Scrambler motorcycles have become increasingly popular again, attracting a new generation of riders with their timeless designs. Rooted in the past but incorporating modern technology, scramblers perfectly blend style and performance. For retro enthusiasts, scramblers offer a nostalgic journey while delivering the thrill of contemporary riding.
These stunning scrambler motorcycles cater to the desires of retro lovers, combining classic aesthetics with impressive modern features. Some embody classic designs while others put a contemporary spin on the scrambler concept.
10 Ducati Scrambler Icon
MSRP: $10,995
Ducati, renowned for its Italian craftsmanship and high-performance motorcycles, is a must-have on this list for its Scrambler lineup. Its retro-inspired design encapsulates the spirit of the Scramblers of the 60s and 70s. The circular headlamps, teardrop fuel tanks, and conventionally raised exhaust mounts artfully hint at the past.
However, the Scrambler Icon isn’t just about looks. Beneath the classic facade lies modern technology, including a functional 803cc L-twin engine. Riders can also personalize their Scrambler with Ducati’s extensive catalog of accessories, including tank covers, seats, and various fenders.
Performance Specifications
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Engine |
803cc L-twin |
|
Power |
73 horsepower |
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Torque |
49 pound feet |
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Drive Type |
Chain Drive |
9 Triumph Scrambler 1200
MSRP: $13,595
Triumph, a brand known for its heritage, has unveiled the 2024 Scrambler 1200, a motorcycle that perfectly captures the spirit of the classic Scrambler with its retro styling, complete with high and wide handlebars and long-travel suspension, seamlessly blending the old-school appeal with modernity.
The Scrambler 1200 effortlessly balances its retro charm with actual off-road capability, which is its biggest asset. One notable feature of the Scrambler 1200 that furthers its esthetics is its modular nature, allowing riders to customize their motorcycles with a long list of options. Triumph encourages individuality, and we are all for that.
Performance Specifications
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Engine |
1200cc parallel-twin |
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Power |
90 horsepower |
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Torque |
81 pound feet |
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Drive Type |
Chain Drive |
8 BMW R nineT Scrambler
MSRP: $12,995
BMW’s R nineT Scrambler is a testament to the German manufacturer’s pursuit of classic esthetics and modern performance. The bike embodies the spirit of the original scramblers while incorporating BMW‘s engineering excellence. The minimalist design, reminiscent of the 1951 R 68, underscores the scrambler’s vintage inspiration.
This beauty is powered by an air/oil-cooled boxer twin, and it may feel unusual because it is capable of far more than its metropolitan moniker implies. It is more than capable of taking on the odd trail.
Performance Specifications
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Engine |
1,173cc boxer twin |
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Power |
109 horsepower |
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Torque |
85 pound feet |
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Drive Type |
Shaft Drive |
7 Yamaha SCR950
Used Price: $4,055
Yamaha‘s SCR950 is a testament to the versatility of the scrambler concept. Although no longer in production, there are numerous used options available. The SCR950’s design exudes classic cruiser styling, making it an attractive choice for retro lovers. Its steady power delivery makes it perfect for comfortable, long-distance cruising.
Performance Specifications
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Engine |
942cc V-twin |
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Power |
51.3 horsepower |
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Torque |
79.5 pound feet |
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Drive Type |
Chain Drive |
6 CFMoto 700CL-X
MSRP: $6,899
The CFMoto 700CL-X’s aesthetic captures the essence of the golden era of motorcycling, drawing inspiration from classic café racers and scramblers. The teardrop-shaped tank, adorned with brushed metal accents, complements the retro appeal. The round headlamp, minimalist bodywork, and timeless lines provide a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a fresh and appealing look.
But beneath its vintage-inspired exterior, the CFMoto 700CL-X packs some punch. Its beating heart is a 693cc parallel-twin engine, ensuring ample torque and performance for various riding scenarios.
Performance Specifications
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The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is a car that holds a special place in automotive history. It was designed to be more accessible than its counterpart, the iconic 300 SL, while still embodying luxury and performance. However, not every example of this model has had a beautiful life. One such example is a white 190 SL, which happens to be the eighth car assembled since production began in 1955. Although it is one of the earliest 190 SLs still intact today, its condition is not great. The WD Detailing team decided to see what they could do with this car without doing a full restoration. They started by vacuuming every inch where dust and debris had accumulated. Once the dirt was removed, they found that there wasn’t much rust and the car had been resprayed in different colors in the past. Next, the car’s exterior was pressure washed and the engine bay was cleaned. Although the condition of the engine is unknown, it is said that only a few mechanics in the United States can fix them. The entire car was then covered in snow foam for further exterior washing. The panels were clayed and polished to restore the paint. The 190 SL was officially unveiled at the New York Auto Show in 1954 and immediately made an impact. Its elegant design, with distinctive “eyebrow” wheel arches, was well-received. Underneath its beautiful exterior, the 190 SL featured a robust 1.9-liter inline-four engine. One of the most notable things about this model was its affordability compared to its more exclusive sibling, the 300 SL “Gullwing.” While the 300 SL was designed for motorsport excellence, the 190 SL was meant for open-top cruising and touring, making it accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts. Citroën is commemorating the 75th anniversary of its most iconic car, the 2CV. The 2CV was designed at Citroën’s design office in Paris and underwent testing at the La Ferté-Vidame facility. It was publicly unveiled at the Paris Motor Show on October 7, 1948. Throughout its exceptional career, a total of 5,114,969 2CVs were produced, including 1,246,335 2CV vans. The final 2CV rolled off the assembly line in Portugal on July 27, 1990, 42 years after its launch. THE ORIGINS OF THE 2CV: THE ‘TPV’ PROJECT The ‘TPV’ (Toute Petite Voiture or very small car) project was initiated in 1936 to provide an affordable and versatile car for people with low incomes. In 1937, the first roadworthy prototype of the TPV project was created. Weighing only 370 kg and equipped with a single headlight, it could carry up to four people and 50 kg of luggage, reaching a top speed of 31mph. Its remarkable comfort allowed it to transport a basket of eggs across a plowed field without breaking any of them. 250 pre-production models were meant to be unveiled at the 1939 Paris Motor Show, but the outbreak of World War II prevented this. Most of the built models were destroyed, with only four secretly kept at the Citroën Test Centre. A LEGENDARY CAR THAT HAS BECOME AN ICON OF THE MOTORING WORLD When production began in July 1949, the 2CV featured a 9 bhp, 375 cc, air-cooled, flat-twin engine, capable of reaching a top speed of 31mph. Citroën’s creation revolutionized the car industry, offering a versatile and affordable vehicle. Its distinctive body shape and appeal as a people’s car quickly made it popular. Its success was also due to its wide range of uses, removable benches, lightness, agility, comfort, and economical running costs, making it the most popular car in France. By 1950, there was a high demand for the 2CV, resulting in a waiting list of up to 6 years. Its avant-garde spirit and innovative technologies ensured its presence in the automotive world. The 2CV is a timeless model that has become a social phenomenon, embedded in popular culture and sought after by collectors worldwide. Even today, the 2CV can be seen on roads with various nicknames such as ‘Flying Dustbin,’ ‘Tin Snail,’ and ‘Ugly Duckling.’ These nicknames reflect the popularity and iconic status of this historic model. SEVERAL VERSIONS AND EPIC JOURNEYS AROUND THE WORLD There were ten special editions of the 2CV, launched in France and other European countries. These included models like the Spot, Charleston, and Cocorico. The 2CV underwent several changes over its lifetime, including the introduction of the 2CV van (2CV AU) in 1951 and the 2CV AZ in 1954, equipped with a 12 bhp engine and the famous centrifugal clutch. Thanks to its durability and easy maintenance, the 2CV became the vehicle of choice for adventurous journeys. It successfully completed challenging trips like the 10,252-mile Paris-Kabul-Paris Raid in 1970, the 8,388-mile Paris-Persépolis Raid in 1971, and the 4,970-mile Africa Raid from Abidjan to Tunis in 1973, all organized by Citroën. EIGHT ICONIC 2CVS PHOTOGRAPHED FOR THE OCCASION In celebration of the 75th anniversary, eight iconic 2CVs from Citroën’s collection were photographed at the Citroën Conservatoire, showcasing their unique styles: Timelapse videos are a popular pastime for many custom motorcycle enthusiasts. Watching the process of building a unique bike is just as exciting as seeing the finished product. This timelapse video from 46 Works, by Shiroh Nakajima, showcases the construction of a BMW R100RT custom build. Nakajima has previous experience creating timelapse videos featuring BMW motorcycles. In a previous installment, he concluded a 14-part series on a BMW R100RS. Now, he tackles the BMW R100RT, a vintage tourer from 1982. The build begins with a full disassembly, including the removal of the front fairing. Nakajima then modifies the subframe to slim down the tail and create a cleaner look. The long rear end is also shortened through cutting, welding, mocking-up, and final assembly. Next, Nakajima focuses on refurbishing the front and rear rims, repainting them in a glossy black finish. He also customizes the fuel cap by welding it into place. The front-end of the bike is rebuilt, including a fork overhaul, steering head refresh, and the installation of a new custom bracket for the headlight. Additionally, the front wheels, handlebars, gauge cluster, and single-housing headlight are all fitted. The brake system is overhauled, and the Bing carburetors receive some attention. The final step before the big reveal is installing the rear wheel. The video showcases the final minutes of the build, including the unveiling of the project and the sound of the bike. It marks another successful vintage BMW project for 46 Works. Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead |
