By NastyNils·
Motorcycle comparison · Scrambler
Ducati Scrambler 1100 (MY2018) vs Scrambler Street Classic (MY2018)
From the first crack of the throttle, the Ducati Scrambler 1100's twin pulls from low revs and barks through its pipes. The Ducati Scrambler Street Classic doesn't hit as hard.
So which one do you buy?
The Scrambler 1100 has the edge if…
Real off-road capability
A touch ahead: Scrambler 1100
On loose ground, the Scrambler 1100 feels a little more sure-footed. Small margin, and the right tires matter more.
Character, looks and sound
Narrow edge: Scrambler 1100
On sound and soul, the Scrambler 1100 comes out a touch ahead. Your own eyes and ears outrank this verdict.
Daily commuting & city riding
Inches ahead: Scrambler 1100
Through rush hour, the Scrambler 1100 is a little easier to live with. Thank simpler maintenance for that.
Which one's the smarter buy
No clear advantage
The price gap doesn't produce a clear winner. Neither is the clear better buy for the money.
What makes each one tick
Scrambler 1100
A steel trellis frame keeps the Scrambler 1100's steering light and its chassis balanced. Bumpy pavement's where the stock suspension can turn crude. On the smooth curves of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the chassis flicks from bend to bend, and there's no muscle needed at the bar. A nudge tucks the front in.
Nils rode the Scrambler 1100 in Styria in 2018 (NastyNils Testride).
Scrambler Street Classic
In town, the Scrambler Street Classic's lightweight tubular trellis frame and relaxed ergonomics mean it's easy to place. The frame keeps things just as easy on twisting back roads, where it doesn't fight you between bends. Each twist of the throttle builds power in a steady climb; there's no step anywhere. The exhaust sings its own tune.
The Voice of Experience
What actually separates them
- The Scrambler Street Classic has the lower seat: 31.0 in (787 mm) vs 31.9 in (810 mm).
- The Scrambler Street Classic has the lower wet weight: 424 lb (192 kg) vs 454 lb (206 kg).
- The Scrambler 1100 makes more peak power: 86 hp (63 kW) vs 73 hp (54 kW).
Which one for the way you ride
Comfortable long-distance riding
Both fall short
Big miles aren't where either one shines. You'll be watching for the next rest stop.
Don't look for a gap on twisty roads: there isn't one. Go by how each one fits you.
Who each one is built for
What's good, and what you'll live with
Scrambler 1100
What owners say
Strengths
- Characterful air-cooled V-twin
- Nimble, easy handling
- Premium retro design
Scrambler Street Classic
What owners say
Trade-offs
- High maintenance costs (Ducati tax)
Known problems to check before you buy
Scrambler 1100
- Piston slap on 2018 models Some early 2018 units developed piston slap noise; Ducati has addressed it under warranty.
Scrambler Street Classic
No confirmed faults on file yet. That's not the same as fault-free.
What they cost used
These prices compare an 8-year-old Scrambler 1100 with an 8-year-old Scrambler Street Classic.
- Scrambler 1100
- about $7,500
- Scrambler Street Classic
- about $5,400
At eight years old, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 sits around $7,500 while the Ducati Scrambler Street Classic lands near $5,400. That's a $2,100 gap in the Street Classic's favor. These are estimates from the used market, not live listings.
What they share
- Engine
- L-twin
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Rear tire
- 180/55-17
- Front travel
- 5.9 in (150 mm)
- Rear travel
- 5.9 in (150 mm)
Where the spec sheets split
| Scrambler 1100 | Scrambler Street Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Seat height | 31.9 in (810 mm) | 31.0 in (787 mm) |
| Wet weight | 454 lb (206 kg) | 424 lb (192 kg) |
| Scrambler 1100 | Scrambler Street Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1079 cc | 803 cc |
| Power | 86 hp (63 kW) | 73 hp (54 kW) |
| Peak power at | 7,500 rpm | 8,250 rpm |
| Torque | 65 lb-ft (88 Nm) | 49 lb-ft (67 Nm) |
| Scrambler 1100 | Scrambler Street Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel capacity | 4.0 US gal (15 L) | 3.6 US gal (13.5 L) |
| Scrambler 1100 | Scrambler Street Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Front tire | 120/70-18 | 110/80-18 |
What comes fitted, what costs extra
| Scrambler 1100 | Scrambler Street Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Traction Control | Standard | Not offered |
| Ride Modes | Standard | Not offered |
| Front Suspension Adjustable | Standard | Not offered |
Head to head, area by area
Both bikes on the same scale, one area at a time.
