Scrambler Showdown
Scrambler motorcycles are a distinct category of bikes designed to blend on-road versatility with off-road capability. They're rooted in a rich motorcycling heritage and characterised by a retro-inspired aesthetic, rugged build, and a “go-anywhere” attitude.
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A scrambler is a dual-purpose motorcycle, originally born in the 1950s and 60s when riders began modifying street bikes to tackle off-road trails. These custom builds evolved into production models and have become a popular modern segment. Two models that still sport the "Scrambler" moniker are the Ducati and Triumph models. Let's see just how different these two bikes are.
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Specifications
| Ducati Scrambler 900 | Triumph Scrambler 900 | |
| Engine | 803cc L-Twin, desmodromic distribution, two valves per cylinder, air cooled | 900cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Transmission | 6-speed hydraulically controlled slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch | 5-speed wet, multi-plate torque assist clutch |
| Power figures | 54kW / 65Nm | 47kW / 80Nm |
| Top speed | 193km/h | 175km/h |
| Frame | Tubular steel Trellis frame | Tubular steel, with twin cradles |
| Suspension Front | Upside-down Kayaba 41mm forks, 150mm travel | Ø 41mm forks with cartridge damping. 120mm travel |
| Suspension Rear | Kayaba rear shock, pre-load adjustable, 150mm travel | Twin shocks with adjustable preload. 120mm rear wheel travel |
| Brakes Front | Ø330 mm disc, radial 4-piston calliper with Bosch Cornering ABS as standard equipment | Single Ø310mm floating disc, Brembo 4-piston fixed axial calliper, ABS |
| Brakes Rear | Ø245 mm disc, 1-piston floating calliper with Bosch Cornering ABS as standard equipment | Single Ø255mm disc, Nissin 2-piston floating calliper, ABS |
| Fuel Tank (litres) | 14.5 | 12 |
| Tech & Features | 4.3-inch TFT color display, ride by wire, full LED lighting system, LED turn indicators, USB socket under the seat, Ducati Multimedia System, Ducati Quick Shift, Riding Mode, Power Mode, ABS Cornering, Ducati Traction Control, Daytime Running Light* | Analogue speedometer with LCD multi-functional display, switchable ABS and traction control, a torque-assist clutch, and an LED rear light, three riding modes - road, rain or off-road |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.2 L /100km | 4.3 L/100km |
| Weight | 176kg | 223kg |
| Seat Height | 795mm | 790mm |
| Price | R 243 000 | R 199 000 |
| Warranty | 2 Years | 2 Years |
Verdict
The Ducati is priced higher according to the better tech and specifications and has more power and a higher top speed, but the Triumph does it all just as well and comes with a keener price. Both machines exude that classic scrambler look and feel, but given the advancement of bike technology, we would be inclined to take the Ducati even though it's more expensive.
