Ducati launches all-new Scrambler Gen 2

The name Ducati and Scrambler have been going hand in hand since a very long time now and hence this motorcycle needs no introduction. This particular model is an entry-level unit that has helped a lot of South Asian countries get into the premium motorcycling space, with India, of course being the biggest market. Ducati is one manufacturer who seem to be consistently upgrading their products and what we are reviewing here is the updated, new generation Scrambler. This is one bike which comes with a lot of pizzazz.

One look at the second generation and there can be no doubt as to the bike’s iconic design – it is still a Scrambler at first glance. The slimmer tank design, the same round shape for the headlamp which now has a very large LED DRL along with the X element on it, makes the bike look more premium and part of the Ducati family. The minimalist tail with a cool LED stop lamp along with a brand new side panel makes it look fresh and also stand out from the crowd of other bikes in the segment – in fact the new machine is quite a head turner, and attracted some serious attention from all ages. The instrument cluster is now a 4.3-inch screen, and the new fuel gauge display has a twin toggle, that gives you a choice between level or range. There are other functions as well, but the learning curve is not that steep and you can master it pretty quickly. No complaint over the switchgear either; it has a good tactile feel even with gloves on. Ergonomics are top notch, and the improved design of the handlebar has been worth it, as steering now has become so much easier. The seat has also been improved and now is good enough for all types of riding – whether it is weekend rides, touring or even the daily commute.

Riding an air-cooled 830cc engine with an output of 70 bhp and 65 Nm of torque in heat has never been a good idea, especially at traffic light stops. Refinement now is however top notch, and the performance sends adrenaline levels racing. The engine has gained a lot in terms of smoothness and the power delivery is much more linear. Ducati's excellent mid range and top-end makes things exciting as you work your way through the smooth gearbox.  The exhaust and intake notes will make you feel very much like a Ducatista, the familiar notes sending your senses tingling. Also let’s not forget that the service interval has grown too!

The handling is much better as well. A much more responsive chassis, with an easy-going behaviour means you seriously love this motorcycle every time you handle it. It evokes a kind of confidence in you, no matter whether you are sweeping round corners or going fast in a straight line. Riding over bad roads don’t need you to slow down earlier, though part of the credit should go to the knobby tyres that do a fine job of gripping the road. The revised handlebar, though making steering easier, is a little wide so needs some careful planning to ride in city traffic. Cornering ABS reduces the risk of crashing under emergency braking when the bike is leaning. Ducati Traction Control is adjustable to four intervention levels that are already calibrated but can be deactivated.

The Ducati Scrambler Gen 2 is a little expensive, but then the engineering behind this bike never ceases to impress you – whether you are going through its specs on paper or simply twisting the throttle. In fact, this bike gives you a taste of the superbike riding experience, yet without its intimidation. 

Priced at INR 10.91 lakhs, ex-showroom for the ICON model.

Story by Mohit Soni