The 2015 Ducati Scrambler is a blend of sophistication and practicality achieved by mixing Ducati’s renowned twin-cylinder power and sports bike heritage with the lightweight and more simplistic retro concept.
The Scrambler Icon that we look at here features a smooth and flexible Monster 796 derived Desmo engine that is ideally suited to the daily urban assault course, or ‘commuting’ as it is more commonly referred to these days.
Don’t read anything into the Scrambler moniker because a scrambler it isn’t! Nevertheless it still manages to put a smile on your face and what is more it’s a real Ducati.
The £7,030 price tag for the Icon in red may look a little steep but it is a Ducati after all.
There are three other models, namely Classic, Urban Enduro and Full Throttle that offers the buyer plenty of scope to uniquely customise the bike as much as their desire and wallet will allow.
The quick and precise handling that the Scrambler provides is down to its construction and precise geometry.
Its ability to handle the abundant torque from the superb V-Twin engine and its rigidity and control under powerful braking are just a few reasons why Ducati’s chassis department has such a renowned reputation in the business.
Suspension duties up front are taken care of by a pair of very capable 41mm Kayaba forks, while the rear is also managed by a Kayaba suspension unit featuring adjustable spring pre-load only, allowing adjustments for riding load.
The result, surprisingly, is a Ducati that rides rather smoothly and relatively softly. Now you don’t hear that very often in a Ducati review.
A 330mm disc gripped by four-pot caliper provides both powerful and progressive front-end braking with that all-important rider-friendly ‘feeling’, while the rear is equipped with a single 245mm disc and two-pot caliper and all kept in line with ABS.
The engine is a liquid-cooled Desmodromic power unit that delivers an exhilarating ride without compromising the smooth tractability found in Ducati’s other V-Twin
engines.
The 2015 Ducati Scrambler is a very impressive bike. Its name is the most confusing part of this package as it is not equipped to be taken off road in any shape or form.
But in the urban jungle of our towns and cities it is an ideal companion. Even on motorways at legal limits it is a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Ducati were looking to widen its appeal and develop new markets and with the Scrambler it has a certain star in the making.
A real Ducati for a little over seven grand. Who would believe it?