Ducati Scrambler 800 Icon Dark test

Menus

• Gothic fun attitude
• L-twin, desmodromic distribution, 54 kW at 8,250 rpm, 189 kg, € 8,850
• Discovery
• In the saddle
• In the city
• Motorway and expressways
• Departmental and paths
• Part-cycle
• Braking
• Comfort / Duo
• Consumption
• Video review of the Ducati Scrambler 800 Icon Dark
• Conclusion
• Test conditions
• Test equipment:

Gothic fun attitude

L-twin, desmodromic distribution, 54 kW at 8,250 rpm, 189 kg, € 8,850

A successful model, the Ducati Scrambler 800 benefits from its own signature within the Ducati brand … to such an extent that one could imagine that Scrambler is a brand in its own right. ! Its success can be summed up in a few words: simple and attractive aesthetics, sparkling engine and light and accessible cycle part. And the Ducati Scrambler 800 is also a bit like France. Oh yes. Designed by Frenchman Julien Clement, the machine is a real aesthetic success. Obviously! An obviously captivating concept, developed in 2015 and since available in six versions and three engines: 400cm3, 800cm3 and 1100cm3.

On roads and paths

It is of course the midsize version which gleans all the laurels. But why this fascination? It was in the 1960s that the mechanical translation of this ideal appeared, a sort of absolute synthesis of an ultimate mobility defined by the word scrambler: to climb, to advance with difficulty and therefore defines the concept of off-road developments quite well. The origin of the Scramblers begins at Ducati, with the eponymous 250cc Italian ancestor, which appeared in 1962. Escape from the asphalt and return to nature, a simple idea which results in the creation of a suitable machine. A roadster, often a twin then, equipped with a large handlebar to facilitate piloting, nipple tires and exhaust in the high lateral position to improve crossing. A machine passing indifferently from the road to the ground to give the motorcycle full and complete freedom. In short, freedom, space…. inseparable and essential principles of the motorcyclist concept. A motorcycle forged on these values ​​can only be attractive. Especially with a little (if not a lot) of marketing, turning the costarized Urbanus Simplex into a synthetic rebellious hypster..

The aesthetic is signed Julien Clement

Discovery

Sign of its maturity, the Scrambler had already slowly evolved in 2018, in aesthetics, electronics and ergonomics. The flagship version is of course the Icon, available in three versions. The last of its kind is a usual transcription of the "entry-level" (cheaper) from the manufacturer from Bologna. This redacted version of all superfluous is called Dark.

A narrow profile

A model of finesse and compactness, the Icon Dark is a small motorcycle. With its discreet look, it reinforces its intrinsic qualities of simplicity, lightness and authenticity. But the fun is also more measured by going to the dark side. It is also more economical in terms of equipment. What there is less: very classic round mirrors and not profiled, turn signals with bulbs and not leds and non-machined rims (hardly different) and…. 700 euros also compared to the Yellow Icon. While retaining most of the qualities. That is to say all the rest.

No more difference with his girlfriends. Under the arched handlebars, the compact front optic incorporates a circular daytime running light strip (DRL).

Led headlight

Its internal X-shaped cladding mimics the historic headlight protections. Apart from the direction indicators with automatic recall, the lighting is now led. Short scoops give a little more body to the narrow volumes of the Italian. A strong symbol of the Scrambler aesthetic, the 13.5-liter water drop-type steel tank is always flanked by removable aluminum facings.

Interchangeable aluminum side panels

As an extension, the long one-piece padded and thick saddle contrasts with the simple and narrow appearance of the machine. You can be a free spirit but still be comfortable. A recess in the seat forms the passenger handles and the stern cover is concluded with an elegant brake light. The whole takes care of the profile of the machine. Especially since the rear mudguard supporting the registration is fixed on the swingarm, lightening the stern.

Comfortable seat of the Ducati Scrambler 800 Icon Dark

Under the plastic covers mimicking the massive aluminum plates of the Scrambler 1100, the structure of the model 800 is revealed. A one-piece tubular steel trellis, runs from the steering column to the rear loop. We are far from the two elements attached to the liquid cooling block of the Monster 821 and much closer to the M797 model in chassis and engine. Here, the structure supports the engine much more. And not just any: a demodue giving all its charm and a lot of its style to the machine.

803 cc two-valve L-shaped Desmodue engine

The block sports its desmodromic distribution with worked caches. Its lacquered volumes feature many machined details. These finishes contrast elegantly against this dark background. But it is above all the upper crankcases striated with fins that speak to lovers of mechanics with character. This famous 803 cc L twin with two valves per cylinder is cooled by air and oil. With its super square bore / stroke ratio of 88 x 66 mm, the sparkling boiler with two camshafts delivers 73 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 6.7 da.Nm, at 5,750 revolutions / minute. The injection is joined by 50 mm throttle bodies. Simplicity requires, no electronic throttle management, no traction control. Pure, real, rebel what !

The exhaust line is successful

But the mechanics are still supported by a multi-disc clutch in oil bath, anti-dribble and assisted for less effort at the lever..

And style, again, always. On the right side, the arabesques of the collectors dress their curves with perforated satin aluminum protections. Same attention for the exhaust silencer. But what a shame not to have it in the high position, much more logical on a machine that wants a little playful on the way…. The latter therefore adjoins an aesthetic banana-type aluminum swing arm, with elegant and dynamic lines. Its movements are entrusted to a shock absorber always placed in the left side position: a detail bringing sportiness to the Scrambler 800. Likewise, the upside-down Kayaba 41mm fork imposes it. Both elements provide 150mm of travel. Here too, simplicity obliges, this equipment remains simple; only the rear handset is adjustable in preload.

The Italian iconoclast still leaves a little of his freedom in favor of his security. And logical electronics for a Gothic 2.0 rebel. A Bosch 9.1 MP inertial unit allows modulation of the ABS braking when cornering. We won’t complain. Especially since the Brembo radial-mounted four-piston front caliper isn’t there for style. It attacks a single 330 mm disc paired with a 245 mm rear element and a single piston clamp.

Brembo four piston radial mount front caliper

The steering gear rests on a front wheel in alloy, with 10 tangential branches, of 18 inches, while the rear is in 17 inches. A combination that contributes to the Scrambler’s "all-road" style. In this sense, it is fitted with Pirelli MT 60 RS tires, in 110 at the front and a wide 180 at the rear. That is a little less off bitumen…

Always racy, the Ducati Scrambler 800 has a nice finish, especially at the engine level. The Desmodue benefits fully from the style of its "air-oil" engine and therefore from the absence of hoses barring the side of its "liquid" sisters…. Less bulky, the block also refines its lines on the right side, offering a harmonious whole. The cables of the lambda sensor are still a little visible. Finally, we would appreciate a shoe to protect the lower cylinder and the lower crankcase. Appreciable quality of the Scrambler 800 Icon Dark, its weight of 189 kg (all full) is a real guarantee of liveliness and ease..

The inspection and maintenance intervals for the belts of the desmodromic transmission are 12,000 km, shorter than on recent mechanics.

Finally, the most picous of the free and relaxed looke concept will rush to the sparkling universe of the Land of Joy. The latter offers a wide choice of machine and pilot equipment to be styled to the end of the tires and the beard..

In the saddle

The Icon Dark 800 is not only accessible in performance, it is also physically very compact. Its saddle peaks at a small 798mm, allowing the smallest riders to feel comfortable there. And an optional low version allows 20 mm less. Comfortable seating invites on board like a family sofa. Older children will find that the top of the tank is almost next to the top of their knees. But all riders feel cool on the Ducati Scrambler. Gothic but happy…. one of the contrasts offered by this Dark model.

Rather welcoming, the saddle houses a very small storage compartment. Slightly set back, the controls gently tilt the torso forward on the wide handlebars with variable diameter and long horns pointing towards the pilot. Ergonomic controls with well-proportioned push buttons are fitted to the machine. The clutch is hydraulically operated for more flexibility and the levers are adjustable in spacing by micrometric screws.

The finishes are correct

Throttle cable housing and front brake hose overhang the instrument cluster in a pretty arch. Offset to the right, fully digital, the latter incorporates fuel gauge and gear indicator engaged. There are of course the usual functions: tachometer, tachometer, clock and, via a sliding cursor, odometer, two partials, outside temperature and a general adjustment mode. Finally, the Italian is pre-equipped for the Ducati Multimedia System and its bluetooth connection.

Round screen with basic information

In the city

The starter seems hesitant to awaken the demodu, as one would hesitate to enter a rebellious teenager’s room. The block awakens, however, with good grace with an equally sweet voice. So what ? Has he not moulted yet? Euro5 does not do the twin two valves justice. The gas shots give it a little more presence even if some had surely appreciated a little more sound contestation. However, discretion is good, especially in the long run and the Bologna twin knows how to convince. Few noise also filtered from the block, provided with a wet clutch.

In fact, the Scrambler 800 Icon Dark seems to cultivate an overall smoothness. Controls, clutch and accelerator contribute to its obvious handling in an urban environment.

The L-shaped twin also shows decorum. From 2,000 laps on the intermediates he agrees to relaunch without bumping too much on the 5th gear, at 50 km / h. Attention, its mischievous vigor could surprise you and testifies again to the double personality of the Scrambler…. The engine likes to tow at 3,000 revolutions / minute and takes its crew on board. And you quickly get a taste for it. Especially since the docile Italian already guides herself with ease.

Vibration-free, the round mirrors finally give it a wider field than those of the colored Icons. Also, its precise and gentle selection contributes to the charm of the evolutions. The light and low transalpine is ideal for strolling on the saturated boulevards or the small streets, in the dense traffic of the cities. But its 35 ° steering angle somewhat limits ease in urban maneuvers and U-turns. The opportunity to go beyond the end of your favorite cafe terrace.

Motorway and expressways

Volunteer until then on the intermediaries, the twin is more biting by taking its turns with ease but without any ferocity. Widely available, the demodulated 803 cm3 shows more character beyond 5,000 revolutions, close to its peak torque 750 revolutions higher and likes to go to high revs. The power then takes over and twists the air with a more pronounced metallic sound when the twin-cylinder flirts with the red zone and the breaker, at 8,500 rpm. Almost 200 km / h at peak speed but without much interest for this machine more dedicated to the pleasure of cool driving. Not to mention the ergonomics transforming your naturally classy port into a not very elegant arched airbrake profile.

At the legal motorway, or 5,800 rpm, the speed is ideal to revive the crew while taking advantage of maximum torque. On the last gear, the quiet rumble of the Scrambler 800 causes time to pass. Something to think about for your rebellious and feverish soul. In the long saddle, you’ll have plenty to think about for your next spleen-but-cool. The seat allows the older ones to step back and find a more comfortable position for the legs. Enough brainstorming, it’s time for dark fun.

An ideal playground

Departmental and paths

The Ducati Scrambler Icon Dark assumes its gently schizophrenic, relaxed side of rebellion. Thus, the Italian knows how to combine sweetness and character at a most seductive mechanical tempo. It is on the uneven asphalt of the departmental roads that we take advantage of its charm. At 4,000 laps on a slightly long sixth, the mechanics revive you without too much haste. One less report sends you much more dynamically forward.

The Italian knows how to combine sweetness and character

But the Ducati is revealed on the couple and then reveals a more tortured personality, eager for bleeding curves and virile castagne. Admitting a slight inertia, the mechanics are a little fat and transmit these inimitable transalpine accents. We therefore instinctively take a sunk pilot. Stalled on fourth gear, we then roll up most of the curves without slackening. Because the twin two valves, knows how to preserve its verve and its authenticity. Its invigorating roundness delivers a pleasure of every moment. More expressive at mid-revs, the exhaust accompanies the evolutions in a sympathetic rumble and especially a studied airbox hum..

The Italian is responsive to pressure on the handlebars, but also on the footrests. The round profile of its tire assembly and its 180 ° flange barely brake its rocker side. The latter makes the rear "stick" a bit at the change of angle. Not too bad, especially as the excellent grip of the Pirelli MT 60 RS tires encourages you to set in and the agile geometry keeps it lively. Inclining a block in a curve, the Scrambler 800 is straightforward and neutral in turns, even bumpy. Easy to take, it surprises with the ability of its suspensions to swallow all the faults of the road. What endanger the footrests and the exhaust silencer ….

The sound is discreet for a Ducati

Healthy at all times, offering remarkable suspension tuning, the Ducati offers good road feel. Admittedly, the fork with the important travel plunges more, but the good work of the hydraulics front and rear makes it possible to attack without qualms. In addition, the inertia on angle changes remains fairly low thanks to the weight contained.

Its ABS manages the inclination and the grip of the brakes on the angle preserves its attitude to the Scrambler 800 Icon. Enough to face the ferrule on a hard metal rhythm with sustained revivals, letting the 6.7 da.Nm of torque pass on the tires.

In quiet spleen mode, the Scrambler is charming. Stalled in fourth gear, you will stroll with efficiency and comfort towards the midnight blue horizon of your solar dreams, dark but not too much, cool but dynamic, although it depends…. The more you drive the Scrambler 800 icon Dark, the more you appreciate its obvious and communicative fun. Like a desire to verify the genetic theory of the Diagon Alley on its handlebars. You will go and stir up the earth without digging your grave. Its limited power and very progressive accelerator give you confidence. The joys of controllable gliding are yours. But beware: the non-disconnectable and sometimes intrusive ABS can be difficult to slow down the machine. What to put a little your rebellion in step.

Ducati Scrambler 800 Icon Dark test on small roads

Part-cycle

Associated with the rigid trellis frame and the carrier engine, the suspensions give a constant approval to the Scrambler 800. The whole allows very honest performances on the road network. Only the diving of the fork is felt on the strongest decelerations. But, on this machine capable of taking its pilot slightly off the bitumen, the mass transfers are logical, limited and rather well managed. On the corner, the machine keeps the course perfectly and does not become disunited during any piloting phase, even on rough roads. It is only at too high a rate that we notice more movements.

Power 54 kW at 8,250 rpm

Braking

Here too the feeling of the front brake is a little hampered by the mass transfer. Thus, the deceleration when taking the lever seems to lack a bit of bite if you hit the caliper. The single disc does its job without blushing and the progressiveness of the elements allows a smooth ride, in keeping with the Scrambler philosophy. In addition, actuated on the angle and even at high speed, the caliper does not freeze or raise the Italian when taking the levers. And the central ABS active in inclination finely manages the losses of grip. It is triggered very discreetly but is more intrusive on the way. An associated mode, like on the Desert Sledge version would be…. cool. Without reproach, the rear clamp delivers real progressiveness, very useful in bends.

Comfort / Duo

Relaxed position and ease of piloting encourage you to aim for the vast horizon. Especially with this well padded saddle and efficient suspensions. The passenger handles are well placed and allow two-person trips without risk of compromising the fun.

The passenger handles are discreet

Consumption

With 6 liters per 100 km in varied driving, the range is therefore around 220 km. Torque control should be able to get you close to 280 km of autonomy.

Video review of the Ducati Scrambler 800 Icon Dark

Conclusion

Well born, the Ducati Scrambler 800 is always attractive. Its Icon Dark version, a little less equipped, is in no way unworthy, fully incorporating the fundamental qualities of the successful Bologna model. The substantial savings also make the little Italian girl ever more accessible. With € 700 less, the dark version is priced at € 8,850. With regard to its very good cycle part, its performance and overall finishes, the Scrambler 800 Icon Dark is one of the most attractive machines in the segment. All in style and dynamic efficiency, it is a treat for daily urban and peri-urban journeys. The weekend stroll takes on a scent of mischief, a bit provocative.

And the Italian has hardly any competitor! Only the Triumph 900 Street Srambler could play with it for…. € 11,000, a conventional fork and swingarm and a less efficient engine. The Englishwoman keeps to herself an equally charming mechanical life, spoked wheels and unparalleled style.

At the theoretical crossroads, the Ducati Scrambler 800 has a wide field and a clear road. Its Icon Dark version gives a little less cool looking for more rebellious attitude. If like her you are in contrast, go to the gothic rebel while remaining fun.

Strong points

• Aesthetics successful
• Engine availability
• Appreciable comfort
• Effective suspension agreement
• Management of mass transfers
• Personalization concept
• A2 license approved
• Versatile tires
• Finishes

Weak points

• Instruments not readable enough
• Rear tire a little wide
• Missing an engine guard
• Non-disconnectable ABS

Datasheet

Test conditions

• route: various winding roads. A little gravel path and loose earth.
• weather: cool, sunny
• problem encountered: RAS

Test equipment:

• Nishua NRX-1 Carbon Helmet
• Vanucci Tifoso jacket
• Jean Vanucci Armalith 2.0
• Sneakers Vanucci Tifoso

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