2015 Ducati Scrambler!

At the upcoming EICMA show in Milan this fall, Ducati will unveil a new Scrambler. The Scrambler of the '70s, you might recall, was an evolution of a previous 250cc enduro model named the Motocross. US importers Mike and Joe Berliner saw a lot of potential in the concept, even visiting Borgo Panigale and laying down the sketch of the bike they wanted, largely inspired by the 250 dirt-trackers that were successfully derived from the Ducati 250 Diana.

The Scrambler was a fascinating bike, but it failed because of poor quality control and crankshaft-assembly failures. Yet Scramblers, in 250, 350, and 450 variations, are still sought by collectors and maintain high values.

As for the new model, Ducati has no single-cylinder engine currently in production. So an air-cooled sohc twin, possibly in 696 or 796cc displacement, will power the next Scrambler. Aimed at a new generation of motorcyclists, the Scrambler will be manufactured both in Borgo Panigale and in Thailand, where Ducati manufactures the Monster 696.

Details are scarce, but based on Internet spy photos of the Scrambler being tested, we feel the twin will look like our illustration, which mixes styling cues from the past with modern touches. By producing the new Scrambler in Thailand, Ducati aims to keep the price at a competitive level, which will help ensure the success of the model. We’ll keep you posted.