Ducati Scrambler 800 Full Throttle (2023) Review: Retro Soul, Modern Heart

May 25, 2025

The Ducati Scrambler 800 Full Throttle (2023) is not just a motorcycle—it’s an attitude on two wheels. Inspired by flat track racing and powered by Ducati’s engineering prowess, this model blends classic charm with aggressive styling and modern capabilities. As part of the celebrated Scrambler family, the Full Throttle version takes things up a notch with track-inspired aesthetics, a sporty riding position, and a performance package that speaks directly to thrill-seekers and urban explorers alike.

This isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about making a bold statement in today’s middleweight segment, delivering the soul of the original Scrambler with the muscle and tech of a modern Ducati.

Ducati Scrambler 800 Full Throttle 2023 modern retro parts

Design and Aesthetics

The first thing that grabs you about the 2023 Full Throttle is its unmistakable character. With a distinctive black and yellow livery, side number plates with the '62' race number, and red-edged wheels, it has flat track DNA written all over it.

Styling Highlights:

Low, flat handlebar and a short front fender amplify its race-ready look
Sleek Termignoni exhaust that enhances both sound and style
Sporty seat with unique stitching and a pillion cover for single-rider attitude

Ducati's attention to design detail ensures the bike is not just beautiful standing still, but visually dynamic when in motion.

Technology and Features

Despite its vintage style, the 2023 Full Throttle doesn’t skimp on modern tech. Ducati has equipped it with essential rider aids and a cleaner, more intuitive dashboard.

Notable Features:

Cornering ABS powered by Bosch for superior braking safety
LED DRL and indicators for improved visibility and modern appeal
Next-gen 4.3-inch TFT display with Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) compatibility
Ride-by-wire throttle offering refined power delivery

Though it doesn’t feature riding modes or cruise control, its simplicity is part of its charm—offering just what you need, and nothing you don’t.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Ducati has subtly reworked the riding ergonomics for 2023, and the result is a surprisingly comfortable experience for a bike with such a sporty demeanor. The handlebar is wide and flat, offering great control, while the seat is firm yet supportive.

The low seat height (795 mm) makes it accessible to a broad range of riders, and the overall upright position keeps fatigue at bay during longer rides. Suspension duties are handled by Kayaba units—41 mm USD forks at the front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. The setup strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness, absorbing bumps without feeling vague.

Braking and Safety

The braking setup is solid, featuring a 330 mm front disc gripped by a Brembo four-piston caliper, and a 245 mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper. It delivers strong and progressive stopping power, bolstered by cornering ABS for enhanced safety on tricky surfaces.

The system gives riders confidence, especially when cornering hard or braking abruptly—conditions often encountered in both urban and spirited weekend riding.

Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance

The Scrambler 800 Full Throttle returns an average mileage of around 20–22 km/l under mixed riding conditions. With a 13.5-liter fuel tank, you’re looking at a practical range of over 250 km per tank—respectable for a bike in this class.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward thanks to Ducati’s Desmodue engine design and the wide availability of service centers. Oil changes and basic servicing are reasonably priced, and genuine parts are easily available through trusted aftermarket and Ducati-certified stores.

Engine and Performance

At its heart lies an air-cooled 803 cc L-twin engine that produces 73 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 65.2 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The performance is linear, punchy, and surprisingly accessible, making it one of the most versatile engines in the segment.

Riders will appreciate the light clutch, precise throttle response, and the throaty growl from the twin-pipe Termignoni system. Whether you’re darting through city traffic or carving twisties on the weekend, the Scrambler 800 Full Throttle brings enthusiasm in every gear.

The 6-speed gearbox is smooth and the slipper clutch is a great touch for both safety and riding comfort, especially during aggressive downshifts. With a top speed hovering around 200 km/h, it’s spirited enough for spirited rides, yet mellow enough for newer riders to enjoy.

Comparison and Competitors

When stacked against bikes like the Triumph Street Twin, Yamaha XSR700, and Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, the Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle holds a unique place. It offers a more premium brand experience, edgier styling, and sharper dynamics. While others may offer better comfort or slightly lower price points, few can match the blend of heritage, performance, and urban appeal that Ducati has perfected here.

Ideal Riders and Target Audience

This bike is designed for those who value performance with personality. It’s perfect for:

Urban commuters who crave style and agility
Weekend warriors who love canyon carving
Mid-level riders upgrading from entry-level machines
Enthusiasts looking to stand out without sacrificing functionality

Beginners will appreciate the manageable power curve, while experienced riders will enjoy pushing it to its limits.

BST Ducati wheels lightweight performance upgrades

Conclusion and Final Verdict

The Ducati Scrambler 800 Full Throttle (2023) is a compelling choice for riders who want a machine that’s as bold as it is usable. It delivers classic Ducati soul with contemporary refinements, wrapped in a package that looks as fast as it feels.

It’s not the most feature-laden bike in its category, nor is it the cheapest—but for those who ride for the sheer joy of it, and want their bike to reflect their individuality, the Full Throttle is a top contender.

Whether you're upgrading your current ride or entering the Ducati family for the first time, this machine will keep you grinning every mile. Be sure to check out our store for exclusive Scrambler-compatible accessories—like tail tidy kits, bar-end mirrors, tank grips, and performance exhausts—to truly make the Full Throttle your own.