Ducati has launched the Scrambler 1100 in India at Rs 10.91 lakh. The bike is also available in two higher-spec models called the Sport (Rs 11.42 lakh) and the Special (Rs 11.12 lakh). Bookings for the motorcycle had begun in the first week of August 2018 for an amount between Rs 1 lakh to 2 lakh, depending on the dealership.
Ducati originally took the wraps off its new Scrambler 1100 at its World Premiere 2018 event. A grown-up version of the Scrambler, the 1100 retains the smaller bike's design, albeit in an evolved format. Powering it is a 1,079cc, L-twin motor that produces 86hp at 7,500rpm and 88Nm of torque at 4,750rpm – a significant increment from the regular Scrambler’s 803cc motor that puts out 74hp and 67Nm of torque. This motor is paired to a 6-speed transmission and also features ride-by-wire.
The 1100 is big on electronics (unlike the 800) and features a comprehensive technology package that includes ABS, cornering ABS and a four-level traction control system. Standard equipment also includes three riding modes – Active, Journey and City. The Scrambler 1100 also gets the expected updates to its trim – a new headlight with a prominent ‘X’ pattern housed within, as well as an LED ring around the circular daytime running lamp. The digital instrument cluster has been updated as well and now features a second pod. This helps display all the additional read-outs that come with the new electronics. The bike also has twin exhaust mufflers that sit under the pillion seat.
The Scrambler 1100 is available in three variants – standard, Sport and Special. All of these are identical in terms of engine output but bear changes to cycle parts and some cosmetic elements. The standard and Special 1100 variants features a fully adjustable 45mm USD fork from Marzocchi and a preload/rebound-damping adjustable monoshock from Kayaba. The Sport, meanwhile, has a 48mm USD fork and preload/rebound-damping adjustable monoshock – both made by Öhlins. Radial-mounted twin-disc brakes with four-piston Brembo M4.32B callipers are standard equipment fitted across all variants.
The standard model is available in two colours – yellow and black. The Sport, on the other hand, is only available in a single satin black colour. Similarly, the Special can also be had in only one colour option – grey. However, the Special does get a brushed aluminium finish on the front mudguard and swingarm, and a brown seat. The Special also stands apart with a set of spoked-wheels.
With a price of Rs 10.91 lakh, the standard 1100 is quite unique and lacks direct rivals; but if you look at what else is available within this price bracket, the sporty Triumph Street Triple RS (Rs 11.13 lakh) or the retro Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster (Rs 11.11 lakh) are valid alternative options. Or for a little more, there’s the option of large ADV bikes like the BMW F 750 GS (Rs 12.20 lakh), the Triumph Tiger 800 (Rs 11.76 lakh – Rs 13.13 lakh) and Ducati’s own Multistrada 950 (Rs 12.60 lakh).
We are pleasantly surprised to see the premium for the Scrambler 1100 Sport variant over the standard, is just Rs 51,000, considering it offers much more expensive suspension at both ends. This could make it the most popular version in the Scrambler 1100 line-up.
All prices, ex-showroom India
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
