DUCATI’S NEXT-GEN SCRAMBLERS HIT OZ

Ducati’s much-loved Scrambler platform unveiled its new guise in Australia recently at a packed event under the Story Bridge in Brisbane.

Following on from a series of more than a little colourful events in Europe, Asia and America, the Scrambler Next-Gen Tour’s latest stop was Brisbane, with the new Scrambler Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift models all on display at the Crystalbrook Vincent Hotel and surrounded by artworks from Australian artist and Ducati Scrambler Friend, Vincent Fantauzzo.

“Scrambler for us has always been about celebrating the joy of riding and a sense of unrivalled self-expression. Being able to present this new bike, under the stars and the amazing Story Bridge and surrounded by the incredible art of Vincent Fantauzzo, is the perfect way to launch the new Scrambler Ducati here in Australia.” – Sergi Canovas, Ducati ANZ Director

These all-new Scrambler models retain the torquey air-cooled twin-cylinder Desmodue engine, trellis frame, wide handlebars and low centre of gravity, but are now all enhanced by rider aids that include Ride by Wire, riding modes, traction control and the Ducati Safety Pack with ABS cornering as standard, in addition to the new instrumentation with 4.3-inch colour TFT. Thanks to the introduction of Ride by Wire, the new-generation Desmodue engine has the option to mount the Quick Shift up/down – standard equipment on the Full Throttle and available as an accessory on the rest of the range. Power-wise, the air-cooled, two-valve twin-cylinder engine brings the sweet roar of 73hp to your ears.

That unique trellis frame has been updated and lightened, as has the swingarm, with the shock repositioned towards the centre of the bike. The engine has also undergone some updates that has reduced its weight, and finally, for a sportier feel, the rear frame is now separate from the main frame. Handling improvements come from a slightly steeper steering angle that brings quicker steering, especially in the city.

The steel tank has been redesigned and equipped with an interchangeable cover that, along with the fenders and details on the headlamp, gives the bike its colour and allows easy, quick but complete customisation. Elegant, anodised aluminium covers below the tank complete the renewed design of the front of the bike.

While they are three very differently styled motorcycles, all are united by a relaxed riding position and low weight (some 4kg lighter than the previous generation), to offer riders of all experiences and abilities a rockin’ good V-twin powered time, on urban commutes as well as on out-of-town trips. Or in our case, a sideways day out with The Jerkyls….

Need to make it even more unique? The Icon model is available in nine different colours, thanks to the interchangeable covers.

Of course, being Italian, fashion is coming along for the ride with Ducati Scrambler offering a wide range of clothing and accessories. The parts catalogue includes three exhausts from Termignoni, saddles, the already mentioned coloured tank covers, billet parts and soft bags, all viewable via the online configurator. Add to the mix technical and lifestyle clothing and you’ll look the part on and off the bike.