2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 First Look
| November 5, 2017
Ducati introduces the latest way to scramble.
At the 2017 EICMA show, Ducati announced that it would be adding a brand-new Scrambler to its lineup. It’s not just another iteration of the 803cc platform that the Italian manufacturer has made so popular, it’s the biggest, most powerful Scrambler to date.
Enter the Ducati Scrambler 1100.
Ducati’s aim with the new 1100 is simple: deliver a Scrambler that is capable of handling the needs of the most demanding street rider, without taking away the fun factor and freedom that is associated with the growing segment.
The design of the Scrambler 1100 started with its engine, which happens to be a 1079cc air-cooled V-twin adapted from the Monster 1100 of a few years ago. The twin-cylinder Desmodue engine is equipped with a single 55mm Ride by Wire throttle body with two sub-butterfly injectors and a large airbox to allow for smooth power delivery of its 86 horsepower. The engine is also equipped with aluminum covers and a servo-assisted slipper clutch that promotes smooth downshifts during deceleration.
Thanks to the aforementioned Ride by Wire, the Scrambler 1100 comes packed with a more sophisticated electronics package than the rest of the lineup. Three selectable riding modes (Active, Journey, and City) allows the user to manipulate the delivery of the initial throttle application, and a four-level (plus off) Ducati Traction Control is equipped to enhance safety. Likewise, Cornering ABS is also standard equipment thanks to the utilization of Bosch 9.1 inertial platform.
An all-new steel trellis frame designed around the air-cooled engine is paired with a set 45mm Kayaba inverted front forks and a rear shock with adjustable preload and rebound damping to keep the Scrambler 1100 in line. It comes rolling on aluminum machine-finished 10-spoke wheels.
The Scrambler 1100 comes in two versions two besides the standard model, giving the buyer the opportunity to either upgrade in performance or choose styling characteristics that fit their taste. The Scrambler 1100 Sport swaps the standard Kayaba front end for Öhlins bits and matching Öhlins shock out back. It also gets a unique “Viper Black” paint scheme, with yellow striping. Finally, the Scrambler 1100 Special gets a unique brushed-aluminum swingarm, spoked wheels, brown seat and “Custom Grey” colorway.
Prices and availability have yet to be released but stay tuned as we find out more. Michael Gilbert