What Do You Think Of The New Ducati Scrambler?

Photography by Ducati and Rosario Liberti

“Know your past to build a stronger future” could be a perfect marketing quote for the new Ducati Scrambler Sixty2. The smaller displacement variant of the one-year-old motorcycle, which debuted at EICMA last year, is a new approach for Ducati. 

Still, I wouldn’t dare to call it a retro-inspired bike, even if its name calls to one of the most popular Desmos in the ’70s, the Scrambler. 

What’s interesting is the bike’s displacement: 399-cc, which makes this a relatively light, less-powerful, easy to live with, fun motorcycle that aims to appeal to younger generations, who these days seem less interested in two-wheeled machines.

Besides the well-made marketing campaign which depicts an easy style of riding, the new Scrambler is a package with high content of want. First, it’s a proper small-displacement desmo, so forget going scooter shopping. Second, it looks like a substantial, grown-up machine, with nicely-styled details. Third, it’s a nod to retro without forgetting that this is 2015 and the world has changed.

Motorcycle culture is important to maintain, and being present in the market with a less expensive option should help Ducati make waves in the “small” motorcycle market. Forty-one horsepower is enough to have fun with, plus it’s got fewer electronics and the simplicity of air cooling, making it possible to count on the Scrambler being an easy-to-maintain machine as the years tick on by.

Would you choose it to be your next bike…or spend a bit more ($500) and go for the full 71 horsepower Scrambler?