/ Featured Article
Ducati Scrambler 1100 versus Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC - Head to head
Which of these two high-performance scramblers is better suited to your lifestyle? Read on to find out.
Today’s motorcycle market is loaded with tons of options for folks looking for stylish, high-performance machines. Here in the Philippines alone, a bulk of the big bike segment is focused on the lifestyle category in particular, characterized by neo-retro styling mated to modern-day tech. Indeed, not just in the Philippines, but the world over, neo-retro machines are more than just pretty bikes designed to turn heads. A lot of them have performance in mind, as evidenced by today’s crop of high-end cafe-racers and scramblers.
Take, for example, two popular high-displacement European scramblers—the Ducati Scrambler 1100 and the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC. The allure of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 and Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC can be attributed to their seamless blend of retro-inspired scrambler aesthetics and cutting-edge performance capabilities. These motorcycles exude a rugged, off-road vibe that pays homage to classic scramblers of yesteryear, yet are equipped with powerful engines, sophisticated electronics, and top-of-the-line components.
With adventure and dual-sport riding on the rise, the demand for versatile, stylish motorcycles like these continues to soar. Couple that with the brands' reputations for quality and innovation, as well as savvy marketing campaigns, and it's no wonder these scramblers have captured the hearts and imaginations of riders everywhere. Having said all that, assuming you have the budget for either one of these machines, let’s take a closer look at which one of the two is a better fit to your lifestyle.
Performance
The Ducati Scrambler 1100 is powered by a 1079cc, air-cooled, L-twin engine that delivers 85 horsepower and 65 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a two-valve desmodromic system, which helps to provide smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. The L-twin configuration of the engine gives it a distinctive sound and character, and the air-cooled design contributes to the bike's retro styling.
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC, on the other hand, is powered by a 1200cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that produces 89 horsepower and 81 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a 270-degree crankshaft, which helps to provide a unique sound and character, and also contributes to the bike's off-road capabilities. The liquid-cooled design allows for more consistent engine performance in a wider range of temperatures, and the additional power output over the Ducati makes it a more capable machine for more demanding terrain.
Both engines are fuel-injected and feature electronic rider aids such as ride-by-wire throttle control, traction control, and multiple riding modes. The engines are also designed to meet strict emissions regulations, while still providing the performance and character that riders expect from a scrambler-style motorcycle.
Features
The Ducati Scrambler 1100 features fully adjustable 45mm USD forks at the front and a preload and rebound adjustable monoshock at the rear. The bike is equipped with Brembo brakes, with twin 320mm discs at the front and a 245mm disc at the rear. The Scrambler 1100 also features a comprehensive electronics package, including ride-by-wire throttle control, traction control, cornering ABS, and multiple riding modes.
The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC also features high-quality suspension and brakes, with fully adjustable 45mm USD forks at the front and a preload and rebound adjustable twin-shock at the rear. The bike is equipped with Brembo brakes, with twin 320mm discs at the front and a single 255mm disc at the rear. The Scrambler 1200 also features a range of rider aids, including ride-by-wire throttle control, traction control, cornering ABS, and multiple riding modes. Additionally, the Scrambler 1200 XC features a full-color TFT display that provides riders with all the information they need, as well as Bluetooth connectivity and integrated GoPro control.
Styling
While both the Ducati Scrambler 1100 and the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC are designed to evoke the spirit of classic scrambler motorcycles, they have distinct styling differences that set them apart.
The Ducati Scrambler 1100 features a more minimalist, modern design that is characterized by clean lines and a stripped-down look. It has a classic round headlight and a small, compact fuel tank. The bike's exhaust system is positioned high, and it features blacked-out engine cases and wheels. Overall, the Scrambler 1100 has a sleek and stylish appearance that is unmistakably Ducati.
On the other hand, the Triumph Scrambler 1200 features a more retro-inspired design that pays homage to the classic scramblers of the past. It has a large, rectangular headlight and a larger, more muscular fuel tank. The bike's exhaust system is positioned low and runs along the underside of the bike, giving it a more rugged and utilitarian look. The Scrambler 1200 also features spoked wheels and a range of vintage-inspired design details, such as rubber knee pads on the fuel tank and a classic Triumph logo on the side covers.
Conclusion
Overall, both the Ducati Scrambler 1100 and the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC are excellent motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. Choosing between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference, riding style, and intended use. In terms of pricing, however, we can make a clear distinction.
For starters, the much more off-road capable and performance-focused Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC retails starting at P1,150,000—by no means cheap, and certainly, you pay the premium when it comes to style and performance. On the other hand, the Ducati Scrambler is a much more road-focused machine with slightly more rudimentary tech. Nevertheless, it commands a price starting at P1,065,000.
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