The Scrambler 400X: More Than Just a Pretty Face?
It's always fascinating to see what happens when a popular motorcycle platform lands in the hands of a creative workshop. The Triumph Scrambler 400X, already a darling of the sub-500cc segment, has been given a rather spirited makeover by Martin Motorcycle Company in Bristol. What strikes me immediately is their focus on not just aesthetics, but a significant overhaul of the bike's performance and weight. Personally, I think this is where the real magic lies – transforming a capable machine into something truly special.
Shedding Pounds, Gaining Character
One of the most compelling aspects of this build is the aggressive weight reduction, a staggering 15kg shed. Alex Martin, the mastermind behind this project, highlights the stock exhaust system as a major culprit. He describes it as "low-grade stainless steel with a massive cat on it, about the size of a shoebox." My take on this? It's a common oversight by manufacturers, prioritizing emissions compliance over rider experience and performance. The £650 hand-made stainless exhaust, featuring a Vance & Hines silencer (with Martin developing his own option), not only addresses this but also promises a "fruitier sound" while retaining compatibility with the stock fuel injection and oxygen sensors. What this really suggests is that even well-designed factory bikes have room for improvement when you look at the details.
Elevating the Ride
Beyond the exhaust, the chassis has seen some serious attention. The addition of a bespoke Öhlins rear shock, complete with custom springing, for £980 is a clear indicator of intent. In my opinion, this is a game-changer. While the stock suspension is adequate for many, the Öhlins unit promises a level of refinement and adjustability that transforms the riding experience, especially when pushing the bike. It’s not just about comfort; it's about control and feedback. Furthermore, the integration of a Free Spirits floating brake disc from Italy and Bridgestone AX41 tires, paired with VMX Racing wire-spoked wheels, paints a picture of a bike built for more than just casual Sunday rides. What makes this particularly fascinating is the blend of premium aftermarket components with a bike that's positioned as accessible.
A Touch of Style, Rooted in Function
While the performance upgrades are significant, Martin hasn't neglected the visual appeal. The goal here, as Martin emphasizes, is to maintain a high-quality, "OEM" finish. The Renthal Fatbar handlebar, Evotech radiator and headlight guards, and modified motocross footpegs all contribute to a more purposeful, rugged aesthetic. Even the anodised black outer fork tubes and the custom black/gold final drive chain speak to a meticulous attention to detail. From my perspective, this is crucial. A custom build shouldn't look cobbled together; it should feel like a cohesive, intentional evolution of the original design. The custom paint further solidifies this, turning the donor bike into a unique statement.
The Future of Customization?
Martin Motorcycle Company plans to offer a limited run of these transformed Scramblers for around £12,000, including the donor bike, and also intends to make the individual parts available. This approach is, in my opinion, incredibly smart. It democratizes the customization process, allowing owners to pick and choose the upgrades that best suit their needs and budget. What this really suggests is a burgeoning aftermarket for the Scrambler 400X, a testament to its inherent appeal and versatility. It raises a deeper question: will we see more manufacturers and independent firms catering to this growing segment of riders who want to personalize their machines beyond the factory offerings? It certainly feels like a trend that's gaining momentum, and this build is a prime example of what's possible.
