Ducati Scrambler 1100 Special
The 1100 Special adds glitz and versatility to the Scrambler family that has become a hipster favourite since the original, 803cc V-twin was launched in 2015. The Special’s 1,079cc, aircooled engine is based on an old Monster unit, detuned to give a modest 84bhp with soft, rider-friendly delivery. Traditional Ducati steel frame tubes combine with a new aluminium rear subframe. Aluminium mudguards and petrol tank side-pieces, wire-spoked wheels and a brown seat add to the visual effect.
Performance is restrained by big Ducati standards but the Special has plenty of low-rev punch, and cruises with long-legged feel and a throaty exhaust bark. Wide, raised bars allow reasonably agile handling despite lazy steering geometry. Twin front discs with Brembo monobloc calipers give powerful braking, and there’s some carefully concealed modern tech here too, including cornering ABS and traction control.
Many Ducati enthusiasts would be better off on the Monster 821, which is quicker and less expensive than the £11,495 Special. (There’s also a basic Scrambler 1100, at £10,695; and a Scrambler 1100 Sport, featuring Öhlins suspension, at £12,295.) But the Scrambler 1100 Special’s cool looks and effortless performance combine to make a classy machine that is equally at home on Shoreditch High Street or a twisty road in the hills.