For 2021, Triumph’s updated its Scrambler 1200 series. As usual, Triumph is selling the retro bike in a standard model (XC), an offroad-optimized model (XE), and this year there’s also a glammed-up Steve McQueen Edition model.
All the Scrambler 1200 models run the same liquid-cooled 1200 cc parallel twin, with 270-degree crank, six-speed transmission, and four valves per cylinder. Mechanically, it’s mostly the same as the T120 Bonneville twin, but tuned for grunt, with less horsepower.
The engine has the same peak output as before (81 lb-ft of torque, 89 hp), but is now Euro5-compatible. Triumph doesn’t say exactly how it updated the engine to meet the new emissions standards, but the new exhaust plays a major role, obviously. The engine has 16,000-km intervals for major servicing, and comes with torque assist clutch.
The rest of the bike sees minor updates. The TFT screen is new, and all models can have the My Triumph Bluetooth accessory module fitted, allowing riders to control a GoPro, use turn-by-turn GPS navigation, or answer incoming phone calls.
All models have 21-inch front wheel, 17-inch rear, with Metzler Tourance tires on spoked rims. They’re all equipped with dual Brembo brakes up front (320 mm discs, Monobloc M50 calipers) and single-disc Brembo in rear (255 mm disc). They’ve all got a dual-shock setup for rear suspension. Keyless ignition is standard, along with a USB accessory charger, LED headlight, ABS and switchable traction control. All bikes come with Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road and Rider-Configurable riding modes, thanks to ride-by-wire throttle.
The less-aggressive XC model comes with adjustable Showa forks and Ohlins shocks, with 200 mm of travel. The XE has the same Showa/Ohlins combo, but with 250 mm of travel. The offroad-oriented XE also comes with an inertial measurement unit (the XC doesn’t). Because of the IMU, the XE is able to run leaning-sensitive ABS and traction control systems, as well as an extra Off-Road Pro riding mode, aimed at maximum hoonery with minimal electro-interference. Seat height is higher on the XE, at 870 mm (the XC has an 840 mm seat height).
Then, there’s the Steve McQueen edition. This is pretty much an XE model with McQueen badging (on the tank and handlebar clamp), and special paint. It also comes with several factory accessories fitted as standard equipment; only 1,000 of these bikes will be made, all individually numbered.
The Scrambler 1200 models will appear in Canada in June, priced at $15,200 for the XC, $16,300 for the XE, and $17,800 for the Steve McQueen Edition. Along with the bikes themselves, Triumph also has a wide range of factory accessories for all these machines, including crash bars, grab rails, handguards, and so on. The 70+ accessories are all tested and guaranteed by Triumph. See more details on the accessories and the bikes themselves at Triumph’s website.
