Great review! Thank you! I would say that finding neutral is not very easy if you are in first gear, it pops up into second even with a delicate touch. I have to go from second to find neutral.
So,it's a lot better with the suspension upgrade and all, but you would like to see it at the same price point as the other scramblers? Does this even make any sense?
about the throttle improvement that you talked about the desert sled, did ducati did the same with the Scrambler Icon 2017 models? I like the idea of the desert sled but I'm concerned about its 35 inch seat height and 180kg of weight. tall and heavy dont appeal well to me. So a scrambler Icon would be maybe better for me. with the same skid plate i think i would be reasonable with light offroading.
Adam Waheed oh that would be a long list. mainly when you dont really find out what it is like to ride in the main areas like comfort, power, suspension. some people seem unable to talk and ride at the same time:-)
8 років тому+3
I think this kind of motovlog style review is better way to tell your opinion on the bike. But isn't quite as entertaining as bigger production review videos. Tires aren't actually Pirelli Scorpion Trails. They are Scorpion Rally. They might have just improved almost everything I didn't like about the basic scrambler
We agree. Big epic production review videos are the way to go if time allows, which it didn't on this one. Consider this video a consolation prize, lol. Again, you are correct. Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires OE fitment on this motorcycle. You can see the rest of the bikes specs in this link at the bottom of the article: www.ridersdomain.com/magazine/motorcycles/reviews/2017-ducati-scrambler-desert-sled-first-test-ride/
great review. that bike is on my list! just going to wait a year or two for a used unit. did you guys get any freeway miles in? looks like it will handle like a big cc supermoto?
would be cool if your review mentioned your size (i am 6'2 and the old scrambler feels and looks way to small) and also how does the geometry feel/fit when you ride standing up. Brakes, consumption ... But like your review, thanx.
Hi Pierre. Please read this written review for a greater analysis of the machine: www.ridersdomain.com/magazine/motorcycles/reviews/2017-ducati-scrambler-desert-sled-first-test-ride/
Adam, I'm super interested in this bike. I mainly ride up in the Central California coastal hills. Mainly hard pack with a mix loose dirt and rocks. Nothing super technical and not super sandy. I like to hit places like Cal City and Hungry Valley. My one concern would be the added weight going from a 2010 530 EXC to the Desert Sled. Since you got a chance to ride it, how do you think the Sled would stack up to this type of riding. Thanks for the great reviews.
What's up man? Thanks for the note. Well, you have to remember that this thing is more street bike than dirt bike. So if you're going to spend most of your time off-road, than an off-road bike, or a more traditional dual-sport would be the way to roll. I've never ridden in that area, but I'd for sure rather be on a off-road bike if that's what the day's route called for. However, if you're going to be doing a little of everything, with more emphasis on street riding, then this Scrambler would be the ticket.
I like this bike. This would be cool on a dirt road with those tires. anything more I'd run some DOT desert knobby. I'm seriously liking this bike and even considering a test ride. I have a friend that works at GP cycles in san diego, so I'll have to call him to see if they have one there
Hi Steve, you should take one for a spin. You won't be disappointed. The stock Pirelli STR tires work pretty well off-road. A narrower front rim/tire would be handy in the really rough stuff though.
Hi Michael, we'd tell you, but we'd have too... J/K Find out the answer to your question in the written review: www.ridersdomain.com/magazine/motorcycles/reviews/2017-ducati-scrambler-desert-sled-first-test-ride/
One last question and I'll shut up. This is basically the same engine from the Monster 796. Did it having to meet Euro4 cause the 12 hp and 15lbft loss?
You are correct this is the Monster 796 engine. Good question. The Monster 796 put out about 77 horsepower at the back wheel while the Scrambler Icon put out around 69. The difference could lie in the fact that two different dynos were used to measure those rear wheel power readings...
Appreciate the response. I really like the idea of this bike. What's messing with me and I know it shouldn't is Ducati's marketing for the Scrambler brand. The "hipster" videos, clothing brand etc make me cringe. It's all a little to Harley Davidson in my opinion. So that's where I'm on the fence, is this bike just an image or can it really do what it's intended. Looks like it can.
It can do it. The Desmodue motor is great offroad. I ride my Elefant in the dirt, and the only thing I wish was it had a steering damper like a Scotts for the sand. I have ridden it at Conserve the Ride and PB500 - that makes me want the more modern version of the Desert Sled really badly! FI would be nice.
Hi Chris - we're glad you enjoyed watching it. But that's only one side of the story. We encourage you to read our written review. It is inside the video description. Here is the link: www.ridersdomain.com/magazine/motorcycles/reviews/2017-ducati-scrambler-desert-sled-first-test-ride/ Thanks for the note.
Hi, thanks for the note. This video was made during the press introduction for the Scrambler Desert Sled in January, 2017. There was a fleet of motorcycles (about 15-20) and journalists, writers, and riders from across the world spent a day riding so they can write reports for their respective magazines/companies, etc. Did you read our review? Here is a link in case you missed it: bit.ly/ducati-desert-sled-review
So basically you're going from a 100% on-road bike, to about a 80% on-road bike like a Versys 650, to a 70% on-road bike like a Vstrom, to a 50% on-road bike like the Ducati Desert Sled, to (I pray Yamaha starts manufacturing it) a T7 Tenere at about a 40% on-road bike, to a WR250R at 25% on-road bike. That's sort of my feel with these dual purpose motorcycles. Is this about right, Adam? Seems like there is a range of off-road ability that is represented on the markets. Some do it better than others, but there is a use philosophy the manufacturer had in mind.
What's up? I don't understand the question. This is a street-legal road bike that you can blast off road as well. If you're looking for a percentage breakdown, I'd say it's more like 80% road, 20% off.
I guess I was trying to get a feel for bikes on the market, the percentage of their on-road vs. off-road use from factory. You say the Desert Sled could be said to be 80% road and 20% off? Seems like a Vstrom would be more along that line. This Ducati seems more like 50/50.
Adam Waheed I reckon the question was intended to gauge the entire spectrum of dual purpose motorcycles with varying degrees of on/off road going abilities....So that the user may then make decision based on his/her specific requirement
I would say that this weighs a lot more than a wr250r,xr650l,drz400 and dr650. So if you're doing a ton of off roading get one of those if you're mainly looking for a highway mile muncher get a versys or v strom. This bike is just what you said half and half I think if someone is looking for a dual sport and is willing to pay about 5 grand us more and won't go insane off-road and is just looking to hop some curbs go to some trails, fire roads and be able to cruise the highway at like 80 then the Ducati desert sled is really perfect. Honda just released the 450 dual sport but the keep up on that is going to be insane even compared to Ducati
The only thing on my radar is a 2017 FZ-09 test later next month. We have a couple more bike test videos (Suzuki GSX-R600 and Aprilia Tuono 1100 V4 Factory) that we are currently working on and should be publishing later this month on this channel... Adam
Oh man.. a bigger size is all I wanted out of the original Scrambler as it just felt and looked ridiculously small underneath me. And real off-roadability... Ducati delivered. Big time! But the price is still so.... just so... well, not my budget. And even if I did sell my kids (I don't have any), robbed a bank (there's no cash in 'em these days) or won a lottery (yeah, right), would I dare bash it around the trails?.. I've managed to almost destroy my bomb-proof BMW enduro/dual-sport bike in about 6 months (given, they're winter months).. How long would it take for me to annihilate this beautiful thing?... Anywho, awesome review! Thanks for going for this vlog format, makes it so much more legit.
Next to the prices triumph just released for the 1200 scram this thing is a bargain lol was super stoked about the XC but 14k is just insane when compared to the desert sled at 11,300.
Thanks for the feedback. Yes, agreed the bike is a little porky on the scale. Thankfully it doesn't feel too heavy on the road or trail. Ducati could have made it lighter, but it certainly would cost a lot more.
Good grief. I don't know how you have the audacity to call this a bike review. It's all "Dude, this bike looks sick, there's Nathan, this shock is sooo heavy dooty, what's up dude?" Complete and utter garbage.
Hi Monstermarkone - thanks for the note. I appreciate you taking the time to chime in and voice your thoughts. Good or bad, there’s nothing I love more than hearing measured feedback from viewers like you. I tried something a little different, and a bit more off the cuff than how I usually make these vids. So I can understand if it is a little long and drawn out. Frankly, I’m a short, sweet and to the point kind of guy so this video isn’t typically my style either. I’m confused as to why you wouldn’t deem this a proper review? Were the riding dynamics of this motorcycle (both on road and off) not addressed (i.e. engine power, chassis/suspension/handling)? Did I not communicate the positioning of this machine properly within Ducati’s line-up? Did I fail to mention the upgrades this bike has compared to its other Scrambler family members? Help me out here. Adam
Good review and great footage of the bike from many angles! Excited about this scrambler!
Glad you enjoyed it.
I’m 6’2” and heavy. And this bike fits me perfectly. I love it. Handling is better than it should be for what it is.
Love this guy's honest reviews. There's usually so much fluff in these press parties.
I'd like to hear Adam's thoughts comparing the DS to the T7.
Great review! Thank you! I would say that finding neutral is not very easy if you are in first gear, it pops up into second even with a delicate touch. I have to go from second to find neutral.
So,it's a lot better with the suspension upgrade and all, but you would like to see it at the same price point as the other scramblers?
Does this even make any sense?
WHAT WAS THAT GUITAR INTRO?!?!? AMAZING!!
Way above the normal review. Good to see your excellent reviews again. Dual sports are my thing. Thank you for your detailed insights.
about the throttle improvement that you talked about the desert sled, did ducati did the same with the Scrambler Icon 2017 models? I like the idea of the desert sled but I'm concerned about its 35 inch seat height and 180kg of weight. tall and heavy dont appeal well to me. So a scrambler Icon would be maybe better for me. with the same skid plate i think i would be reasonable with light offroading.
like your style of presenting. Thanks
Sweet Rob - I appreciate the feedback. What do you not like if I may ask?
Adam Waheed oh that would be a long list. mainly when you dont really find out what it is like to ride in the main areas like comfort, power, suspension. some people seem unable to talk and ride at the same time:-)
I think this kind of motovlog style review is better way to tell your opinion on the bike. But isn't quite as entertaining as bigger production review videos.
Tires aren't actually Pirelli Scorpion Trails. They are Scorpion Rally.
They might have just improved almost everything I didn't like about the basic scrambler
We agree. Big epic production review videos are the way to go if time allows, which it didn't on this one. Consider this video a consolation prize, lol.
Again, you are correct. Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires OE fitment on this motorcycle. You can see the rest of the bikes specs in this link at the bottom of the article: www.ridersdomain.com/magazine/motorcycles/reviews/2017-ducati-scrambler-desert-sled-first-test-ride/
Can I use this on the highway
great review. that bike is on my list! just going to wait a year or two for a used unit. did you guys get any freeway miles in? looks like it will handle like a big cc supermoto?
We got a little bit of highway miles. It does kinda feel like a big supermoto - especially with the taller suspension and handlebar.
would be cool if your review mentioned your size (i am 6'2 and the old scrambler feels and looks way to small) and also how does the geometry feel/fit when you ride standing up. Brakes, consumption ...
But like your review, thanx.
Hi Pierre. Please read this written review for a greater analysis of the machine:
www.ridersdomain.com/magazine/motorcycles/reviews/2017-ducati-scrambler-desert-sled-first-test-ride/
Great Review Adam!! Awesome Bike!
Thanks man.
Still one of the best reviewers ever
Adam, I'm super interested in this bike. I mainly ride up in the Central California coastal hills. Mainly hard pack with a mix loose dirt and rocks. Nothing super technical and not super sandy. I like to hit places like Cal City and Hungry Valley. My one concern would be the added weight going from a 2010 530 EXC to the Desert Sled. Since you got a chance to ride it, how do you think the Sled would stack up to this type of riding. Thanks for the great reviews.
What's up man? Thanks for the note. Well, you have to remember that this thing is more street bike than dirt bike. So if you're going to spend most of your time off-road, than an off-road bike, or a more traditional dual-sport would be the way to roll.
I've never ridden in that area, but I'd for sure rather be on a off-road bike if that's what the day's route called for. However, if you're going to be doing a little of everything, with more emphasis on street riding, then this Scrambler would be the ticket.
I like this bike. This would be cool on a dirt road with those tires. anything more I'd run some DOT desert knobby. I'm seriously liking this bike and even considering a test ride. I have a friend that works at GP cycles in san diego, so I'll have to call him to see if they have one there
Hi Steve, you should take one for a spin. You won't be disappointed. The stock Pirelli STR tires work pretty well off-road. A narrower front rim/tire would be handy in the really rough stuff though.
I'm going to try and get down there Saturday.
Great - let us know what you think after you ride it.
where are you all riding? Looks like my cup of JOE!!
Hi Michael, we'd tell you, but we'd have too... J/K
Find out the answer to your question in the written review: www.ridersdomain.com/magazine/motorcycles/reviews/2017-ducati-scrambler-desert-sled-first-test-ride/
Great review man. Do the front forks perform well when the riders heavy? Say more than 220 lbs +?
How tall are you? The regular scramblers seem to be a bit small for my 6'2" height.
What's up? I am six-foot tall.
One last question and I'll shut up. This is basically the same engine from the Monster 796. Did it having to meet Euro4 cause the 12 hp and 15lbft loss?
You are correct this is the Monster 796 engine. Good question. The Monster 796 put out about 77 horsepower at the back wheel while the Scrambler Icon put out around 69. The difference could lie in the fact that two different dynos were used to measure those rear wheel power readings...
Would you do LAB2V on it?
It certainly wouldn't be out of the question!
Appreciate the response. I really like the idea of this bike. What's messing with me and I know it shouldn't is Ducati's marketing for the Scrambler brand. The "hipster" videos, clothing brand etc make me cringe. It's all a little to Harley Davidson in my opinion. So that's where I'm on the fence, is this bike just an image or can it really do what it's intended. Looks like it can.
It can do it. The Desmodue motor is great offroad. I ride my Elefant in the dirt, and the only thing I wish was it had a steering damper like a Scotts for the sand. I have ridden it at Conserve the Ride and PB500 - that makes me want the more modern version of the Desert Sled really badly! FI would be nice.
I liked the review. How did the bike carry its weight?
Hi Chris - we're glad you enjoyed watching it. But that's only one side of the story. We encourage you to read our written review. It is inside the video description. Here is the link:
www.ridersdomain.com/magazine/motorcycles/reviews/2017-ducati-scrambler-desert-sled-first-test-ride/
Thanks for the note.
great video. How did you all get the same bikes?
Hi, thanks for the note. This video was made during the press introduction for the Scrambler Desert Sled in January, 2017. There was a fleet of motorcycles (about 15-20) and journalists, writers, and riders from across the world spent a day riding so they can write reports for their respective magazines/companies, etc.
Did you read our review? Here is a link in case you missed it: bit.ly/ducati-desert-sled-review
sick guitar chops!
subbed as soon as i saw Adam .. welcome back
Wow, thanks for that.
So basically you're going from a 100% on-road bike, to about a 80% on-road bike like a Versys 650, to a 70% on-road bike like a Vstrom, to a 50% on-road bike like the Ducati Desert Sled, to (I pray Yamaha starts manufacturing it) a T7 Tenere at about a 40% on-road bike, to a WR250R at 25% on-road bike. That's sort of my feel with these dual purpose motorcycles. Is this about right, Adam? Seems like there is a range of off-road ability that is represented on the markets. Some do it better than others, but there is a use philosophy the manufacturer had in mind.
What's up? I don't understand the question. This is a street-legal road bike that you can blast off road as well. If you're looking for a percentage breakdown, I'd say it's more like 80% road, 20% off.
I guess I was trying to get a feel for bikes on the market, the percentage of their on-road vs. off-road use from factory. You say the Desert Sled could be said to be 80% road and 20% off? Seems like a Vstrom would be more along that line. This Ducati seems more like 50/50.
Adam Waheed I reckon the question was intended to gauge the entire spectrum of dual purpose motorcycles with varying degrees of on/off road going abilities....So that the user may then make decision based on his/her specific requirement
I would say that this weighs a lot more than a wr250r,xr650l,drz400 and dr650. So if you're doing a ton of off roading get one of those if you're mainly looking for a highway mile muncher get a versys or v strom. This bike is just what you said half and half I think if someone is looking for a dual sport and is willing to pay about 5 grand us more and won't go insane off-road and is just looking to hop some curbs go to some trails, fire roads and be able to cruise the highway at like 80 then the Ducati desert sled is really perfect. Honda just released the 450 dual sport but the keep up on that is going to be insane even compared to Ducati
Where were you riding?
Fort Bravo, outside of Tabernas Spain, the shots with the windmills were done near Palm springs Ca.
Great review man! I like your style. Subbed!
Good review as always Adam. When are you testing the Cafe Racer?
What's up Chad? Thanks for giving it a watch. Not sure if I'm going to be test riding that thing yet. But I'd sure like to!
Adam Waheed so what's up next for you to ride?
The only thing on my radar is a 2017 FZ-09 test later next month.
We have a couple more bike test videos (Suzuki GSX-R600 and Aprilia Tuono 1100 V4 Factory) that we are currently working on and should be publishing later this month on this channel... Adam
sweet!!
Oh man.. a bigger size is all I wanted out of the original Scrambler as it just felt and looked ridiculously small underneath me. And real off-roadability... Ducati delivered. Big time! But the price is still so.... just so... well, not my budget. And even if I did sell my kids (I don't have any), robbed a bank (there's no cash in 'em these days) or won a lottery (yeah, right), would I dare bash it around the trails?.. I've managed to almost destroy my bomb-proof BMW enduro/dual-sport bike in about 6 months (given, they're winter months).. How long would it take for me to annihilate this beautiful thing?...
Anywho, awesome review! Thanks for going for this vlog format, makes it so much more legit.
Next to the prices triumph just released for the 1200 scram this thing is a bargain lol was super stoked about the XC but 14k is just insane when compared to the desert sled at 11,300.
I wonder if they can apply the ECU update to the first gen?
Excellent Video, very well done !
Thanks showing the bike man I was curious about it.
Hey, nice vid! love the bike....sadly i'll never throw a leg over something that heavy....why didn't they make it lighter¿?¿....so bleh.
Thanks for the feedback. Yes, agreed the bike is a little porky on the scale. Thankfully it doesn't feel too heavy on the road or trail. Ducati could have made it lighter, but it certainly would cost a lot more.
Adam Waheed on guitar @ 0:13
Great raw review ! love it.
Glad you enjoyed it.
Thanks for the review!
awesome bike
great review! I'm stealing your line about no longer faking the funk. Haha thanks Adam
Thanks Adam! Fantastic review.
Thanks man! I appreciate the feedback.
Your helmet is the bomb
Haha - yeah, Bell did a nice job with its Moto-3.
Hi Josh, as Adam said, it's a neat helmet. What's your favorite color?
Enjoyed it, I appreciate it bud!
Awesome - glad you got some take aways from that.
Great bikes if you’re in a James Bond movie… but for the street give me a windshield… for the dirt give me a lightweight long travel MX
This bike is so cool, I think my MG V85TT is going to be jealous. LOL
awesome bike ✊
It's cool for sure.
Like, yeh do what yeh want, Meehan!
Nice job Adam! Boots: #newfor2017 DRIFTER WATERPROOF #focusonboots
Yet another excellent piece of footwear from TCX - nice work!
you know?
I love doing what I want!!!
Good Helmet ,vintage
The sound is unbearable. EQ please
♥️
The Scrambler is priced for hipsters. It is 11,400.00 dollars for an 9,000.00 dollar bike
Everywhere it’s parked, people just stop and look and can’t help saying: « beautiful design »
I would find it so cheesy to wear Ducati Scrambler gear and clothing on a Ducati.
You know!
Only downside is price... 9300 pounds..
Haha haha I'm talking to my fans!!!
Not digg'n the gold rims. Other than that the bike looks great.
ride that fucking bike,
Good grief. I don't know how you have the audacity to call this a bike review. It's all "Dude, this bike looks sick, there's Nathan, this shock is sooo heavy dooty, what's up dude?" Complete and utter garbage.
Hi Monstermarkone - thanks for the note. I appreciate you taking the time to chime in and voice your thoughts. Good or bad, there’s nothing I love more than hearing measured feedback from viewers like you.
I tried something a little different, and a bit more off the cuff than how I usually make these vids. So I can understand if it is a little long and drawn out. Frankly, I’m a short, sweet and to the point kind of guy so this video isn’t typically my style either.
I’m confused as to why you wouldn’t deem this a proper review?
Were the riding dynamics of this motorcycle (both on road and off) not addressed (i.e. engine power, chassis/suspension/handling)? Did I not communicate the positioning of this machine properly within Ducati’s line-up? Did I fail to mention the upgrades this bike has compared to its other Scrambler family members?
Help me out here.
Adam
Its a good review that guys just an ass
He's not going to reply back anyways, and even if he does, it's just going to be more derogatory comments flung at someone.
Adam Waheed
Well, you could've shown the bike for a little more than 15 seconds on a 15 min video.
This is me helping you out...
What was he talking about? This was a fantastic review. One of the best desert sled review imo.