Ducati SCRAMBLER 800 Full Throttle evo 2017 — Specifications

Is a near-invisible restyling enough to justify revisiting a model? With the 2017 Full Throttle evo, Ducati takes on this small gamble, playing on the codes of a motorcycle that no longer really needs to make itself known. Far from the exuberance of the Café Racer, more eye-catching and geared towards retro-sportive aesthetics, this version retains its urban adventurer character, with just the right amount of bad boy.

The change is subtle, bordering on anecdotal: a redesigned fuel tank and front fender, flanks adorned with a discreet diamond pattern. You need a keen eye to see the difference from the previous version. The essence lies elsewhere, in the DNA of this Full Throttle variant. It distinguishes itself from the Icon with a chopped rear, a minimalist front fender, and above all, a lower handlebar that slightly inclines the riding position. Above all, it breathes through a low Termignoni double exhaust, which gives the 803 cm³ L-twin a raspy and authoritative voice. With 73 horsepower and 67.7 Nm of torque, we are far from the madness of grandeur, but the engine is lively, sonorous, and fully participates in the character.

On the scales, its 186 kg in running order make it an accessible, maneuverable machine, ideal for the city or winding roads. The 41 mm inverted fork and the single shock absorber offer a correct 150 mm of travel, while the braking system, with its 330 mm front disc and 4-piston radial Brembo caliper, inspires confidence. It is a motorcycle that is technically much more accomplished than its relaxed look might suggest. At over 10,000 euros, the price may seem high for an 800, but you are also paying for the Ducati myth and a standard equipment list that already includes the sports exhaust.

Compared to a Triumph Street Scrambler, more gentle and authentically retro, or a BMW R nineT Pure, more substantial and expensive, the Ducati carves out a niche of its own: that of sparkling neo-retro, a little rebellious, which focuses on style and sensations rather than pure performance. It is aimed at the urban rider who wants to enjoy themselves every day without taking themselves too seriously, but demanding a certain bite and careful finish. It’s a scamp, but a well-bred one, proving that evolution can also come through details.