TRIUMPH SCRAMBLER 1200 (2019 - On) Review - MCN

Based on looks, equipment, technology and value for money alone, the Triumph Scrambler 1200 is worthy of a space in your garage. But it isn’t just another 60s-inspired retro; it’s so much more than that.

• Latest news: Triumph unveil new base Scrambler 1200 X in updated range
• Related: Triumph Scrambler 1200 Bond Edition revealed
• Related: We ran a Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE on the MCN long-term test fleet

On the road it can be calm, refined and give you the thrill of a sportsbike, but its ability to be a scrambler in more than just name is impressive. A serious off-road tool, the Triumph is an adventure bike that just happens to look like a retro.

Triumph Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen and Euro5 updates revealed

In April 2021 a new version of the Scrambler 1200 was launched. The limited-edition Steve McQueen model arrived at the same time as the firm updated their range-topping retro scramblers to meet the latest emissions standards.

What are those changes? Only small... minor updates to make the engine meet Euro5 plus a new exhaust that improves heat dissipation. So, if you just bought a 2020 model, there’s no need to go looking for the receipt. The big news is saved for fans of the King of Cool himself.

To celebrate one of Hollywood’s most famous actors, stunt riders, motorcyclists and all-round icons, Triumph have partnered with the McQueen family to produce the Scrambler 1200 ‘Steve McQueen Edition’.

The new bike is inspired by the original competition-spec TR6, which was made famous when a modified version was used by McQueen in The Great Escape. McQueen was a big fan of the TR6, requesting they use it in the film and competing on one at the International Six-Day Trial. It’s his love of Brit twins that Triumph are celebrating with this bike.

As the name suggests, the McQueen edition is based on the Scrambler 1200 XE – the long travel, off-road focused version of the two 1200 models.

The special edition comes with a Competition Green tank with brushed foil kneepads, hand painted gold pinstripes, gold heritage logos, a brushed aluminium fuel cap, brushed stainless steel tank strap and a cute little Steve McQueen graphic.

The McQueen edition also comes with a high-level mudguard, which like the rear mudguard, has been painted to match the tank. There are a few other optional accessories too including engine bars, radiator guard and a brown bench seat.

No special edition is complete without some proof, so each of the 1000 bikes is numbered on the handlebar clamp where you’ll also find McQueen’s signature laser etched.

Each bike will also come with a certificate of authenticity stating the bike’s VIN and signed by Triumph’s CEO, Nick Bloor, plus McQueen’s son Chad.

Once you've read this review and our owners' reviews, you may want to join an online community to continue your research. We'd suggest the Triumph Owners' Motor Cycle Club would be an excellent place to start.

Listen to this bike: Triumph Scrambler 1200 video review

In this film Neevesy gets under the skin of the new Scrambler 1200 to see what this Thruxton-powered soft-roader is all about...