2018 DUCATI SCRAMBLER 1100
FIRST TEST
P96
enough to absorb bumps in the
road. After a quick roadside adjust-
ment to shock preload and fork
compression damping in between
photo passes, the setup felt better
suited to my 135 pounds.
Bumps and ruts didn't upset
the bike nearly as much, and the
ride was much more comfort-
able. Upgrade to the Scrambler
1100 Sport, and you'll get a full
Ohlins setup, which offers even
more refined suspension. Can't
wait to try that at some point.
Riding through the old world
European city of Lisbon posed
plenty of stop-and-go opportuni-
ties during our test ride. Thankful-
ly, the Brembo brakes felt strong,
bringing the big bike to a stop with
confidence, without any startling
initial bite. Cornering ABS worked
like a charm during a bit of traffic
chaos when a car came to a sud-
den stop in front of me, amid our
big group lane sharing.
Later on, as we entered one of
the multiple roundabouts, I was
throttling out of the turn and felt
the rear tire slip for a brief mo-
ment, then regain traction. That
cornering DTC worked smoothly,
without really calling attention to
itself or upsetting the bike.
Despite the Scrambler 1100
being built for riders larger than
myself, I quickly adapted to the
taller seat and roomier rider
triangle. The added power was
an absolute delight, and I really
appreciate the new tech features.
I give the new Scrambler a big
thumb's up, especially if you liked
the previous versions, but wanted
something bigger.
SCRAMBLED BONES?
The new Scrambler 1100's
1079cc V-twin, desmodromic
powerhouse might share the
same displacement as the
Symmetrical high pipes
create a nice tail section,
and deliver a symphony
of L-twin growls.
