Triumph Scrambler 400 X gets smaller 349cc engine, less power but smoother ride

Triumph has replaced the older 399cc engine in its India-made Scrambler 400 X with a new 349cc single-cylinder engine. The bike is still called the Scrambler 400 X, but its engine capacity has been reduced. The change is not just a number on paper, its effect is clearly felt while riding.

The new engine produces 37hp at 8,500rpm and 32Nm of torque at 7,000rpm, both lower than the older model.

A performance test conducted on a dry road showed the bike accelerating from 0 to 100kph in 8.54 seconds. It took 1.79 seconds for 0-40kph, 3.27 seconds for 0-60kph, and 5.37 seconds for 0-80kph. The test found that the engine's power delivery is now more linear than before. Notably, the motor delivers good power beyond 6,000rpm and hits the redline at 9,700rpm.

There is no change in gearing, but reduced vibration in the new engine makes the bike feel more comfortable at 100kph. In the roll-on test, it took 2.82 seconds for 20-50kph, 4.12 seconds for 30-70kph, and 4.20 seconds for 50-80kph. This means the bike responds quickly while overtaking in city traffic.

On braking, the Scrambler 400 X took 16.51 metres to stop from 60kph to 0. Braking power is decent, but the lever feedback does not feel very sharp. The bike currently has organic brake pads, and fitting sintered pads instead could improve the braking feel further.

On price and specifications, the Triumph Scrambler 400 X has an ex-showroom price of Rs 2.65 lakh in India. It comes with a 6-speed gearbox, a 13-litre fuel tank and a kerb weight of 185kg. The seat height is 835mm, with a 320mm disc brake at the front and a 230mm disc brake at the rear. Despite the smaller 349cc engine, the bike remains an interesting option for both city riding and long-distance touring.