Popularity has Skyrocketed in Recent years! 7 Cool Scramblers Recommended

There are various genres of motorcycles, but have you heard of the "scrambler" motorcycle, which has been rapidly gaining popularity in recent years?

The unique style of scramblers is very attractive, isn't it?

Here we introduce some "cool" recommended scramblers selected from the current models by the author at his discretion and prejudice.

What is Scrambler?

First, what kind of bike is a scrambler? A scrambler is a motorcycle based on an on-road motorcycle that has been customized to specifications that allow it to be ridden off-road.

The history of the scrambler can be traced back to the early 1960s.
At that time, there were no full-fledged off-road vehicles, and there were many unpaved roads, so on-road bikes were customized with block tires, higher exhausts, and higher ground clearance to make it easier to ride on rough roads. Scramble races were also popular in which such customized on-road bikes were ridden on unpaved roads.

There are various theories as to the origin of the term "Scrambler," but the TS20 CUB SCRAMBLER by Iguiristo Triumph and the 250 Scrambler by Ducati of Italy were the first models to bear the SCRAMBLER name, launched in 1962.

Scrambler Features

Side-up or click-up exhaust
Block tires or block pattern tires
Wide up handle
Flat seat
Higher ground clearance

The configuration is designed to prevent interference with rough surfaces on unpaved roads as well as on-road and to provide ease of control, for example.

7 Recommendations

We have selected seven of the coolest scramblers from the current models as of April 2024.
We will introduce them in order.

「SCRAMBLER 900」Scrambler in the British tradition

Introducing the iconic Bonneville scrambler model from the Modern Classics series by long-established British bike maker Triumph.

The new model will be Euro 5 compliant starting in 2021, and the car will be renamed from STREET SCRAMBLER to SCRAMBLER 900.

The classic Bonneville appearance is beautifully finished with a distinctive two-piece side-up exhaust, reminiscent of the scrambler style of yesteryear.

Recommended for those who prefer the classic, royal style of scramblers.

The higher-end SCRAMBLER 1200 model is also available.

「SCRAMBLER Icon」Italy's new generation of scramblers

The SCRAMBLER Icon is a scrambler model from the venerable Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati. This new model has just undergone a model change in October 2023.

The frame, swingarm, and engine are even lighter and more agile than the previous model. The distinctive four-part daytime running lights are now fully LED, and the iconic "X" motif has been made more classical.

The wide variety of accessory kits available is also a unique feature. We are particularly pleased that the lineup of tank covers in six different colors offers a wide range of choices according to the rider's preference! While retaining the classic look and feel, the new model is stylishly finished in the style of a modern scrambler.

The Scrambler model lineup also includes the sportier "Full Throttle" and the "Night Shift," which also incorporates café racer elements.

A new generation of scramblers that Ducati advocates for the extension of free self-expression, for those who prefer a new style of scrambler.

「R nineT Scrambler」Individualistic scrambler created by Germany

The R nineT scrambler model was introduced in 2016 as part of the modern-classic Heritage Series of BMW Motorrad, a long-established German motorcycle manufacturer.

From the 2021 model year, the model has been replaced by a new model that complies with Euro 5 regulations.

With its large, high-impact tank and BMW's signature boxer engine, it has a unique and wild finish, complete with a scrambler-like two-stroke-up exhaust.

It is recommended for those who want to enjoy the unique BMW-like finish and boxer engine.

「CABALLERO Scrambler500」Legendary Italian scrambler

This scrambler model is made by the long-established Italian motorcycle manufacturer Fantik Motor Co. In Japan, they are officially imported and sold by Motorist LLC.

The CABALLERO series is a representative model from Fantik's early days and was revived at the 2017 Milan International Motorcycle Show as a modern version of the CABALLERO while retaining the classic image of its early days.

We have created a scrambler that is unique to Fantic, which specializes in off-road riding.

Other 125cc models are also lined up.

Starting with the 2021 model year, it will be Euro 5 compliant. Unfortunately, the 250cc model was discontinued at that time.

As a scrambler, it is especially recommended for those who want to fully enjoy off-road riding.

「SCRAMBLER 400 X」New Scrambler in the UK

The 400cc model Scrambler from Triumph of England was also introduced above.

This model is also part of the Modern Classic Series lineup and comes equipped with a single-cylinder engine that was completely redesigned in Hinckley, where Triumph's main factory is located.

The silhouette has been finished with a formative beauty that is unique to Triumph.

It is the first vehicle in the Triumph lineup in recent years that can be ridden with a regular motorcycle license, and is recommended because it is a big single, which is rare today.

「CL250」The only current Japan scrambler

This scrambler model was sold by "Honda" of Japan and was launched in May 2023.

Based on the engine and frame of Honda's popular "Rebel" model, it has been transformed into a scrambler. The up-type exhaust and suspension are typical of the Scrambler finish.

The CL name started with the Dream CL72 Scrambler launched in 1962 and was discontinued with the CL400, which was discontinued in 2002 but was revived after 20 years.

It is the only scrambler model in Japan and is recommended as a 250cc single-cylinder model, which is rare in the modern era.

A higher-end model, CL500, is also available.

「Tempest Scrambler 125」Scrambler with the feel of an old British Motorcycle

This scrambler model is released by AJS, a long-established British motorcycle manufacturer.

AJS was established in 1909, and it is a manufacturer with a long history, having won numerous races since 1920, including the Isle of Man Junior TT Race and Senia TT Race.
Currently, AJS sells small-displacement models of 250cc or smaller, and in recent years they have been available for purchase in Japan through distributors.

The Tempest Scrambler 125 is very attractive and is finished as a classic scrambler.

It is recommended for those who are looking for a small-displacement, authentic British motorcycle.

The '71 Desert Scrambler is another scrambler model in the lineup.

Summary

In recent years, scramblers have become increasingly popular, especially in Europe. Since this model is very compatible with the equally popular neo-classics, we hope to see a revival of domestic scramblers other than Honda's CL.

Have you found a scrambler that you like? The scrambler genre, which can be enjoyed both on and off the road, is sure to expand the enjoyment of motorcycling.

We hope that this article has made you feel the appeal of scramblers a little more than before you read it.