• The much-awaited 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 has been officially unveiled to the media.

• The bike combines the classic silhouette of the Bonneville with capabilities of the Tiger 800.

• The Scrambler 1200 will revolutionize the modern scrambler.

Triumph looks to have scored a major revolution with the launch of the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200.

Being offered in two variations, the new Scrambler 1200 looks to be the perfect embodiment of adventure-riding in the Bonneville’s timeless classic silhouette.

Triumph is not one manufacturer inclined to building new motorcycles without festooning them with the latest features. Such approach applies to the 2019 Scrambler 1200, as well. The Hinckley-based manufacturer has aimed the new bike as the benchmark of scramblers. As such, the list is extensive. Very extensive. So where do we start?

What is it?

Triumph was the leader in off-road racing many decades ago. A-list actor, adrenaline junkie and all-around hard man Steve McQueen raced the Triumph TR6 Trophy SC at the punishing Baja Rally in New Mexico. Mr. McQueen’s stuntman Bud Ekins (who performed the jumps in “The Great Escape”) also raced Triumphs and won at the rally.

Truth is, Triumphs were the original scramblers (although they did not claim that name).

The Bonneville T-120TT, T120C and TR6 “C” and “SC” were stripped down for desert racing, featuring twin exhaust pipes that were fitted high up and chopped off. And dirtbikes back then, “scramblers,” as they’re known, looked exactly like how the Bonneville does today.

But! Triumph had been taking the quiet line why its rivals push out their own “Scramblers.” Triumph already has the 900cc Street Scrambler but they knew they needed something more hardcore. Hence, the 2019 Street Scrambler is that “missing link” as the company put it.

The two variations are:

• 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC – built as an all-around road and off-road capable bike.
• 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE – an all-rounder just as great as the XC but more focused for extreme dirt-riding. The “E” designation states “Extreme.”

Key Highlights

• 2nd generation TFT instrumentation.

Featured on both models, with two information layout design themes that can be personalised. An all-new feature allows the rider to update the start-up screen message with their name.

• 6 riding modes (Road, Rain, Sport, Off-road, rider configurable) including Off-Road Pro on the XE.

Both models feature Road, Rain, Off-Road, Sport and Rider-configurable riding modes which adjust the throttle response, ABS settings and traction control setting. The Scrambler 1200 XE features the extra ‘Off-Road Pro’ mode, which delivers focused set up for advanced adventure riding and scrambling. The ‘Off-Road Pro’ mode turns ABS and traction control off, and uses the ‘Off-Road’ throttle map.

• Optimised cornering ABS and cornering traction control on the XE.

This is a first for any scrambler. Exclusive to the Scrambler XE is the Optimised Cornering ABS and Optimised Cornering Traction Control. Based on a Continental IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit). The front brakes consist of dual discs gripped by Brembo M.50 Monobloc calipers.

• All LED lighting, including signature DRL headlight.

Both Scrambler 1200 models have all-LED lighting. The headlight also incorporates LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) for maximum visibility.

• Illuminated backlit switches.

The switches on both Scrambler models are backlit from LEDs housed inside the switch cubes. No more fiddling around at night.

• Torque-assist clutch.

Designed to reduce clutch lever effort for the rider, bringing a lighter touch and feel to the clutch and making it easier to ride, and for longer.

• Keyless ignition.

Triumph’s keyless ignition system is standard on both models. The system recognises the proximity of the keyless fob and then enables ignition via the switch cube mounted start button. You may also disable the key’s wireless transmission function.

• Cruise control.

Electronic cruise control is standard. This is a single button system, similar to the Triumph Tiger 800 XRx/XRa/XCx/XCa.

• USB charging socket.

Both new Scramblers feature a 5 vault USB power socket for charging personal equipment. This is integrated into a new foam lined storage box under the seat.

• World’s first motorcycle integrated GoPro control system.

Triumph’s first turn-by-turn navigation system and Bluetooth phone and music operation (all enabled by an accessory Bluetooth connectivity module).

Specifications and equipment

• Class-leading specifications and equipment.
• Öhlins rear shock with first-in-class long travel fully adjustable RSU.
• Showa fully adjustable long travel forks.
• Brembo twin M50 radial monobloc front calipers.
• Crafted long-travel aluminium swingarm.
• Dedicated Scrambler frame.
• Folding foot controls, adjustable on the XE.
• High-specification side laced wheels.
• Category-first 21” front wheel, with adventure focused tubeless tyres.
• Handbook approved Pirelli Scorpion Rally tyres.
• Long-travel suspension: 200mm for the XC and 250mm for the XE, front and rear respectively.

Powerplant

Yes, we finally know what engine goes in the bike (and our speculations were wrong).

• It is the 1200cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-Twin, but of the High Power (HP) variety which is fitted to the rip-roaringly awesome Bonneville Thruxton R café racer.
• However, engine is tuned exclusively for the Scrambler 1200. It punches out 88.8 bhp (90 PS) at 7,400 RPM and a neck-spraining 110 Nm of torque at just 3,950 RPM.
• The twin high-mounted exhausts are also tuned, to sing a new signature exhaust note for the bike.

Styling

Triumph is NOT following the conventions the “modern scrambler” design but benchmarks it. This is achieved by combining the classic design with modern touches, features and capabilities.

• New design “seamless” sculpted Scrambler fuel tank, with classic scrambler tank “cut-away” features.
• Beautifully engineered side-laced wheels.
• Brushed aluminium Monza-style filler cap.
• Brushed stainless steel tank strap.
• Classic bench seat.
• The Scrambler 1200 XE comes with extra premium details, including being the first bike to carry the iconic Triumph triangle badge on the tank.
• Besides that, the XE also features hand guards with aluminium brace, Brembo MCS lever, silver handlebar finish with black anodised risers and clamp, gold coloured forks.
• Colour options for both models are two-toned. For the XC: Jet Black and Matt Black, Khaki Green and Brooklands Green. For the XE: Fusion White and Brooklands Green, Cobalt Blue and Jet Black (as pictured).

Inspiration Kits and Custom Accessories

Riders will be spoilt for choice when it comes to customizing the bike. From handlebars to luggage. Inspiration Kits expand customization even further such as fly-screen, Arrow silencers, high front mudguard.

Triumph Bonneville Collection Clothing – the Scrambler Range

Triumph developed a dedicated range of Scrambler 1200 clothing, with a selection of short sleeve t-shirts, checkerboard goggles and a collection of riding and casual wear for men and women.

Conclusion

In a way, you could think of the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 as the love child of the Thruxton R and Tiger 800. Such features and capabilities are not to be sneezed at. Knowing how effective Triumph it in producing wonderfully all-rounded the bikes, it is time to for them to rule the Scrambler wars.