Ducati is often referred to as “The Ferrari of Motorcycles,” and with a lineup that includes the batshit Panigale R, the more “accessible” Monster and the funny-looking-but-incredibly-capable Hypomotard, the epithet is clearly not without its merits. Ducati has long been a brand about Italian bravado and ludicrous speed, but as motorcycling grows in popularity, Ducati must expand its product lineup to reach more riding audiences. At the 2015 EICMA motorcycle expo, Ducati unveiled three new models that show the Bologna-based manufacturer is keeping up with the times.
Ducati Scrambler Sixty2
Since it came out, the Scrambler has been Ducati’s beginner-oriented, throwback moto of choice. And with solid sales numbers, the Scrambler was destined to see even more variations to spread the wealth. Enter the Scrambler Sixty2, the new entry-level model in the Scrambler range. It gets a smaller 399cc L-Twin engine making 41 horsepower (compared to the bigger version’s 75 horsepower 803cc engine) and weighs about 403 pounds. It makes for a nice beginner bike for aspiring Ducati owners and a solid city runabout for both new and experienced riders alike.
Ducati XDiavel
The Diavel is not a totally brand-new motorcycle for Ducati, but the latest version of the bike, the XDiavel, is closer to a true cruiser than before. The reworked Testastretta L-Twin is tuned for long-distance cruising — it makes 152 horsepower at 9,500 RPM and, more importantly, it delivers its maximum 95 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 RPM (the old version made about 96 lb-ft at 8,000 RPM). This makes power more accessible lower in the rev range. The bike is also the first Ducati ever to use a belt drive, which is smoother and quieter than a chain-driven motorcycle.
Ducati Multistrada 1200 Enduro
Ducati is also getting into the world of off-road adventure bikes for the first time, with a modified version of its Multistrada sport-tourer. The new Multistrada 1200 Enduro gets a litany of off-road upgrades including an extra 1.2 inches of wheel travel (7.9 inches compared to 6.7), eight inches of ride height, increased fuel capacity (7.92 vs. 5.3 gallons) and knobby Pirelli Scorpion Trail tires.
