Naked Motorcycles
2021Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled
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The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled is a nimble 803cc V-twin enduro bike designed for adventure riders seeking genuine off-road capability with retro styling. Its air-cooled engine delivers 73 horsepower with accessible power delivery, while a lightweight frame and long-travel suspension make it equally at home on dirt trails and urban streets. Best known for blending classic scrambler aesthetics with modern performance, it appeals to riders prioritizing versatility and character over raw power.
- Capacity
- 803.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 193.0 kg
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Power
- 73.0 HP (53.3 kW) @ 8250 RPM
What’s new for the 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled
vs the 2020| Spec | 2020 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.4 ft.lbs) @ 5750 RPM | 66.2 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 48.8 ft.lbs) @ 5750 RPM |
| Front brakes | Single disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers. | Single disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers, Bosch. |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built primarily for off-road and adventure-style riding with genuine dirt capability, while remaining usable as a characterful daily or weekend road bike.
- Built for
- A rugged, torque-friendly L-Twin with classic Ducati charisma, rewarding riders who want personality and dirt-ready hardware over outright speed.
- Not ideal for
- Not ideal for shorter riders, pure speed seekers, or those wanting a light, flickable commuter for tight city traffic.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usRange and running costs
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usBased on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.
Engine
- Capacity
- 803.0 ccm
- Power
- 73.0 HP (53.3 kW) @ 8250 RPM
- Torque
- 66.2 Nm (6.8 kgf-m) @ 5750 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Fuel consumption
- 5.40 litres/100 km (18.5 km/l)
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3782 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 88.0 x 66.0 mm
- Compression
- 11.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Hydraulically controlled slipper and self-servo wet multiplate
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1505 mm
- Overall length
- 2200 mm
- Overall width
- 940 mm
- Overall height
- 1213 mm
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Dry weight
- 193.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 209.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 13.50 litres
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Tubular steel Trellis
- Front suspension
- 46mm fully adjustable usd forks
- Rear suspension
- Kayaba rear shock, pre-load and rebound adjustable. Aluminium double-sided swingarm
- Front wheel travel
- 200 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 200 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 24.0°
- Trail
- 112 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers, Bosch.
- Front brakes diameter
- 330 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. ABS. Floating disc. Single-piston caliper.
- Rear brakes diameter
- 245 mm
- ABS
- Yes
- Front tyre
- 120/70-R19
- Rear tyre
- 170/60-R17
Other
- Color options
- White Mirage/Red, Sparking Blue
- Warranty
- 24
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 2017 | 2018 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 803 cc | 803 cc | 803 cc | 803 cc | 803 cc |
| Dry weight | 191 kg | 191 kg | 193 kg | 193 kg | 193 kg |
| Seat height | 840 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 13.5 L | 13.5 L | 13.5 L | 13.5 L | 13.5 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Safety Recalls
⚠ 2 recalls may applyEXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNALMay 2021 · 21V361000
Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2021 Scrambler 800 Night Shift motorcycles. The front and rear turn signal lights may not flash brightly enough. As such, these motorcycles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: Turn signal lights that aren't bright enough can reduce other driver's ability to see that the turn signals have been activated, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front and rear turn signals, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 28, 2021. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446. Ducati's number for this recall is SRV-RCL-21-009.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLESDec 2020 · 20V781000
Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Scrambler 1100 motorcycles. The exhaust valve cable could contact the main positive battery wire and potentially short-circuit.
Risk: An electrical short-circuit increases the risk of fire.
Remedy: Ducati will notify owners, and dealers will install a new cable guide and self-locking cable tie to the exhaust valve cable, free of charge. The recall began January 22, 2021. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446. Ducati's number for this recall is SRV-RCL-20-003.
These recalls cover some 2021 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.
Source: NHTSA. View all Ducati recalls →
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled?
The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has a Capacity of 803.0 ccm (49.00 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled have?
The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has a Power of 73.0 HP (53.3 kW) @ 8250 RPM.
How many gears does the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled have?
The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled?
The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has a Torque of 66.2 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 48.8 ft.lbs) @ 5750 RPM.
How much does the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled weigh?
The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has a Dry weight of 193.0 kg (425.5 pounds).
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The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled is a remarkable off-road motorcycle that combines classic design with modern performance. The bike's rugged look and impressive handling make it a top choice for riders looking for an adventure-ready machine. Its 803cc L-twin engine delivers strong power and torque, while the long-travel suspension and knobby tires provide excellent performance on rough terrain. Whether you're navigating through sand dunes or tackling rocky trails, the Desert Sled offers a thrilling off-road experience.
The Desert Sled's comfortable upright riding position and lightweight chassis make it easy to maneuver, giving riders the confidence to tackle challenging off-road obstacles. With its stylish retro-inspired design and advanced technology, this motorcycle offers a perfect blend of form and function. Overall, the 2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled is a versatile and capable off-road motorcycle that delivers a thrilling riding experience on various terrains.
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