Ducati desert sled 2017 - 2020
Discussion
Haven't had one, but between my Monster 796 and my friend's Monster 821 (which are basically half the scrambler - the 796 has the same engine, the 821 the electronics etc) they're fantastic.
Watch out for the belt service, but it's every 4 years and really not difficult (if someone tries to stiff you £££ for it they're just scammers). It should take about 2-3 hours tops.
Watch out for the belt service, but it's every 4 years and really not difficult (if someone tries to stiff you £££ for it they're just scammers). It should take about 2-3 hours tops.
I don t have a sled, but I do have a late icon. The base bikes are identical. The sled has a beefed up lower frame around the swing arm and engine, beefed up forks, and longer travel suspension. It s meant to be rather capable off road. But the videos I have seen are more Californian dessert, and not UK single track.
But the scramblers in general are brilliant bikes. Metal tanks, air/oil cooled, and cable throttle. I would go for a later euro5 model as they have w few updated parts, including a Brembo hydraulic clutch over cable.
They are plenty quick enough in standard form. As said, it s basically a Monster. I have put on a Zard slip on which retains a catalyst and it sounds very nice. Also fitted Nitron shock and cartridges and I doubt much would handle better in its class. They are much lighter than the Triumph 900/1200 too.
Here is mine.
It is absolutely a road bike, but is perfect for the roads I ride around the Derbyshire Peaks. It can really hustle. I imagine the sled will only be slightly compromised in this respect. Mainly due to the tyres, longer travel, softer suspension, and higher centre of gravity.
A part of me does regret getting a sled as I do fancy some light off tarmac riding. It would do both perfectly. And they do look cool as F. Especially in the silver/blue.
It’s the Desmo service on mine soon. Gulp.
But the scramblers in general are brilliant bikes. Metal tanks, air/oil cooled, and cable throttle. I would go for a later euro5 model as they have w few updated parts, including a Brembo hydraulic clutch over cable.
They are plenty quick enough in standard form. As said, it s basically a Monster. I have put on a Zard slip on which retains a catalyst and it sounds very nice. Also fitted Nitron shock and cartridges and I doubt much would handle better in its class. They are much lighter than the Triumph 900/1200 too.
Here is mine.
It is absolutely a road bike, but is perfect for the roads I ride around the Derbyshire Peaks. It can really hustle. I imagine the sled will only be slightly compromised in this respect. Mainly due to the tyres, longer travel, softer suspension, and higher centre of gravity.
A part of me does regret getting a sled as I do fancy some light off tarmac riding. It would do both perfectly. And they do look cool as F. Especially in the silver/blue.
It’s the Desmo service on mine soon. Gulp.
Edited by PT1984 on Friday 6th February 07:44
Edited by PT1984 on Friday 6th February 10:30
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