When shopping for used motorcycles for sale, do yourself a favor and dream big. Buying a used bike is an excellent way to bring your riding dreams to life without compromising performance, capability, style, or your wallet. We see this firsthand with models like the Ducati Scrambler, a versatile two-wheeled powerhouse with a diverse trim lineup, head-turning style, and the promise of pure thrills in the saddle.
The Scrambler Legacy: A Look at the Original
New and seasoned riders know and appreciate what Ducati stands for in the global motorcycle landscape. Ducati is synonymous with performance, with its bikes boasting potent heartbeats, head-turning designs, and modern technologies. Ducati has always been ahead of the curve, and modern marvels like the Scrambler continue to prove as much.
The used Scrambler models on our showroom floor pay homage to the original Scrambler that Ducati introduced to the American market in 1962. The early Scrambler was a modest performer by today’s standards and was developed as a light off-road bike capable of handling itself adeptly on and off the pavement. We see this capability and its progression with the first and second series models, which include 250, 350, and 450 cc engines. Ducati extended the Scrambler lineup with the R/T 350 and R/T 450 before discontinuing the motorcycle in 1974.
The Modern Scrambler: Reviving the Nameplate
The Scrambler of the 1960s and 1970s was designed to venture on and off the pavement, with its progressive increase in power and size setting a template that Ducati would later return to and use. The Italian manufacturer turned to that template in the new millennium, reintroducing the Scrambler in 2015 as a modern roadster destined for adventure. With more styles and models, the modern Scrambler caters to a larger segment of riders by offering a broad range of power and capability, making it a top seller in the used market.
Since its return in 2015, the Scrambler has continuously evolved and introduced more features that showcase its penchant for performance. Ducati has successfully established the Scrambler as a lifestyle brand by expanding its model lineup that answers very distinct needs, from models like the Classic and best-selling Sixty2 to the Cafe Racer, Desert Sled, and potent Scrambler 1100. How do these models capitalize on the Ducati legacy and deliver next-level performance? Moreover, what differences define them, giving each a distinct personality and appeal?
Meet the Icon: Shop 2019 or Newer Models
Living up to its name, the Icon is the Scrambler’s base model that takes a no-frills approach to performance, engagement, and innovation. Models built since 2019 are popular finds on the used lot and give riders the opportunity to join the Ducati legacy without paying a premium. For example, a new 2019 Icon started at $9,395, making it even more affordable today as a used model.
The 2019 Icon’s affordable price tag gives the bike its budget-friendly appeal, but there’s far more to the base Scrambler. The 2019 Icon marks a significant shift in the bike’s design, with Ducati keenly aware of riders’ needs and feedback. For example, the 2019 Icon debuted a reshaped saddle to improve rider comfort, added another exterior color option, and introduced a retuned throttle to increase responsiveness and low-end power delivery.
As far as specs, the Icon is a lightweight warrior with an estimated wet weight of approximately 417 lbs for the 2019 model. The 31.4-inch seat height accommodates riders of various heights, while its short 56.9-inch wheelbase adds to its maneuverability. The air-cooled 73-horsepower V-twin engine provides plenty of power, with Ducati enhancing the Icon’s handling with standard Bosch cornering antilock brakes.
Meet the Desert Sled Fasthouse: A Limited 2021 Production
If you’re truly looking for a one-of-a-kind Scrambler, look no further than the Desert Sled Fasthouse. This exclusive Scrambler celebrates Ducati’s collaboration with Fasthouse, an American clothing brand that garnered acclaim when rider Jordan Graham won the prestigious Mint 400 off-road race. With Fasthouse and Ducati teaming up, the Desert Sled Fasthouse easily became the most anticipated debut of 2021.
Built on the Desert Sled frame, the Fasthouse model features iconic details that pay homage to the bikes that raced in The Mint 400. Using black and grey as foundational colors, the Desert Sled Fasthouse features the Fasthouse and Scrambler logos on a geometric design that adorns the tank. The red frame adds a bold touch, with an aluminum plate providing the finishing detail by featuring the limited series number. With only 800 models produced, the Fasthouse screams exclusivity.
Fortunately, the Fasthouse is more than a head-turning bike. It’s also a road warrior with a penchant for speed. The bike lives up to Ducati’s reputation, with each model powered by an 803 cc engine enhanced by a uniquely tuned suspension designed for venturing off the pavement. Riders can confidently explore life off the pavement thanks to a custom saddle covered in a non-slip coating that offers a bespoke riding position. Additional off-road elements include exclusively designed foot pegs and an underlined chassis for enhanced protection when the terrain gets technical.
Meet the Scrambler 1100 Family: Discover More Power and Freedom
Ducati is continuously improving its lineup, as seen from the first and second series of Scrambler models in the 1960s and 1970s. That progression is also readily apparent in modern powerhouses like the Scrambler 1100 family. These bikes cater to riders looking for more power and pure thrills in the saddle. Moreover, as used bikes, the Scrambler 1100 PRO and Scrambler 1100 Sport PRO pack a mighty punch.
As the name implies, the Scrambler 1100 models feature larger engines that offer a broader band of power and capability. The bikes are powered by a 1079 cc engine that delivers more low-end torque and a tighter throttle response for more immediate feedback and responsiveness. Ducati enhances this performance by outfitting the model with advanced technologies like the Ducati Traction Control system, ABS Cornering, and three riding modes that let you toggle between City, Journey, and Active.
When shopping for the Scrambler 1100 models, think of the Scrambler 1100 PRO as the gateway model. It typically features a two-tone color scheme with a black subframe and a distinct framed headlight with a black metal “X” that makes it instantly recognizable. The Scrambler 1100 PRO Sport ups the ante by adding more advanced components, specifically an Ohlins suspension. Stylistically, it’s also unique and features low-slung handlebars and a matte-black color palette that gives it a stealthy aesthetic.
The Scrambler Progression: How It Impacts Your Search
Ducati recently introduced the next-generation Scrambler with an even more modern, lightweight design. The newer models offer more customization options, allowing riders to showcase their styles and personalities with more exterior colors and package options. But what does this mean when you’re shopping for a used Scrambler?
The next-generation Scrambler’s debut in 2023 means more riders are anxious to trade their current models to see the latest and greatest from the Italian manufacturer. This works in your favor because it saturates the market with used Scrambler bikes that offer outstanding value and appeal. These bikes deliver the performance expected from the Ducati name and features comparable to the latest models. Moreover, you’re paying a fraction of the new bike's MSRP, which means more money to spend on gear and your next adventure.
