Ducati might be holding back its biggest 2019 model launches for its home show – EICMA in Milan in November – but it still wheeled out some new kit at the German Intermot event in Cologne.
The firm opted to focus on its Scrambler sub-brand in Germany, revealing three revamped versions of the 803cc Scrambler. The changes to the 2019 Scrambler Full Throttle, Scrambler Cafe Racer and Scrambler Desert Sled closely reflect the updates made last month to the base Icon model.
That means they all get cornering ABS for 2019, along with a revised instrument cluster and a new headlight incorporating a black ‘X’ in the lens to mimic the taped-up lights of classic scramblers. There’s also a new hydraulic clutch to replace the old cable-operated system.
Looking at each individual model, the biggest visual changes come on the Full Throttle, which has become a real flat-track-style machine with the addition of a new seat unit with a pillion seat cover and side-mounted number boards.
The Cafe Racer becomes more retro-styled for 2019, with the addition of wire wheels instead of alloys. They’re very much in 21st century sizes, though, with a 180-section rear and 120-section front tyre. The bodywork remains the same as before but the addition of a new blue and silver paint scheme, harking back to the old 125 GP Desmo, adds to the classic flavour.
When we come to the Desert Sled, the changes are relatively minor. Bear in mind that it’s already more of a distinct model, with a strengthened frame and long-travel Kayaba suspension. For 2019 there’s a red frame and white bodywork, while the technical updates – over and above the new cornering ABS, clocks, headlight and hydraulic clutch applied to all 803cc Scramblers for next year – are limited to a new ‘Off Road’ riding mode that disables the ABS.
