Reviews

2020 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC Review MC Commute

Saddle up on Triumph’s 2020 Scrambler 1200 XC in this review.

April 17, 2020

When it comes to two-wheel icons, Triumph’s Scrambler is at the top of the list. It spawned dreams of exploring the unknown with its ’60s-era Trophy TR6 and invented a new motorcycle category. Fast-forward to today and once again Triumph is leading the charge in the do-it-all with panache segment with its 2020 Scrambler 1200 XC ($14,000). With its lower stance, shorter swingarm, and reduced MSRP, the XC is the workingman’s Scrambler designed for riders who want to have as much fun on pavement as they do off it.

We review Triumph’s all-conquering Scrambler 1200 XC in this installment of MC Commute.Triumph Motorcycles

We covered the Scrambler 1200 extensively before we swung a leg over it in the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC And XE First Look preview article. We also reported on its performance, post-test ride, in the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC And XE First Ride Review. And if that wasn’t enough, we bombed down to Mexico’s Baja coast on a pair of XEs during the On Two Wheels 2019 Video Series, Episode 2. Make sure to study these articles and videos to get up to speed on the nitty-gritty details of Triumph’s all-conquering Scrambler.

The Scrambler 1200’s 4.2-gallon fuel tank is one of its iconic styling attributes.Triumph Motorcycles

Now watch our MC Commute video to see how the XC performs out in the world, specifically as a workingman’s commuter machine.

Editor’s Note: The 2020 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC we test rode in this article was outfitted with nonstandard and enduro-style Continental TKC 80 tires in lieu of the OE-fitted and road-friendly Metzeler Tourance shoes.

Gear Box

Helmet: Shoei RF-SR

Jacket: Cortech Marquee

Gloves: Rev’It Abbey Road

Pant: Alpinestars Copper 2 Denim

Boots: Alpinestars Oscar Monty

2020 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC Technical Specifications And Price

Price	$14,000
Engine	1,200cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 8 valves
Bore x Stroke	97.6 x 80.0mm
Compression Ratio	11.0:1
Clutch	Wet multiplate, cable actuation
Transmission/Final Drive	6-speed/chain
Frame	Tubular steel w/ aluminum cradle
Front Suspension	Showa 45mm inverted fork (XC), adjustable for spring preload, rebound and compression damping; 7.9-in. travel
Rear Suspension	Öhlins twin shocks, adjustable for spring preload, rebound, and compression damping; 7.9-in. travel
Front Brakes	Brembo M50 monoblock 4-piston calipers, radial master cylinder, dual 320mm discs w/ ABS
Rear Brake	Brembo 2-piston floating caliper, 255mm disc w/ ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear	Aluminum; 21 x 2.15-in. / 17 x 4.25-in.
Tires, Front/Rear	Metzeler Tourance; 90/90-21 / 150/70R-17
Rake/Trail	25.8°/4.8 in.
Wheelbase	60.2 in.
Seat Height	33.1 in.
Fuel Capacity	4.2 gal.
Claimed Curb Weight	500 lb.
Warranty	24 months
Available	Now
Contact	triumphmotorcycles.com

Triumph’s 1,200cc parallel twin is well-suited to life on the road. Full of fun-loving character and torque, the XC’s punchy powerband is a highlight.Triumph Motorcycles

The 2020 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC rings in at $14,000 with a two-year warranty. Build quality is supreme and on a level commensurate with modern Japanese bikes.Triumph Motorcycles

Another signature styling attribute: the swept shotgun-style exhausts. Covers on the pipes keep your leg from getting burned but you do feel the heat during warm-weather rides.Triumph Motorcycles

The Scrambler 1200 XC uses keyless-style ignition. This key fob must be in near proximity of the vehicle for the engine to fire. We would prefer a traditional mechanical-style key.Triumph Motorcycles

We adore the period-correct digital instrument panel that adorns the Scrambler 1200 XC. It’s a feature-rich design that is easy to manipulate via the handlebar-mounted switchgear.Triumph Motorcycles

Triumph’s Scrambler 1200 XC is a motorcycle that checks all the boxes. It looks cool, sounds neat, and has serious on- and off-road chops. Its elevated build quality and legacy are icing on the cake.Triumph Motorcycles

The Scrambler 1200 XC ride likes a dream over bumpy surfaces. Despite having more limited suspension travel as compared to the XE, we preferred its handling dynamic on the road.Triumph Motorcycles

A USB charging port is located beneath the generously sized seat.Triumph Motorcycles

When it comes to outright comfort, the Scrambler 1200’s saddle is one of the best in the business. Plus it looks high-quality and is neither too slippery or too grippy. Well done, Triumph.Triumph Motorcycles

Bright LED lighting helps the Triumph Scrambler 1200 stand out on the road.Triumph Motorcycles

The Scrambler 1200 XC is outfitted with real superbike-spec brakes. The brakes offer excellent calibration and are friendly to manipulate on and off pavement.Triumph Motorcycles

Riders looking to log some serious mileage will value the well-thought-out ergonomics of the Scrambler 1200.Triumph Motorcycles