When you need one machine to do it all, it’s hard to beat the rugged charm of a scrambler. The formula is as simple as it gets, and is often little more than slapping a high-mounted exhaust, tall fenders and knobby rubber on your average street cruiser. Don’t mistake them for dirt bikes—but by improving the key areas of clearance and traction, street-derived scramblers are surprisingly capable, and above all, fun!
We’re spoiled for options in the scrambler market these days, so before you sign the dotted line, it’s worth considering a few key factors. You should take into account the balance of on and off-road you’re shooting for, and whether your dream machine is more rugged in spirit or practice.…