Got one of these. I’m 6ft 5ins with knackered knees and this bike is very comfortable. Done nearly 4K miles just playing around and just love it. I think it’s a keeper 👍
I know the decision is ultimately on me to make but I’ve only been riding for a month. I have a 1980 XLS 1000 Harley, so I’m doing more maintenance than I am riding. So I don’t have the most experience right now. I’m 6’3” and had multiple hip and knee surgeries in the navy. I sat on this thing and man was it comfortable! But will the power be too much to handle at this point. I’m comfortable financially grabbing this but wanted to hear some outside advice. Cheers!
Good looking motorbike and seen him in the flesh at the local dealer... worked myself onto it, but at 5’8”, was a bit more than I care to negotiate on a daily or even week-end basis... good you made that clear to the viewers, as the height of that bike is a real thing for probably a majority of your audience... spot on review, per usual!
I just realized I've been enjoying your videos since I recently discovered this channel, but forgot to subscribe, so I liked and subscribed. I only subscribe to motorcycle channels with tall riders like you and ignore everyone else, because I am a giant myself. So glad to have found another tall reviewer, and thank you for the time you take to make these videos. The bike is awesome by the way. Loving the Scramblers.
I bought the XC version which I found to be more stable off road than the XE despite being marketed differently. Additionally, the XC is most definitely the better model for the road. I've owned my XC for nearly 2 years and will probably trade it in. The main reason is I want to do a bit more off road. If you drop the triumph scrambler on the dirt, which must be expected, then the repair costs are huge. A new tank will cost you £1200. The real enjoyment for me is the torque. It's got stonking low down pull. Love it.
Thanks guys. Excellent. I think I will buy the 1200 xe to explore the Canadian Rockies. Mostly paved and lots of hills and twists and turns with many miles of gravel if you want to climb the mountains. Cheers from Alberta Canada.
Nice review. I did my demo on that same bike back in July. Back to back with the TIger900. Was surprised at the difference when you snapped the throttle as I expected 1200 to be more abrupt. I liked the seating position, but my Lady was not pleased with passenger accommodations. In the end, it just felt like a slower/heavy feeling bike compared to what I currently own (Husky 501FE). Scrambler XE looks absolutely stunning when sitting next to hum-drum looking Tiger900. Of course the solution is to buy both...Cheers!
I'm proudly owning the XE since 18months. I love the Scrambler a lot because of it looks and quality. It fits perfectly since I'm 1.88 tall. I do mostly onroad driving and wonder if somebody has any info and experiance about a smaler front wheel. Means 19 or 17" instead of the 21". I guess this would make the Scrambler even more exciting especialy in the Alps here in Switzerland.
That's great to hear! If you go for a smaller diameter front wheel, that would make the rake even steeper and that would be too extreme in our opinion, as it's already twitchy
I traded the older model Triumph Rocket Roadster for an XE, I'm 6'2, 120kgs. The power from the 1200 is all useable, great torque. Ive put a few k's on it, and enjoyed every minute of it. Agree, its a great road bike, with a little bit of off road capability. Cruise control is handy, the bikes quite roomy, and I reckon its more comfortable for me than the Rocket (even with the Rockets lounge seat).
I feel actually the same bud.i don't want look stupid on the bike. I'm 6ft 4. At 19st. If this channel is a play list for bikes for taller rider that be great
Looks and sounds the business. Very impressed by the guys reviews of this bike. Plenty going for it, thumbs up, very few niggles as far as it would seem Top side of a winner I'd say.😀👍
BMW give you a choice at purchase between knobbies or road tyres. I'd specify knobbies with a bike like that. That said I wouldn't go above an 800 for a dual purpose bike.
I'd go for the XC, but I honestly would rather have my Buell Ulysses which is languishing in my garage in Portugal. This Triumph is extremely attractive, though. But it is made out here in Thailand. That puts me off. 207 kilos is the dry weight. Great video as ever, lads.
I had a Honda XL 175 in the 80’s and man was that a perfect bike. Light and still powerful, about 250 pounds wet. Scramblers need to be light weight for them to be functional and useful off road. The Triumph is beautiful but it’s a pretend scrambler .
The mic really is a theme on the channel. :-) Nice review as always. Well done guys!! One idea: Can’t you drive with a second bike with a GoPro to film the bike you are reviewing. Should give some nice moving material.
Haha yes it certainly is! We’d love to film like this but because of the stupid uk motorcycle licensing laws, Darcy isn’t riding at the moment because it’s too expensive to go through the different licenses and change bikes so he’s waiting to be able to get the A2 license next June, then he will be able to
I'm 5'9" and a pretty new rider. I got this bike a couple weeks ago and as long as your comfortable with one footing it, it's a blast around town. I don't have the skill to go off road just yet but can't wait to give it a try.
I have the bike for about 6 months now with 3k miles and I could say there are some times where I get a bit frustrated with the height. Been getting use to it, but even at 6’1” if I lean too much to the right and don’t got proper footing, she’s going down 😂I love this bike and has been my commuter through town!
I think the long swingarm also works when you’re off road and you’re going over bumps and Whipty do some stuff like that I think that’s gonna longer swingarm comes in to go on a Hills and Matt kind of off-road Riding
I agree to a point on the multiple riding "modes" many bikes seem to come with these days. Some bikes benefit from them and for others they're just a marketing gimmick IMO. I have a Street Scrambler and I've ridden a 1200XE and would say they don't really need multiple modes. I found the power delivery on both bikes very linear which makes them easier to control. I also have a Husaberg FE570 off road bike with 3 modes which I use, with around 60bhp and 115kg it can be a bit of a handful in wet mud even with full knobblies on. At the other end of the scale my ZZR1400 has 200+bhp. It has no "modes" but 3 level traction control which isn't quite the same thing but is more than adequate. I'm with you on the looks of the Scramblers, nice looking bikes and you're right about the cleaning! Very time consuming. 👍
Yes for off road green laniing we’d go for a 250cc enduro. 2 or 3 modes is plenty. Trouble is, this much power off road in British mud isn’t controllable with all the weight too
For people considering an adventure bike note that this bike sheds weight beautifully. Exhaust and lion battery will see it under 220kg wet. I would like a steering dampener kit for it though.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan definitely not as raked out as the gs or Africa twin. You’re right in that triumph is quite dedicated to twitchy steering which is also evident in the tiger lineup. I think there’s also the issue is that the front of the xe isn’t as planted as those bikes, triumph is basically signifying the off-road skill level of the rider they target these bikes too.
You guys rock! I got myself a Ducati Scrambler(classic cause too short for desert sled) to use as an adv bike and its been loads of fun. And way cooler then adv bikes like gs and such. 😎👌
Great review. I love this bike. It has so much torque. It's great for gravel roads and dirt and capable on the pavement. I got knobby tires for mine. I'm 6' and feel very comfortable on the xe.
I love my XE. As for the modes? Moooooove on gentlemen😁 You must’ve talked about the modes 10 times! Also, if you switch to another mode and didn’t realize it and you get the goose from it...then that rider needs to stick to a cage. It’ll be 2 years this coming March. And I just scheduled my 20,000 mile Service. 4 sets of tires...of all sorts, and oil changes! That’s it! As for the radiator?? I keep a 20oz of water squeeze bottle in my tank bag, perfect for a quick rinse top down.
Wow, nice bike, are those tyres on it Avon Trailriders? the Ol'man looks good on it I think, mind you he must have found it a handful on that muddy track
Was a triumph fan once it gets out, big fan of retro bike, first bought a t100, sold it after few months, stoping at traffic a Vespa next to me are actually taller, make me a laughing stock 😂 , extremely excited bout the scrambler unfortunately don’t know which designer stupid enough to put that exhaust there... 😞 eyeing at r9t urban and xsr900 now, hope u guys can do a review soon
Love that bike, reminds me to Steve Mc Queen in the movie "gesprengte Ketten" (don't know the original english title at the moment). I agree to 100% with you, that adventure bikes are the most ugly creatures in the universe, but i think they are better in practical use (comfort, wind protection, range etc...) than a scrambler like this. EDIT: The original title of the film i mentioned is "the great Escape" (1963)
"There were several bikes used during filming, but all were 1961 Triumph TR6 Trophy’s modified to look like the BMW R75s that were common during WWII. The mods were fairly simple: they were limited to replacing the front and rear suspension along with new paint." www.bikebound.com/2015/11/20/the-motorcycle-from-the-great-escape/
Beautiful sounds and beautiful machine. And I agree, electronics and modes are just unneeded. I want to drive the bike, not have to interface with a damn computer. XD
Brilliant video, saw it ages ago & it's what got me thinking about the Scrambler line-up. Even on the slippery grass..... Although it is a bit heavy as you say [and expensive too] but ex-demos around £8,500 I predict they'll be down around £7500 - £8000 by Christmas (look at the Urban G/S now similar price start/to now)
Just watched this again. I like it better than I did. I want a replacement for my Duke 390. I am a fan of torque. Maybe this is for me. There is a local Triumph dealer. They seem to be reliable, so 'made in Thailand' isn't a problem. It's this, the KTM 790 Adventure R or the CRF1100L. What do you reckon, 'Ol Man? Which one would you get?
Great review. A couple of observations. First off, thank you so much for hammering away on the uselessness of modes. Second THANK YOU for stating the bloody obvious at how ugly adventure bikes as a genre are!! Last, how bloody unique to include comments on how the washability of a bike is. Never seen that in a review. Very astute gents!!!! Cheers.
Not an off-roading bike for beginners even in the adventure bike class. The engine isn’t very elastic either so you would be required to shift a bit more often than your average adventure bike. It can be deceptively fast and that narrow 21 inch front wheel is a bottleneck for braking. Otherwise, go for it.
Hey guys greetings from Greece , i love your reviews ! May ask about the Ol'Man's boots ? I think they are amazing . I saw another guy asking in the Indian Springfield Dark Horse review but didnt get an answer .
Forgot to tell you guys I loved this review and I reckon Triumph. I will say I’m glad they didn’t make it only for tall people because I’m short and love mine still 😂
Maybe not perfect but Absolutely coolest. However… if it had a pillion seat as that of the 400X it would be Superb! Is the preload adjustment better than on my Speed Twin 1200? Because That sucks… the only bit of the bike that does.
Nice bike but I'd rather the Honda 1100 Africa Twin, the only adventure style bike that looks good. Also available for nearly £2000 less than the Triumph!
Please please please review the AJS highway star 125cc it’s a beautiful looking bike but I’d like to know more past the looks as there isn’t much info about it online keep it up guys love what you guys do ❤️
Just googled the AJS highway star but that led me to their Scrambler, if I hadn't passed my test 40 yrs ago, thats the one I'd be looking at. So how come budget Chinese bikes get 2 proper clocks whereas as I'm looking at 800cc plus I've got to accept one lcd effort, (odly off centre on the Duke's Scramblers) that apparently can sometimes be hard to see on a sunny day?
I’ve got the Catalytic’s heat shield tattooed on my calf 🤣😅. That’s how hot it gets. However that is easily lessened to an enjoyable/useable level by getting a de-cat.
Great review, I’m assuming it’s really hard to build a “ one does it all” bike. Personally I guess having a Cruiser and a off-road bike would be the ultimate i.e a Harley with a Milwaukee 8 engine and a Yamaha Ténéré 700, if these two bikes merges into one you’ll have the Triumph Scrambler 1200XE and that’s either bad or fantastic I’m not sure 🤔 I’m six foot and I like bikes where I can stretch out my legs..
Thanks buddy. Yes interesting point. I get the impression that Triumphs testriders and designers are all Moto GP oriented so have a different perspective on how a bike should be built
@@MrDarcy-OlMan you’re absolutely right there, and I see it in other videos where the test riders are sitting up straight when going off-road- that can be traced back to their on-road heritage. A motocross and enduro rider moves on the bike and the bike should be slim, not like riding a elephant which is the case with all these new adventure bikes.
Hm, I do not know whether that would be such a great idea. I think when choosing a bike, you should really think about what you want. If you have a very wide range of applications, maybe consider having several bikes for the according usage. Also, consider your anatomy. If you are too short, either you simply cannot ride an adventure bike - or you have to train for it. My first bike was a Yamaha XT 600 E, and the fun on it was a bit limited for me. I simply chose the wrong bike for my application - 98 % road touring. However, I preferred the seating position on the Yamaha to my Benelli's. I am fine with less ground clearance, but right now I am modding the seat to level the seat dip and get a few more cms of seight height to ease the knee angle. Otherwise, I much prefer the Benelli to the Yamaha. For others, it may be totally different, because they prefer riding off road (which is very difficult in Germany anyway).
Thanks for the rewiev! Got a question. How is the build quality? I’m a all year daily commuter from Denmark. With proper cleaning and rust protection will it last or look like s…. When we come to spring?
I have one myself the build is very good I've had mine 6 months now in blue with the low front mudguard and extension to keep the mud out of the radiator it's great on road you can throw it around the corners I bought another set of wheels and hove knobbly tyers on thems which is a 70/30 off-road being the 70 and as standard, they are the other way around when you buy one the off-road tyres transform the bike off-road and I have had some great fun green laning with a club but I wouldn't attempt it on the standard tyres unless it's dry as you will just sit there spinning the back wheel and not moving as I've bought similar bikes in the past and this bike beats them all you will enjoy your new triumph if you get one I have a 32 inch inside leg and can touch the floor with ease I am 5.11 in height so my advice its the best one out there for having fun and to tour on the road it great so many extras for it you can even get a full wind screen for it from other manufactures and panniers both sides as well and a top box and tank bag so you could easily tour on it as well as it a quick bike not as quick as the top sports bikes but quick enough to wiz past cars if you need to so all the best.
I have owned several Triumph’s and having grown up on Dirt Bikes I’m really at home with the 21” front tire and really responsive steering... I ride a older 3 cylinder Adventurer 900 at this time and really dig it... super fun to rip around on... but I’m needing a 1200 at this point... I’m worried about the scrambler pipes... don’t want to deal with a hot thigh... but I’m 6’4” and 240 lbs... need a tall fast bike that does not look like a newer adventure bike... I wonder if I can run down swept pipes on one of these...?? What do you think..??
Yes, you certainly can switch the scrambler pipes out for the bonneville version. Here in the U.S., the pipes cost about $750. I ride in California where the temperature can be quite warm throughout the majority of the year. If I am riding in very dense traffic, I find that the standard pipes can become quite warm, but are VERY FAR from being hot enough to burn my leg. Of course, I have not removed or modified the standard heat shielding. I hope this helps a bit. See you out there on the road.
The twitchy steering is because of the rubbish fake Metzeler tyres that are made to a budget in China and Brazil they are nothing like the off the shelf equivalent these tyres are appalling. I have fitted Bridgestone A41 ADV tyres and it has improved the handing to game changing proportions, I was considering selling the bike due to the crap handling and feel. In my opinion these tyres suit the bike very well I ride mainly on tarmac so glad I kept the bike and change the tyres 👍🏻
can you please do a comparison for scrambler bikes ? and pick best? (hopefully include this triumph , bmw, and ducati scrambler all in their most premium models)
hello all new sub. i just got my new 1200 xe baja gold line and im 6ft 4 225 lbs so far i love it i recently added a corbin seat and a full zard exhaust the sound is amazing and i now dont have the pipes on the side. nice channel.....glen
"Twitchy steering"? Mine's extremely precise, with superb leverage from the wide handle bars. Twitchy is not an adjective I would use. The handling is superb. The stock tyres are a 70:30 road bias, so I'm not quite sure what you are trying to show by spinning the rear on sodden long grass. Anyway, it was an interesting review. It's almost impossible to change riding modes accidentally. The riding position is superb. Commanding, relaxed and uncramped.
I’m 5.6 and the XC is still too tall, I had to remove the seat padding and replace with a gel pad. Changed tyres to Continental TXC and after 5000 miles it’s still just that bit to tall, had the Street scrambler before which was good but less power. Neither are perfect but both good.
Have you guys tested the Kawasaki z900rs ? Also Kawasaki has just showcased a z900rs SE model with better brakes and suspension, the only thing some people complained about if pushing the bike hard. It is a beautiful looking bike.
well done ,, quite a well equipped bike ,, your brave to ride that in the mud , those tyres are sell it to the masses basic stuff because most people who buy these will not have seen mud. also - be careful over those cattle grids. again - gimmicky ride modes :::: as young darcy points out - lots to clean if used off road. a good looking commuter bike yes - but to heavy and 3 times to much engine for mud.. thanks ,-, simon
Question about the forks. Bear in mind I've ridden nothing but road bikes for over 30 years, so pardon my ignorance, I'm not being facetious at all. What's the point in having upside down forks on an off road bike? Surely you'd want the vulnerable bits away from the crud? I can't see the nickel coating and o-rings being happy if they're constantly getting subjected to mud, grit, and scratches from undergrowth. Or am I barking up the wrong tree?
No problem 👍🏼 The upside down forks give more rigidity in the clamps, and they flex less overall. They are used in all racing enduro and MX bikes too so are definitely an improvement over conventional. On ‘normal’ bikes the advantages are probably imperceptible and more kudos than necessary 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thanks for the intelligent and succinct reply. That's why I like your channel. Good quality commentary from which I can still learn after so many years in the saddle. I never thought about the rigidity angle, that makes perfect engineering sense.
To add to this: not just enduro and MX, but most of the bigger/premium ADVs too. 1250GSA, KTM 1290 Super Adventure, etc - all have USD shocks with fork protectors/shields on the exposed lower half. Nice to get them on the Scrambler 1200.
Top heavy! I think it would be a one way trip offroad with most of them. If i wanted a go-absolutely-anywhere bike Id pick a CG125 ! If you got stuck you could just pull it out.
You’ve just made me buy one of these. Damn you and your 6” + rider reviews!
I previously had an R9T Scrambler. BEAUTIFUL. But tiny, sadly.
Got one of these. I’m 6ft 5ins with knackered knees and this bike is very comfortable. Done nearly 4K miles just playing around and just love it. I think it’s a keeper 👍
That’s great! It’s a cool looking bike! 👍🏼
I know the decision is ultimately on me to make but I’ve only been riding for a month. I have a 1980 XLS 1000 Harley, so I’m doing more maintenance than I am riding. So I don’t have the most experience right now. I’m 6’3” and had multiple hip and knee surgeries in the navy. I sat on this thing and man was it comfortable! But will the power be too much to handle at this point. I’m comfortable financially grabbing this but wanted to hear some outside advice. Cheers!
Good looking motorbike and seen him in the flesh at the local dealer... worked myself onto it, but at 5’8”, was a bit more than I care to negotiate on a daily or even week-end basis... good you made that clear to the viewers, as the height of that bike is a real thing for probably a majority of your audience... spot on review, per usual!
Thanks Joe. Yes the XC would be better height wise. We are reviewing the Street Scrambler in a week or so.
This is a great review. Its nice to see a channel reviewing bikes for taller riders . It's great
Thanks buddy 💯👍🏼
I just realized I've been enjoying your videos since I recently discovered this channel, but forgot to subscribe, so I liked and subscribed. I only subscribe to motorcycle channels with tall riders like you and ignore everyone else, because I am a giant myself. So glad to have found another tall reviewer, and thank you for the time you take to make these videos. The bike is awesome by the way. Loving the Scramblers.
Ahh thanks buddy! Being tall certainly gives bikes a different impression
Indeed, better looking and more nimble than most adv bikes. Another great review. Cheers
Thanks buddy! Yes exactly 👍🏼
fuel capacity and wind protection are things this bike lacks compared to adv bikes. But I love the look of this triumph 👍
@@glaviationcph yes true 👍🏼
Great review. Love the shirt and hoodies.
All the best getting to 20k subscribers
Thanks Chris! Nearly there!
I bought the XC version which I found to be more stable off road than the XE despite being marketed differently.
Additionally, the XC is most definitely the better model for the road.
I've owned my XC for nearly 2 years and will probably trade it in. The main reason is I want to do a bit more off road. If you drop the triumph scrambler on the dirt, which must be expected, then the repair costs are huge. A new tank will cost you £1200.
The real enjoyment for me is the torque. It's got stonking low down pull. Love it.
Yes the XE is very twitchy. For regular off roading you’re better off with a 2 stroke 250 Enduro or similar. Only 95kg or thereabouts
Another great review, gentlemen. Would love to see a review of Ducati's Desert Sled.
Me too :-)
Thanks! Hopefully we can get round to it
@@MrDarcy-OlMan yes a 2021 Ducati Desert Sled review would be great.
@@interlochen318 👍🏼
I am an owner of xc version, until now I just love it, you did a comprehensive and honest review, good job 👍🏻
Thanks buddy! Good to hear 👍🏼
Thanks guys. Excellent. I think I will buy the 1200 xe to explore the Canadian Rockies. Mostly paved and lots of hills and twists and turns with many miles of gravel if you want to climb the mountains. Cheers from Alberta Canada.
Awesome. It looks the part too 👌🏼
Nice review. I did my demo on that same bike back in July. Back to back with the TIger900. Was surprised at the difference when you snapped the throttle as I expected 1200 to be more abrupt. I liked the seating position, but my Lady was not pleased with passenger accommodations. In the end, it just felt like a slower/heavy feeling bike compared to what I currently own (Husky 501FE). Scrambler XE looks absolutely stunning when sitting next to hum-drum looking Tiger900. Of course the solution is to buy both...Cheers!
Thanks buddy! Nice to hear your experience of it 👍🏼
Fantastic review
I picked up an xe1200 last week ,superb bike
Regards
Dave from Scotland
Nice one! Enjoy!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan
Thanks
Regards
Dave from Scotland
Very attractive bike ...thorough review...is the headlight beam adequate for night riding?
Thanks buddy. Yes it’s ok. 👍🏼
I love this channel, greetings from Colombia!
Thanks my friend 👍🏼
Great review again gents. Loving your rural location too.
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
I'm proudly owning the XE since 18months. I love the Scrambler a lot because of it looks and quality. It fits perfectly since I'm 1.88 tall. I do mostly onroad driving and wonder if somebody has any info and experiance about a smaler front wheel. Means 19 or 17" instead of the 21". I guess this would make the Scrambler even more exciting especialy in the Alps here in Switzerland.
That's great to hear! If you go for a smaller diameter front wheel, that would make the rake even steeper and that would be too extreme in our opinion, as it's already twitchy
Thornton Hundred have built a Supermoto version...it looks pretty good 👍
I traded the older model Triumph Rocket Roadster for an XE, I'm 6'2, 120kgs. The power from the 1200 is all useable, great torque. Ive put a few k's on it, and enjoyed every minute of it. Agree, its a great road bike, with a little bit of off road capability. Cruise control is handy, the bikes quite roomy, and I reckon its more comfortable for me than the Rocket (even with the Rockets lounge seat).
OK great! Enjoy your ride 👍🏼👍🏼
6ft5 guy here so these reviews are really useful. I dont want to look like a circus bear on a trike
Thanks buddy! Glad it helped 👍🏼
I feel actually the same bud.i don't want look stupid on the bike. I'm 6ft 4. At 19st. If this channel is a play list for bikes for taller rider that be great
Looks and sounds the business.
Very impressed by the guys reviews of this bike.
Plenty going for it, thumbs up, very few niggles as far as it would seem
Top side of a winner I'd say.😀👍
Certainly a stunning looking bike 👍🏼👍🏼
BMW give you a choice at purchase between knobbies or road tyres. I'd specify knobbies with a bike like that. That said I wouldn't go above an 800 for a dual purpose bike.
That’s good! Yes agreed
What a machine, love the blue and gold colours too...
Yes it looks great 👍🏼
I'd go for the XC, but I honestly would rather have my Buell Ulysses which is languishing in my garage in Portugal. This Triumph is extremely attractive, though. But it is made out here in Thailand. That puts me off. 207 kilos is the dry weight.
Great video as ever, lads.
Thanks buddy. We get you. 👍🏼👍🏼
I had a Honda XL 175 in the 80’s and man was that a perfect bike. Light and still powerful, about 250 pounds wet. Scramblers need to be light weight for them to be functional and useful off road. The Triumph is beautiful but it’s a pretend scrambler .
Great bike! Yes what you say is true
Definitely looks a good bike for taller riders 👍
Yes much better than many!
The mic really is a theme on the channel. :-) Nice review as always. Well done guys!! One idea: Can’t you drive with a second bike with a GoPro to film the bike you are reviewing. Should give some nice moving material.
Haha yes it certainly is! We’d love to film like this but because of the stupid uk motorcycle licensing laws, Darcy isn’t riding at the moment because it’s too expensive to go through the different licenses and change bikes so he’s waiting to be able to get the A2 license next June, then he will be able to
I'm 5'9" and a pretty new rider. I got this bike a couple weeks ago and as long as your comfortable with one footing it, it's a blast around town. I don't have the skill to go off road just yet but can't wait to give it a try.
Excellent! Enjoy 👍🏼👍🏼
I have the bike for about 6 months now with 3k miles and I could say there are some times where I get a bit frustrated with the height. Been getting use to it, but even at 6’1” if I lean too much to the right and don’t got proper footing, she’s going down 😂I love this bike and has been my commuter through town!
@@louismiranda2850 I definitely have to be extra cautious every time I come to a stop. But I'm getting more and more comfortable.
Honestly just wholesome solid motorcycle content. Plus I’m 6-4 so it’s nice
Thanks bud 👍🏼
What an outstanding review.
Excellent!!!!
Thanks mate 👍🏼
I think the long swingarm also works when you’re off road and you’re going over bumps and Whipty do some stuff like that I think that’s gonna longer swingarm comes in to go on a Hills and Matt kind of off-road Riding
I agree to a point on the multiple riding "modes" many bikes seem to come with these days. Some bikes benefit from them and for others they're just a marketing gimmick IMO. I have a Street Scrambler and I've ridden a 1200XE and would say they don't really need multiple modes. I found the power delivery on both bikes very linear which makes them easier to control. I also have a Husaberg FE570 off road bike with 3 modes which I use, with around 60bhp and 115kg it can be a bit of a handful in wet mud even with full knobblies on. At the other end of the scale my ZZR1400 has 200+bhp. It has no "modes" but 3 level traction control which isn't quite the same thing but is more than adequate. I'm with you on the looks of the Scramblers, nice looking bikes and you're right about the cleaning! Very time consuming. 👍
Yes for off road green laniing we’d go for a 250cc enduro. 2 or 3 modes is plenty. Trouble is, this much power off road in British mud isn’t controllable with all the weight too
For people considering an adventure bike note that this bike sheds weight beautifully. Exhaust and lion battery will see it under 220kg wet. I would like a steering dampener kit for it though.
Yes that’s true. It’s a shame it has the steering geometry that needs a damper, but it does
@@MrDarcy-OlMan definitely not as raked out as the gs or Africa twin. You’re right in that triumph is quite dedicated to twitchy steering which is also evident in the tiger lineup. I think there’s also the issue is that the front of the xe isn’t as planted as those bikes, triumph is basically signifying the off-road skill level of the rider they target these bikes too.
@@khakimzhanmiras Yes agreed. I used to do motocross and I never had a bike with this sort of handling.
Best review on triumph 1200 XE!
Well done. Hello from Canada.🇨🇦
Thanks Robbie 💯👍🏼
You guys rock!
I got myself a Ducati Scrambler(classic cause too short for desert sled) to use as an adv bike and its been loads of fun. And way cooler then adv bikes like gs and such. 😎👌
Thanks buddy! Nice to hear 👍🏼👍🏼
Nice review. I'm picking mine up on Friday!!!!
Awesome! Let us know how you get along with it 👍🏼
Own one, love it massively - put some racks on, now I can travel the world forever ...
That's great 100%
im 6'4 and that looks like a solid option for me
It’s not too bad. Not as big as a Honda Africa Twin
Nice video! We here at Viking Bags really love your content!
Thanks brothers/sisters 👍🏼
Love dual rear shocks. Good call.
Yes they are perfectly good
Great review. I love this bike. It has so much torque. It's great for gravel roads and dirt and capable on the pavement.
I got knobby tires for mine. I'm 6' and feel very comfortable on the xe.
Awesome, thanks for the comment!
I love my XE. As for the modes? Moooooove on gentlemen😁 You must’ve talked about the modes 10 times! Also, if you switch to another mode and didn’t realize it and you get the goose from it...then that rider needs to stick to a cage. It’ll be 2 years this coming March. And I just scheduled my 20,000 mile Service. 4 sets of tires...of all sorts, and oil changes! That’s it! As for the radiator?? I keep a 20oz of water squeeze bottle in my tank bag, perfect for a quick rinse top down.
I found the reviewer comments on riding modes quite funny. Each to their own, but if you can’t figure out riding modes, don’t buy a modern bike!
Wow, nice bike, are those tyres on it Avon Trailriders? the Ol'man looks good on it I think, mind you he must have found it a handful on that muddy track
We’ll have to check. That trail was super slippery!
Great 👌 review for us exceptionally tall guys. Top job 🇨🇮 ☘️🇨🇮 6'8" fan
Thanks buddy! 👍🏼👍🏼
Great video and pleased you could offer stats in Metric as well as Ye Olde measurements.
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
You did well riding that muddy track (5.06) on those stock tyres!!
Thanks! It was like riding on ice!
That thing is a work of beauty
Could you review Royal enfield interceptor? I wonder how tall guy feels on it
Yes we are hoping to but getting no response from them at the moment!
Was a triumph fan once it gets out, big fan of retro bike, first bought a t100, sold it after few months, stoping at traffic a Vespa next to me are actually taller, make me a laughing stock 😂 , extremely excited bout the scrambler unfortunately don’t know which designer stupid enough to put that exhaust there... 😞 eyeing at r9t urban and xsr900 now, hope u guys can do a review soon
lol. We will no doubt get to review both bikes mentioned at some point, hopefully in the not too distant future
@@MrDarcy-OlMan looking forward!
Love that bike, reminds me to Steve Mc Queen in the movie "gesprengte Ketten" (don't know the original english title at the moment). I agree to 100% with you, that adventure bikes are the most ugly creatures in the universe, but i think they are better in practical use (comfort, wind protection, range etc...) than a scrambler like this.
EDIT: The original title of the film i mentioned is "the great Escape" (1963)
Yes I know the film you are talking about. It does look pretty cool 👍🏼
"There were several bikes used during filming, but all were 1961 Triumph TR6 Trophy’s modified to look like the BMW R75s that were common during WWII. The mods were fairly simple: they were limited to replacing the front and rear suspension along with new paint."
www.bikebound.com/2015/11/20/the-motorcycle-from-the-great-escape/
@mr darcy & the old man - wondering about the green hooded parka - can you please share the brand? Thanks!
It’s a Alpha Industries
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thanks!
Throw over textile panniers and the hot-ish exhaust?
I suspect the rear end of the pipes don't get red hot..so they'd be ok.
Yes that would probably work
No problem. I have got a Metall Mule Rack (both sides!) and MoskoMoto panniers. Looks great and works fine..
That exhaust is mental haha!
Yes it sounds rather nice too
@@MrDarcy-OlMan definitely
Great video chaps! 👏
Beautiful sounds and beautiful machine.
And I agree, electronics and modes are just unneeded. I want to drive the bike, not have to interface with a damn computer. XD
Thanks buddy. It’s a bit like having a partner with mood swings that you change with a button
Brilliant video, saw it ages ago & it's what got me thinking about the Scrambler line-up. Even on the slippery grass..... Although it is a bit heavy as you say [and expensive too] but ex-demos around £8,500 I predict they'll be down around £7500 - £8000 by Christmas (look at the Urban G/S now similar price start/to now)
Yes and it’s pretty cool looking too. 👍🏼👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Essentially a Street Twin on stilts with bigger tank + engine + spokes ;)
Just watched this again. I like it better than I did. I want a replacement for my Duke 390. I am a fan of torque. Maybe this is for me. There is a local Triumph dealer. They seem to be reliable, so 'made in Thailand' isn't a problem. It's this, the KTM 790 Adventure R or the CRF1100L. What do you reckon, 'Ol Man? Which one would you get?
XE for looks. 790 for off road. Honda for all round. 👍🏼
Great review. A couple of observations. First off, thank you so much for hammering away on the uselessness of modes. Second THANK YOU for stating the bloody obvious at how ugly adventure bikes as a genre are!! Last, how bloody unique to include comments on how the washability of a bike is. Never seen that in a review. Very astute gents!!!! Cheers.
Thanks buddy! Sometimes these things need pointing out 👍🏼👍🏼
How would this bike be for a beginner? I'm 6'3 and want a naked bike.
It would be ok, as long as you take it easy to start with. You would be a good height for it. Very nice upright riding position
Not an off-roading bike for beginners even in the adventure bike class. The engine isn’t very elastic either so you would be required to shift a bit more often than your average adventure bike. It can be deceptively fast and that narrow 21 inch front wheel is a bottleneck for braking. Otherwise, go for it.
Perhaps look at the 950sp or 690smcr. Much safer street bikes that accommodate tall riders
Hey guys greetings from Greece , i love your reviews ! May ask about the Ol'Man's boots ? I think they are amazing .
I saw another guy asking in the Indian Springfield Dark Horse review but didnt get an answer .
The black boots are Magnums. As worn by military etc
@@MrDarcy-OlMan i actually meant the other pair of boots . They look like orange colour to me
@@intellectual6182 ahh ok they are Grinders cowboy boots
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thank you !
Great video!!
Thanks buddy 👍🏼
Forgot to tell you guys I loved this review and I reckon Triumph. I will say I’m glad they didn’t make it only for tall people because I’m short and love mine still 😂
Ahh great thanks! 👍🏼👍🏼
Maybe not perfect but Absolutely coolest.
However… if it had a pillion seat as that of the 400X it would be Superb!
Is the preload adjustment better than on my Speed Twin 1200? Because That sucks… the only bit of the bike that does.
Totally agree with you about adventure bikes being ugly...
Thanks Graham! 💯
Another great video. Not so much my kind of bike, but good info.
Thanks Joe! 👍🏼
Nice bike but I'd rather the Honda 1100 Africa Twin, the only adventure style bike that looks good. Also available for nearly £2000 less than the Triumph!
The Africa Twin is certainly one of the best looking adventure bikes
You are my reference. I'm six feet five tall, so Motobob job is good, but it doesn't fit to me.😁
I’m from Mexico and people here are not very tall, I’m 6’5 and struggling to find bikes that fit me
It’s not easy bro! Harley Davidson & Indian are probably the most roomy
How does it handle with the 21” front wheel on pavement?
It’s very twitchy in our opinion.
Please please please review the AJS highway star 125cc it’s a beautiful looking bike but I’d like to know more past the looks as there isn’t much info about it online keep it up guys love what you guys do ❤️
Just googled the AJS highway star but that led me to their Scrambler, if I hadn't passed my test 40 yrs ago, thats the one I'd be looking at. So how come budget Chinese bikes get 2 proper clocks whereas as I'm looking at 800cc plus I've got to accept one lcd effort, (odly off centre on the Duke's Scramblers) that apparently can sometimes be hard to see on a sunny day?
What's the difference between the 19 XE and 2021 XE? Unless I'm missing something the 21 is just heavier. I might as well buy my dealers new 19, yeah?
Very little as far as we know.
The main difference is euro 4 2019 and euro 5 2021...
I prefer euro 4 2019...
Nicely reviewed,thks.
Thank you 💯
Whats the heat situation on your right leg ?
I’ve got the Catalytic’s heat shield tattooed on my calf 🤣😅. That’s how hot it gets. However that is easily lessened to an enjoyable/useable level by getting a de-cat.
With a set of knobblies do you think this would be a capable adventure bike? Enjoyed the vid...I got the feeling ye didn't dig this bike too much?
That would definitely help. It’s just very twitchy. You’d have to have a testride to see if you find it OK.
Great review, I’m assuming it’s really hard to build a “ one does it all” bike. Personally I guess having a Cruiser and a off-road bike would be the ultimate i.e a Harley with a Milwaukee 8 engine and a Yamaha Ténéré 700, if these two bikes merges into one you’ll have the Triumph Scrambler 1200XE and that’s either bad or fantastic I’m not sure 🤔 I’m six foot and I like bikes where I can stretch out my legs..
Thanks buddy. Yes interesting point. I get the impression that Triumphs testriders and designers are all Moto GP oriented so have a different perspective on how a bike should be built
@@MrDarcy-OlMan you’re absolutely right there, and I see it in other videos where the test riders are sitting up straight when going off-road- that can be traced back to their on-road heritage.
A motocross and enduro rider moves on the bike and the bike should be slim, not like riding a elephant which is the case with all these new adventure bikes.
@@snickrologen 💯👍🏼👍🏼
Hm, I do not know whether that would be such a great idea. I think when choosing a bike, you should really think about what you want. If you have a very wide range of applications, maybe consider having several bikes for the according usage. Also, consider your anatomy. If you are too short, either you simply cannot ride an adventure bike - or you have to train for it. My first bike was a Yamaha XT 600 E, and the fun on it was a bit limited for me. I simply chose the wrong bike for my application - 98 % road touring. However, I preferred the seating position on the Yamaha to my Benelli's. I am fine with less ground clearance, but right now I am modding the seat to level the seat dip and get a few more cms of seight height to ease the knee angle. Otherwise, I much prefer the Benelli to the Yamaha. For others, it may be totally different, because they prefer riding off road (which is very difficult in Germany anyway).
@@SandraOrtmann1976 thanks for your points Sandra. Very useful 👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks for the rewiev! Got a question. How is the build quality? I’m a all year daily commuter from Denmark.
With proper cleaning and rust protection will it last or look like s…. When we come to spring?
It looked fine but we haven’t got the benefit of having one for a long time to see 👍🏼
I have one myself the build is very good I've had mine 6 months now in blue with the low front mudguard and extension to keep the mud out of the radiator it's great on road you can throw it around the corners I bought another set of wheels and hove knobbly tyers on thems which is a 70/30 off-road being the 70 and as standard, they are the other way around when you buy one the off-road tyres transform the bike off-road and I have had some great fun green laning with a club but I wouldn't attempt it on the standard tyres unless it's dry as you will just sit there spinning the back wheel and not moving as I've bought similar bikes in the past and this bike beats them all you will enjoy your new triumph if you get one I have a 32 inch inside leg and can touch the floor with ease I am 5.11 in height so my advice its the best one out there for having fun and to tour on the road it great so many extras for it you can even get a full wind screen for it from other manufactures and panniers both sides as well and a top box and tank bag so you could easily tour on it as well as it a quick bike not as quick as the top sports bikes but quick enough to wiz past cars if you need to so all the best.
it looks super cool I want a yellow one :D
👍🏼👍🏼
I have owned several Triumph’s and having grown up on Dirt Bikes I’m really at home with the 21” front tire and really responsive steering... I ride a older 3 cylinder Adventurer 900 at this time and really dig it... super fun to rip around on... but I’m needing a 1200 at this point... I’m worried about the scrambler pipes... don’t want to deal with a hot thigh... but I’m 6’4” and 240 lbs... need a tall fast bike that does not look like a newer adventure bike... I wonder if I can run down swept pipes on one of these...??
What do you think..??
Yes you could probably swap them out for the normal Bonneville pipes.
Yes, you certainly can switch the scrambler pipes out for the bonneville version. Here in the U.S., the pipes cost about $750. I ride in California where the temperature can be quite warm throughout the majority of the year. If I am riding in very dense traffic, I find that the standard pipes can become quite warm, but are VERY FAR from being hot enough to burn my leg. Of course, I have not removed or modified the standard heat shielding.
I hope this helps a bit.
See you out there on the road.
@@ReuterLanmeier 👍🏼👍🏼
The twitchy steering is because of the rubbish fake Metzeler tyres that are made to a budget in China and Brazil they are nothing like the off the shelf equivalent these tyres are appalling.
I have fitted Bridgestone A41 ADV tyres and it has improved the handing to game changing proportions, I was considering selling the bike due to the crap handling and feel.
In my opinion these tyres suit the bike very well I ride mainly on tarmac so glad I kept the bike and change the tyres 👍🏻
We ride a lot of bikes and this is the most twitchy by a mile. Glad to hear that the tyres helped !
Cleaning a Triumph is one of the things on my list of their negatives.
It isn’t easy
can you please do a comparison for scrambler bikes ? and pick best?
(hopefully include this triumph , bmw, and ducati scrambler all in their most premium models)
We’d love to. It’s really hard getting bikes at the moment but we’ll try
Yeah I'll be watching 👀 😎 great straight up video with all ya really need to know when I get rich I'll buy one n 2 jumpers hoodie n hat thanks guys
Awesome! Thanks buddy 💯
Love that white sweat shirt, but I'd never look as good in it as the old man due to the fact I don't go to the gym!!
Maybe black to hide my gut!!
Lol! It’s never too late to start training 💪🏻
HP (Horse Power) and PS (Pferd Stärke) should be the same number, since Pferd Stärke means Horse power. (@2:07)
BHP is less than HP which is why its a little lower
When you're right you're right :) I need a hearing aid
hello all new sub. i just got my new 1200 xe baja gold line and im 6ft 4 225 lbs so far i love it i recently added a corbin seat and a full zard exhaust the sound is amazing and i now dont have the pipes on the side. nice channel.....glen
Thanks buddy. Welcome aboard. That’s great 👍🏼👍🏼
would look great with a plain alloy tank
Yes it would 👍🏼
"Twitchy steering"? Mine's extremely precise, with superb leverage from the wide handle bars. Twitchy is not an adjective I would use. The handling is superb. The stock tyres are a 70:30 road bias, so I'm not quite sure what you are trying to show by spinning the rear on sodden long grass. Anyway, it was an interesting review. It's almost impossible to change riding modes accidentally. The riding position is superb. Commanding, relaxed and uncramped.
Would this bike be suitable for a 5.5 ft guy like me
No I think it would be too tall. You could go for the XC or the Street Scrambler which we’re reviewing next week
I’m 5.6 and the XC is still too tall, I had to remove the seat padding and replace with a gel pad. Changed tyres to Continental TXC and after 5000 miles it’s still just that bit to tall, had the Street scrambler before which was good but less power. Neither are perfect but both good.
Have you guys tested the Kawasaki z900rs ? Also Kawasaki has just showcased a z900rs SE model with better brakes and suspension, the only thing some people complained about if pushing the bike hard. It is a beautiful looking bike.
No; unfortunately Kawasaki don’t give bikes to UA-cam journalists
well done ,, quite a well equipped bike ,, your brave to ride that in the mud , those tyres are sell it to the masses basic stuff because most people who buy these will not have seen mud. also - be careful over those cattle grids. again - gimmicky ride modes :::: as young darcy points out - lots to clean if used off road. a good looking commuter bike yes - but to heavy and 3 times to much engine for mud.. thanks ,-, simon
Thanks Simon. Good points 👍🏼👍🏼 yes the back kicked sideways a bit on the cattle grid!
The rear suspension on this is horrible with little or no travel. Should have used a monoshock like the Tiger.
Question about the forks. Bear in mind I've ridden nothing but road bikes for over 30 years, so pardon my ignorance, I'm not being facetious at all. What's the point in having upside down forks on an off road bike? Surely you'd want the vulnerable bits away from the crud? I can't see the nickel coating and o-rings being happy if they're constantly getting subjected to mud, grit, and scratches from undergrowth. Or am I barking up the wrong tree?
No problem 👍🏼
The upside down forks give more rigidity in the clamps, and they flex less overall. They are used in all racing enduro and MX bikes too so are definitely an improvement over conventional. On ‘normal’ bikes the advantages are probably imperceptible and more kudos than necessary 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thanks for the intelligent and succinct reply. That's why I like your channel. Good quality commentary from which I can still learn after so many years in the saddle. I never thought about the rigidity angle, that makes perfect engineering sense.
To add to this: not just enduro and MX, but most of the bigger/premium ADVs too. 1250GSA, KTM 1290 Super Adventure, etc - all have USD shocks with fork protectors/shields on the exposed lower half. Nice to get them on the Scrambler 1200.
Upside down forks and lighter stronger and hence more suitable for off road think u will find upside down forks come from off road bikes
I think my wife's speedmaster sounds better than my 117 Harley they those twins sound good
Really wow!
It’s beautiful but way out of my price range.
Need the Guy Martin version !
Yes that’s nice! 👍🏼👍🏼
P.S. engine is way too big. Waiting for the 650 Royal Enfield Himalayan.
Hopefully we will get to review that when it comes out
Moto fantastica
At 5 ,7in i think its a bit tall for me😢
You’re right about adventure bikes....ugly!
Yes we really don't get the point of them. Big, heavy cumbersome mostly
Top heavy! I think it would be a one way trip offroad with most of them.
If i wanted a go-absolutely-anywhere bike Id pick a CG125 ! If you got stuck you could just pull it out.
@@landedzentry most videos I’ve watched of adventure bikes show someone straining to pick the thing up! Yes a 125 is a good idea
🤤🤤🤤❤️
👍🏼👍🏼