Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC Review (2019)
What Is It?
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC is a retro scrambler style bike and is powered by a liquid cooled 1,200 cc parallel twin engine, producing 88.8 bhp at 7,400 rpm and maximum torque at just 3,950 rpm.
Specs
- Seat Height: Average (840 mm / 33.1 inches)
- Dry Weight: Heavy (205 kg / 452 lbs)
- Economy: Average (50 mpg / 5.6 l/100km / 17.7 km/l)
- Range: High (180 miles / 290 km)
- Top Speed: High (110 mph / 177 km/h)
Pros
- Soundtrack
- Handling
- Comfort
- Brakes
Cons
- Seat can get hot
- Some vibes
What Is It Like?
Triumph Scrambler 1200XC 2020
Tell us a bit about you
I'm a 45 year old female, 185 cm / 6'1" tall. I have had my licence since 2008, have owned 7 bikes and currently still own 5.
Why did you choose it?
I bought the Scrambler as I wanted a comfy tourer, that was able to do long miles, and some motorway use, but is happy scratching around the back lanes, whether loaded or empty. I am hoping to ship it to New Zealand to do some touring there as well.
What is good about it?
- Amazing 1200 cc Twin engine
- Easy to ride at slow speed
- Positive easy handling
- Comfy
What could be improved?
My only issue is the slightly hotter heat from having a high level exhaust, but I do know they have improved that on the newer model.
Any mods or upgrades?
- Factory centre stand
- Handguards
- Fly screen
- Headlight guard
- Front mudguard extender
- Uprated radiator guard
- Pannier frame from Metal Mule
- Luggage bags from Lone Rider
What is the economy like?
I'm seeing 45 mpg.
How is the engine?
The engine is amazing and I've just finished running it in. There is torque from almost the moment you twist the throttle.
It's lower revving than most bikes I've ridden with a 7,000 rpm redline, but with the gearbox you don't notice that. It has a great exhaust note, and vibration isn't too bad, considering the size of the big twin.
How does it handle?
The handling is amazing, within 100 miles I was at ease on it, flipping it through corners and round roundabouts. It's a very stable balanced bike which also helps with slow riding and filtering.
What are the brakes like?
The brakes are great with Brembo's all round. Very positive feel, a nice feel on the levers, no need to squeeze hard.
Is it comfortable?
I have been riding it a lot whilst running it in, and I did a 3 hour ride to do a weekend camping. I had a quick stop for a drink but otherwise rode through.
The Factory handguards are a great investment, and for me the seating to bar position is perfect, with being a taller bike and the upright seating position isn't cramped and no issues with leg space.
How reliable have you found it?
So far no issues to speak of really. I had a bit of a connection glitch with the connectivity module and my phone, headset.
What's the servicing frequency and cost like?
Servicing is 10,000 miles or yearly. Not sure on costs, as I haven't got that far yet.
To Sum Up
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC is a cracking bike. It's so much fun to ride, has a great sound, an awesome engine and I love it. 1,000 miles raked up already in 2 months.
- Laura P, 2021
Price Guide
Add Your Review
Do you own this bike? We would love to hear anything good, bad, unexpected or that you have changed plus anything that a prospective new owner might find interesting or useful.