Scrambler 400 X Full Review: Price, Mileage, Features & Riding Experience

When Triumph announced its partnership with Bajaj Auto to launch a new line of small-capacity motorcycles, the entire Indian motorcycle market held its breath. The first models—the Speed 400 and the Scrambler 400 X—were introduced not just as new bikes, but as a complete disruption. The Scrambler 400 X, in particular, carries the iconic British Scrambler DNA but wraps it in a package designed and priced for the discerning Indian rider who seeks both style and genuine dual-purpose capability.

This is a brand new launch, built on Triumph’s new 398 cc TR-Series platform, and it carries the weight of a legendary name at an accessible price point.

The Scrambler 400 X is positioned as the more rugged, off-road capable sibling to the Speed 400. Its Ex-showroom starting price in Delhi is around ₹2.68 Lakh, placing it right in the heart of the premium 300cc-450cc segment. We spent time putting this rugged machine through the urban grind and the rough stuff to see if the Triumph legacy shines through in this collaboration.

QUICK SPECS TABLE (Key Highlights)

The Scrambler 400 X shares the brilliant TR-Series engine with its roadster sibling but features a more adventure-ready chassis setup.

Specification	Detail
Engine Type	Liquid-cooled, 4 valve, DOHC, single-cylinder
Engine Displacement	398.15 cc
Max Power	40 PS (39.5 bhp)@8000 rpm
Max Torque	37.5 Nm@6500 rpm
Transmission	6-speed with Slip/Assist Clutch
Fuel Tank Capacity	13 Litres
Kerb Weight	185 kg
Seat Height	835 mm
Front Suspension Travel	150 mm (43mm USD Big Piston Forks)
Rear Suspension Travel	150 mm (Gas Monoshock RSU)
Ground Clearance	195 mm (Approx. due to bigger wheel)
Wheel Size	19 inch Front / 17 inch Rear

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EXTERIOR DESIGN & ROAD PRESENCE

The Scrambler 400 X gets the design DNA spot-on. It’s undeniably a Triumph Scrambler, just in a smaller, more accessible size.

The Rugged Scrambler Look

• Stance and Proportions: Compared to the Speed 400, the Scrambler 400 X has a much taller, more commanding stance. This is due to the larger 19 inch front wheel, longer-travel suspension, and wider handlebars. The overall attitude is rugged and purposeful.
• Scrambler Elements: The classic scrambler cues are all present: the round LED headlamp with a protective grille, the chunky fork gaiters, a high-mounted front fender, and the prominent cast aluminium alloy swingarm. Crucially, it gets knuckle guards and a headlight protector as standard, reinforcing its off-road intention.
• Premium Finishes: Despite the aggressive pricing, the finish quality is top-notch, a testament to Triumph’s supervision. The paint quality, the subtle branding, and the brushed aluminium engine casing all give it a premium feel that absolutely turns heads on the road, especially the Matte Khaki Green colour scheme.

Ergonomics

The seat height is a tall 835 mm, which might be challenging for shorter riders, but the payoff is the excellent 195 mm of ground clearance (approx.) and a comfortable, upright Scrambler-style riding triangle.

COMFORT, TECHNOLOGY & FEATURES

The Scrambler 400 X balances classic styling with modern, essential technology. It avoids the high-end electronics of its pricier rivals, focusing on what genuinely enhances the ride experience.

Rider Cockpit and Instruments

• Instrument Cluster: It uses a semi-digital instrument cluster—an analogue speedometer paired with a multi-function LCD screen. This classic-meets-modern setup displays all necessary information: gear indicator, fuel level, range, and a clock. While functional, it misses out on a full TFT screen and dedicated turn-by-turn navigation (though it has connectivity readiness).
• Key Features:
  • Ride-by-Wire Throttle: Ensures precise and predictable throttle response.
  • Switchable Traction Control: A massive safety feature, especially on wet roads or loose gravel. It can be turned off for spirited off-road use.
  • Switchable ABS: The Off-Road ABS mode disables ABS on the rear wheel, allowing the rider to lock the rear wheel for better control on dirt and gravel—a crucial feature for any true scrambler/adv bike.
  • Slip and Assist Clutch: Reduces clutch lever effort, making it a breeze in city traffic, and prevents rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.

Comfort & Dual-Purpose Use

The Scrambler 400 X is far more comfortable than its aggressive look suggests.

• Suspension & Seating: The long-travel suspension (150mm both ends) is the hero here. It is tuned softer than the Speed 400, and it absorbs Indian potholes easily, gliding over broken tarmac that would unsettle most roadsters. The seat is well-cushioned and wide enough for long-distance cruising, though some riders might find the pillion seat comfort is not great for very long hauls.
• Ergonomics for Off-Road: The wider handlebars provide the necessary leverage for standing up on the footpegs and negotiating trails, giving the rider better control off the road.

ENGINE PERFORMANCE & DRIVING DYNAMICS

The 398 cc TR-Series engine, affectionately called the ‘Thumper’ by some, is a gem. With 40 PS and 37.5 Nm, it’s one of the most powerful singles in its class.

City Drive (The Low-End Torque)

The engine’s highlight is its strong, linear torque delivery. Peak torque arrives at 6500 rpm, but a significant chunk is available much lower down.

• City Usability: The bike pulls cleanly from low speeds even in higher gears. This means less frequent gear shifts in the city, which is a big relief in traffic. You can run it in 4th gear at slow speeds without the engine chugging—a massive advantage over high-revving rivals. The light clutch further aids urban commuting.

Highway Drive (Refinement and Stability)

• Power & Acceleration: Out on the highway, the 40 PS motor lets you hit triple-digit speeds rapidly. Cruising at 100−110 kmph is comfortable, though the best zone for sustained, vibration-free riding seems to be around 85−95 kmph.
• Stability: The longer wheelbase (1418 mm compared to the Speed 400) and the slightly heavier kerb weight of 185 kg (wet) contribute to excellent stability at 100 kmph+. Wind blast is present due to the lack of a proper windscreen, but the bike holds its line well.
• Handling: The wider handlebars and 19 inch front wheel make the steering a tad slower than a pure roadster, but this is a benefit off-road. On twisties, the bike remains agile and confidence-inspiring, though there is a hint of expected body roll due to the soft, long-travel suspension compared to a taut street bike.

SAFETY (Crucial Section)

The Scrambler 400 X is well-equipped on the safety front for its price and segment.

• Braking: It features a large 320 mm disc up front with a powerful radial caliper and a 230 mm disc at the rear, both sourced from ByBre. The brakes are powerful with great bite, providing confident stopping power.
• ABS and Aids: Dual-Channel ABS is standard. The inclusion of Switchable ABS (Off-Road Mode) and Switchable Traction Control are segment-leading features at this price point, giving the rider genuine control over the bike in varied and challenging conditions.
• Build Quality: The motorcycle feels robust and well-put-together, with the hybrid spine/perimeter frame providing a solid base. While there is no official Global NCAP Rating for two-wheelers, the motorcycle’s construction and premium components inspire confidence.

REAL WORLD MILEAGE (The Truth)

Given the high performance, the mileage figures are quite respectable, especially compared to some direct rivals.

Condition	ARAI Claimed Mileage	Real World City Mileage	Real World Highway Mileage
Scrambler 400 X	28.3 kmpl	22 to 26 kmpl	28 to 33 kmpl

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The ARAI Claimed Mileage is 28.3 kmpl. The real mileage in city traffic is around 24−26 kmpl if ridden conservatively, which is decent for a 40 PS machine with a heavy kerb weight. Out on the highway, if you cruise between 85−100 kmph, you can easily extract 30 kmpl or more. The engine’s refinement helps in achieving better efficiency when riding sedately.

THE COMPETITION (Auto-Selected Rivals)

The Triumph Scrambler 400 X finds itself squaring off against two of the most capable and popular bikes in the Indian dual-purpose/adventure segment: the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and the KTM 390 Adventure X.

Triumph Scrambler 400 X vs Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 vs KTM 390 Adventure X

Feature	Triumph Scrambler 400 X	RE Himalayan 450	KTM 390 Adventure X
Ex-Showroom Price (Approx.)	∼₹2.68 Lakh	∼₹2.69 Lakh	∼₹2.81 Lakh
Engine Power/Torque	40 PS/37.5 Nm	40 PS/40 Nm	43 PS/37 Nm
Kerb Weight (Wet)	185 kg	196 kg	177 kg
Front Wheel Size	19 inch (Cast Alloy)	21 inch (Spoke/Tubeless)	19 inch (Cast Alloy)
Suspension Travel (Front)	150 mm	200 mm	170 mm
Key Electronic Aid	Switchable Traction Control, Off-Road ABS	Ride Modes, Tripper Nav (Top Variant)	Off-Road ABS Mode

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Winner: Value For Money (VFM)?

• If you want a pure off-road machine: The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 offers a bigger 21 inch front wheel, more suspension travel, and the strongest low-end torque, making it the most focused ADV.
• If you want outright power and agility: The KTM 390 Adventure X is the lightest and most powerful, though the engine needs to be revved hard.
• If you want a refined balance of style, power, and road manners: The Triumph Scrambler 400 X offers a compelling package. It has the premium feel of a big bike, an incredibly refined engine that is tractable in the city, and just enough off-road capability (Switchable ABS, 19-inch front) for weekend trails. The Scrambler 400 X provides the best blend of premium experience and everyday usability.

Read more : Suzuki V-Strom SX 

FINAL VERDICT: A Modern Classic Masterpiece

The Triumph Scrambler 400 X is an excellent motorcycle that successfully bridges the gap between a stylish urban roadster and a capable light-duty adventure machine. The TR-Series engine is a powerhouse of refinement and tractable torque, and the long-travel suspension ensures it can tackle the worst of Indian roads with ease. While it sits at the pricier end of the segment, the build quality and the sheer riding pleasure justify the premium.

Buy it if:

• You want a motorcycle with premium, authentic Scrambler styling and excellent fit-and-finish that stands out.
• You prioritize engine refinement and tractable power for relaxed city riding and comfortable 90−110 kmph highway cruising.
• You need a dual-purpose bike with excellent suspension travel and ground clearance to handle bad roads and mild off-roading, supported by Off-Road ABS.

Skip it if:

• You are a shorter rider concerned about the 835 mm seat height.
• You need a dedicated, hardcore off-roader (the Himalayan 450 is better for that).
• You require a full-colour TFT screen and dedicated app-based navigation (which its rivals offer).

FAQs (People Also Ask)