Naked Motorcycles
2018Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled
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The 2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled combines retro styling with adventure-ready capability, making it ideal for riders seeking accessible off-road and on-road versatility. Known for its lightweight chassis, manageable seat height, and nimble handling characteristics, this middleweight scrambler excels at casual trail riding and urban exploration. Its compact dimensions and 207kg wet weight ensure approachable performance for both novice and experienced riders.
- Capacity
- 803.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 191.0 kg
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Power
- 73.0 HP (53.3 kW) @ 8250 RPM
What’s new for the 2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled
vs the 2017| Spec | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 75.0 HP (54.7 kW) @ 8250 RPM | 73.0 HP (53.3 kW) @ 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m or 50.2 ft.lbs) @ 5750 RPM | 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.4 ft.lbs) @ 5750 RPM |
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
- 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m) @ 5750 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Fuel consumption
- 5.00 litres/100 km (20.0 km/l)
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3822 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
- APTC wet multiplate with mechanical control
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1505 mm
- Overall length
- 2200 mm
- Overall width
- 940 mm
- Overall height
- 1213 mm
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Dry weight
- 191.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 207.0 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.
- 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, black
- 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
⚠ 1 recall may applyELECTRICAL 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled?
The 2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has a Torque of 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.4 ft.lbs) @ 5750 RPM.
How much does the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled weigh?
The 2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled has a Dry weight of 191.0 kg (421.1 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled is a versatile and rugged motorcycle that is built for off-road adventures. The bike's powerful 803cc engine and long-travel suspension make it capable of handling rough terrain with ease. Its retro-inspired design, complete with high-mounted exhaust pipes and off-road tires, gives it a distinctive and stylish look. The Desert Sled is a great choice for riders who want a versatile and capable motorcycle that can handle both city streets and off-road trails.
Overall, the 2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled is a fantastic motorcycle for those who love adventure and off-road riding. Its powerful engine, rugged design, and impressive performance make it a top choice for anyone seeking a versatile and capable bike. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling challenging off-road trails, the Desert Sled is sure to deliver an exhilarating and thrilling riding experience.
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