BSA Scrambler 650 Real-world Fuel Efficiency Tested

The BSA Scrambler 650 is the more adventure-oriented version of the Gold Star 650. The former gets a host changes over the latter to have a persona of its own. While the engine of both bikes is identical, the Scrambler is close to 7kg heavier than the Gold Star. This not only means more hassle to manoeuvre the bike at slow speeds, but the increased heft might also contribute to a slight drop in fuel efficiency. In that case, let’s take a look at our results of the Scrambler 650’s real-world fuel efficiency test.

The Route

In our mileage test, we ride the same 10km loop five times, because anything less than a 50km run might not be enough data to give accurate results. This 10km loop comprises a good mix of moderate to high traffic, a few traffic signals, some of which are over 60seconds long, and approximately 3km of wide open stretch. These elements are very close to what an average Scrambler 650 owner will put their motorcycle through on most days of riding.

The Test

During the test run, we try to mimic the riding style of an average Scrambler 650 owner to get the most accurate result, not the highest, mind you. The point is to neither be too conservative nor go ripping the bike at every given opportunity. The general riding style in this test, especially for bikes like the Scrambler 650, is not to rev the engine too high in any gear and try to short-shift. On open straights, we try not to cross speeds of 75-80kmph. The engine is turned off at signals longer than 30 seconds. And jerky throttle inputs are strictly avoided.

The Results

After following all the aforementioned parameters, the Scrambler 650 returned a fuel efficiency of 21.5kmpl, which is on the lower side. If you consider its 12-litre fuel tank, you’re looking at a range of close to 258km, and that would translate to frequent fuel station visits, especially if you plan to commute daily on the motorcycle. Of course, the figure will be a bit higher on the highway when riding it at constant speeds with gentle throttle inputs. But the difference would not be much since the Gold Star 650, which is lighter, had returned 22-24kmpl on our Mumbai-Goa trip last year.