2018 DUCATI SCRAMBLER 1100
FIRST TEST
P94
The Scrambler 1100
is bigger than its
predecessors, but
doesn't look bigger.
A longer swingarm is just one way Ducati
extended the new Scrambler's size.
At first glance, the Scrambler 1100
doesn't look bigger, but throw a
leg over the seat and reach for the
handlebars, and the increased size
is immediately apparent.
mode, which is the most sensitive
throttle response, full horsepower
and level-two DTC, the 1100 was very
responsive, but not jumpy. The larger
engine's increased horsepower over
the 800 comes in especially handy
for freeway riding. Torque kicks in
early, making that power accessible
when you really need it, especially
when merging with traffic.
At cruising speeds, the 1100 took the miles and higher speeds in
stride. I kept it in fourth gear on the freeway getting up to 75 mph,
then remembered there are two more gears; shifting into sixth gear
left the bike feeling like it was in overdrive. You'd be hard pressed to
find a need for wide-open throttle on this big Scrambler.
Once we hit the back roads, the Marzocchi suspension
revealed its full character as we carved through the twists and
turns, helping the bike feel planted in the corners. Both front
and rear suspension transferred a lot of the road's surface,
which was literally being uprooted by the trees flanking the road.
At mid-level settings the bike's suspension was clearly prepped
for a heavier rider, as I felt like the shock wasn't compressing
