First introduced in 2014, the Ducati Scrambler brand was meant to combine the traditional with the contemporary, providing a modern take on the 1960s era of scramblers. Recently, Ducati introduced the Scrambler 1100 Dark Pro as an entry to the 1000 Pro family of Scramblers, with an added level of customisation on a sleek, and muscular frame.
On the surface of things, the Ducati Scrambler line is a modern interpretation of the dual-sport singles of the ’60s, incorporating retro motocross elements such as the handlebars and brake pedal. Despite its namesake, the new line of Scrambler’s is classified as a naked street bike. The 1100 Dark Pro is best suited for the urban and city environment while being thoroughly capable of tackling the long weekend rides along the countryside. However, that being said, it isn’t suited for any off-road duties, and you won’t be seeing this racing on a dirt circuit anytime soon.
Powering the 1100 Dark Pro is an air-cooled 1079cc L-Twin Desmodromic 4-stroke engine putting out 86hp and 88Nm of torque. This bike is a cruiser rather than a bruiser, its peak torque made available from just 4500 rpm. The six-speed multi-plate clutch transmission delivers smooth shifting, maximising the broad torque curve starting from low down in the rev range, which is exactly what riders need to move a street bike that weighs in at 206kg (189kg dry). Moreover, with a sizeable 15-litre fuel tank, the 1100 Dark Pro allows riders to tackle all but the longest journeys with comfort and speed.
The main highlight of the 1100 Dark Pro is its sleek, modern and urban-chic design, following its other siblings in the 1100 Pro family, namely the Scrambler 1100 Pro and Sport Pro. The new Dark Stealth colour scheme, combined with the black tubular steel and aluminium frameset off the anodised aluminium look of the fuel tank and exhaust.
The headlight of the 1100 Dark Pro is unique in its own right, featuring a LED DRL along the circumference of the headlight housing. A black metal “X” was recreated inside the headlight, inspired from the black tape used in the 1970s to preserve a light cluster. The rear is the most distinctive area on the bike, with the high mounted dual exhaust on the right and the low number plate holder, seemingly tightening up the rear end and giving it a compact, agile look.
The 1100 Dark Pro doesn’t just look agile, it has the hardware to deliver a smooth, yet involving ride. The tubular steel frame with the double top beam is mated to the aluminium rear frame to snugly hold the engine, minimising movement of the engine block itself for greater agility both in traffic, as well as twisty mountain roads.
The 1100 Dark Pro comes as standard fully adjustable 45mm Marzocchi front forks and a Kayaba monoshocks on the rear. For more enthusiastic riders, the 1100 Dark Pro’s sibling, the 1100 Sport Pro would be a better choice as it comes with fully adjustable 48mm Öhlins front forks and rear shocks. Although the standard Marzocchi/Kayaba set up on the 1100 Dark Pro is more than up to the task of providing a smooth ride, the Öhlins dampers offer a more composed ride over rough surfaces without losing any dynamic handling prowess.
Keeping the big 1100 Dark Pro in check is the Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system which has been specially calibrated for this model. Besides, the three standard Riding Modes (Active, Journey and City) also help less experienced motorcyclists to find the right balance of riding styles. Brakes are two 320mm semi-floating disc with a Brembo M4.32 four-piston callipers up front, while rear brakes are a single 245mm disc with a one-piston floating calliper. Bosch ABS cornering system will come as standard to guarantee maximum performance in all corners while ensuring the riders own safety.
Overall, the 1100 Dark Pro is a stylish daily bike that has a modern minimalist design that appeals to the new age rider. With a powerful engine, top of the line chassis and suspension set up, riders can expect the 1100 Dark Pro to be a competent city bike while providing decent thrills when pushed along.
