Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE 2026 — Specifications

There are certain choices that miss the mark. Like Triumph’s decision to remove the Öhlins components from its Scrambler XE in 2024. Given the price of the machine, it was petty. No apologies, but a return to the initial refinement of the suspension components for 2026. The Marzocchi components will have lasted two seasons before the inverted Showa fork and Öhlins combinés – adjustable everywhere as they should be – return. The premium scrambler regains its standing; this is evident in the price tag.

From the beginning, Triumph positioned its Scrambler 1200 XE a step above the XC. This gap widened considerably when the latter transformed into the X, which caused it to lose premium equipment and a price reduction. The XE now has much more evident aspirations. It’s no longer the high-end + version alongside a high-end -. It’s THE top scrambler from Triumph. Which doesn't mean it remains unchanged. A few small details justify a closer look.

Details is the right word. Because if you observe it closely or from afar, you will be unable to distinguish the new XE from the old one. The same tall, aristocratic rider’s stance, the same design, the same narrow 21 and 17-inch wheels, the same spectacular exhaust line... even the tank? No, there’s a change there. While the appearance is also a copy-paste, its capacity has been reduced by a liter. Therefore, there remain 15 liters in the tail section.

What had changed on the latest version: slim turn signals, a headlight bucket that is no longer black but gray, a more compact rear light, new colors of course, changes in the chassis, and a slight engine update.

Triumph is making the necessary efforts to keep the HP twin-cylinder engine running. A 50 mm throttle body and improvements to the exhaust collectors allow for better distribution of torque, lower the maximum RPM where the 90 horsepower and 11.2 ft-lbs of torque are obtained, validate compliance with Euro5+, and above all, add power in the most insane places. Because the Scrambler XE is made to go (almost) everywhere.

Its suspension offers a 250 mm travel (like the previous one). No other scrambler offers such amplitude; most trails don’t either. The difference with the X is now much greater, one being now more accessible and the other still a bit challenging to handle. 870 mm to access the seat, that’s tall. But that’s the price to pay for advanced off-road capabilities and generous 25 cm ground clearance.

Triumph has also updated the brakes. The Brembo M50 calipers, already excessive for this type of motorcycle, were replaced by Stylema calipers, even more formidable. The 320 mm discs will be able to handle it but what’s the point of such power!?! However, the notion of high-end is well present. As on the Scrambler X, the rear brake is entrusted to a Nissin single-piston caliper to tame a 255 mm disc.

Besides these evolutions, let’s return to what (also) distinguishes the XE compared to the Scrambler 1200 X, yesterday and today: a longer wheelbase due to a longer 32 mm swingarm, adjustable foot controls, a wider 65 mm handlebar (better control and greater leverage) and adjustable 10 mm, a pair of handguards, a larger center stand, more off-road tires, a color TFT screen and an additional riding mode.

There are 6 on this large Scrambler: Road – Rain – Sport - Off-Road – Off-Road Pro – Rider (customizable). Enough to adapt to the moment's desires and let the electronics manage the acceleration, traction control and ABS parameters depending on the angle taken (thanks to the embedded IMU). Or to cut everything with the Off-Road Pro mode specific to this XE. The cruise control, backlit switches, keyless start, USB socket, tank strap, Monza-style cap and aluminum belly pan are still part of the package. So, nothing new or added on that side - a shame: a small effort like a connectivity module as a bonus, or heated grips as standard would be judicious or even normal for a motorcycle of this price.

The Scrambler 1200 XE remains a beautiful object... that you don’t really want to throw to the ground. A matter of perspective that other regions do not consider as such. In one case or another, this off-road aristocrat still plans to play the role of a high-class goat.

M.B - Photos manufacturer