2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC And XE First Look

Triumph has announced two new, more-capable-than-ever Scrambler models for 2019. The Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE raise the bar in the segment with bigger, better engines and a swath of additional upgrades in build and technology.

The XC is what could be considered base trim, while the XE boasts a number of upgrades for superior off-road performance. Both, however, come packing a retuned Bonneville high-power 1,200cc parallel-twin engine. This latest generation offers up nearly 90 hp at 7,400 rpm, a gain of 12.5 percent over the mill powering the Bonneville T120. Torque is up also, with 81 pound-feet of torque available at a low 3,950 rpm. Triumph claims this to be a 37.5-percent improvement in pull over the 2019 Street Scrambler. Remember though, the new Street Scrambler packs Triumph’s 900cc parallel twin, so it makes sense to see such a dramatic difference. Both versions are liquid-cooled and come with ride by wire, and have 10,000-mile service intervals and six-speed transmissions.

Since Triumph was keen to improve off-road prowess, the suspension packages on both the XC and XE are improved as well, particularly the setup at the rear. Riders will enjoy new Öhlins kit at the back, twin spring and fully adjustable. The XC has a bit less travel, at 7.9 inches, while the XE gets nearly 10 inches of travel. Triumph updated the aluminum swingarm also to adequately handle the new long-travel setup.

The forks are from Showa; a 45mm, fully adjustable USD setup with 7.9 inches on the XC and a 47mm, fully adjustable USD setup with nearly 10 inches travel on the XE. Both versions roll on 36-spoke aluminum wheels set to take tubless tires, 21 inches at the front and 17 inches at the back.

As for braking, there are dual 320mm discs and Brembo M50 Monoblocks fore, and a single 255mm disc, Brembo two-piston caliper aft on both versions. The XC has switchable ABS while the XE comes with switchable cornering ABS.

Triumph went full tilt on electronics, particularly on the XE. But the XC is no slouch, with a second-generation TFT display, five riding modes, all LED lighting, switchable traction control, keyless ignition, cruise control, USB charger, backlit switches, an immobilizer, and accessory fit tire pressure monitoring system.

The XE has all these features too, but comes with a sixth ride mode, Off-Road Pro, in addition to the Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road, and Rider Configurable options. Off-Road Pro turns off both ABS and traction control and dials the throttle map to off-road settings. This model also carries cornering traction control in addition to cornering ABS, thanks to an IMU that doesn’t factor on the XC. You get heated grips on the XE standard, and can mount them to the XC as an accessory piece.

Riders will also be able to make use of the first-ever Bluetooth module offered by Triumph which enables function of an integrated GoPro control system. Connection and control will be displayed on the TFT display and you’ll be able to manage video and photo functions by way of the switch gear. This module is an accessory for both the XC and XE however. Get the module and you’ll also be able to use a new turn-by-turn navigation system Triumph developed in partnership with Google. This marks the Silicon Valley giant’s first collaboration with a motorcycle manufacturer and the system includes route planners, points of interest, hotels, gas stations, and restaurants. You’ll need to download the Triumph app for iPhone or Android to make full use of the navigation package however. Then, of course, there’s also integrated phone and music operation on both 1200 models, with phone operation handled on the switch gear and information displayed on the TFT console.

Then there’s the styling. Both have seamless Scrambler fuel tanks (4.2 gallons), brushed aluminum filler caps, stainless steel tank straps, bench seats, and high-set dual exhaust canisters complete with classically heat shields. The XE gets a few more touches, like hand guards with an aluminum brace, Brembo MCS levers, and gold-colored fork.

The XC will be available in either Jet Black/Matte Black or Khaki Green/Brooklands Green colorways, while the XE will be dressed in either Fusion White/Brooklands Green or Cobalt Blue/Jet Black.

Triumph will offer a staggering range of accessories for a more personalized style, for improved performance or to make these Scramblers more capable of long-travel trips. To help riders who can’t make up their minds, Triumph also has a few “inspiration kits” available. The Escape version has things like panniers, LED fog lamps, a centerstand, and fly screen included while the Extreme kit has an Arrow carbon silencer, range of guards and caps, LED indicator kit and rear light relocation kit, and headlight grille and bezel.

We expect to see these new Scramblers arrive sometime in January of next year, however pricing is still to be announced.