Seventies style: Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro review
Ducati's Scrambler range was launched back in 2015, growing to no less than 10 different models at one point and now standing at six.
In fact, the Italian giant originally used the Scrambler moniker on a series of single-cylinder bikes produced solely for the US market from 1962 to 1974.
They were derived from the 250cc Diana (Daytona in the UK) road bike converted for dirt-track racing by Michael Berliner of the famous Berliner Motor Corporation.
The current line-up comprises the Icon, Full Throttle, Nightshift, Dark Pro, Sport Pro and the one we are looking at here – the 1100 Tribute Pro.
Distinctive – Giallo Ocra livery and 70s-style logoThis model was designed to mark 50 years since Ducati launched its first twin-cylinder air-cooled engine in 1971.
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The striking “Giallo Ocra” livery is based on the marque’s 450 Desmo Mono and 750 Sport models of 1972.
There are also hints of the 750 Supersport used by the Spaggiari team since 1975.
This is a really great-looking bike, with the eye-catching tank featuring the distinctive Giugiaro-designed 70s-style logo, the black spoked wheels, the wide upswept bars, stand-out round headlight and the unique sculpted exhaust system, with twin stacked cans.
Eye-catching – The Tribute Pro draws admiring looks wherever you goThe brown stitched seat with Ducati logo and round mirrors on stalks add to the cool retro vibe.
The cockpit is open and uncluttered, with the dash a rather odd-shaped circular and oval affair, but clear enough and easy to read, with all the usual info, including gear indicator.
Uncluttered – Cockpit is simple but effectiveFire up and that V-twin fills the air with a glorious rumble as you head off.
The Pro features up-to-the-minute tech, including three ride modes, ride-by-wire, traction control and cornering ABS.
The V-twin is a real peach, with oodles of low-down torque and plenty of power delivered in lovely linear fashion via the smooth gearbox – especially as the bike weighs in at just 189kg.
Torquey twin – Plenty of low and mid-range grunt, as well as enough power to put a big grin on your faceIt makes for an undemanding, rider-friendly experience, comfortable around town, but with plenty of fun on tap on the open road.
With a maximum power output of 84bhp, this Scrambler is never going to be real seat-of-the-pants stuff, but this is a beautifully refined yet engaging engine – that delightful torque a pure joy to ride.
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Don't get me wrong, this is a big 1100cc engine and, as such, even experienced riders will not be disappointed with the power on hand – with overtaking a breeze, especially as it will pull strongly even from lower speeds and in the higher gears.
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The 45mm fully adjustable Marzocchi forks and Kayaba side-mounted rear shock (pre-load and rebound adjustable) do a fine job through the bends, combing with the wide bars (and Pirelli rubber) for seamless and precise handling.
This is not really the bike for you if you like aggressively attacking every corner with last-minute hard braking – it's a more smooth, flowing approach that reaps the rewards as you curve through, before driving out on the other side – glorious.
Smooth – Handling is precise and sure-footedBrembo brakes with 320mm twin discs up front provide powerful yet sensitive stopping power.
Like many Ducatis before it, the Tribute Pro’s engine does give off a fair amount of heat after prolonged riding.
But that is a minor quibble and probably the only one on what is a great-looking, easy-to-ride and great fun retro-style roadster.
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