Scrambler motorcycles are some of the coolest out there. They combine a street design with some dirt capabilities. If you’re partial to this style, then you’re bound to want to know what bikes qualify as the best scramblers.
Well, for me the best scrambler is the one you build in your shed or garage. I’m partial to the custom builds, but I get that not everyone has a shed or garage or the skills necessary to build the bike of their dreams. Luckily, manufacturers build a number of motorcycles that fit the scrambler mold.
If you want a scrambler, and you just want to buy that look from the factory or don’t have the time, skills, tools, or space to build your own scrambler, then check out the five models I’ve showcased below. They’re the best scramblers out there right now.
1. Indian FTR Rally
The Indian FTR 1200 that came out not too long ago is an awesome bike that’s flat-track-racer-inspired. The Rally version of the FTR takes this bike to a different level with some more off-road-ready equipment and styling. The motorcycle features a 1,203cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine that makes a strong 123 hp, and the Rally version gets some more aggressive tires and a higher-swept exhaust.
- Price: $13,499
- Company Website
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2. Janus Gryffin 250
Hailing from my home state of Indiana, Janus makes small motorcycles all based around a 229cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine. The bikes have an old-school style to them, and the Gryffin 250 is the scrambler in the lineup and it’s wicked cool. The single-cylinder puts out around 14 hp, which is enough to get you to 70 mph or let you tear up a dirt road or trail when need bee. The competent suspension and heavily treaded tires help there, too.
- Price: $6,995
- Company Website
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3. Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro
Ducati’s Scrambler line of motorcycles are all good and worth considering, but of all the bikes the company offers, I think the 1100 Sport Pro is the best. The bike offers quite a lot in terms of style and substance. You get Ohlins suspension, Brembo brakes, and 1.079cc L-twin engine that’s liquid-cooled. The engine makes about 85 hp, and you pair that with the good tires and you have a real winner.
- Price: $13,495
- Company Website
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4. Triumph Bonneville Scrambler 1200 XE
The competitor to the Ducati is this Triumph Bonneville Scrambler 1200 XE. The XE is my favorite version of the Triumph Scrambler and comes with everything you need to tackle a trail. The bike gets a liquid-cooled, 1,200cc parallel-twin engine that makes 89 hp. It also has Showa front suspension, Ohlins rear suspension, and Brembo brakes. Triumph has raced this in numerous rallies, and it’s proved to be a tough bike.
- Price: $15,400
- Company Website
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5. BMW R nineT Scrambler
The BMW R nineT is one of my favorite bikes. The motorcycle features retro styling and comes in a variety of models. I like the Scrambler version the best. The bike has a higher swept exhaust, good tires, and a strong 1,170cc flat-twin engine that makes 110 hp. Overall, this bike is more focused on street riding, but you can take it on a trail pretty easily if needed.
- Price: $12,995
- Company Website
- See Similar Models on Cycle Trader
Other Scramblers
Are there other scramblers? You bet. Most of the models listed here have a sister model that’s also a scrambler or close to it. Also, there are some fun little bikes that I would almost consider a scrambler like the Honda Monkey.
So, the bottom line is you have some options. I think these are the best scramblers out there. You might disagree, and if you do, I hope you leave me a comment below.
