Now Reading: Brixton Crossfire 500 XC Review – The Rugged Retro Scrambler That Stands Out
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Brixton Crossfire 500 XC Review – The Rugged Retro Scrambler That Stands Out
Brixton Crossfire 500 XC Review – The Rugged Retro Scrambler That Stands Out
The Brixton Crossfire 500 XC is a retro-styled, dual-sport inspired motorcycle that blends old-school charm with modern engineering. Although still a relatively unknown Austrian brand in India, the Crossfire 500 XC immediately grabs attention with its rugged styling, premium cycle parts and distinctive identity.
Design
The Crossfire 500 XC stands out with its bold and adventurous design. The aluminium-framed headlamp with its matching aluminium visor sets a strong first impression. The sculpted tank features neatly designed tank pads and the signature “X” motif that adds visual interest. A minimalist tail section and the oval side panel complete the scrambler look.
Its 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cross-spoke rims enhance the off-road appeal, further amplified by chunky Pirelli Scorpion tyres. Dirt-oriented equipment such as a skid plate, crash protection, radiator grille and a raised mudguard come as standard. Overall, it’s a striking motorcycle that turns heads easily and even gives off subtle old Moto Guzzi vibes.
However, the tall stance and off-road-focused touches make the design feel more niche, which may not appeal to riders looking for a pure street machine. Shorter riders may also find the 839 mm seat height slightly challenging.
Ergonomics
The riding position is upright and comfortable, aided by a flat and well-cushioned seat. The taller stance provides excellent visibility whether riding in the city or on trails. However, the handlebar feels slightly farther away than ideal and may require adjustment for optimum comfort.
Weighing around 195 kg in running order, the Crossfire 500 XC isn’t the lightest, and manoeuvring at low speeds can feel slightly heavy. Once on the move, though, the weight becomes less noticeable. The seat remains comfortable even on longer rides, and the ground clearance allows confident navigation over uneven surfaces. The only limitation is the modest 13.5-litre fuel tank, which means more frequent refuelling on longer trips.
Features
This is an area where the Crossfire shows its age. The motorcycle gets a round digital display, but it isn’t a colour TFT and offers only minimal information—odometer, a single trip meter, and time. There is no real-time mileage or distance-to-empty.
Adjustable levers are present, along with dual-channel ABS and tubeless tyres on cross-spoke wheels, which are a major advantage. However, features like a quickshifter are missing, and the overall feature list feels basic for the price.
Engine and Performance
Powered by a 486 cc in-line twin-cylinder engine producing 46 bhp and 43 Nm, the Crossfire 500 XC’s output is close to the Royal Enfield Bear 650. The motor isn’t the smoothest, showing a minor hesitation when revved quickly from idle, but on the move it settles into a torquey and linear power band. Some buzz is felt through the tank and central panel at certain RPM ranges, but nothing alarming.
Acceleration is strong and effortless, and the motorcycle can comfortably cruise at 120 km/h. The exhaust note transitions from a gentle hum at lower speeds to a raspier tone beyond 5000 rpm, adding to the character. However, the gearbox is heavy and clunky at low speeds, making frequent shifting less enjoyable. It improves at higher speeds, but city riders may find it tiring.
Ride and Handling
The Crossfire is equipped with a fully adjustable KYB USD fork at the front and an adjustable monoshock at the rear. While the setup works well overall, the initial travel is softer than ideal, leading to slight wallowing. That said, broken roads pose no challenge—the bike soaks them up confidently.
With 150 mm of front and 130 mm of rear suspension travel, the motorcycle is well-suited for mixed usage, including mild off-roading. On twisty roads, the Pirelli Scorpions perform impressively despite their knobby pattern, offering excellent grip and confidence. The JJuan braking system delivers strong stopping power with a 320 mm front disc and radial caliper setup, though brake feel could be better.
Verdict
The Brixton Crossfire 500 XC is a rugged, old-school machine that exudes charm. Built with an abundance of metal and purposeful components, it feels like a motorcycle with character—one you find excuses to ride. It has its quirks, from limited features to a clunky gearbox, but its premium components, distinctive design and off-road-friendly build make it stand out in its segment.
At a discounted ₹3.99 lakh ex-showroom (Pune), it is an expensive proposition that focuses on high-quality mechanical parts rather than advanced features. This is not a motorcycle for everyone, but for riders who want uniqueness, presence, and the freedom to continue even when the tarmac ends—the Brixton Crossfire 500 XC is worth considering.
