Ducati Desert Sled 2019

There was never a doubt in my mind about the version of the Scrambler I would like to see parked in my garage.

9.5 lakh (ex-showroom)

WE SAY: SMOOTHER THROTTLE AND BETTER SUSPENSION IMPROVES ITS APPEAL

While the hooligan-like character of the Icon was enjoyable, I would never miss not having to live with one. With the Sled though, my perception of the Ducati changed completely. What helped was the fact that I lived with it and took off for a proper road trip to learn more about it. For 2019, Ducati has decided to tweak the Sled, just a little bit. The basic form and simplicity remains, although norms dictate a greater use of electronics now.

In fact, Ducati has changed so little visually that it is difficult to tell it apart from the older bike, aside from the re-enforced frame being done in red. What is apparent is the DRL and the X-form that adorns the headlamp, that sits behind a grille, alongside LED indicators. Once the digital console comes on, you realise there is more information with the addition of a fuel gauge and gear indicator. You can scroll through more information and hook up your phone via Bluetooth too. They have also included a mode selector to switch between ‘Journey’ and ‘Off-road’ mode for the Sled. You need to be stationary for the ride mode selector to engage, which in turn ensures that dual-channel ABS and cornering ABS is turned off.