Motorcycle specifications DucatiSCRAMBLER 800 Desert Sled 2020 When Italy smells like California

Do you enjoy riding on rolling roads? And you like the Ducati Scrambler? Then the Desert Sled is for you. Not intimidated by the scrubland, the back-corners of Larzac or the dawn of a Californian desert, the machine wants to catch those moments of dust that we like to express in the evening during the aperitif.

a few small improvements are on the program for 2019. None of them changes its mission; Ducati simply takes the opportunity to upgrade a series of elements. The frame is so moved by this that it turns red; a remarkable contrast to the white trim and black aromas. The engine has been dipped in it, then rubbed with a milling cutter on the cooling fins. The evolution of the deco is the only aesthetic change.
On the technical side, there's a lot more going on. Like all "Phase II" Scramblers, it features a hydraulic clutch control and adjustable levers. The instrument panel now displays a fuel gauge and the gear engaged. Discreetly, but useful at the right moment, on-board electronics reinforce the effectiveness of ABS with the Cornering system, modulating force according to angle. We also note the arrival of an "Off-road" riding mode that deactivates the ABS, auto-off turn signals, a new DRL light signature, more ergonomic controls and the Ducati multimedia system. You'll be able to connect your smartphone, playlists and calls with the Scrambler.

trails, a few stones, a little dirt on the jeans (reinforced), stronger aluminum for the tank panels, and optimized comfort. The Desert Sled boasts a new seat and revised suspension settings.
On the scales, the 800 Scrambler of the mountains and dunes gains two kilos in weight. Negligible. In any case, not enough to change what it does, what it loves. A motorcycle that draws its inspiration from the American machines of the 60s and 70s, the ones that hummed off-road under the California sun.

the Scrambler embraces this spirit and adapts its skills to playful outings with mates and rocks. To this end, the frame is strengthened compared to other members of the family, the swingarm is modified and the suspension enhances the approach to the terrain. Kayaba components provide 200 mm of travel front and rear. This Scrambler benefits from improved ground clearance and a higher seat, 860 mm off the ground.

spoke wheels are, of course, the order of the day. 19" at the front and 17" at the rear, with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR touring tires. Braking is well catered for, with a 330 mm disc fitted with a Brembo M4.32 4-piston radial caliper at the front. Behind, there's a 245 mm single-piston caliper.

a small change on the engine side in 2020. The small block is Euro5-approved, without losing any of its capabilities. Like other Scramblers, the Desert Sled relies on the 73 horsepower of its 803 cm3 twin. Fun, available and playful, the Italian block adds to the charm of this little adventurer. Some time ago, the injection system was calibrated to make it run a little more smoothly.
As with all the models in the family, a good swig of accessories will enable you to enhance this machine, which is ready for a whole host of rural eccentricities.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos