Next-Gen 2023 Ducati Scrambler First Look

Ducati revealed its new “Next-Gen” 803cc Scrambler lineup, featuring new styling, a new ride-by-wire throttle, a 4.3-inch TFT display, and an updated chassis. For 2023, Ducati will offer three 803cc Scramblers: the Icon, the Full Throttle, and the Nightshift. The 1100 Scrambler range will also return, unchanged, with three models: the Scrambler 1100 Dark Pro, Tribute Pro, and Sport Pro.

Sticking with the 803cc models, the new styling doesn’t stray too far from the Scrambler formula. The steel fuel tank has been redesigned, now with an interchangeable cover that can be swapped out along with the fenders and headlight detail for a customized look.

The new headlight is a full LED, while still retaining its X design and four circular daytime running light sectors. The rear lights and turn indicators are also LEDs.

The 803 cc air-cooled 90° V-Twin with two desmo-actuated valves per cylinder has been updated with redesigned casings and new components to the clutch, transmission and electronics that Ducati claims to add up to a 5.5-pound weight savings compared to the previous generation.The exhaust system was also redesigned, further simplifying the headers to show more of the engine.

According to Ducati, the new Scrambler claims the same peak of 73 hp at 8,250 rpm as the previous model, but peak torque is now a claimed 48.1 lb-ft. at 7,000 rpm, compared to the previous Scrambler’s claimed peak of 48.8 lb-ft. at 5750 rpm.

The new eight-disc clutch offers a softer pull compared to the previous clutch, and its more compact design resulted in a smaller cover and more space for the rider’s foot. The transmission now uses a new bearing-mounted shift drum designed to offer smoother, more precise shifting.

The new Scrambler gains a ride-by-ride throttle, enabling new electronics such as a traction control system and two selectable ride modes, Road and Wet. The electronic throttle also allows the Scrambler to be fitted with an up-and-down quick shift. The quick shift will be available as an accessory for the Icon and Nightshift models, and standard equipment on the Scrambler Full Throttle. The previous Scrambler offered cornering ABS, and the system returns unchanged on the new generation models.

To help navigate the electronics, Ducati equipped the new Scramblers with a 4.3-inch color TFT display. Ducati also offers an accessory multimedia system which adds smartphone connectivity.

The new Scramblers received an updated, lighter trellis frame and a redesigned swingarm. The preload-adjustable Kayaba rear shock was also moved closer to the center of the motorcycle. Up front, the 41mm Kayaba fork remains unchanged. The brakes are likewise similar to the previous Scrambler models, with a single radial four-piston caliper and 330 mm disc up front and a single-piston floating caliper with a 245 mm disc at the rear.

The flat track-inspired Full Throttle comes with a shorter front fender, a fenderless tail, a street-legal Termignoni exhaust and longer side number plates bearing the number 62 to recognize the 1962 debut of Ducati’s original Scrambler models. A quick shift comes standard, and in markets where they are homologated, Ducati Performance LED turn signals are also standard.

The handlebar position is more aggressive than on the Icon, and for a sportier look, Ducati offers a accessory Rosso GP19 seat cover.

For 2023, the Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle comes in a GP19 Red/Dark Stealth colorway with black finish exhaust heat shields and front side covers.

The Scrambler Nightshift offers a more retro café racer styling, with a flatter handlebar, bar-end mirrors, black wire spoke wheels, a stitched leather seat, and a mix of alternating glossy and matte surfaces. Like the Full Throttle, the Nightshift adopts larger side number plates, a smaller fender and a fenderless tail. In countries where they are allowed, the Nightshift comes with compact LED turn signals.

For 2023, the Ducati Scrambler Nightshift comes in a Nebula Blue color with blacked out aluminum finishes.