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The Great Escape
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Triumph Scrambler 900
Don Williams
09/01/2006
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Photography by Kevin Wing
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Regardless of
our enthusiasm for the Scrambler as a light-duty off-road bike, its natural
habitat truly is the street. One may look askance at the advertised horsepower
maximum of 56 at 7,000 rpm and consider the character-over-performance
270-degree firing sequence of the DOHC, eight-valve vertical twin to be signals
warning of an uninspired mount. Enthusiasts demanding raw acceleration will
certainly be disappointed, as the Scrambler is designed to be a pleasant, not
potent, ride. With that in mind, the Scrambler is a delightful ride when
approached appropriately.
 The Scrambler is a textbook case of the sum of its
parts exceeding their individual value. With the notable exception of
appearance, it could be argued that the Scrambler does nothing particularly
well. Yes, it is slow by modern standards. The ergonomics are somewhat ungainly,
as the toasty twin side-pipes force your right leg into a bow-legged stance,
restricting access to the brake pedal. The suspension is perfunctory—neither
giving cause to complain or compliment. The Trail Wing tires are not pure street
tires, and perform accordingly. Braking is unquestionably not alarmingly
good. (Click image to enlarge)
Yet, all is somehow forgiven when these attributes are combined with
the agreeable attitude of the Scrambler and its essentially neutral handling.
This is a bike that enjoys being ridden at the pace of a cruiser—in no hurry to
get anywhere in particular, and all the while looking impeccably good. Given
that, the Scrambler is more of a riders’ bike, as it is much lighter and
considerably more agile than a true cruiser. And, thanks to the upright seating
position, it makes an outstanding daily commuter ride.
What you get with the
Triumph Scrambler 900 is a motorcycle that captures the zeitgeist of an exciting
time for motorcycling in general, and Triumph in particular. The styling of the
Scrambler captures the intended mood, and the performance is balanced in a way
that recalls the glory days of multi-purpose motorcycles. Riding the Scrambler
takes you back to a time of lower expectations and higher satisfaction. And, as
a bonus, every time you swing your leg over the saddle and push your knees
against the tank pads, you are Steve McQueen. It is a fantasy-fueled machine
that delivers a splendid reality.
www.triumph.co.uk/usa
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