At a glance, the Scrambler XE looks like a classic Triumph. Tidy proportions, a shapely fuel tank. It’s a recipe that’s worked for generations. But see the thing in the flesh and you’ll quickly realize Triumph’s iconic styling hides an entirely new and entirely more capable machine.

It’s bigger, for a start, and in every way. Suspension travel rings in at a startling 9.8 inches, and Triumph tells us this iteration of its eight-valve 1,200cc engine is good for 89 hp and 81 pound-feet of torque. And there’s technology too. The Scrambler XE is equipped with traction control and an inertial measurement unit, which facilitates cornering ABS. The machine has rider-selectable throttle maps. There’s even optional built-in Bluetooth GoPro control functionality for capturing your riding exploits.

Taken together, the $15,400 Scrambler XE bundles some of today’s best adventure-riding tech into a package with Triumph’s classic visual appeal. But how does it hold up to the MC Commute? Ride along with us, and find out.