Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled_English version
Best Case Scenario is a production of MotorNewsworld.com
Pictures Leonardo Perugini
Pictures Leonardo Perugini
We leave the metropolis in order to uncover the limit of this vitamin-enriched Scrambler and in
doing so we come across fantastic locations.
When the time comes to take the Desert Sled back, we allow ourselves one last detour towards the sun as it sets.
1. Good looking, well equipped
The front 19-inch wheel and the dual-use tires are a clear calling card.
Just as we can sense the distance between the Desert Sled’s saddle, handlebars and footpegs, we can also notice the specialistic change in suspension.
Just as we can sense the distance between the Desert Sled’s saddle, handlebars and footpegs, we can also notice the specialistic change in suspension.
The engine is the well-known Desmo Due 803cc which delivers 75 horsepower. However, the Desert Sled design has also affected the framework and extended the riding limits.
The trellis frame has been reinforced. Two clamps now connect the frame to the swing arm
fulcrum thus adding an extra 12 kilograms which entices you to want dare to leave the tarmac.
The Desert Sled is a unique model. It is in line with the Scrambler models and it is its off-road evolution as opposed to a model which has simply been drawn up from the special parts catalogue.
We would have preferred to have found wheels suitable to use tubeless tires and also a fuel gauge but there are several other elements which we appreciate: the grill which protects the headlight, the double-end Termignoni exhaust, the possibility to disconnect the ABS and the USB port for mobile phone charging during the journey. At the top of the list is the mono suspension and the Kayaba upside-down fork (adjustable with the ignition key).
The trellis frame has been reinforced. Two clamps now connect the frame to the swing arm
fulcrum thus adding an extra 12 kilograms which entices you to want dare to leave the tarmac.
The Desert Sled is a unique model. It is in line with the Scrambler models and it is its off-road evolution as opposed to a model which has simply been drawn up from the special parts catalogue.
We would have preferred to have found wheels suitable to use tubeless tires and also a fuel gauge but there are several other elements which we appreciate: the grill which protects the headlight, the double-end Termignoni exhaust, the possibility to disconnect the ABS and the USB port for mobile phone charging during the journey. At the top of the list is the mono suspension and the Kayaba upside-down fork (adjustable with the ignition key).
2. On the roaD
The engine maintained its power and its good nature despite the Euro4 regulation compliance. The mono suspension and the fork effortlessly handle the bumpy roads, whereas the front grants safety even if you happen to ride over a large hole at high speed. The raised saddle and the wide handlebars offer total control. However, if you are accustomed to the agility of the 17inch wheels it will take a few more kilometres before getting used to the inertia of the front wheel.
Pirelli’s Scorpion Rally STR tires are specially tailored for the Desert Sled. The design of these tires combines an effective on the road ride with twisted wheels. This motorcycle is not for tarmac only.
Pirelli’s Scorpion Rally STR tires are specially tailored for the Desert Sled. The design of these tires combines an effective on the road ride with twisted wheels. This motorcycle is not for tarmac only.
Riding the Desert Sled
3. Adventure proof
Crossing through the so-called wilderness is an extraordinary experience. It means to be surrounded by immense beauty, but here nature will do anything to kill you. You need to avoid the worst case scenario.....but that is exactly where the best places are to take the Desert Sled.
We leave the city and when there are no longer buildings to be seen on the horizon you are able to cast your gaze far away into the distance.
We leave the city and when there are no longer buildings to be seen on the horizon you are able to cast your gaze far away into the distance.
After having ridden for miles, the tarmac suddenly starts to worsen which requires paying more attention to riding. The carriageway starts to narrow until it becomes one and then comes to an end.
In the non literal words of Jack London, adventure is alive despite Google maps and satellites. Google Cars stop where the road ends. And although we can photograph the Earth from above, it is continuously evolving. No man ever steps in the same river twice.
In the non literal words of Jack London, adventure is alive despite Google maps and satellites. Google Cars stop where the road ends. And although we can photograph the Earth from above, it is continuously evolving. No man ever steps in the same river twice.
The Desert Sled travels through watercourses and climbs mule tracks with ease. It lightly slips into the sea of grass which the sun has turned a golden color. It tirelessly sweeps along a river of stones, giving the impression of being unstoppable thanks to an abundant reserve of power. Not even the rain-induced cracks in the ground seem to be of concern as long as you travel at the right speed (in other words without turning off the gas).
It feels as if no place is out of reach.
A healthy geometrical balance and a moderate weight are an old school recipe. To open throttle causes such a fluid reaction in the engine that you would think it were Ride By Wire. However there is a steel cable connected to the accelerator. It is simple, yet well made.
You can always rely on the prompt power delivery of the two-valve-per cylinder desmodromic mill, just like you can always trust the loyalty of a German Shepherd.
Similarly, you can trust the bike’s narrow hips which make riding standing up so natural, thanks once again to the V2 layout
Crossing through the open desert area is something quite regenerating where both the motorcycle and the mind can run free in limitless space.
We need to lose ourselves in nature in order to go beyond our limits and let the wild into our lives.
Transgressing the boundaries of your comfort zone you might get to see a pack of hungry wolves on a a rugged path or a foal taking its first steps alongside its mother while the team of horses quietly wait.
Riding along in this scenario of infinite variables the mind has to make space in order to concentrate solely on the here and now. Immersed in total silence which is occasionally interrupted by the hum of a bee, the sound of the exhaust of this Ducati does not actually sing out of tune. It is a combination of surprising athleticism with a design of great beauty.
It feels as if no place is out of reach.
A healthy geometrical balance and a moderate weight are an old school recipe. To open throttle causes such a fluid reaction in the engine that you would think it were Ride By Wire. However there is a steel cable connected to the accelerator. It is simple, yet well made.
You can always rely on the prompt power delivery of the two-valve-per cylinder desmodromic mill, just like you can always trust the loyalty of a German Shepherd.
Similarly, you can trust the bike’s narrow hips which make riding standing up so natural, thanks once again to the V2 layout
Crossing through the open desert area is something quite regenerating where both the motorcycle and the mind can run free in limitless space.
We need to lose ourselves in nature in order to go beyond our limits and let the wild into our lives.
Transgressing the boundaries of your comfort zone you might get to see a pack of hungry wolves on a a rugged path or a foal taking its first steps alongside its mother while the team of horses quietly wait.
Riding along in this scenario of infinite variables the mind has to make space in order to concentrate solely on the here and now. Immersed in total silence which is occasionally interrupted by the hum of a bee, the sound of the exhaust of this Ducati does not actually sing out of tune. It is a combination of surprising athleticism with a design of great beauty.
4. The End?
On the way back we find ourselves surrounded by the evermore frenetic traffic. Huge trucks and a numerous number of cars make their way into the city like moths attracted by a light in the desert.
After having tasted such a deep sense of freedom we decide to choose another road towards the sunset offering a better backdrop to the city setting. While the sun colours the sky and the rays reflect onto the fuel tank, the thing that comes to mind is that the next motorcycle which we will road test* is at the opposite end of the Scrambler line-up. Will it be just as captivating as the Desert Sled?
*the Scrambler Cafè Racer
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