The new Ducati Scrambler was presented at the beginning of the year with enough interesting changes. It is lighter, more technological, and in the case of the Nightshift variant that we have tested, it opts for a very attractive neo-retro design.
The second generation of the Ducati Scrambler was presented at the beginning of this year as one of the episodes of the Ducati World Première web series, a virtual place where the transalpine have been exposing their novelties throughout the year. With 100,000 units sold behind them, those from BorgoPanigale have listened to their users to shape the new generation. The result is an even more attractive motorcycle, with more technology and even lighter, but which maintains the essence of those models from the middle of the last century.
Let me tell you that the term Scrambler refers to the café racer motorcycles that young British people used to run in illegal races. In fact, this term refers to the action of taking advantage of and installing everything that can improve the performance of the motorcycle. At Ducati... wow, they have taken advantage of their previous experience to improve!
How is the Scrambler Ducati Nightshift
The new Ducati Scrambler 2023 is offered in three versions focused on different uses (or tastes): Icon as the scrambler par excellence; Full Throttle for those who want the sportiest bet; and Nightshift as a model that emphasizes design above all else. On an aesthetic level, the common changes to the three models start from a headlight that now has LED technology, a redesigned tank, and an engine block with an 'X' on the crankcases...
We have had the opportunity to test its most attractive model; and it is that the Scrambler Ducati Nightshift bets on spoked wheels in 18 and 17-inch configurations, a specific leather seat, mirrors placed on the ends of the grips, and a Nebula Blue color that adds distinction and neo-retro character to the set.
Despite the fact that we have the same 803cc Desmodue twin-cylinder block, with 73 CV at 8,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 65.2 Nm at 7,000, Ducati engineers have managed to reduce its weight by 2.5 kg thanks to a new clutch eight-disc more compact. For its part, the gearbox drum is mounted on bearings, so gear changes are now smoother and more precise. A 35 kW version specifically for A2 card holders is also included.
It is on the technological side where the new Ducati Scrambler shows off its chest. Now we have an electronic accelerator with two driving modes -Sport and Wet in the case of the Nightshift-, traction control, and a dual channel ABS system with a cornering function. Success is not only to improve security but to increase its dynamic capabilities.
The cycle part is maintained, broadly speaking, as in the previous generation. The chassis is a steel multibar, accompanied by suspensions signed by Kayaba: a fork with 41 mm bottles and a mono-shock that changes from a lateral arrangement to a central position, which has adjustable preload. The brake equipment, with a 330 and 245 mm disc, is provided by Brembo. The tires are shod with Pirelli MT 60 RS rubber in sizes 110/80 R18 and 180/55 R17.
Finally, it benefits from a 4.3-inch TFT color screen with all the information necessary for the pilot and a twilight sensor that will change the screen lighting depending on the brightness. And all this respects in a certain way the circular shapes of the previous generation.
How is
the Scrambler Ducati Nightshift going?
The Ducati Nightshift Scrambler leaves its mark on your retina. The color, in combination with the specific brown seat, the spoked wheels, or the configuration of the mirrors, give the Italian model an attractive aesthetic, halfway between current and vintage. You get on, and it transmits the same thing, the essence of the motorcycles of yesteryear.
We have a seat that feels quite hard, which already warns us that long motorcycle sessions are going to be limited by the endurance capacity of our rear. It weighs 191 kg and has a seat height of 795 mm, which for my 1.70 m height allows me to reach the ground more or less well with both feet. The kickstand is too hidden on the side and, since it does not have any lugs, the maneuver to remove it again is quite complicated.
With everything ready, we make contact, a small welcome from a TFT screen with a twilight sensor that chokes when rapidly changing light situations occur, and the typical sound of the Italian 'L' twin. We accelerated the Ducati Scrambler a bit empty to verify that the exhaust emanates the occasional detonation after cutting the gas -and also running.
Sport mode is standard on the Ducati Nightshift Scrambler. A success that allows you to deploy all the power, and in a more energetic way at all times. Acceleration is good throughout the rev range, allowing for different types of driving but always finding the necessary response. The vibrations are acceptable and only after 6,500/7,000 do they begin to be more noticeable. The advantage of this Ducati Nightshift Scrambler is that the placement of the mirrors on the grip stops eliminates a large part of the vibrations, offering a good view of what is happening behind.
The suspension settings have been worked on to offer a versatile response in a wide range of situations: motorways, cities, highways, and even some roads without difficulty... It complies in all aspects and only when demanding a lot in sporty driving will we appreciate that it lacks hardness in both trains. The response of the brakes is in the same line, it offers plenty of performance and great modularity. I only missed a somewhat softer feel on the lever, since under heavy braking this hardness translates into a lack of information on the front end.
The way in which the traction control comes in, in combination with the proven efficiency of the Pirelli Scorpion gives a lot of confidence when opening the throttle even with the bike in full lean. Due to the remarkably wide and straight chassis and handlebar configuration, it allows us to enjoy without the position being a handicap. Yes, it can go quite fast and it can give you a lot of joy in a good section of curves.
In the
city, it surprises us with its agility and the behavior of the engine allows us to
get out of many chaotic situations typical of this scenario. It turns well and
its seat height allows you to put your feet out quickly. But we have to be
especially careful with the extra width generated by the mirrors. We will have
to conscientiously assess whether we can pass between two vehicles. Another
positive aspect, especially in months as hot as July, is temperature
management. Despite the fact that the block is exposed, the heat from the
engine dissipates quickly even when stationary.
On the
highway, like all naked, it is at the mercy of the wind. Although it is true
that at legal speeds turbulence is bearable. Exceeding the speed limit
generates so much wind that it becomes a soporific task. Better to slow down or
add one of the many accessories they offer.
THE BEST
- Very attractive neo-retro design
- Engine sound and response
- Versatile behavior
WOULD IMPROVE WITH
- A kickstand with an easier deployment
- The seat feels too hard
- The twilight sensor on the screen sometimes does strange things
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