We are just starting to put a few miles on our 2015 Ducati Scrambler Icon test unit, and we wanted to report on our initial impressions of the bike. All the details are contained in our initial report on this model.
To begin with, this is a really small motorcycle. My 5’2″ spouse, who owned a Suzuki SV650 for many years, thinks the seat height might be even lower than it was on her old bike (Ducati claims a seat height of 31.1 inches, roughly 1/2 an inch shorter than an SV650). Suffice it to say that many shorter riders will be able to flatfoot this machine at stops.
In keeping with the short stature, the bike just looks small, and feels light, both at rest and while moving. Ducati claims the Scrambler Icon has a dry weight of 375 pounds, and a weight of 410 with a full gas tank.
The engine feels strong. In my mind, I was prepared to measure it against an SV650, which represents a modern, liquid cooled 90° V twin with fuel injection and four valve heads. The SV has always been considered quick for its displacement category. My first impression of the Scrambler 800 is that it has noticeably more power in the mid-range than an SV, but does not like to rev as far.
This engine has very good low-end (pulling usefully from 2,000 rpm) and mid-range, but signs off on top fairly quickly. Nevertheless, a very fun, responsive street motor.
The ergonomics are a little tight for taller riders, as would be expected for such a small motorcycle, but at 5’11” I was still quite comfortable, and it wasn’t something I thought about during the ride. The handlebars are very high, even higher than they are on most dual sport motorcycles. The Scrambler is very narrow between your knees, but spreads out as you reach the foot pegs, and your heels are spread out a bit by the swingarm, which flares away from its mounting position.
Perhaps, most importantly, I had a great deal of enjoyment during my first ride on the motorcycle. More fun than plenty of other new motorcycles I can think of, with light handling, good power and a sense of confidence as I rode through twisty mountain roads, as well as in a straight line at freeway speeds. Much more later (including action photography).
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.