Triumph Scrambler 400x - Firecracker on two wheels
Triumph’s 400cc single may share its roots with KTM and the Mondenas Dominar 400, but the feel of the bike, especially is Scrambler form is unique and here’s our take on this firecracker, RM29,900 bike after spending a weekend with it.
Looks like nothing else in the price range
First thing to catch your attention is the way the Scrambler 400x looks. From the gold painted upside down forks, the theme appropriate seats, and that plate on the side, really completes the look of the Scrambler. The fit and finish is exemplary compared to a similar priced Kawasaki or Yamaha. The sum of the exterior styling gives the impression that the bike is worth twice its price tag. Our Route Hunters members and patrons of the Route Hunters Garage who saw the bike never failed to ask about the bike and insisting that it would cost upwards of RM60,000.
The Powertrain
The twin cam, water cooled single is gutsy and rev hungry. The 398cc engine puts out 40ps and 37.5Nm peak torque. Just that after the likes of Royal Enfield, the Triumph’s single can feel a little ‘hollow’. But by no means is it slow. The bike hits 3 digit speeds with ease, being able to cope with much faster bikes just fine. We hit 140kph with relative ease with a 100kg rider. Dont be alarmed by the buzzing sensation you feel above 6000rpm, the engine is not going to blow itself to bits. It’s just the viby character of the engine. Some may like it, some may not. It did surprise us the first time we experienced it but got used to it afterwards. The exhaust has a lovely raspy note though, especially coming out from that twin outlet exhaust.
The ride and handling.
This is where the Scrambler 400x shines at its best. The bike has exemplary ride comfort thanks to the long-ish travel suspension. Despite the long travel there’s very good body control too. It was very crucial in absorbing the bumps you encounter in urban / B roads driving. On tarmac you feel like you’ve got a cheat code against the undulations and bumps of urban riding. Yet it never feels bouncy and floaty. There’s the initial sensation but it settles into the turn for you flick and throttle out.
Other packages
The instrument cluster is simplistic with Triumph’s styling signature. You get a combo of digital and analogue displays to relay everything from fuel, trip, gear and rpm info to the rider relatively clearly. The ByBre brakes also work really well in both dry and wet.
In Conclusion
The Triumph Scrambler 400x is what we would consider a safe entry level bike for those who have entered the biking lifestyle for the first time, without feeling labelled as a novice. It’s relatively affordable to buy, and relatively easy on the wallet to run too at first glance. Yet you come off with a bike with a whole lot of style and charisma, without sacrificing performance.
