We would all agree that ‘scramblers’ may be the most suited motorcycles for our diverse terrain. And since our riders are acknowledging the situation, manufacturers have responded with a selection of their recipes for scrambling. Designed from the ground up, or just re-engineered bits on a relevant platform, you may choose what suits you best. This Triumph Scrambler 400 X is more than just a scaled-down retro-styled off-roader. It is a purpose-built scrambler that introduces Triumph’s dual-purpose heritage to a new generation of riders who are hungry to explore.
Developed from the ground up alongside the Speed 400, the Scrambler 400 X is able to carve its identity with a tough stance, versatile hardware, and engineering maturity which is very welcome in this class. The essence of Triumph heritage is an added bonus. While it takes cues from classic scramblers, its real success lies in how well it adapts those traits to modern riders and their real-world usage.
Purposeful Design With Functional Details
Yes, design is a very personal variable, but no one will deny that the 400 X looks fantastic. While the silhouette is unmistakably Triumph, we’re happy that the detailing speaks the language of durability. The 19-inch front wheel, wide aluminium handlebars, handguards, sump guard, and a longer wheelbase are all going to help you slide around off the beaten path. The longer travel suspension and increased ground clearance of 195mm give it enough capability to glide over light trails, gravel roads and broken tarmac with ease. Thankfully this is a proper scrambler in intent and execution, not just a mere styling exercise.
Despite the rugged brief, Triumph has kept the Scrambler 400 X manageable in dimensions. Yes, the seat height of 835mm may be slightly tall for many, but the seat’s narrow design and progressive suspension setup allow average-sized riders to manage the machine with ease. The 179kg kerb weight, too, is very much manageable off the road and adds to the motorcycle’s stability both on and off the road.
TR-Series Engine Is A Gem
The newly-developed TR-Series 398cc single-cylinder engine is an absolute joy to play with. This liquid-cooled, four-valve DOHC unit delivers 39.5 bhp at 8,000rpm and 37.5Nm at 6,500rpm. It is such a refined delivery that it can peak screaming high through the corners, or deliver an anvil of torque down low. The balance shaft keeps vibrations well in check and the ride-by-wire throttle ensures quick fuelling across the rev range. It is able to produce a super wide spread of torque for immense tractablity off the road and easy use around town.
The six-speed gearbox is slick and benefits from a slip-and-assist clutch, less effort in traffic and preventing wheel hop under hard downshifting. And you will be hard-shifting this thing around corners because it can hold lines mid-corner with so much confidence that you forget the trail you just took to reach the top of the mountain. Also, the Scrambler 400 X feels comfortable cruising at triple-digit speeds while still offering enough punch for quick overtakes without strain.
Comfortable, Yet Built For Dual Terrain
Triumph has made key chassis differences between the Scrambler 400 X and the Speed 400 to suit their intended purpose. The Scrambler gets a longer wheelbase (1,418mm), a different steering geometry (24.6° rake) and a wider handlebar for better control off-road. The front suspension travel is bumped up to 150mm and comes with a larger 43mm USD fork, while the rear monoshock gets similar extended travel. Leave it in the tractor like 2nd gear and keep chugging along is the mantra.
On tarmac, it gets surprising how composed and confidence-inspiring the 400 X is. Not many of its competitors can boast of this. These Metzeler Karoo Street tyres strike a balance between road grip and mild off-road traction. Triumph engineers have made sure the chassis, suspension and brakes inspire you to ride hard, no matter what the surface. Braking duties are handled by a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, both with dual-channel ABS. For off-road riding, the ABS at the rear wheel can be, obviously disengaged.
Everyday Usability
The Scrambler 400 X may be trail bashing, but bring it back, give it a wash, and you are ready for your office commute. The upright riding position, generous seat padding, and wide pegs ensure comfort for both city and long-distance use. It is not many times that our pillion photographer compliments the comfort of the rear seat.
The bike comes equipped with an LED headlamp, LED indicators, an analogue-digital instrument cluster with gear position indicator, and a USB-C charging port. We also like the attention to detail. Premium touches like the high-quality paint finish, branded bar-end mirrors, and Triumph badging throughout. And since this is a Triumph, there are good quality optional accessories, including luggage mounts, a flyscreen, centre stand, heated grips, and more, making it easy to tune the bike for touring or commuting.
Competitive Package
Built in India by Bajaj Auto under Triumph’s close technical supervision, the Scrambler 400 X benefits from high localisation while retaining British engineering standards. This strategic manufacturing tie-up has allowed Triumph to offer the bike at a compelling price point without compromising on quality or design.
Priced at INR 2.63 lakh ex-showroom (India), it sits at the higher end of the entry-premium segment. However, when measured against its rivals like the Yezdi Scrambler, Honda CB350RS, and Royal Enfield Scram 411, the Triumph definitely carves its own with its superior chassis balance, refined powertrain, and genuine dual-purpose ability. It feels more complete, more resolved.
All Triumph India needs to do is get people to test ride the Scrambler 400 X more, and if possible on a mixed surface. Experiential rides or on-ground events might help. Also the dealership experience has to be recalibrated. Currently, the dealership attitude is stiff upper lip than British camaraderie. This is a legendary brand that needs to instil aspiration in the new generation of riders, and not just transactional slant by dealership representatives. Fix this and Triumph India will see more riders flocking, we know we will.
Photography: Mohd Nasir
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