Big L-twin produces 86 hp

Something, something Land of Joy something something. Ducati has brought out the biggest bucket of superlatives it can find for the newly unveiled Scrambler 1100 – a big-boy version of the Italian manufacturer's wildly successful Scrambler sub-brand.

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Whether it will have the chops to go toe to toe against other big-boned retro nakeds like the Yamaha XSR900 and Kawasaki Z900RS remains to be seen. Because this is Ducati, the Scrambler 1100 will be available in three versions: Scrambler 1100, Scrambler 1100 Sport, and Scrambler 1100 Special. All three will be powered by the same oil/air-cooled 1079cc L- twin two-valve engine. Effectively the same powerplant as that found in the discontinued Monster 1100, it puts out a maximum power of 86 hp at 7,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 88.4 Nm at 4,750 rpm. Ducati promises smooth delivery throughout the rev range and "competitive" 12,000km maintenance intervals (every 7,500 miles). Compare that against, say, the 10,000-mile intervals of a Triumph Thruxton.

Ducati Goes Big With New Scrambler 1100

With the addition of the 1100, Ducati now bosts three engine sizes in its Scrambler sub-brand (the other two being the 400cc Sixty2 introduced last year and the original 800cc Scrambler), along with multiple variations, including the Scrambler Cafe. The big Scram comes with Bosch Cornering ABS, traction control, and ride by wire. Traction control can be adjusted to four different levels of intensity. Like the bike's ABS system, traction control cannot be shut off completely. So, uhm Scrambler by name, not necessarily by nature.

There are also three riding modes: Active, Journey, and City. Active provides full engine power, "a direct throttle connection," and a traction control level that Ducati says is "compatible with sport riding." Journey again offers full power but "a more fluid throttle connection." Meanwhile, City, lowers engine power to 75 hp, the same as on the Scrambler 800. For that last one I'm reminded of the time a Triumph representative was explaining to me the riding modes of a Tiger Sport.

Ducati Goes Big With New Scrambler 1100

"This is Rain mode," he said. "Never use this. You'll hate it."

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Larger than the other Ducati Scrambler brand models, the Scrambler 1100 features upgraded fork and rear shock absorbers, as well as dual 320mm front brake discs. Headlights and indicators are LED, with an LED ring around the headlight rim that acts as a daytime running light. In keeping with the Scrambler heritage, a grey metal "X" mounted inside the headlight (a feature inspired by the tape once applied on off-road bikes back in the ’70s to protect the headlight assembly). The Scrambler 1100 features a new twin upper spar steel Trellis frame and rear aluminum subframe. The steel fuel tank can hold 15 liters of dino juice, or 3.9 US gallons.

Ducati Goes Big With New Scrambler 1100

The Sport version of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 mounts Öhlins suspension  – Kayaba on the Scrambler 1100 and Scrambler 1100 Special – with upside-down 45mm forks and a rear shock with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping. Both suspension setups provide 150 mm of wheel travel. The bike's 18-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear come stock with Pirelli MT60 RS tires.

Those wanting to literally wear their Scrambler 1100 ownership on their sleeves will be happy to learn that Ducati has put together a stack of accessories and a dedicated apparel line, which includes an open-face helmet co-produced with Roland Sands.

READ MORE: Ducati Pulls Cover Off Mach 2 Scrambler

Ducati Goes Big With New Scrambler 1100

Ducati Scrambler 1100 Special

The Scrambler 1100 Special features black spoked wheels, chrome exhausts and aluminum front/rear mudguards. The bike comes in a “Custom Grey” paint scheme, and features a brushed-effect swingarm and adjustable front fork with gold-coloured anodized sleeves. Other Scrambler 1100 Special elements include low-slung tapered handlebars and a brown seat with dedicated lining.

Ducati Goes Big With New Scrambler 1100

Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport

The Scrambler 1100 Sport features the aforementioned Öhlins suspension. It comes in “Viper Black” with yellow tank sides and dual yellow striping down the middle of the tank and mudguards. It also features aluminum wheels with machine-finished spokes, tapered handlebars and a seat with a dedicated lining.

Ducati Goes Big With New Scrambler 1100

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