Ducati Scrambler review, test ride

 

The all-rounder character of the engine is backed up by an equally able chassis and suspension setup. At low speeds, the Scrambler feels lighter to steer than you would expect. It also has the range of steering movement to wriggle through urban traffic. But, this freedom doesn’t come at the expense of high speed stability either. In the three digit zone the Scrambler felt unshakeable, with light bumps and potholes leaving it unfazed. The Scrambler actually soaked up bumps and bigger potholes better than I expected, aided, no doubt, by those meaty Pirellis, which is going to be a real benefit when riding back home in India.

 

However, over light rumbly tarmac, the suspension felt a bit stiff, which could perhaps improve with some adjustment. And, that has an upside; show the Scramler a set of corners and its Ducati genes become very apparent. With precision and a neutral steering, it carves up corners with ease. However, I couldn’t help but think about the Full Throttle with its lower handlebars to amplify the fun factor.

 

Although, for our highway ride, the Icon’s upright seating was great. Even though the seat left me feeling a bit sore after a long stint in the saddle, and the wind blast added stress to my shoulders. On the whole, the seating position is comfortable and the ergonomics won’t bother you even when spending many hours in the saddle.

 

 

Ducati is understandably upbeat about the Scrambler and our first ride shows exactly why. The Scrambler will be an apt vehicle for Ducati to ride into Delhi and Mumbai on, in a couple of months. The Scrambler’s charm is very real and rooted in its ability to do many things with panache and cheery candour. At an expected price tag of Rs 7 lakh for the Icon, Ducati won’t paint India red. They’ll be painting it yellow.