Autocar India
2d

I'm planning to buy my first premium motorcycle and have a budget of around Rs. 3.1 lakh on-road. After a lot of research and multiple test rides, I've narrowed my options down to the Triumph Tracker 400 and the Triumph Scrambler 400 X. I'm looking for advice from owners or experienced riders who have spent time with either or both bikes. I've been riding motorcycles for around 7-8 years and this bike will be my primary motorcycle for at least the next 4-5 years. My usage will be approximately 70-80% city commuting to office and 20-30% rides during weekend with occasional long-distance trips of more than 250 km every 2-3 months. I will almost always have a pillion with me, so pillion comfort, suspension, and overall ride quality are very important factors. I enjoy riding but I'm not someone who rides aggressively all the time. I appreciate a refined, confidence-inspiring motorcycle that is also enjoyable on open highways. I'll be paying the full amount in cash so I'm looking for the best overall ownership experience rather than simply the cheapest option. During my test rides, the Tracker 400 felt lighter, more road-focused, and easier to ride in the city. It had a cowl so didn't get to check it with the pillion. The Scrambler 400 X engine felt somewhat the same but just a little toned down and not as aggresive as the Tracker given the higher power produced and better suspension. However, the braking was not as expected. My main concerns are related to finding more suitable bike for someone who rides mostly in the city but enjoys weekend touring. Which bike is more comfortable for both rider and pillion on longer rides? Does the Scrambler's taller suspension and larger front wheel become a disadvantage in daily city riding? Is the Tracker significantly easier to live with in traffic? Considering the fact that I'll own the bike for 4-5 years, which one offers the better overall ownership experience? I'd really appreciate insights from owners, especially those who have ridden both motorcycles or regularly ride with a pillion. Thanks in advance!

Verified
19s

For your usage, where you regularly ride with a pillion both usually inside the city and occassionally on the highway, the Triumph Scrambler 400 X is the better option than its sibling, the Tracker. The Scrambler has a far more upright and commanding rider's triangle, is more spacious for both rider and pillion and its suspension comfort is also much better than the Tracker. 

Coming to the braking issue on the Scrambler, Triumph (not Bajaj) insists on equipping the bike with organic brake pads which don't have the same life or power as sintered units but its an easy fix. You can fit the sintered pads from any other 350cc Triumph onto the Scrambler and this will be an inexpensive and easy fix to your problem. 

Triumph Scrambler 400 X

Triumph Scrambler 400 X

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I currently ride a Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and have been very happy with it. However, I now feel it's time to upgrade to something that offers more performance while also being more comfortable for everyday use. I'm not a fan of highly committed sportbikes like the Yamaha R15, which has an aggressive riding stance. Most of my riding is within the city, including daily office commutes, with the occasional weekend ride. My average monthly running is around 1,000 km. My budget is Rs 5 lakh (on-road). I've shortlisted a few motorcycles. The KTM Adventure S appeals to me even though I don't ride off-road, mainly because an adventure tourer is versatile and comfortable. The Triumph Speed 400 is another option I'm considering. I was also looking forward to buying a Royal Enfield 650, but the absence of tubeless tyres is making me reconsider. Can you suggest which one I should pick, or is there a better option as well?

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4d

Since most of the riding will be in the city with occasional weekend trips, you are already leaning towards the adventure-touring segment; the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is one of the best all-rounders in this price range, if you can manage its size and weight.The KTM 390 Adventure range is quick, engaging to ride and packed with useful features such as cruise control, cornering ABS, traction control and a quickshifter. It also handles exceptionally well on highways and twisty roads. That said, the engine is not as refined as some rivals, and the large windscreen can make slow-moving city traffic feel warmer.If off-road capability is not a priority, the Triumph Scrambler 400 models deserve serious consideration. It combines the commanding riding position of an ADV with the styling of a scrambler. The engine is refined, the handling is neutral and predictable and comfort over bad roads is good too.Among these, the Triumph Bike is the most affordable, while the KTM 390 Adventure S is the most expensive. The Himalayan 450 falls comfortably in between. One advantage of the Royal Enfield bikes is the strong riding community and touring culture that comes with the brand, which may appeal if you enjoy long-distance travel and group rides.Take a test ride and see which one suits you best before making your decision.

Triumph Scrambler 400 X
KTM 390 Adventure S
Royal Enfield Himalayan

Posted on: 7 Aug 2026