Yezdi Scrambler review - Nostalgia packed in modern machine

Mar 1, 2022 3 min read
Yezdi Scrambler review - Nostalgia packed in modern machine

Thousands of 90s kids grew up with the Yezdi legend. Here is the Yezdi Scrambler review that might make you nostalgic and want to take a test ride.

Design, features, and quality

The Scrambler looks fantastic with a dirt-style front fender and a chopped rear mudguard. The Scrambler gets the rectangular engine casings that make it a Yezdi, unlike the Roadster. In addition to three ABS modes, the Scrambler offers a one-step adjustable footbrake lever and a USB type A and C charging port.

Rear luggage rack, headlamp grille, small windscreen, and handguards are all options on this Scrambler. However, the quality and finish of the Yezdi Scrambler are disappointing. A few bolts rusted, the handguards don't fit well, the tail-lamp wires exposed, and the exhaust has a rough finish.

Chassis, ergonomics, and handling

The Scrambler uses the Yezdi double-cradle frame for the rear gas-charged twin shocks. It has the shortest wheelbase of the three at 1403, making it the most agile Yezdi on and off-road. The upright riding triangle and broad handlebars provide for a smooth ride. The suspension on the stiffer side is excellent on highways and at high speeds off-road but lacks compression at slower speeds and rough conditions.

Off-road, the MRF Zapper Kurve tires amplify this. With 150mm front and rear tire travel and 200mm ground clearance, the Scrambler may be a decent go-anywhere motorbike, but first, you'll need to trade-in for a set of knobbies. Front and rear 320mm disc provide braking, with Continental's ABS providing three modes: road, off-road, and rain. The ABS struggles to understand the tire grip in off-road mode, leading to some hairy situations.

Again, proper off-road tires will likely negate this impact. The Scrambler shines on the road. The combination of a short wheelbase, low kerb weight, and strong suspension provides a motorbike with excellent handling. The ABS functions flawlessly in the "Road" mode and is much less intrusive than the "Off-Road" mode. In addition, the 800mm seat makes the Scrambler more accessible to a wider range of riders and is comfortable enough for the odd touring expedition.

Riding experience

Unlike the Yezdi Roadster, the Scrambler has a high seat and wide handlebar. With an 800mm seat height, it won't put off shorter riders either. The Scrambler can get used to the huge 19-inch front tire and the hard suspension.

It's a big, heavy bike, but it's much fun to ride off-road once you get used to it. Although limited suspension travel compared to an adventure bike, it's set up the firm, which helps absorb landings nicely. Even though the Xpulse 200 is faster, more responsive, and more capable, you can still go trail riding with your friends on their ADVs with this bike.

The Scrambler's road suspension is harsh and firm. You will feel the bumps, but the bike is good at handling bumpy surfaces. However, if you ride aggressively at greater speeds, you'll notice a small weave in your chassis, which indicates that the bike doesn't ride in this manner.

The Scrambler engine is a mixed bag. It features a good midrange and a surge from 6,000rpm to 8,000rpm. The performance is decent, but the refinement is not nice. The engine clatters and vibrates at low and high RPM. The 6-speed gearbox is excellent, shifts are precise, and the bike has a slip assist clutch.

Engine, gearbox, and performance

Despite having the same engine as the Jawa Perak, Yezdi has adjusted fueling, cycle parts, and gear ratios to match the engine to the motorcycle. The Yezdi Scrambler's 334cc liquid-cooled DOHC single makes 29.1bhp at 8,000 rpm and 28.2Nm at 6,750 rpm. Because this engine has a short-stroke, it lacks a low-end grunt. The Scrambler's action begins at 3,000rpm.

On the road, it doesn't matter since there's enough power to keep you engaged, but off-road, especially in tricky parts, you'll wish for more torque. The Scrambler's NVH appears to be a problem; there are many vibrations throughout the rev range, which increase past 6,000rpm. The 6-speed transmission on all three bikes is outstanding, with short, precise throws and reassuring clicks enhancing the riding experience.

Verdict

The Scrambler starts at Rs 2.05 lakh, putting it in the middle of the Yezdi range. It has an undeniable presence that will attract attention and fix most off-road shortcomings with better tires.

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