2024 Triumph Scrambler 400 X review | Substance and style in the sub-400cc A2 class

For a scrambler motorbike with a reasonable level of suspension travel, the 400 X performs admirably. There’s 150mm of ground clearance and the suspension does offer an ample amount of support to scratch some back roads, although it does have a softer, more docile feel to it in terms of its sheer agility.

Sure, it’s still more than up to the job of having fun but it does lose out compared the to Speed 400 in its cornering prowess, as the chassis changes are far more substantial than a spec sheet would lead you to suggest and what you get in appearance and stature, you lose in feedback, feel and precision. On the flipside, the riding position is impressively spacious with a nicely-positioned rider triangle for an upright position, while the two-piece seat unit is surprisingly comfortable.

The same goes for the stopping power as even though the 400 X has bigger discs for the bigger front wheel and extra weight, Triumph have actually equipped it with a softer brake pad that has really heavily reduced the initial bite and feel, which is a shame. When asked about the change they maintained it was for better feel off-road, especially as there’s no off-road specific ABS – either all on, or all off.

Talking of which, although the Scrambler comes equipped with at least some of the makings that should make it handy for riding off-road such as a 19” front wheel, dual purpose tyres, longer travel suspension with 150mm of travel front and rear and those long, wide ‘bars, the Scambler isn’t the most poised machine off-road, offering little feel and feedback on the dirty stuff.

The 400 X is more than capable of a green lane or a fire road, but it’s not built to tackle anything even remotely gnarly, and the front will walk across ruts and softer surfaces if you aren’t paying close attention.

Where experienced riders will rejoice in having an off-road mode that switches everything off in one simple swoop, it would’ve been more beneficial to have front ABS still connected for newer riders.

Housing the same new single cylinder 398cc engine as the Speed, it does have the same quirks, albeit trying to cater for a different style. It’s a fun little motor, especially from 3,000rpm upwards as it’s incredibly punchy in its deliver of power with a broad spread of torque. It will happily pull in the higher gears too, with an accompanying purr from the Scrambler-specific exhaust that is surprisingly throaty.

However, being quite a feisty, fruity motor in its nature means that the sharp response from the ride-by-wire throttle connection is quite evident, especially in the lower gears – so much so that first gear isn’t even needed to pull away. Although the gearbox is incredibly sweet and crisp both up and down the box, the Speed 400 would benefit from longer gearing, as even though the Speed 400 is more than capable of cruising it does get quite vibey at motorway speeds too, sitting at over 6000rpm at 70mph.

Off-road, the throttle connection is very sharp even in the dry, especially at slower speeds on loose gravel.

Although we can’t comment on the reliability just yet, with 10,000 mile (or one year) service intervals Triumph are confident in their new platform, while Bajaj have a reputation for building bulletproof machines.

In terms of the build quality, the finish on the Scrambler 400 X is absolutely outstanding, especially when you consider the price point.

At £5,599, the Scrambler 400 X is priced reasonably well, although Royal Enfield’s Scram 411 comes in at £4,849, especially as it comes with spoked wheels as standard. However, it does have a basic set-up in terms of tech and components, alongside a lot more weight.

Closer to the Triumph is Husqvarna’s new Svartpilen and Vitpilen 401s are £5,599, which are equipped with adjustable suspension, traction control, a TFT dash with Bluetooth connectivity and more power and torque too, while BMW’s adventure styled G310GS starts at £5,890.

If you can forgive Triumph for not fitting the Scrambler 400 X with a set of wire wheels (cast alloy only), then it has a reasonable level of equipment.

Long travel suspension (with 150mm of travel at both ends), wide ‘bars, handguards, and a bashplate all add to that Scrambler look, while the 19” and 17” wheels house an impressive set of Metzeler Karoo street tyres.

As standard you get full LED lighting, and a part, LCD dash part analogue dash set-up which shows a reasonable amount of information, including a fuel gauge and gear indicator. There’s a USB-C charging port too. Like with the Speed 400 the traction control is switchable to be on and off, while the Scrambler 400 X has an off-road setting that allows for the Abs to be switched off both front and rear.

There’s a whole host of official accessories too, which covers everything from extra protection to screens and hard luggage.