So, you're thinking about turning your Triumph Speed Twin 900 into a scrambler, huh? Awesome choice! The Speed Twin 900 is already a fantastic bike, blending classic British style with modern performance. But let's be honest, sometimes you just want to kick up some dirt and explore beyond the paved roads. Transforming it into a scrambler opens up a whole new world of possibilities. This guide will walk you through the key modifications, considerations, and essential steps to achieve that rugged, off-road-ready look and feel while ensuring your Speed Twin 900 remains a joy to ride.

Why Scramblerize Your Speed Twin 900?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's talk about the why. Why take a perfectly good roadster and give it the scrambler treatment? Well, there are several compelling reasons:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Let's face it, scramblers look cool. The high-mounted exhaust, knobby tires, and stripped-down design give them a rugged, adventurous vibe that's hard to resist. A Speed Twin 900 scrambler conversion turns heads and makes a statement.
• Improved Versatility: While the Speed Twin 900 is great on the street, it's not exactly designed for off-road adventures. With a few key modifications, you can significantly improve its capabilities on gravel roads, dirt trails, and other unpaved surfaces. This opens up new riding possibilities and allows you to explore beyond the asphalt jungle.
• Personalization: Building a scrambler is a fantastic way to personalize your bike and make it truly your own. You can choose the parts and modifications that best suit your style and riding needs, creating a unique machine that reflects your personality.
• Enhanced Riding Experience: The changes you make to turn your Speed Twin 900 into a scrambler can actually enhance the riding experience. A more upright riding position, wider handlebars, and improved suspension can make the bike more comfortable and confidence-inspiring, both on and off-road.

Now, before you grab your tools and start tearing things apart, it's important to understand that this conversion isn't just about bolting on a few new parts. It's about carefully considering each modification and how it will affect the bike's performance and handling. Safety is paramount, so make sure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform these modifications, or enlist the help of a qualified mechanic.

Key Modifications for a Speed Twin 900 Scrambler

So, what does it actually take to transform your Speed Twin 900 into a scrambler? Here are the key modifications you'll need to consider:

1. Tires

The most important modification for any scrambler conversion is a set of knobby tires. These tires provide the necessary grip and traction for off-road riding. Look for tires with a blocky tread pattern and a relatively high void ratio. Popular choices include the Continental TKC 80, Mitas E-07, and Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR. When selecting tires, make sure they are the correct size for your Speed Twin 900's wheels and that they have a load and speed rating that meets or exceeds the bike's specifications. Keep in mind that knobby tires can be noisier and less comfortable on the street than the stock tires.

2. Suspension

The stock suspension on the Speed Twin 900 is decent for street riding, but it's not ideal for off-road use. To improve the bike's handling and comfort on rough surfaces, you'll want to upgrade the suspension. This could involve replacing the front fork springs and dampers with heavier-duty units, or installing a complete aftermarket fork. For the rear, you can replace the stock shocks with longer units that offer more travel and adjustability. Brands like Öhlins, Progressive Suspension, and YSS offer a variety of suspension upgrades for the Speed Twin 900. Upgrading your suspension is essential if you plan to do any serious off-road riding.

3. Exhaust

A high-mounted exhaust is a defining characteristic of scramblers. Not only does it look cool, but it also provides better ground clearance and reduces the risk of damage when riding off-road. Several aftermarket exhaust manufacturers offer high-mounted exhaust systems specifically designed for the Speed Twin 900. When choosing an exhaust, make sure it is compatible with your bike's fuel injection system and that it meets all applicable noise and emissions regulations. Keep in mind that a high-mounted exhaust can get hot, so you may want to install a heat shield to protect your legs. Consider heat protection when modifying the exhaust system.

4. Handlebars

The stock handlebars on the Speed Twin 900 are relatively low and narrow, which is fine for street riding but not ideal for off-road use. To improve control and comfort, you'll want to install wider handlebars with a more upright bend. This will give you more leverage and make it easier to steer the bike on loose surfaces. Popular choices include motocross-style handlebars and adventure-style handlebars. When installing new handlebars, make sure they are compatible with your bike's controls and that you have enough cable and hose length.

5. Protection

If you plan to ride your Speed Twin 900 scrambler off-road, you'll want to install some protection to prevent damage from rocks, branches, and other hazards. This could include:

• Engine Guards: These protect the engine cases from damage in the event of a fall.
• Skid Plate: This protects the oil pan and other vulnerable components from rocks and debris.
• Hand Guards: These protect your hands from branches and other obstacles.
• Headlight Guard: This protects the headlight from rocks and debris. Protect your investment with appropriate guards.

6. Seat

The stock seat on the Speed Twin 900 is comfortable for short rides, but it may not be ideal for longer off-road adventures. Consider replacing it with a flatter, more supportive seat that allows you to move around more easily. Several aftermarket seat manufacturers offer scrambler-style seats for the Speed Twin 900. A comfortable seat makes a big difference on long rides.

7. Lighting

While the stock lighting on the Speed Twin 900 is adequate, you may want to upgrade it for better visibility, especially if you plan to ride off-road at night. Consider adding auxiliary lights, such as LED spotlights or fog lights. These can significantly improve your visibility in low-light conditions. Also, make sure your headlight is properly adjusted and that all your lights are working properly. Visibility is key for safety.

8. Other Considerations

In addition to the above modifications, there are a few other things to consider when building a Speed Twin 900 scrambler:

• Gearing: If you plan to do a lot of off-road riding, you may want to change the gearing to improve low-end torque. This can be done by installing a larger rear sprocket or a smaller front sprocket.
• Brakes: The stock brakes on the Speed Twin 900 are adequate for street riding, but you may want to upgrade them for better performance off-road. Consider installing braided stainless steel brake lines and more aggressive brake pads.
• Weight Reduction: Scramblers are typically lighter than roadsters, so you may want to consider ways to reduce the weight of your Speed Twin 900. This could involve removing unnecessary parts, such as the passenger seat and rear fender, or replacing heavy components with lighter aftermarket parts.

Step-by-Step Conversion Guide

Okay, so you know what modifications you want to make. Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of how to actually do it. Here's a step-by-step guide to converting your Speed Twin 900 into a scrambler:

1. Planning and Research: Before you start buying parts or tearing things apart, take some time to plan your project. Research different parts and modifications, read reviews, and watch videos. Make a list of everything you need and create a budget. Proper planning is crucial.
2. Gathering Parts and Tools: Once you have a plan, start gathering the necessary parts and tools. Order the parts online or from your local motorcycle shop. Make sure you have all the tools you need, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, and a torque wrench. Having the right tools makes the job easier.
3. Disassembly: Start by removing the parts that you'll be replacing or modifying. This could include the tires, suspension, exhaust, handlebars, seat, and any other parts that are in the way. Be careful not to damage any of the parts that you'll be reusing. Take your time and be organized.
4. Installation: Now it's time to install the new parts. Follow the instructions that came with the parts carefully. Make sure everything is properly tightened and that all the connections are secure. Double-check your work.
5. Testing and Adjustments: Once you've installed all the new parts, it's time to test the bike. Start by riding it around the block to make sure everything is working properly. Then, take it for a longer ride to see how it handles on different surfaces. Make any necessary adjustments to the suspension, brakes, and other components.

Safety Considerations

Safety should always be your top priority when working on your motorcycle. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

• Work in a well-lit and ventilated area.
• Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
• Use jack stands to support the bike when working on the suspension or wheels.
• Disconnect the battery before working on the electrical system.
• Follow the manufacturer's torque specifications when tightening bolts and nuts.
• Double-check your work before riding the bike.

Conclusion

Converting your Triumph Speed Twin 900 into a scrambler is a rewarding project that can significantly enhance the bike's versatility and style. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can create a unique machine that's ready for anything. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start building your dream scrambler! And hey, don't forget to share pictures of your finished project – we'd love to see what you come up with! Happy wrenching, guys!