2018 Ducati Scrambler Mach 2.0

Playing up the past.

2018 Ducati Scrambler Mach 2.0CRS

Until launching the new Scrambler lineup for 2015, Ducati had never particularly harnessed its rich history with single-cylinder bikes. But that’s changed now. For real Ducatisti, the Icon presents—at a glance—as the modern-day version of the 1969 Jupiter 450, whose yellow paint and chrome-sided gas tank was unique in the marketplace. Power is standard fare for the middleweight Scrambler, meaning a 73-hp, 803cc, 90-degree desmodromic V-twin with two valves per cylinder and air-cooling.

The retro-logic wobbles a bit with the Mach 2.0 model. And that’s because the original 1965 Ducati Mach 1 was a lovely single-cylinder street-legal roadracer, replete with a high-spec engine, clip-on handlebars, lots of polished chrome and aluminum, a slender solo seat, and rearset footrests and controls. Despite sharing part of its name, the current Mach 2.0 differs in approach, instead presenting a groovy 1970s-style paint scheme, black-finished engine and wheels, and a thick dual seat. The pieces do work well together, though, and the Mach 2.0 is as close as any modern Ducati gets to being a “standard” motorcycle.

Likes: Nobody does young urban chic better than Ducati

Dislikes: Since Ducati is honoring its classic singles, how about actually building a single?

Verdict: A very reasonable pair of streetbikes

2018 Ducati Scrambler Mach 2.0 Specs and Pricing

MSRP $10,795
DISPLACEMENT (CC) 803
SEAT HEIGHT (IN) 31
WET WEIGHT (LBS) 410