Triumph Scrambler (2006-2016) - Review & Buying Guide

Triumph’s Scrambler was inevitable. Launched in 2006 and styled as a nod to the firm’s TR6 scrambler – particularly the ones ridden by Steve McQueen in the 1964 International Six Day Trial (IDST) and the Great Escape movie – this faux on/off-road parallel twin had all the ingredients to wow those looking for a large slice of nostalgic cool backed up by modern reliability and ease of use. Who couldn’t be seduced by the model’s fabulous twin high level pipes, two-tone paint, and rugged yet classy ’60s inspired looks?

It’s a style that ticks boxes on both sides of the Atlantic, especially when in 2013 Triumph introduced a full-on McQueen replica, in khaki green. Modern motorcycles are rarely this cool straight off the production line, but with the Scrambler Triumph produced a machine with an added sprinkle of magic.

First generation Scramblers stayed in Triumph’s range for a decade, the only notable changes being the replacement of carbs for fuel injection in 2008, and the addition of more comprehensive instrumentation in 2011. A completely revamped second generation model was released for 2017. But being retros, the early models carry their own kudos, being closer to the ‘real’ thing and more authentic in both looks and character – the engine’s 270-degree engine certainly makes all the right noises…

Depreciation has now slowed to a trickle but, ranging between £3900-£6000, these Scramblers are still affordable and desirable. With few reported issues, a bulletproof engine and timeless good looks Triumph’s Scrambler could be the retro you’ve been looking for.

Pros & Cons

2006-16 Triumph Scrambler - Prices

2006 Scrambler
On/off-road style 865cc twin based on the Bonneville platform. High-level exhausts, semi-knobbly tyres, 19/17in spoked wheels. 56bhp, 205kg. Colours: red/white, blue/white

2007 Scrambler
Engine case colour changed from silver to matt black. Colours: green/silver, orange/silver

2008 Scrambler
Carbs dropped in favour of fuel-injection that Triumph ran out across all its Bonneville powered models. Fuel cap modified to make it easier to open. Colours: matt black, olive green, blue

2009 Scrambler
Black rims. Colours: matt black, olive green, blue

2010 Scrambler
Colours: black, blue/white, red/white

2011 Scrambler
Instruments updated with new dual dial clocks, including a tacho, replacing the previous single speedo. Colours: black, grey, blue/white

2012 Scrambler
Colours: blue/white, black, grey

2013 Scrambler
Limited edition Steve McQueen replica introduced, with khaki paint, single seat and an inscription of the actor’s signature on the side panel. Only 1100 were produced. Colours: grey, red/silver, khaki (McQueen rep)

2014 Scrambler
Colours: silver/red, blue, green

2015 Scrambler
Colours: blue, red/grey, black

2016 Scrambler
Colours: matt black, olive green, blue

Triumph Scrambler values
Rough £2800-£3500
Tidy £3900-£4900
Mint £5300-£6000

2006-16 Triumph Scrambler - Engine & Performance

The Scrambler’s engine is Bonneville based, but with a twist. In terms of architecture and dimensions the two units are the same – 865cc air-cooled parallel twins (from 90 x 68mm) running DOHC two-valve heads. But Triumph tweaked the firing order from 360-degree to a 270-degree crank for the Scrambler to give the motor more character and charm, as well as a rorty exhaust note – from the distinctive high-level pipes that snake out of the cylinder head and down the right side of the bike – that really links in with the bike’s ‘Great Escape’ vibe.

Early Scramblers (2006-2007) were fuelled by two 36mm Keihin carbs; from 2008 Triumph ditched carbs in favour of fuel-injection, boasting overall power by 3bhp – up to 59bhp, although torque stayed the same at 51lb.ft, albeit delivered 250rpm higher up the range. While air-cooled, to keep with the whole retro vibe, Scramblers run a large oil-cooler at the front of the engine, so keeping the unit’s temperature stable is possible even in warm conditions.

The five-speed gearbox is efficient and rugged and perfectly suited to both the engine and overall package. Indeed, Triumph gearboxes tend to become slicker and easier to shift as the miles pile on – a sign of Hinckley bikes being cautiously over-engineered.

To ride Scramblers are fun, easy to use, and good for everything from town runs and commuting to weekend blasts and long hauls (upgrade the seat to something more generously padded, however). A Scrambler’s power delivery is more about feel than outright stomp, but with strong lowdown drive and perky midrange response there’s enough oomph for most situations. Fuel economy is good too – anywhere between mid-40s to mid-50s mpg depending on how you ride.

2006-16 Triumph Scrambler - Handling & Suspension (inc. Weight)

Let’s get one thing straight from the off. The Scrambler is NOT an off-road bike. Not in the modern sense of the word, at least. Like its engine this Triumph’s chassis borrows heavily from the pure road Bonneville.

The only difference to the frame is 0.2° more rake and 5mm extra trail for slightly lazier steering. Marginally longer forks and shocks (by 2in) and the fitment, from standard, of Bridgestone Trial Wing tyres are what denote the Scrambler’s chassis spec from that of its inspiration. If you insist on riding off-road, stick to gentle green lanes and forest fire tracks – anything muddier or more technical will have the Scrambler out of its depth in no time.

Clearly the Scrambler is as much about style as it is about riding enjoyment, so an array of optional extras from Triumph were inevitable. On the used market they’re extremely sought after, lifting the bike’s look and value even higher. The options to have include a solo seat, chromed luggage rack, sump plate, flyscreen and even a pair of number boards wearing McQueen’s famous 278. A centre stand was also offered as an option, but owners tend to be split as to whether it’s a desirable add-on or not.

Handling is sure footed in both town and country. Light steering – thanks to the 19in wheel – and relatively easy manoeuvrability (despite it weighing more than, say, Ducati’s Scrambler) all count in the Triumph’s favour. Many non-UK owners fit their Scramblers out with soft panniers, deeper seats, and screens, the rack up big miles touring. The upright riding position lends itself to the role once the stock saddle has been replaced with something more suitable.

2006-16 Triumph Scrambler - What to look for

Electrics
Generally reliable, but water has been known to seep into the loom and/or electrical components causing issues – the coil is the system’s weak point, often failing as a result and causing misfires. Oil pressure sensors can corrode too. If you’re viewing a Scrambler, check that all the electrics work as they should. Triumph recalled a batch of 900s after concerns about the wiring from the alternator to the main loom shorting out or overheating. 

Condition
Overall, Triumph’s Scrambler is robustly built and well finished to boot. There are reports, however, of older models starting to shed paint off their engines, swingarms and fork legs. The Scrambler’s plentiful covering of chrome is also open to corrosion if used in inclement weather and not cleaned or protected properly. Check the engine’s lower oil feeds too, the connections are prone to rot, as is the numberplate holder. Wheel rims can pit, and spokes can rust, too. 

Engine
As tough as old boots. Many owners have achieved big mileages – 70,000-plus -without a single issue. Change the oil (with a quality semi-synth) and filter every 10,000 miles (annually if you’re only covering minimal mileage) and check/adjust the valve clearances every 12-15,000 miles. 

Frames cracking
This is a rare issue and only occurs on bikes that have been fitted with racks and loaded with luggage. Inspect the welds at the rear of the subframe – this is where they’re likely to fail. 

Seat
While the Scrambler’s flat perch fits its retro vibe, it’s not the most comfortable place to plonk your posterior on a long ride. Owners who travel big miles recommend more generously padded seats, such as those by American firm Corbin. Mini screens are popular as well if you’re tackling big trips. 

Off-road use
Despite its name, the Scrambler isn’t really an off-roader. Light green-laning and forest fire tracks are about as ambitious as you’d want to get with this 230 kilo machine. On mud the semi-knobblies will clog in no time, while the lack of long travel suspension (and sump as standard) will soon lead to issue and potential damage.

2006-16 Triumph Scrambler - Rivals

2015 Ducati Scrambler - More powerful (75bhp) and considerably lighter than its Triumph namesake. Easy and great fun to ride, with a peppy, characterful 800cc air-cooled V-twin motor. Build quality isn’t great – corrosion can rear its ugly head after only one trip in the rain, so best not used as a day-to-day ride, particularly through winter, unless you’re prepared for it to dissolve before your eyes. Lots of spin-off ‘specials’ with funky paintjobs, so the Ducati remains the class’s coolest customer. Similarly priced to the Triumph, and ace to ride, but the quality really does let this Ducati down.

2019 Moto Guzzi V85TT - More adventure bike than street scrambler, but an excellent package overall and highly rated by those who own and run them. Guzzi’s 853cc air-cooled motor oozes character and charm and, like the Triumph, is solid as a rock. Similar weight to the Triumph, handles predictably, and comes with typically (for an Italian) high quality running gear – Brembo brakes, fat 41mm USD forks and adjustable rear shock (an Öhlins was offered as an option, so look for a example that’s got one fitted). Not really a direct competitor to the Scrambler (Triumph or Ducati) but a great value adventure bike, too.

2016 Yamaha XSR700 - Cool, retro style street bike, minus the Scrambler’s on/off-road ambitions. Given that neither Triumph nor Ducati is really built for the dirt, the Yamaha’s at an advantage in terms of tyre choice and grip. CP2 engine is fun, reliable and 20bhp up on the Triumph. The Yamaha wins against the Trumpet in terms of weight too, packing 19kg less, so performance and ride is much more capable. Value is also on the XSR’s side, with decent, clean examples out there from just over £3000, making it the bargain of the class.

Ducati Scrambler, 2015 | Approx Price: £3750-£5500

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Power/Torque

75bhp / 50lb-ft

Weight

170kg (dry)

Moto Guzzi V85TT, 2019 | Approx Price: £5000-£6000

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Power/Torque

80bhp / 59lb-ft

Weight

208kg (dry)

Yamaha XSR700, 2016 | Approx Price: £3200-£4500

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Power/Torque

74bhp / 50lb-ft

Weight

186kg (dry)

2006-16 Triumph Scrambler - Verdict

Early Scramblers are at that sweet spot in their life cycle – further depreciation is slow at worst, yet starting at under £4K they’re still very affordable. There’s no denying the model’s style, charm and appeal either. Who wouldn’t feel cool riding one. The news keeps getting better too. They’re cheap and easy to maintain, stoically reliable, fun to ride, and great in a variety of roles. So, go on, join the great escape and get a Scrambler…

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2006-16 Triumph Scrambler - Technical Specification

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