they perform in wet weather, particularly in the event of a ride that is off the asphalt.
Fuel Tank Capacity & Range
The tank’s capacity is 13 liters. If that the fuel efficiency is somewhere between 27 – 28 km/l. it should last for approximately 250-270 kilometers before the bike needs an oil refill.
A bit of frugality on the road could assist in getting closer to the 30-km/l threshold however, these are all claimed by companies numbers and we didn’t have the opportunity to test these figures out in real life.
It is the Triumph Scrambler 400 X is E20 compatible, and has an E20 sticker on the cap of the fuel tank proclaiming this.
Maintenance
The bike has an unbeatable service interval of 16,000 km/year which is comparable to Triumph’s larger bikes. I’m sure that there are some who need to perform periodic maintenance however, all in all, the one-year time frame (assuming there’s a gap of 16,000 kilometers during that time) is still a decent position to be in.
At the press briefing of Speed 400, at the press briefing for Speed 400, Bajaj declared that the total cost of ownership for the Triumph 400s over a three-year period would be lower than comparable Royal Enfields.
They did not specify the REs that were “corresponding” but suffice to mention that it’s more affordable than the last penny or not, it will give people a sense of security that the price is comparable to the 400cc class in the US, and buyers who are considering buying it should not be concerned about big bikes like maintenance that can be a burden on the wallet.
We hope that Bajaj will also adopt appropriate operations measures to guarantee the highest possible quality of service. It is a situation where certain Triumph dealers may be required to make a course correction.
It is important to know that, with these motorcycles, Triumph Bajaj will grow from just 14 odd dealerships to more than 120 in the initial phase. A significant portion of these dealerships, I’m sure, comes as part of the existing group of dealers that sell Bajaj or KTM bikes.
It’s an ASM network that Bajaj and dealer management networks already have an established relationship.
I would like to see them leverage this in a way that allows them to offer an authentic premium brand and a high-end experience for its 400cc owners in terms of technical capabilities as well as overall integrity and quality.
At the Scrambler press conference, we were informed that the workshop will be in conformity with Triumph World Black Standards.
Standard & Extended Warranty
Bajaj and Triumph offer a five-year extended warranty as part of the cost of their bikes. It basically comes with a standard 2-year unlimited mileage warranty. The bike is also tagged on an extended warranty that extends to three years, and 45,000 kilometers on top of the date.
Essentially (as I was told by a local dealer) If the odometer is at a reading at the end of two years, the buyer gets a guarantee of an additional 45,000 miles in that time period of 3 years.
We believe this is a fantastic idea and should provide potential customers with the confidence to be early users of the brand-new products. This was explained to a dealer however I would advise prospective customers to confirm this before deciding to purchase.
Triumph Scrambler 400 X ride experience
One thing I loved most about Scrambler 400 X was its suspension configuration. Yes, you get the 43mm USD forks in the front, and an adjustable mono-shock in the back, but the suspension travel is now 150 millimeters.
This increased travel means that the bike is able to take more brutal slamming and that is the expectation from an e-bike. I was pleasantly surprised by the way that the suspension is set up on both ends. It is a smooth ride on rough roads with enough feedback to be able to accurately determine the ideal location for the bike.
A majority of bikes that have a comfy suspension could be prone to compression, and insufficient feedback to the surface but not with this model. Scrambler 400 X.
With the great grip provided by these tires, I was capable of putting my faith in the device and pressing it to the limit without falling to the limit. The gravel road was a child’s game to the Scrambler. If you’re planning to go off-roading for a long time it is possible to change the tires with a better-designed set.
The larger 19-inch tire can provide a noticeable improvement in the direction of the bike, but it’s not so big that it becomes difficult to ride on roads that are smooth.
To accommodate the Scrambler, Triumph is offering the option of a traction control switch and rear ABS. If you are on trails and want to be more active then you can turn off these electronic devices. The switch to turn off the rear ABS assists in stopping more easily on rough terrain.
I’d say the process of switching these functions may be a little smoother but. The Speed 400 has a larger front brake that is a 320mm unit, but it may not have the same feel as the one found on the Speed 400. This is done to provide a smoother braking experience while off-roading. I was impressed with how the brakes responded, and how they slowed the bike sufficiently and at a good pace.
Final Verdict: Triumph Scrambler 400 X Review
I was actually down when I took the Scrambler 400 X. My first goal was to avoid pushing myself too hard and causing my condition worse.
The moment I got started my body, mind, and mind wished to slow down. In my eagerness to just ride a bit more, I discovered myself over 30 kilometers along a mountainous road.
I had pedaled through smooth asphalt, splashed my way through the gravel, and then left my tracks in the dirt.
It also perfectly embodies the spirit of scrambling. It’s not as powerful as an ADV for off-roading, but it is a tough track it comes with enough equipment to help those in cities adjust to the thorny trails in a flash.
I don’t think the Scrambler is superior to the Speed but rather, they are two different products that cater to two different kinds of customers. Therefore, regardless of which you choose, you’ll not regret it.
Similar to the Speed the Scrambler performs admirably. There’s not a single flaw and they’ve created a superbly engineered quality product at reasonable prices.
However, unlike the Speed, I believe that the Scrambler is able to work out a little bit more. The Speed offers a clear blue sky of price in between it and the more attractive Duke 390 and reasonably distinct product differentiation with its cousins, the Royal Enfield Classic, Hunter, and the Hero Harley 440.
The Scrambler however is expected to go directly at what is anticipated to be a highly capable 2.0 version of the Himalayan (452) with the base (X) version that is the 390Adv far off of the mark too.
The Triumph and Scrambler brand equity is strong, those of the Himalayan and KTM aren’t to be dismissed with a smile. The debut of the closest competitor is anticipated to be the Scrambler and I’m eager to watch these two brands battle it out to claim their part of market share.
It is likely that the competition will increase even more when new versions of 390 ADV also become available on the market.
Scrambler 400 X Scrambler 400 X costs Rs 2,62,996 (ex-showroom) which is around 30000 more than the Speed and completely justifies its cost.
Overall the 400cc sector is becoming extremely competitive. With such an array of highly efficient products, in the final Triumph Scrambler 400x review and evaluation, the buyer will definitely win.
