Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE Review: The Best Scrambler Money Can Buy?

[@motobob]

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[@HolysMoly]

My experience with sport mode: Drove around in rain mode/road mode for 3 weeks after getting bike Stopped at light, figured I'd try sport mode Light goes green I immediately wheelie,nearly vertical, and let off the throttle Bike slams back down and my visor pops up Didn't crash Pulled over, shat a brick, and rode home Love my scrambler to this day!

[@bastadimasta]

Do it more often. You can build a house for yourself from those bricks.

[@syfer1016]

​@@bastadimastawtf😂

[@logangodofcandy]

A shit brick house or a brick shit house?

[@MtnPeakEnduro]

So as someone who likes to wheelie a bit, you're saying get this bike. That's what I heard anyway.

[@HolysMoly]

@@MtnPeakEnduro Honestly? If you can repair any damage that comes from dumping the bike, fuck yeah lol First through third gear wheelies very easily for me, bit harder to pull off in the higher gears but its possible. Lovely suspension on the bike and slamming it into the ground feels pretty good for a 500lb machine lol

[@IanTheEarlobe]

I have 30,000km on my 1200xe 2022. It’s the perfect adventure bike if you don’t like adv styling on other bikes. I’m 6’2 and it’s perfect for tall riders. The power is awesome, the exhaust isn’t that hot and is actually nice when it’s below 20c because it warms you up. The worst part of the bike is that $500 key fob that tells you it’s out of battery then will last another 10,000km. I hate key fobs on bikes.

[@lifeofascrambler]

haha love it! So true about the key Fob, I cut a piece of credit card and stuck it in with the battery and it provides just enough extra pressure to keep the battery contacts good (which I think might be the problem)

[@martyn_g]

I ride a DR650 with a taller seat height then this, and I’m 5ft 9😂

[@Copper.Cowboy]

The Tiger fob can be turned off, to conserve battery. Or just change the battery once a year?

[@HappyCookieTime]

Does the exhaust pipes are problem or you don’t notice them at all? I kinda want to get one

[@IanTheEarlobe]

@@HappyCookieTime 0 problem at all (mines a 2023 model) they manage the heat really well. However you NEED ago be wearing jeans. If you ride with shorts on it will burn. Jeans are thick enough for it not to be a problem at all. And in Canada it’s cold a lot of the time so it adds some heat which is nice.

[@derekyoung4859]

Good review. Although, when you state that the 1200XC is there in case you "got no intention of going off-road", I think that's selling the XC short. I agree that the XC is a better option if you're riding more on the road, but it is VERY capable off-road. I've said it multiple times, but if the XE didn't exist, the XC would be viewed as a beast of a Scrambler, with 8" of suspension travel, a 21" front wheel, and everything else. The XE seems to kick the XC aside for off-roading in most reviewers eyes, but I believe this is an assumed "bigger is better" mindset. There's something to be said about a slightly lower seat, and shorter wheelbase when making slow, technical maneuvers, no matter your height. Keep up the great content!

[@ideiben3190]

'How' can you possibly suggest that this thing would be 'decent' off-road, when it 'weighs' nearly 550 pounds....?..?..? It's not a 'scrambler', its a pig. It is such a shame, because otherwise I would buy it. If it weighed in, at least, at the wight of the Ducati Dessert Sled, which is ONE....HUNDRED...POUNDS lighter, I would buy it. But my money is going to the Ducati ONLY because it IS a 'scrambler'. Scramblers are supposed to excell at, well, 'scrambling'. This elephant is just plain waste of money for those who want to ride the muddy dirt roads. Such a damn shame.

[@derekyoung4859]

@@ideiben3190 I mean, people do a little bit of off-road riding on 1250GS, and other similarly weighted bikes. Also, the 1200XC is closer to 500lbs (452 dry).

[@steelmilkjug]

I’ve had my 1200 XE a year now, ride dual sport and Naked Sports and there is literally no other bike I want than my XE. It does everything well…30mph gravel, 60mph country twisties, commuting, and interstate jumps. I sold my ZH2 to stay under 120mph :) for long term safety and the only other bike I might ever want would be a Ducati Streetfighter V4s someday maybe?? But I’m really happy with my XE as my one bike to rule them all.

[@d.Cog420]

Same

[@mattwilliams9758]

Timbo! Great video, and kudos to Rob for allowing a non-bearded presenter on the channel. Very inclusive. 👍

[@VanBlamm]

Has Rob's channel finally grown to the point that he can hire Tim full-time?? That would be awesome

[@motobob]

He's busy with his other job but we've got a lot more collaborative stuff coming up!

[@5tevieb954]

@@motobob that’s brilliant

[@mwill986]

Enjoyed a day on/off road with the xc more than I thought I would. Riding my 900 is not quite the same now.

[@philipTOMPSETT]

Hmmm. I’m thinking of changing up from my street scrambler (which I really like) for a bit more power. Did it have similar characteristics especially the sound and feel of the exhaust? Cheers

[@mwill986]

@@philipTOMPSETT yeah very similar bikes and easy to ride. 900 looks better but the 1200 sounds better.

[@orneryhombre9078]

I’ve got a 32” inseam. Seats at 34.5” Lowered mine 2”, 1 with the Tec Flank rear springs and dropping forks in triple tree, 1 with a seat. With riding boots it’s perfect and I’m flat footed. Also had a catless header on the bench before I picked up the bike. Then opened up the intake. Hard to state the next thought without an expletive. It’s awesome, favorite bike ever. If you’re into 2 lanes, logging roads and fire trails, this is the schnitzel. High quality motorcycle with looks, guts and lineage. Highly recommended.

[@rob2475]

Good to see you again Tim. Missed the delivery and content on your channel. Well done again both, great review. 👍

[@orneryhombre9078]

Before I picked up this ‘20 XE I had a catless header on the bench and knew I could drop the suspension 1” and the seat 1”. I’m 5’-10” with a 32” inseam. Done all that plus a TEC Flank 2-1 exhaust (shaved 10#) and their booster plug. Improved intake flow by removing snorkel and adding a more free flowing air filter. Made all the difference in the world, both rideability and exhaust note. More balls as well. I’ve installed a short baffle. Sound is awesome… perfect…hard to describe without using an expletive. Phenomenal machine. On 2 wheels most of my 63 years. Although an ‘08 CVO Dyna is a hoot and a half, this is my favorite motorcycle. Should also mention, my 4th Triumph. Dunlop Trailmax Missions seem to be the schnitzel. Two lane black tops, gravel logging roads and fire trails. Scramble On Here’s an example. Mine’s a bit louder and is white w/green stripe. Brown seat and swapped out mirrors for TEC bikes bar end mounted in brushed aluminum. Looks as good as it rides and sounds. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKmrfYRprqqXZ5Y

[@jjnewman65]

Part ex’d my SpeedTwin for one of these. Loved the ST however this is a more planted ride. It has more road presence. A safer ride. It’s a better bike I believe.

[@skyleryork9656]

Curious if you wouldn’t mind highlighting some of the differences? I’m currently on a 22 ST since December and I love it to bits but I’ve been eyeing the scrambler 1200 lately. I commute on the bike and I’m on it quite a lot so utility is important to me. am also 5 foot nine so I’m a little concerned about the seat height.

[@roughrider9831]

To anyone concerned about the heat from the exhaust, there are three ways I would tackle it. 1) buy some cheap fibre tape exhaust wrap, wrap under the heat shields already there and you will barely notice it and costs about £20. 2) remove the catalytic converter, several companies will do this, like TEC in the UK. 3) get the hot section of exhaust ceramic coated. It’s not a deal breaker.

[@ilikelampshades6]

Sounds quite nice being able to have a warm. The UK is usually freezing so it appeals to me

[@d.Cog420]

this sorts it Scrambler XC/XE MAX Leg Saver v2

[@jasonwright9555]

Nice review and i was happy to see that you weren't riding it in full Moto X gear. I'd get one in a heartbeat, even though it would be used 99% of the time on the road.

[@bcab7955]

To me, this is an ADV bike, does everything with style.

[@motobob]

It's the kind of the Scrams! So many features, great spec, great engine

[@fauveride]

I have this with detachable unit garage panniers and top box, that’s really an adv with a style!

[@bcab7955]

@@fauveride I bet it looks the absolute business, cheers mate.

[@jerhughes500]

I sat on one yesterday, I’m 5’11” and was on tiptoes. I had a T120 and it felt like a lifted one of those.

[@martyn_g]

I’m 5ft 9. You’ll be fine👌

[@nickbeetham3654]

You must really like this bike, Bob - isn't it the second glowing review you've given it? I have a 22 plate XE goldline which I love. At 6' 5" (1.96m) I can easily flat foot it both sides. I found the stock seat uncomfortable so got Viking Seats to reupholster it which has made it great for 300+ mile days and has given it a bit more height. I've put 11,500+ miles on it since it arrived in March this year and have taken it all over UK and through the Alps and it's been brilliant throughout. It's great fun to ride, I can get as much luggage as I need on it and I plan more long distance trips on it. There's no getting away from the fact that even being a Euro 5 model the exhaust sometimes gets a bit warm on my right leg but it's not a problem for me - shouldn't we expect an exhaust to get hot?! I've done a little cautious light off-roading on it and TBH I would not want to be trying to pick it up solo if (when!) I drop it. The Baja Orange paint is fantastic and, for me, the bike in this colour scheme oozes Steve McQueen California cool (YMMV!). The keyless fob seems a bit of a gimmick to me.

[@ukvamp]

i test rode one of these, i really liked it and i could flat foot it too, i went for the Speed Twin 1200 (my first bike!) as that was more my style and the lower seat height gave me more confidence. would love one of these as a second bike one day!

[@durden300]

Since i got my own, theres no place in my heart to other bike, except the limited Bond Edition, Also the Steve McQueen ed. The best bike i ever owned in years!

[@Brian-tb1zs]

I miss my 1200 XC tremendously ! I never should’ve traded it in ! I did get an R1250GS, but I will get another scrambler to park next to it

[@johnlaw5762]

Must say, Triumphs sure do sound amazing

[@alexxbobber71]

Is like you read my mind, I want to change my speeedmaster with this one, tomorrow going for test👌I'm 6'3" and I think will suit me best...

[@martyn_g]

You’ll be fine. I’m 5ft 9;)

[@alexxbobber71]

@@martyn_g Meanwhile I got the Rocket 3😜

[@DerpEye]

With that exhaust it may be ok for the UK climate, but it'll be unbearable in hotter mediterranean summer (especially for the passenger). I really like the Triumph scramblers, but the muffler position is what makes me stick to my Africa Twin.

[@d.Cog420]

there's a heat shield which fixes it by Shapeways. It was no fun before installing that!

[@charlesbozonier5713]

People want something with unique character that has real capability, great power and is beautiful - someone builds it and then people complain that it is not for the average rider. No kidding. Suzuki still makes motorcycles as far as I know - very affordable. As for the weight it is about 90 lbs lighter than 1200 BMW GS and you can see where you are going because it is not cluttered with plastic everywhere. I have customized mine with Unit Garage panniers, frame mounted windscreen and mini fairing and it is freaking amazing off road and I have ridden 600 miles in a day on the stock seat without issues. I wear real MX boots so I don't notice the heat much. Everywhere I go people ask me about this motorcycle and everyone loves it. I have been riding for 45 years and started on dirt bikes. I have had a dozen motorcycles this is my favorite motorcycle ever. It does everything pretty well. It is not for beginners. You have to really know how to ride and you need to be in good physical condition to ride this bike hard. If a big, capable, powerful, great looking bike is not what you are into, then OK.

[@d.Cog420]

Agree on all your points. And you can buy a leg saver if the heat's a problem and for those wearing non MX boots. Shapeways do it.

[@vinay4886]

This is a very succinct review without too much fluff; covered all the important facts- just what I look for in a bike review. Thank you! (Although this bike isn’t for me)

[@apenneukende]

Indians not welcome

[@wltrlg]

It’s at least the best looking one. Unfortunately it’s eye watering expensive here in NL…

[@rapstarD]

I wish the xc was still in production

[@BarnettSpeedSuzukiThou]

But for the 80s casio instrument possibly

[@1990-t1j]

Top-heavy. I like the colour but for 800 extra! Does orange paint cost a lot, or something? I think I prefer the Ducati Scrambler 1100. Lighter. And it doesn't have a 21'' front wheel.

[@davidbeattie4294]

500+ lbs of tall, top heavy bike. Sounds like a real handful for all but the most experienced off road riders. At low speed on uneven terrain a tall heavy bike is going to give the unaware a lot of practice picking the damn thing up. So avoid the really nasty stuff and enjoy its great styling and agile performance. I learned to ride on a BSA 650 Firebird Scrambler and love the classic lean shape of this Triumph.

[@logangodofcandy]

I'm taller than average and twice as strong as average. I don't have any issues. If you rely on putting two feet down, you're probably screwed on any bike

[@davereinhart9933]

Nice review. If I had room, this would be my 3d bike.

[@juanamaya4766]

my favourite bike out there

[@pascalberson7886]

I am very surprised that you don’t cover the important default of such motorcycle. It’s the heating from the right side that is huge!!! I personally love this bike but this heating is not possible and should be mentioned as an information. Except if Triumph made a big change regarding this aspect? From the video we still see the same exhausts…very nice but known for burning the right leg. I tested it so I can confirm…

[@Dave-sw2dm]

I test rode a euro5 and now that the exhaust system is one piece they moved the cat behind the rider according to the salesman. I never noticed heat on the right, but did notice heat on my left boot.

[@philipTOMPSETT]

Looking forward to the next 6monthly podcast too guys😂😂👍

[@Sousless]

What about the heat from the exhaust? It's a major flaw, that you didn't even mention. Useless review just stating the specs, it's all written on manufacturer's website.

[@milodebruin4821]

Yay Tim. And yay Bob.

[@rsbharley4766]

Excellent video, thanks for sharing. Cheers

[@s.venkateswarpatnaik2484]

Nice Review buddy.Triumph Scrambler is worth for money motorcycles.i like it

[@chewie8]

Front end looks like the XRS900 especially the front light

[@leonardbartley5670]

Great presentation. Thanks

[@jjames2162]

What green jacket are you wearing? Good review!

[@t.s.racing]

The weight ? Men used to scramble 1200 c.c. full size Harleys and Indians, yes off road. Then again they didn't have green hair, wear skinny jeans, and stop to drink a latte.

[@NicolaDiMarco]

I guess the DeserX could be considered retro to a certain extend

[@motobob]

True! It's definitely got a bit of that vibe...

[@WujaszekKijaszek007]

For this price? I Think yes is the best. I love my 1200xe.

[@Μανος13]

The Euro 5 model is 5 kg heavier than the Euro 4. With a light exhaust system the bike feels nimble and very manageable.

[@donwasinger6654]

Love your vids! To cater to your US audience would you be able to start adding the measurements like weight in lbs and distance in miles? It would save those of us who don’t know the conversions from googling how much 230kg is in lbs. You’re awesome, keep it up!

[@KakuiKujira]

Your bike gets three hogsheads to the gallon, and that's the way you like it! Seriously, the metric world has the reverse problem when looking at US-situated programmes. Suck it up, Mate, like we do!

[@donwasinger6654]

@@KakuiKujira lol, yeah, I know. It's lame, I just see other content creators like Doug Demuro adding the metric figures too. Thought I'd make mention. Motobob makes the best moto content on YT, IMO. Wanna see his channel blow up

[@DerpEye]

@@donwasinger6654 Yeah, the fact is that american youtubers need to cater to the world audience (since only US uses strange units), while everyone else perfectly knows metric. So i perfectly understand why no one cares about adding imperial units.

[@tomrohan8480]

Unfortunately they are not launching the XE in India😢

[@rideoutlondon]

This is Urban Rider not Motobob 😅 I’m confused

[@tigerick7291]

I test rode one of these thinking I was going to buy it immediately. Unfortunately I found it too uncomfortable, too tall and too top heavy. I was also disappointed with the performance considering it's a 1200. I still love the looks but it isn't for me.

[@user-hf8ie8mf3n]

I am an enchanter. There are some who call me…Tim? 👍🇨🇦🤪

[@bikegeist]

When will we get you two on camera at the same time for some top bants? This bike is too big for me, even if I had the funds. :D

[@motobob]

Next week actually! We're shooting a comparison of 2 bikes together

[@bikegeist]

@@motobob I did it guys! You're all welcome!

[@jamesmegill]

I would go with the EC version. I think it hits the sweet spot for the reality of how this style of bike is used. Yes. These bikes are capable. But. There is just no way I personally could spend over ten grand on a sweet bike and risk dumping it off road. You are going down off road. You just have to decide the speed you feel comfortable crashing 😄😄😄

[@bradgroom8231]

Just add crash guards for off road

[@Hemlck]

I had one - not very comfy on long trips and impossible to stand up and ride for any length of time (due to the pipes) - lovely styling and great sound - great for posing about on and short trips on Sunday but don't be fooled - it's not a long distance adventure bike for on/off road

[@martyn_g]

De cat solves the heat issue!

[@martyn_g]

And not sure where you are, but this guy in Australia rode his on an adventure. In the outback;) kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5SVhGCilMiHprM

[@d.Cog420]

Ride mine long distance all the time. Very comfy for me, the guys I ride with on BMW's and T7's are standing up after an hour on the blacktop and I'm just sitting there smiling. Pipes do stick out a bit as you say but no biggie. Very capable off road, not for single track though.

[@KakuiKujira]

Am I missing something with his initial confusion getting the key out of the ignition? Is that not how every bike key works?

[@d.Cog420]

it's not the ignition, it's the steering lock. You have to twist it about 10 degrees in the opposite direction to get it out. The ignition is keyless, you just have to have the key in your pocket.

[@KakuiKujira]

@@d.Cog420 OK, but that's still bog standard action to get the key out isn't it?

[@d.Cog420]

@@KakuiKujira I've never had that before but the last new bike I bought was a Bonnie in 2007.

[@fauveride]

Definitely my bike

[@chuckmatses6803]

Ah, ya it’s obviously the best, as nothing comes close, especially those silly adventure bikes.

[@greyanaroth]

I found the xc to be too tall (I'm 5'10") and far too top heavy. And I was really eyeing this bike :(

[@martyn_g]

I’m 5ft 9, you’ll be fine!

[@outkast1464]

Is this suitable for tall riders ?

[@d.Cog420]

yup

[@petermcgarva7207]

The sponsor adds are spoiler your high standard reviews sadly. We all understand the money is needed, but not during the review

[@caspar_gomez]

are you related to toby kebell

[@chuckmatses6803]

Ya you basically just recited the specs and features.

[@muchasgracias6976]

Eh? That isn't Bob, that is that bloke Tim from that channel that sells m/c clothing (that one in London). What happened to Bob? Has he hired a 'man'?

[@SWTrailsAndWheels]

Not a scrambler and not a motobob. 😉

[@raymondwright4744]

It’s beautiful but too tall and heavy for most and the exhaust burns your leg

[@onecookieboy]

A 1200cc bike is not a scrambler, it's a fashion statement and that's about all these are.

[@steelmilkjug]

Owning the XE, I don’t think so. I think it’s a fantastic scrambler. I came off a DR650 from dual sporting, and this is a classier bike that’s more fun onroad and all as much fun except is the gnarliest single track. But even my DR650 wasn’t great for that. For a scrambler, it’s fantastic. For a dualsport, I’d get a KTM350Excf. But for a single bike that can do everything from back trails to 3 hour interstate, to city commuting, in traditional British classic style, it’s a fantastic bike. I kept this and sold my ZH2 when my DR650 was hit by a cop.

[@HumanButcher150]

Second here

[@allistairneil8968]

Scrambler? Don't make me laugh!

[@ADVnarrator]

Where the fuck is Rob?

[@cosmiccharlie8294]

Not if it weighs 500 pounds.

[@jerielsamuel8015]

First here

[@HumanButcher150]

Second here

[@motobob]

Third here

[@ianwarren]

Great vid until you shoved a second paid promotion for the expensive and much over advertised Car Vertical in at the end! Don’t care how much they want to waste my time with insisting you spend many minutes promoting them but I’m seriously bored and I don’t care how many countries their history comes from they’re more expensive than the default UK standard HPI check that tells you everything you need to know on any British Reg bike (or car)! Like your style but hate the paid promotion overkill!

[@davidhorner7795]

Not very smart test rider , black helmet , a want to be out law biker with a black helmet . Insurance Company s have proven that white helmet s or Florent green or Florent orange are involved in the least amount of accidents and black helmet s are involved in the most accidents

[@davidhorner7795]

Black helmet s absorb the sun's rays . Heat and white helmet s reflect the sun s heat .

[@robsonenduro3316]

BTW Cardo sucks, worse communication system I have had so far.

[@wwfww]

What a waste of an engine..

[@steelmilkjug]

I’ve ridden a 1200 bobber, T120, and I own the 1200 XE. I think it’s a fabulous use of the T120 motor. All that torque and suspension is GrEaT for chugging up gravel hills in low RPMs and when you want to whisky throttle, it picks up the front and pulls pretty hard. Really fun to ride 30-70mph and gets 60mpg when crushing in 3rd and 4th. I love the 1200 motor. And I think it’s best matched in the T120 and then the scrambler.

[@rampage3337]

7:32 what bike has a key that is not locked? like it ain't 1960 anymore.

[@ideiben3190]

I really REALLY like this bike, and sorely would consider it, right now, BUT....the thing weighs almost 550 pounds....! Who the hell wants to ride a scrambler THAT heavy..? And I thought the Ducait Desert Sled was heavy. But it is over 100 pounds lighter, ...ONE...HUNDRED....POUNDS LIGHTER. Such a shame. A 'heavy pig' scrambler is NOT a scrambler....but a PIG. Truly a damn shame. I really like everything about this bike BUT the weight just KILLS the purchase. Really a shame.

[@cumnmrmptaaa4234]

There were more orange bikes in the 70s than there are now