Royal Enfield Scram

Though it is based on the Royal Enfield Himalayan 411, the Scram 411 comes with a fork clamp-mounted headlight with a neat casing , without the windscreen. It features small tank extensions instead of the rugged tank braces that we have seen on the previous-gen Himalayan. The rear section is similar, but the Scram doesn’t get the tail rack needed to mount luggage. The bike overall is less intimidating than the Himalayan 411, and the design makes it seem more accessible to riders who are just starting their journey into Scramblers and ADVs segments.

In terms of features, the Scram 411 comes with a single-pod semi-digital instrument console similar to that found on the Royal Enfield Meteor 350. It features an analogue speedometer with a digital inset that displays fuel level, odometer and tripmeters. The unit is not as comprehensive as the one found on the old Himalayan but it is easy to read. Riders can opt for turn-by-turn navigation functionality by getting the Royal Enfield Tripper Navigation pod.

Compared to the old Himalayan, the Scram misses out on important features. The first of which is the USB charger, something that would have been very handy when touring. The second and most important feature that is missing is switchable ABS, which is quite shocking given the off-road credentials of this bike. This lack of switchable ABS takes away from the off-roading experience as a whole.

The Scram is among the most comfortable motorcycles in the market. The handlebar is low and closer to the rider. You feel much more connected to the motorcycle. The single-piece seat is well cushioned and the padding is spot on. The Scram can handle both long trips and short rides in the city without the rider having to experience much discomfort. The seat height is also set at a low 795mm which makes the bike more accessible to shorter riders.

The Scram 411 is powered by a 411cc air-cooled single cylinder engine that produces 24.3PS and 32Nm. It is torquey, with a lot of grunt lower down the revs and can easily handle both off-roading and cruising down highways.

The long-stroke engine is able to provide good low-end torque and the gearing is such that riders won’t have to worry about constantly switching gears at city speeds. Out on the highway, the bike manages to maintain cruising speeds of 100-110kmph, though with slight vibrations.

When it comes to handling, the Scram feels a bit different when compared to the Himalayan 411. The first thing that is noticeable is that the bike is easier to steer and is a lot more agile as well. The Scram can handle urban commutes without much trouble and doesn’t come off as too large or bulky in the city. Coming to the highways, switching lanes fast is now quite easy. This change is a result of the smaller 19-inch front wheel, compared to the old Himalayan’s 21-inch wheel.

The suspension is plush and can handle most trails with ease while also feeling planted on the road when cruising at highway speeds. The suspension travel has come down by 10mm compared to the Himalayan 411, but this reduction can hardly be felt when off-roading. The brakes, though, aren’t the best and at times the lack of bite and feedback is quite apparent. 

One issue that persists with the Scram is that it hasn’t undergone any major weight reduction and the bike’s weight is just 5kg less than the Himalayan 411, with the centre stand on. More weight reduction would have made the bike a better handler and a bit more easy to manoeuvre.

The Scram 411 is quite similar to the now discontinued Himalayan 411 when it comes to capabilities and performance, but in a more easily approachable package. The bike is not too intimidating and riders who are new to off-roading will surely appreciate it. The bike is also a lot more practical and can be used for both city commutes and long rides on the weekend. So, if you’re not a hardcore off-roader then the Scram 411 will be a good choice.