2025 Ducati Scrambler

Ducati’s mantra is “Style, Sophistication, Performance.” And we doubt that it’s a coincidence that “performance” gets the last word in that guiding philosophy. So when it comes to Ducatis, “lighthearted” isn’t the first word that comes to mind. Except when we’re talking about the Scrambler.

The modern Scrambler, first introduced in 2015, is all smiles and good times. Like, an Audrey Hepburn-on-the-back-of-a-Vespa kind of a good time. Powered by the venerable 803cc Desmodue engine, its air-cooling, two-valve head, and desmodromic actuation are the stuff that make Ducatisti all fluttery and nostalgic. Seriously, we’re about two negronis away from rhapsodizing about how the Scrambler is a rolling tribute to Fabio Taglioni, whose 500SL Pantah—from 1979—is still the basis for the Scrambler’s Desmodue.

While its performance numbers are on the modest side, pumping out a claimed 73 hp at 8,250 rpm and 48.1 lb.-ft. of torque at 7,000 rpm, the Desmodue has plenty of pep and personality. It’s hard not to fall for it.

Ducati updated the Scrambler for the first time in 2023, massaging its laid-back styling; subtly revising the engine; dropping a new rear shock into a lighter-weight frame; and adding modern tech. Part of the previous model’s success was down to its analog charm, so the adoption of a ride-by-wire throttle, enabling Ducati to give the Scrambler two ride modes (Road and Sport), is a fairly big departure. Cornering ABS, traction control with four levels of intervention, and a 4.3-inch TFT dash were welcome additions in our book, adding a level of sophistication that doesn’t detract from the Scrambler’s old-school cool. On the road, it’s compact, lightweight (375 pounds dry, claimed), nimble, and frankly, a breath of fresh air.

For 2025, Ducati is introducing two new Scrambler variants: on one end of the price spectrum is the Icon Dark ($9,995), which revives one of Ducati’s time-honored cost-saving strategies by using matte black paint for a low-key look. On the other end, the Scrambler 10° Anniversario Rizoma edition (from $15,000) is the blingy result of a collaboration with Italian accessory house Rizoma. Limited to just 500 units, the model celebrates the 10th anniversary of the modern Scrambler, and features a host of Rizoma accessories and bespoke parts, like the Metal Rose belt covers.

Ducati is also updating its flat-track-inspired Full Throttle variant ($12,395) with a new black and bronze color scheme. It features a quickshifter, Termignoni silencer, and LED turn signals as standard. Carryover models include the Icon (from $12,395), the “classic Scrambler,” and the Nightshift (from $12,395), a more tailored offering, distinguished by its spoked wheels, Nebula Blue paintwork, and other styling details.