When it comes to adventure motorcycles, the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled stands out as a unique blend of classic design and rugged capability. Over the course of an extensive journey covering more than 35,000 kilometers across diverse terrains and climates in Morocco, Spain, France, Italy, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, and the Netherlands, the Desert Sled has proven itself as a reliable and versatile travel companion. Here's an in-depth review of this motorcycle's performance, strengths, and areas where it could improve.
Design and Build Quality
The Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled is visually striking, capturing the essence of Ducati’s classic scrambler style while incorporating modern off-road capabilities. Its high fender, spoked wheels, and reinforced frame immediately signal its readiness for adventure. The bike's build quality is robust, designed to handle the rigors of off-road travel while maintaining a level of sophistication that Ducati is known for.
One of the standout features of the Desert Sled is its suspension. With 200mm of travel both front and rear, it's more than capable of handling rough trails, which is essential for any adventure rider. The reinforced swingarm and upgraded suspension components make it more durable than other scrambler models in the lineup, specifically designed to take on challenging terrains.
Crash Resilience
In the course of thousands of kilometers, there were multiple crashes: two on sand, one on grass, one on gravel, and two on streets. Despite these incidents, the Desert Sled sustained only minimal damage, proving its durability and the robustness of its design. This resilience is a significant advantage for adventure riders who often find themselves in unpredictable conditions where falls are inevitable.
However, it's worth noting that an additional skid plate was necessary, as the original did not offer sufficient protection for the bike's undercarriage. Adding this upgrade improved the bike's ability to withstand impacts from rocks and debris, particularly during off-road excursions.
Performance Across Continents
On-Road Comfort and Drivability
The Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has proven to be an excellent road bike, especially for long-distance touring. Whether cruising through the rain-soaked streets of Northern Europe or navigating the winding roads of Southern Europe, the Desert Sled delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The 803cc L-Twin engine provides ample power, making highway travel effortless, while the upright seating position ensures comfort even during long hours on the saddle.
Drivability in wet conditions is particularly noteworthy. The Desert Sled handles rain-soaked roads with confidence, thanks to its well-balanced chassis and responsive braking system. The Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires offer a good balance between on-road grip and off-road traction, which is crucial when transitioning between different environments.
Off-Road Capability
When the pavement ends, the Desert Sled shows its true character. This bike is built for adventure, and it handles dirt roads, gravel, and rocky trails with ease. The combination of long suspension travel, a strong frame, and good ground clearance allows it to tackle rough terrain without breaking a sweat.
However, it’s important to note that the bike's weight can be a limitation in certain off-road conditions, particularly in soft sand. At 209 kg (dry weight), the Desert Sled is heavier than some dedicated off-road bikes, which can make it challenging to maneuver in deep sand or mud. Riders planning to tackle sandy deserts or other similarly challenging terrains should be aware of this limitation.
Engine Heat Management
One area where the Desert Sled could be improved is in heat management. The engine produces a considerable amount of heat, which can become uncomfortable when riding in hot weather. This is something to consider for those planning to use the bike in warmer climates or during the summer months, where extended rides might become less enjoyable due to the excess heat.
Night Riding and Lighting
While the classic headlight adds to the bike's retro charm, it falls short in functionality. Night riding can be challenging with the stock headlight, as it does not provide adequate illumination. Upgrading to a modern LED setup would significantly improve visibility, making night rides safer and more comfortable. Despite the appeal of the old-school design, better lighting is essential for a bike intended for all-terrain and all-weather use.
Reliability and Maintenance
Throughout a journey that spanned across multiple countries and varied climates, the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled demonstrated impressive reliability. There were no major issues, a testament to the bike's build quality and engineering. Routine maintenance is straightforward, which is a significant advantage for riders who may find themselves far from a dealership or service center.
Interestingly, the Desert Sled seems to tolerate less-than-perfect maintenance without significant problems. While it’s always advisable to keep up with the recommended service schedule, it’s reassuring to know that the bike can handle a bit of neglect without immediate repercussions. This makes it an excellent choice for long-term adventures where access to professional service may be limited.
Areas for Improvement
While the Desert Sled excels in many areas, there are a few aspects that could be improved:
- Weight: As mentioned, the bike’s weight can be a disadvantage in challenging off-road conditions like sand. A lighter version with the same rugged capability would make it more versatile.
- Fuel Range: For long-distance touring, especially in remote areas, a larger fuel tank would be beneficial. The current range is adequate for most scenarios but could be limiting on extended off-road adventures where fuel stations are scarce.
- Lighting: The stock headlight, while visually appealing, does not offer adequate visibility for night riding. An upgrade to LED lighting would greatly enhance safety and usability after dark.
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Engine Heat: The engine generates a significant amount of heat, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather. Improved heat management would make the bike more comfortable for extended rides in warm climates.
Conclusion
The Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled is a unique motorcycle that successfully combines classic scrambler aesthetics with modern adventure capabilities. It’s a bike that can comfortably take you across countries, handle various weather conditions, and tackle off-road trails with confidence. While it’s not without its limitations, particularly in terms of weight, lighting, and heat management, the Desert Sled is a solid choice for riders looking for a reliable, versatile, and stylish adventure machine.
Whether you’re planning a weekend off-road excursion or a cross-continental journey, the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled is more than capable of delivering an unforgettable riding experience.