r/TriumphScrambler

Hey everyone,

I’m in a bit of a dilemma and could use some outside perspective before I pull the trigger.

I was pretty much set on buying a 2026 CB650R. It’s from a private seller, only 13 miles on it, basically brand new. The guy bought it from a dealer but hasn’t ridden it due to a baby on the way and some garage changes. I checked it out in person — it was a bit dusty from sitting, had a little white smoke and some water droplets on startup, but it cleared up quickly and ran perfectly after that. From what I understand, that seems normal for a bike that’s been sitting.

Price is $8,800, but I’d probably spend another \~$700 on accessories (phone mount, small windscreen, luggage, etc.), so all-in it’s a bit higher.

Just when I thought I was done deciding, I came across a 2019 Street Scrambler 900 with about 2,000 miles. Looks really clean, garage kept, first service done at 500 miles, and only ridden \~100 miles in the last year. I’ve managed to negotiate it down to $7,000.

Now I’m confused.

On one hand:

CB650R = basically new, no history concerns, smoother for highway (I ride around 70–80 mph fairly often), more of a “safe” choice

On the other:

Scrambler = more character, already cheaper, feels like a more “special” bike, but it has been sitting and might need tires/fluids/battery soon

For context:

\- I’m not an aggressive rider

\- Mostly commuting + longer weekend rides ( will do some 300-400 mile trips too)

\- Coming from a smaller bike, so this is a step up either way

\- I care about comfort at highway speeds but also want something I’ll enjoy owning

Financially, they seem to even out over time, so this isn’t really about saving money anymore.

Would really appreciate input from people who’ve owned or ridden either (or both). What would you do in this situation?

Thanks in advance.