Ducati has launched the updated Scrambler 800 range in India. The range consists of the Scrambler Icon that is priced at Rs 7.89 lakh, the Desert Sled that costs Rs 9.93 lakh, the Café Racer that will set you back by Rs 9.78 lakh and the Full Throttle that is priced at Rs 8.92 lakh (ex-showroom India). The new models feature cosmetic tweaks, new tech and more features. Deliveries for the Scrambler 800 Icon, Desert Sled and Café Racer will begin in a few days, while the Full Throttle will only make its way to customers by June.
In comparison, prices for the older Scrambler Icon started at Rs 7.28 lakh, while, the older Desert Sled and Café Racer were pegged at Rs 9.37 lakh. The Full Throttle, meanwhile, was priced at Rs 8.53 lakh (prices, ex-showroom Delhi). This means, the Scrambler Icon now costs around Rs 61,000 more, the Desert Sled is pricier by around Rs 56,000, the Café Racer’s price has now gone up by Rs 41,000 and the Full Throttle now carries a premium of Rs 39,000.
One of the most significant updates on the new Scrambler range is the addition of cornering ABS. This system allows the dual-channel system to work more efficiently when the rider makes the motorcycle lean during cornering. Interestingly, the Scrambler is the most affordable motorcycle in India to feature this safety tech. For 2019, the Icon also gets 10-spoke alloy wheels that look identical to the ones on the Scrambler 1100. Other changes on the Icon include a flatter seat than before.
The Scramblers also get some revisions to the instrument cluster (fuel gauge and gear indicator), more premium switchgear and adjustable levers. The Desert Sled gets a dedicated, off-road mode as well. Lastly, the new models can be equipped with the Ducati Multimedia System (that offers Bluetooth connectivity) as an optional extra. When paired, the screen will display calls, messages and music information.
Like the older model, the Desert Sled continues to come equipped with a cross-strut on the handlebar, front stem protectors, a high-mounted front mudguard and a longer rear mudguard. Similarly, the Café Racer continues to use clip-on handlebars, bar-end mirrors, a different front mudguard and a cafe racer-styled seat. Both these models also use wire-spoke wheels. The Full Throttle, on the other hand, uses a low handlebar, flat-track inspired seat, sportier tail and a small front mudguard.
Powering the Scramblers is an 803cc L-twin that produces the same 73.4hp at 8,250rpm and 67Nm of torque at 5,750rpm.
While the bikes have no direct rivals in India at present, competition to the Scrambler Icon comes in form of the Triumph Street Twin that is priced at Rs 7.45 lakh. The closest competitor to the Café Racer, meanwhile, is Harley-Davidson’s Street Rod, which costs Rs 6.53 lakh (prices, ex-showroom Delhi).
Vishal Venugopal
Ved Janve
Azaman Chothia
