The Return of the Scrambler 1200: Triumph’s Comeback Kid?
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The Triumph Scrambler 1200 Is Back in South Africa, But Why Was It Missing?
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 has long held its place as a cult favorite among riders who crave off-road capability wrapped in heritage-rich styling. With its distinctive Bonneville DNA and real dirt-road chops, it’s a modern classic that turns heads on both city streets and gravel tracks. But for much of 2024, South African riders were left wondering: where did it go?
What Is the Triumph Scrambler 1200?
Available in two variants, the rugged Scrambler 1200 XE and the more accessible Scrambler 1200 X, this bike combines a 1200cc high-power twin-cylinder engine with advanced rider tech, including ride modes, cornering ABS, and traction control. Both versions are Euro 5 compliant and built to handle a variety of terrains while maintaining that unmistakable Triumph silhouette.
- Scrambler 1200 XE: Built for serious adventure riders, it features long-travel suspension, a tall stance, and high-spec off-road components. From R260,000.00
- Scrambler 1200 X: A more street-oriented configuration with slightly less suspension travel and a lower seat height, ideal for urban riders who still want off-road capability. From R230,000.00
What Happened to the Scrambler 1200 XC?
Long-time fans of the Scrambler 1200 lineup may remember the XC model, which originally launched alongside the XE. The XC was positioned as a more road-oriented alternative to the XE, offering less suspension travel and a slightly lower price tag. It was ideal for riders who wanted the scrambler style without needing full-blown off-road performance.
However, Triumph quietly phased out the XC in favour of the new Scrambler 1200 X. While the names are different, the X effectively replaces the XC in the current lineup, but with a few key updates. The new X model features revised geometry, improved ergonomics, and updated tech that meets Euro 5 emissions standards. It’s also priced more competitively to better suit a wider range of riders.
If you’re wondering where the XC went, the answer is simple: it evolved into the Scrambler 1200 X. The spirit remains, but the package has been modernized and refined for today’s rider.
Why the Temporary Pause in Availability?
According to Bruce Allen, CEO of Triumph Motorcycles South Africa, the Scrambler 1200 wasn’t discontinued; it was paused due to pricing challenges.
“We did stop bringing the 1200 Scrambler in about a year ago due to Triumph pushing the pricing higher than the market would accept,” Bruce explained. “The market was there for the bike just getting a bit pricey.”
Imports were paused in Q2 of 2024 and resumed in Q1 of 2025, making the absence relatively brief, just under 10 months. While it may not have been a headline-making disappearance, it was long enough for fans to notice and ask questions. Well, at least in my case, it was.
The Return of the Scrambler 1200
Good news: it’s back and selling fast. Bruce confirmed that Triumph South Africa managed to renegotiate better pricing with the manufacturer, and the reintroduction of the Scrambler 1200 was met with immediate demand.
“The first 6 units were sold before they even arrived,” he said, confirming the appetite for the bike never really went away.
Both the XE and X models are now available in showrooms across South Africa. This re-entry into the market is a strong signal that Triumph is committed to offering its full lineup as long as the price remains in line with local expectations. I still vividly remember my first test ride on the Scrambler 1200 during a demo day at the Triumph dealership in Sandton. It was love at first twist of the throttle. The bike and the welcoming community left a lasting impression. If you haven’t already, be sure to pay them a visit!
Final Thoughts
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 was never truly gone; it just needed a breather while Triumph South Africa worked behind the scenes to get the numbers right. With pricing back in check and demand clearly strong, it’s safe to say the Scrambler is right where it belongs: tearing through trails and turning heads on South African roads.
For more details or to book a test ride, visit the official Triumph SA website.
Or learn more from Jamie in the video below!
Special Thanks
A special thanks to Bruce Allen, CEO of Triumph Motorcycles South Africa, for taking the time to respond to our messages and share valuable insight into the Scrambler 1200’s return to the local market. His transparency and effort to make the bike more accessible to South African riders played a key role in this article.
