Chose a RE Bear 650 over Scrambler 400xc
I started riding as a 32 year old and started with a meteor 350 with the epic J series engine. I rode the bike for 2 years and then gave it away because my commitments left me very little time to ride it anymore.
After 3 years, I got the itch again and now I have time to ride. I was very confused between the Scrambler 400 xc and the Bear 650.
The Triumph Scrambler 400 XC is a good bike. I felt it felt a little too narrow. And I was a but nervous about after sales service. I was not sure if the ASC can handle the volume they are selling. The riding posture and engine characteristics were more confidence inspiring and I felt at home right away. The issue was I felt too comfortable right away.
I dont do long rides, touring or off roading. Maximum 80 kms around my city. It is almost for coffee runs exclusively or heading out simply for a quick joy ride. I dont wish to buy another bike after 2 years. I feel the XC, i would have grown bored of sooner since I had little headroom to grow into.
The Bear felt a little more challenging to ride at first but it offers enough grunt and mass for me to slowly grow into over the next 2 years. It sounds lovely, looks the part and didn't feel as harsh as people say for my 85 kg 6 ft body. I have always wanted a T100 Bonneville but this looks almost alike. Like a custom T100.
Finally I went with the bear because I want to keep the bike for long and this RE platform has so much potential to slowly adapt the bike perfectly to suit me.Servicing, spare parts, after market accessories are a non-issue.
The first ride was amazing. Sharing the pics from my delivery today. Cheers to the community for making me sure of my choice. The suspension is not bad at all. The handlebar height is more of a concern for me as I have a tall torso but relatively shorter arms. Need some handlebar risers though which I will install in the coming weeks.