Ducati Scrambler 1100: Top Five Facts

After its debut at EICMA in 2017 and overseas launch, Ducati has now launched all three variants (standard, Special and Sport) of the Scrambler 1100 in India. A dual-purpose bike with a lot more power and electronic aids on offer compared to its smaller sibling is sure to set hearts racing. In case you are mulling over buying one, here are five things you need to know about the newly launched Scrambler 1100 range.

Design & features -

Design wise, the Scrambler 1100 still retains the essence of its smaller sibling, but looks a lot beefier and rugged. Elements like the muscular tank, split exhaust system placed on either side of the seat and a bigger engine nestled in an all-new steel-trellis frame differentiate the Scrambler 1100 from the 800cc variant. Additionally, it also features interchangeable aluminium side panels, front gold-anodised forks and an underseat storage compartment with USB socket. The riding position is now sportier, thanks to its lower-set handlebars and footpegs. Although the bike has a ton of modern features, it’s still unmistakably Scrambler, with design cues dating back to the 70’s.

Electronic wizardry -

To keep up with competition, the bike gets an updated instrument console, a round halogen headlight with LED DRLs, and a bunch of electronic riding aids such as ride-by-wire, five-level traction control, three riding modes (Active, Journey and City) and cornering ABS. The electronics not only help harness the power from the bigger engine, but also make it less intimidating for novice riders. Notably, the aforementioned electronics come as standard across all three variants.

Powertrain -

The most obvious and biggest change is the 1100cc motor borrowed from the Monster EVO. The 1079cc air-cooled L-twin has been tuned differently for better fuelling and churns out 86PS of power at 7500rpm and 88Nm of torque at revs as low as 4750rpm. It is mated to a six-speed gearbox aided by a slip & assist clutch. Fuel tank capacity now stands at 15 litres, compared to the smaller 13.5 litres available on the Icon.

Mechanicals -

The Scrambler gets an all-new steel trellis frame to accommodate the bigger 1100cc engine. Suspension duties are handled by 45mm fully adjustable Marzocchi upside-down forks up front and a monoshock at the rear with preload and rebound adjustability. The bike also gets a new subframe and a longer wheelbase, which further improves stability.

Braking is taken care of by twin 320mm discs anchored by four-piston radially mounted Brembo Monobloc M4.32 calipers up front and a single 245mm disc brake at the rear. Its 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels are shod with Pirelli MT dual-purpose tyres.

To justify its higher price tag, the top-of-the-line ‘Sports’ variant gets high-performance Ohlins suspension on both ends, aluminium wheels with machined spokes and tapered handlebars. On the other hand, the Special receives blacked-out spoked wheels, chrome exhausts, and aluminium front/rear mudguards.

Price & Rivals -

The three variants – standard, Special and Sports – are priced at Rs 10.91 lakh, Rs 11.12 lakh and Rs 11.42 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom India) respectively. At this price point, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 will compete against the Triumph Street Scrambler (Rs 8.6 lakhs) and the BMW R nineT Scrambler priced at Rs 15.55 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom India). Its closest competition, the Triumph Scrambler 1200 is due to arrive sometime later this year.

Warranty and Maintenance  

Warranty: 24 months unlimited mileage

Maintenance service intervals: 12,000 km (7,500 mi) / 12 months

Valve clearance check: 12,000 km (7,500 mi)

Source: zigwheels.com