Ducati Scrambler 800: What’s Changed?

Let’s take an in-depth look at the 2019 Ducati Scrambler 800

After being in production for almost four years, the Ducati Scrambler 800 has finally received some much-needed cosmetic changes and electronic updates for the year 2019. Although the Scrambler 1100, which was launched in India recently, sits at the top of the table, it is the Scrambler 800 that rakes in the numbers for Ducati. Hence, these updates are of key importance for the Italian two-wheeler manufacturer.

The latest version of the neo-retro motorcycle, which was designed to tackle the urban jungle and the occasional trails rather than be an out-and-out off-roader, has come a long way since its inception. Changes include subtle cosmetic upgrades and various new rider and safety aids.

While the overall design of the bike remains the same, on closer look the changes become apparent. At the front, the 2019 Scrambler 800 gets a new headlight with LED DRLs that form a halo around it. The new bike also features LED turn indicators with a self-cancelling feature. However, the most useful update has to be the new all-digital instrument console that now displays a fuel gauge and gear indicator.

Moving on, the side panels on the 13-6-litre fuel tank get a brushed aluminium finish and seem beefier than before. Also, the new Atomic Tangerine paint option does make the Scrambler 800 stand out. Ducati says that the new version gets a wider and higher-set handlebar along with a revised seat, which should provide better ergonomics and seating comfort.

Other minor changes include the new gloss black paint for the engine cover, which looks similar to what’s offered on the flagship Scrambler 1100. Meanwhile, the muffler cover gets a machined finish that contrasts well with the beefy end can.

In terms of electronics, the new Scrambler 800 can be had with Ducati’s optional multimedia system which enables you to answer/reject calls, listen to music and talk to the pillion via Bluetooth headsets. The bike also features cornering ABS along with a reach-adjustable hydraulic clutch.

Ducati says the 41mm upside-down Kayaba forks up front and the side-mounted rear monoshock have also been tweaked to improve ride quality. Further, the 10-spoke, 17-inch machine-cut alloy wheels are the same units you’d find on the Scrambler 1100.

The Scrambler 800 will be offered in two colours - Atomic Tangerine (orange) and Classic ’62 Yellow. Considering the updates, we expect the Scrambler 800 to command a premium of Rs 50,000 to 60,000 over the outgoing model, which is currently priced at Rs 6.97 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).