First Look: 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Preview

We here at MO often cite a “more is more” attitude, so perhaps we should’ve seen this coming: a new Ducati Scrambler fitted with a large 1079cc air-cooled Desmodue V-Twin that’s been retooled from the old Monster 1100. And not only is the engine bigger than the 803cc mill in the earlier Scramblers, but so is its new trellis frame, which opens up the riding position to better suit larger riders. And joining the standard version will be a Scrambler 1100 Special (“which draws its inspiration from the custom world”) and the Scrambler 1100 Sport, which is equipped with Öhlins suspension.

In addition to the larger 1079cc motor (with only a mild 86 claimed ponies) and new chassis, the Scrambler 1100s also receive higher-level brake and suspension components, plus new switchgear and Bosch 9.1 MP Cornering ABS. Four-level traction control is also standard equipment across the 1100 line. Its wet weight is claimed to be 454 pounds; 465 for the Special.

Up front is a fully adjustable 45mm inverted fork from Kayaba (Öhlins on the Sport version), with a pair of radial-mount 4-piston Brembo M4.32B monobloc calipers biting on 320mm discs. New wheels with machine-finished spokes carry enduro-type Pirelli MT60RS tires, with a 120/80-ZR18 on the front specially designed for use on the Scrambler.

Much thought went into the design of the Scrambler 1100’s seating accommodations, with each version getting its own uniquely contoured saddle, but all of them feature an embroidered Ducati logo at the rear. Ducati says the seats are “more generously shaped than its Scrambler 800 counterpart.” Underneath is an aluminum subframe with machine-finished trim. Ducati says the seat-footpeg distance is increased over the 800 Scrambler, and the handlebar ends are further forwards and lower. A USB socket resides under the seat for recharging mobile devices.

The face of the Scrambler 1100 is graced by a new round headlight that would harken back to earlier times but for the distinctive X pattern over it and a bright LED ring around its rim that acts as a Daytime Running Light. Primary lighting comes from a “Blue Vision” bulb, which emits a white hue to match the LED DRL. The LED taillight makes use of a technology said to be unique in motorcycling, with a “softening” effect which is produced by using a dulled diffuser cover.

The Scrambler 1100’s instrument panel now includes a secondary element to the Scrambler 800’s round dial. The round section displays fuel level, riding mode and the TC level, along with dual tripmeters, miles of fuel remaining and air temperature. The new oval element has a speedo and can display information from the Ducati Multimedia System, available as an accessory when the Bluetooth module is fitted.

Further information about the new Scrambler 1100 series follows. Features listed for the base model are also equipped on the higher-end Special and Sport version. Pricing is not yet available.