Family Feud: Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC vs Tiger 800 XCx

The foundations of the Scrambler 1200 are quite solid. The stock suspension tune might be on the stiffer side for off-roading but you can sort it out according to your needs as both ends feature fully-adjustable units. The Tiger’s WP units are not as sophisticated as the Scrambler’s, missing out on a bit of adjustability. But the suspension is a lot more progressive and easy going.

Brembo calipers did make a world of difference on the current-gen Tiger 800 but the units are no match for the supremacy of the M50s found on the Scrambler 1200. These have been lifted off from the Street Triple RS with the bite dialled down a notch for off-roading. On both bikes, you can switch off ABS intervention on the rear wheel in Off-Road riding mode.

Again, when it comes to the wheels, the Scrambler 1200 has the better off-roading setup. Both might get 21-/17-inch spoke rims but the 1200 gets sidewall-laced aluminium rims which allow you to fit tubeless tyres. And we all know how handy this is when you have a puncture.

Who should get what?

The Tiger 800 XCx is like a loveable pup, it will do everything that you ask of it and allows you to get away with misbehaviour. The top-heaviness can be a bit unnerving on the trails but she makes up for it for the most part of the trails. And the Tiger’s touring-proficiency is unmatched by the Scrambler. This makes it a very versatile, all-round motorcycle.

However, if you are only looking to buy an adventure motorcycle for its off-roading capabilities, you should definitely consider getting the Scrambler 1200 XC. This bike can really take a bashing and come out wanting for more action. The abundance of low-down torque means the fun starts with just a simple twist of the wrist. Barring its shortcomings in the touring department, the Scrambler 1200 is also a hoot around the twisties. We just wish the upswept exhaust had better heat insulation.