In the seventh and final episode of the Ducati World Premiere web series, Ducati has unveiled the new Scrambler family. The next-gen Scrambler has been completely revamped, according to the Italians, but the main difference is in the addition of driving modes and traction control.
Ducati calls it the next generation, but the Scrambler for model year 2023 doesn’t seem to have changed much. That is to say, certainly not so much that you could speak of a next generation.
Yes, it got a different headlight with a prominent X. Yes, it now has a 4.3″ TFT display and also yes and yes about the slightly different shape of the tank and the small side panels, but other than that it’s just the same Scrambler that was unveiled exactly 8 years ago .
If we can believe the Italians, the Scrambler, on the other hand, has been thoroughly tackled under the skin. For example, according to Ducati, the half-timbered tubular frame has been updated and made lighter and a new swingarm has been applied with a now centrally positioned rear shock. The subframe is now demountable, according to the Italians for a sportier feeling.
Ducati also claims to have set the headset slightly steeper compared to the previous generation, which should have made the Scrambler just a bit more manoeuvrable, but when we check the specs, it appears that the same value of 24° is stated. We do see that the wheelbase is slightly shorter.
The block has also been modified and made lighter, about 2.5 kilos compared to the previous generation to be precise. A new 8-place clutch has been fitted in the block, which not only has a lighter grip, but is also more compact in construction, so that your right foot should now have more space. In addition, Ducati talks about a bearing-mounted shift roller, which must have made shifting smoother and more precise.
Like its predecessor, the 803cc Desmodue V-twin has a top power of 73 hp at 8,250 rpm. The maximum torque, on the other hand, has not only decreased a fraction from 66.2 Nm to now 65.2 Nm, but is now also only released at a significantly higher speed of 8,000 rpm (was 6,250 rpm).
Because 73 horsepower is truly life-threatening when released simultaneously, Ducati has now equipped the Scrambler with ride-by-wire throttle control, which has enabled the application of traction control and riding modes. There are Road and Wet modes to choose from, with the Wet mode delivering friendlier throttle response and more drastic traction control.
Finally, the ride-by-wire has allowed the use of an up/down quickshifter. When you go for the Full Throttle version, you get it as standard, with the Icon and Nightshift it is included in the accessory package. Also an option is the Ducati Multimedia System, which allows you to connect your smartphone to the bike.
The 2023 Ducati Scambler is available in three versions: Icon, Nightshift and Full Throttle. Prices from €12,590 for the Icon and €13,390 for the Nightshift and Full Throttle.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.