Triumph Scrambler 400 X

The Triumph Scrambler 400 X feels like a bike that can do it all. It shares its platform with the Speed 400 but adds a more adventurous character and better road presence. We tested it in all kinds of conditions.

After riding it for weeks, one thing is that the Scrambler 400 X brings out a sense of excitement to ride, even if you're new to scrambler-style bikes. The seat height is a bit tall, so shorter riders may need to adjust.

It’s great for daily rides, highway rides and light trails without feeling like too much bike. At this price, it’s a great value, especially compared to the KTM 390 Adventure or Royal Enfield Himalayan.

• It has a retro scrambler design with a round headlamp, teardrop tank, and minimal bodywork.

• From a distance, it may look like the Speed 400, but the tall stance gives it a different presence.
• The build feels solid. Even after minor falls on trails, parts like the tank and engine stayed protected.
• Small touches like a metal bash plate, knuckle guards, and rugged seat design add to its tough look.
• It feels like a bigger bike than it is, especially with the wide handlebars and taller suspension.
• The seating position is upright and relaxed, which really helps on long highway rides.
• At 835 mm, the seat is tall. Riders shorter than 5‘7 might be on tiptoes at stops.
• The seat is wide and flat, which keeps you comfortable even after riding for hours.

• The pillion seat is okay for city rides but may need extra support for longer trips.
• With a kerb weight of 185 kg, it feels heavier than the Speed but remains manageable.

• We rode this bike in bumper-to-bumper traffic, and it felt light and easy to filter through cars.
• The heat from the engine is well managed, even in slow-moving traffic, so you won't get uncomfortable.
• The Scrambler cruises comfortably at 100-110 kmph on highways without feeling stressed.

• At higher speeds, there is some wind blast since it doesn't have a windshield.
• It corners smoothly and doesn't feel wobbly on twisty roads despite the large front wheel.

• The engine is a 398.15cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder unit shared with the Speed 400.
• It makes 39.5 bhp of power and 37.5 Nm of torque, which is enough for quick overtakes.

• The throttle is responsive, and the clutch is light, which is great for daily use.
• There’s a smaller front sprocket that gives the bike more punch at lower speeds, which is great for city and off-road use.
• It doesn't feel stressed at highway speeds and stays stable even when pushed.
• We got a mileage of around 25 kmpl in mixed riding conditions.
• With a 13-litre fuel tank, you can expect a range of about 300-325 km.

• That range is good enough for weekend rides or short road trips without frequent fuel stops.

• The wide handlebar gives good leverage for quick turns in traffic or standing while off-roading.
• The 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels with dual-purpose tyres handle light trails decently.
• It’s not an aggressive handler like a sportbike, but it flows nicely through corners.
• The brakes are decent but could use more initial bite. We swapped to sintered pads for better feedback.

• Rear ABS can be switched off for off-road use, and traction control helps in slippery conditions.

• Took it off-road through muddy trails and rocky sections, handled them without breaking a sweat.
• The suspension travel is 150 mm front and rear, giving it decent rough-road ability.
• Ground clearance is 195 mm, which helps when you encounter speed breakers or trails.
• The metal footpegs have removable rubber inserts for better grip during trail riding.

• It’s not a full-blown ADV, but for weekend trail rides or bad roads, it’s more than capable.

• It has a semi-digital console, an analogue speedometer with an LCD for trip, gear, fuel, and time.

• It is simple to use, but it feels a bit old-school. Would've loved a more modern twin-pod setup.
• The USB charging port is useful during long rides, especially if you use GPS on your phone.
• No Bluetooth or navigation, which may disappoint riders who want smart tech features.
• You can switch off rear ABS and traction control through the console, though the process isn't very intuitive.

• The MRF block-pattern tyres work fine on the road and light trails.
• If you plan more serious off-roading or wet rides, upgrading to better tyres is a good idea.

• The suspension offers a plush ride over broken roads and does not bottom out easily.
• Cornering remains stable even with the long-travel suspension setup.

• The Scrambler is a great alternative to the KTM 390 Adventure, which is pricier and more tech-heavy.
• It also rivals the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. The Himalayan is better off-road but heavier.
• Compared to the Yezdi Scrambler, Triumph's bike is more refined and has better build quality.

The Triumph Scrambler 400 X is a practical and tough-looking motorcycle. It balances city duties, highway runs, and light off-roading in a way few bikes in this segment can. However, it may not be the best choice for hardcore off-roaders. At this price, it's one of the best all-rounders you can get today.