I want the Triumph Scrambler in my driveway. It’s been the subject of more than a few riding fantasies. Not long ago I had the chance to test my desire.
Next to my bed is an Orvis catalog. Their marketing and creative staff seem to have worked over time to push into my subconscious and trigger desire for canvas field coats, twill and flannel shirts, and an assortment of leather belts and boots, all to embrace the coming fall, all part of a design sensibility rooted deep in tradition and experience growing up, the outdoor style of my father, the look and feel before the advent of hi-tech fabric and construction.
Triumph has managed the same thing with the Scrambler. They’ve electrified my imagination by bringing this modern machine before me while triggering dreams of desert sleds and Baja adventure from my youth. It’s a potent combination.
While my personal fascination with traditional, timeless clothing style may be perfectly functional when it turns towards more mechanical iconography those items often wither under the bright light of daily use. Doesn’t matter if it’s a camera, car or motorcycle, the fantasy never lives up to my expectations when I attempt to put them to daily use.
This is a story of dreams.
Two people have a role in this tale — Craig Kissell, owner of Kissell Motorsports and granter of magical wishes by putting a Scrambler in my hands, and Jonathan Ziegler (JZ), creative director, designer, sometimes author of Two-Lane Blacktop, and rider of a 1977 BMW R75/6.
Craig has maintained that my riding and writing about his motorcycles helps his business and my slow, scooter perspective on the motorcycle experience doesn’t seem to hurt and I have the chance to walk on the wild side.
JZ is the kind of rider suited for a vintage airhead—attentive to detail, driven by style, and possessing the requisite patience needed to own and sometimes actually ride a vintage motorcycle.
I have no business owning a vintage motorcycle. While I can be seduced by the look and style of many older machines my lack of patience makes me a poor candidate to join the crowd of vintage airhead riders, BSA and Norton aficionados, or those poor souls who surrender their sanity to finicky vintage Triumphs, Vespas, and Harleys. I expect the bike to start when I press the starter button. Every time, regardless of weather, time of day, tide or phase of the moon. I find no romance in side of the road repairs regardless of how many riding stories they might inspire. I want to ride.
The desire for the Scrambler is based on anything but actual need and reflects a definition of a motorcycle in my head developed in my youth from movies, television and the infrequent motojournalism to which I encountered. I believe almost every rider, in a quiet moment of honest reflection, will find their choice of rides are based on a manipulation of desire based on style, tradition, perception and fear of being different. Choices based on actual need are tricks of the mind.
So I don’t often kid myself into thinking I actually need much. I do want a lot though.
A Saturday morning and I pull up to JZ’s garage, hoping his machine will actually start and we can take advantage of a lovely morning to ride. And get breakfast.
I’m drawn to simplicity of style and function. A look at the instrument cluster on the Scrambler reveals a Spartan collection of information:
A speedometer to tell you when you’re at risk of a speeding ticket.
An odometer, useful to keep track of mileage since there is no fuel gauge.
A green light indicating the turn signals are on – but not which one.
A blue light to let you know your high beam is on.
A small orange check engine diode informing you of, most likely, some incomplete product of combustion. Or maybe the engine is ready to blow up.
And another diode informing you that soon you will run out of gas.
Nothing else. No gear indicator, RPMs, ambient temperature readout (I’ll miss that one) or anything else. And certainly no stereo, GPS, heated seats or grips, and no windscreen. Just a straightforward motorcycle to safely and efficiently get you from point A to B.
In style.
The two motorcycles look good together and are completely at home on the backroads of central Pennsylvania. Looking at pictures like this makes me wonder why I don’t make more time to ride.
We headed south down the valley towards Petersburg and the Route 22 Diner, a small, unassuming establishment along US22 just east of Water Street. It serves a fine hearty breakfast without pretense or fuss.
The Scrambler is not a good choice for anyone requiring the like-minded support of others. You’re not going to find crowds of Scrambler riders at the local diner. This is a unique motorcycle for the rider heading in a different direction. Where Harley talks about the lone rider on the road in their marketing, Triumph actually delivers with the Scrambler. I have never seen another on the road.
Esquire magazine says every man in America needs a Triumph Scrambler. They’re seeing it as a statement of style. I see the Scrambler as a key to unlock insight, imagination, and the first steps towards spiritual freedom. Spoken like a true Vespa rider.
Fifteen miles from breakfast we’re buying fuel at the Sheetz in Huntingdon. The lot is packed with cars and motorcycles. At the next pump is a bright red Ducati MultiStrada ridden by Doug Roeshot, orthopedic surgeon and Ducatista. After a brief conversation about plans he invites us to join himself and another Ducati rider for a ride. Not wanting to reveal my fear that Ducati riders believe the throttle only has one position — wide open, I infer while JZ is in the store that his BMW is having problems and we wouldn’t want to be a burden. Thinking back, as I was feeling some aches and pains from the ride, and watching Doug labor to get his leg over the topcase on the Ducati, I realize that neither of us will probably do anything scary on the road.
But you have to keep up appearances.
The ride home was uneventful. Just he kind of ride you need sometimes. The Scrambler performed flawlessly and the BMW exhibited the kind of eccentric behavior I associate with vintage machines — turn it off in the heat and the thing will not want to start again. At this point all of you serious vintage airhead readers should weigh in and criticize Ziegler for not learning to tune his bike correctly. He’s a designer. He is used to criticism.
I had long admired the Triumph Scramblers at Kissell Motorsports. When opportunity arrived to take one for a ride I was pleased but hesitant because you never really know how you will respond to a motorcycle until you have the chance to ride it. Heading home that first evening I was all smiles.
Each jump from Vespa to motorcycle requires a physical adjustment due to riding position, handlebar width, how much I have to struggle to get my feet to make friends with the shifter and brake levers – that sort of thing. Making those adjustments with my 57 year old body are, well, aggravating. During the time I had the Scrambler I made note on the burning across my shoulders from the wider handlebars, and was grumbling under my breath from time to time about an assortment of aches and pains. By the end of the second day I was completely acclimated and ready to do 800 mile days.
Well, maybe 400 mile days.
All that was left was to test the off-pavement capabilities since a big part of my fantasy for this motorcycle involved going places where others dare not tread. The run across one of Penn State’s gravel roads is much smoother on the Triumph than my Vespa. Go figure.
Being an adult I mediated fantasy with a healthy dose of reality and stayed on some reasonably tame pathways.
Verdict: the stock tires aren’t exactly what the doctor ordered for off the pavement action. I was pleasantly surprised at how nimble and smooth the bike was. While I didn’t take any spine jarring hits from ruts or rocks it was fine on the kind of forest and mountain roads that crisscross this part of Pennsylvania.
I want one of these motorcycles. It looks good at the end of the driveway in the morning light. Kim, if you are reading this, you should push me to buy one.
My desire was strong enough that I avoided visiting Kissell Motorsports for fear I would buy it. Craig probably wonders what happened to me. He sold the Scramblers. It safe to visit now. Until the next shipment arrives.
Very nice write-up of what looks like a really cool bike. Though, the existence of a check engine light indicates more complexity than the simple appearance may suggest.
I really like the photos. Especially the one with the single tree.
Richard
Perhaps Mr. Kissell will offer you a slightly used demo model at a discount. Only one left in stock, better move fast, Steve!
Steve:
you’ve got to confront your fears, head on. Go to Kissell, look the Scrambler right in the eye, then walk out the door.
see if you can do it. If not, then the Scrambler is for you, and enjoy
bob
Riding the Wet Coast
Steve,
The post is really good, much better than the Scrambler, as a motorcycle 🙂
Vasco
http://www.respiroscooter.blogspot.com/
RichardM: The Scrambler is definitely not a Triumph from the 60s and 70s and the simple construction belies the technology onboard. But compared with so many new machines it feels uncluttered and would not require a manual to work through menus or setups.
As far as that tree goes, I have dozens of pictures of it. I am drawn to trees in general and that one in particular. Others like it have succumbed to construction or lightning. I hope this one lingers.
Doug: You probably were riding some of those original desert sleds and can appreciate the pretty lines of those upswept pipes. And the new ones are well shielded too!
The Scrambler is gone from the Kissell Motorsports website. It’s safe now. Especially since I have had contractors giving estimates on construction projects I can’t be dividing my resources right???
bobskoot: I recently purchased the DVD sets for Season 2 and 3 of Kung Fu. Your advice sounds remarkably similar to something that Master Po would have shared with Caine.
Weird.
VCS: Thanks for the kind words about the writing. I appreciate it.
My Scrambler experience is certainly unique to my situation and that motorcycle is definitely not the right choice for a lot, maybe most riders. But it does fill a niche that is unique.
Maybe I need to ride one a bit more. Or get on the TigerXC for awhile.
Steve:
Withall due respect; if you’re not good to yourself who will be good to you?
Yes your wife, Junior your children however deep down inside you do want something a wee bit different.
So continue to rent/borrow machines from Kissell; at least you don’t have to lay out money to ride them and as noted, riding and writing does have untold benefits, now and in the future.
Steve, I always enjoy your posts. You provide a wealth of insight and romance for the ride.
Looking for a second bike, the Scrambler has been on my radar screen for some time. It’s got nostalgia and modern-day quality. AND, it’s a different kind of ride than my V-Strom. The other bike that has drawn my attention is the Moto Guzzi V7 Classic. Any chance you can give that a spin and a write up?
Brent
Steve! You are so much like me it is ridiculous. I ride a Vespa (a lot) and also have this weird attraction to the Scrambler. They wouldn’t let me test ride it at the dealer so it’s good to read a solid review. I really want to know what the maintenance on those is like.
The scrambler is too tall for short people like me and I have memories of burning my teenage legs on raised mufflers. Motocross mopeds were the rage in the early seventies. Also luggage is awkward thanks to the mufflers.
All that is why some people call it a style statement. Plus it has twelve less horsepower than my standard Bonneville.
On the reliability front it will outlast the complex vespa by decades, tires will last longer and it will be more versatile and triumph unlike Piaggio supports it’s products.
Sorry about opening the practical page but mysticism only goes so far. and as connected as I’d like to feel to bonnevilles of yore these modern bikes are classics with none of the headaches. I hope to be buried with mine and it only has 53,000 miles.
Steve, Yet another article. That Scrambler did sell, but I could get you a sweeet deal on a 2012? For 2012 the Scrambler will come in Matte Kaki, which would match nicely with your clothing line. Let me know. Thanks again, Craig Kissell
Steve, I think you and the scrambler would lead quite the happy life together….give in to your subconscious and go for it.
As to your comment re diving in with divinations as to what was wrong with Mr Ziegler’s airhead, I offer perhaps a worn starter’s “brushes” expanding in the heat of a hot engine and being harder to turn when the starter button is pushed. Mine recently did this, several times (quite annoying), bought a replacement starter and of course the darn thing hasn’t done it since then and the new part awaits on my work bench. And yes, I did confirm my battery was good. Reverse ju-ju or a cooling off of the weather?
dom
Redleg’s Rides
Colorado Motorcycle Travel Examiner
Dear Scooter In The Sticks (Steve):
First you swear you cannot be driven from the seat of a VESPA… Then citing a VESPA mentality, a Capucian’s humility, a strict sense of knowing where you are in the universe, and a desire to blend in with old coats with new zippers, you declare your soul to wear the Triumph Scrambler badge.
Then in the next breath, you savagely attack your friends 500-year-old coal-burning BMW Airhead. Motorcycles are like golf-clubs. Every rider should have a bag full of them out in the garage.
I think you should get the Scrambler, and an LL Bean Allagash River Log Flume Multi-Purpose riding duster. That way, if you get a chance to ride Lincoln’d R90, you’ll be ready to go.
Fondest regards,
Jack/reep
Twisted Roads
Wonderful review! Unfortunately the Scrambler is not for the vertically challenged, hence not for me. I feel however the same towards the Triumph Bonneville. The classic look without the hassle of a vintage bike. Only the price tag and limited local service hold me back successfully from buying one.
Bryce: Thanks for your insightful comments. I have options and should explore.
And I have more to write and photograph. Plenty to keep me busy.
Brent: Kissell Motorsports used to sell the Moto Guzzi line and I remember some really nice machines. If I ever have a chance to ride one I will be sure to write something.
I just read a review of the new V-Strom — looks interesting. Just not as interesting to me at the Triumph right now…
Reuben: According to conchscooter the durability and maintenance of the new Triumphs is superb. I have to admit I pay little attention to the intervals save to have them done.
I’m a bad owner I think.
Craig Kissell: With time the Scrambler desire will pass and I will be focused on something else. But the thought of the new Scrambler is tempting. I’ll stop by and we can talk.
And I have some more stories to post. Like the time you and I went out on the Ducatis…
Charlie6: Without a doubt I would be happy with a Scrambler. Making it so is a big step.
I’ll make sure JZ reviews your comment about his airhead.
Mr. Riepe: Well, so far, I have not been driven from the seat of the Vespa save for the occasional dalliance with some motorcycle. The scooter remains a reliable and functional part of my riding life. Who should quarrel with something that works so well???
SonjaM: The Bonneville is a great bike too and I have long been attracted to them. So many interesting machines and so few dollars….
conchscooter: You always interject a dose of reality and I welcome it. When I think of the Vespa and reliability your tales of woe always come to mind. My Vespa has 18K miles now and not a whimper. I know a handful of Vespa riders through a forum who are pushing 50K without incident so I am not concerned about longevity.
If I were superstitious the Vespa will blow up tomorrow morning on the ride to work….
I love the look of Triumphs, they have such clean lines. I was drooling over a vintage one when I was looking for my first bike. Found one, but my hub said nope because of their finicky nature. I am too short for it any way, but a girl can dream.
Dar: I’ve have no direct experience with vintage Triumphs but have a friend who owns one and bemoans its finicky nature. If you like to ride they aren’t the bike to own.
The seat height is almost identical to my Vespa at just under 32 inches. Tall for a lot of people. For me the tall seats make riding a bit more comfortable.
They are pretty looking motorcycles though. Triumph has done a great job holding onto the vintage character of their heritage.
Steve: You always have such great reviews of the bikes you get to ride. One of these days I’m gonna ride up to Pa and take a ride with you.
Ronman
I always love reading your reviews Steve. It’s nice to get an understanding of the emotion involved in a ride, not just a reiteration of the dealer brochure.
I recently made switch from a Vespa GTS250 to a Scrambler. I love the raw power and throb of the Triumph, but a small part of me will miss the simplicity and Italian soul of the Vespa.
Many have said it before, but Vespa really is a gateway drug…
I have a 2010 model and love the bike. I started riding in 1968 and words really can’t describe the feeling, connection and emotion of being on this bike. One just has to experience it by riding, riding and riding. In my mind there is an adventure in every ride. Scott Toepher created a short film entitled, “It’s Better in the Wind” that reflects why many of us ride Triumph Scramblers or when we are not riding then we are probably thinking about it. Here is the link/website http://vimeo.com/31288625 for anyone that would like to watch.