Triumph's new Scrambler 400 X stands out in the lightweight class with its 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel, both made of cast aluminum and equipped with Metzeler Karoo Street tires. While these tires perform well on the road, they lack off-road capability. To accommodate the larger front wheel, Triumph extended the headstock, resulting in slightly awkward handling at low speeds.
The Scrambler 400 X offers minimal extra suspension, providing increased ground clearance and a taller seat height of 32.8 inches, nearly two inches taller than the Speed 400. The bike features a steel handlebar that is slightly wider and uses a taller riser compared to its sibling. The footpeg bracket positions the footpegs slightly wider and lower, giving the Scrambler 400 X a full-size motorcycle feel.
Weighing in at 395 pounds, the Scrambler 400 X handles well on canyon roads and in urban environments. It performs reasonably well on fire roads, and the ability to disable ABS is essential for off-road adventures. The bike's geometry and components contribute to slower handling, but it can still handle switchbacks and hairpin turns.
One area of improvement could be the front brake, as the initial bite and stopping power are mediocre. The suspension, however, surprises with its ability to handle fire roads and aggressive street riding without bottoming out or bouncing excessively. The fork performs well under hard trail braking, and the shock remains compliant even with a heavier rider.
Overall, the Scrambler 400 X provides a full-sized motorcycle experience with comfortable ergonomics and attention to detail, as expected from Triumph. The bike has a few minor drawbacks, such as the front brake's initial bite and the engine's vibrations above 6,000 rpm. Navigating the bike's electronics may take some time to get used to.
Source: https://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/motorcycles/classic/scrambler-400-x/scrambler-400-x-2024