KNIVES ARE NOT A PART OF THE SWISS
culture. Switzerland is one of the most neutral countries in
the world and yet, it is one of the largest exporters of knives.
But when the Americans were introduced to what was better
known as Schweizer Offiziersmesser in World War II, the
Swiss Army knife became a part of pop culture. It’s a multi
utility tool that helps you pop open a cork, fix your motorcycle
or even get out of sticky situations. If you carry one in your
pocket, people perceive you to be a disciple of Indiana Jones!
Similar is the case with the all-new Triumph Scrambler 1200.
All-new? Really?
It’s been 13 years since the inception of the makeshift
Scrambler that exists in Triumph’s portfolio in the guise of
the Street Scrambler. The 1200 is nothing like the Street
Scrambler, except for the high-mounted exhaust. To start
with, it carries over the Thruxton’s 1200cc High Power motor
with a unique ‘Scrambler tune’. The maximum output stands
at a healthy 89bhp at 7400rpm and 110Nm at 3950rpm.
What’s even cooler is the second-generation TFT cluster that
not only comes integrated with navigation and phone/music
operation but also the world’s first GoPro control system.
Even the chassis has been developed to scramble. The
tubular steel frame with aluminium cradles has been
specifically designed for the 1200. Even the swingarm is
completely made of aluminium for added flexibility. At the
front, you get fully adjustable 45mm Showa USDs with
200mm of stroke while at the rear there are dual springs
supplied by Ohlins with 200mm of travel. Not just that, this
is the first Scrambler and probably one of the most affordable
superbikes out there to come with Brembo M50 monoblocs.
Even the tyre setup is ideal with a 21-inch side laced spoke rim
at the front and a 17-inch rim at the rear. Metzeler Tourance
rubber comes stock but if you’re into hardcore off-roading,
Pirelli’s Scorpion Rally II are factory approved as well.
The Scrambler 1200 definitely looks the part as well. It
may seem intimidating to neo-retro buyers but like Triumph
says, it’s a crossover between classics and scramblers. That
may put off buyers but then there’s the Speed Twin to cater to
them, so everyone stays in the family. Just like all other new-
generation Triumphs, there’s a lot of emphasis on attention to
detail. Take the case of those brilliantly finished aluminium
mudguards; they’re not only functional but look great too.
The fuel tank is seamlessly integrated with the bench seat
while the tank itself gets a stainless steel strap and Monza
fuel filler cap. The XE looks a lot more purposeful, but the XC
is by no means dull in comparison and if you love scramblers,
this will definitely hit the right spot, especially the high-