Ducati · 1962–1974
Ducati 250 Scrambler: history and buyer’s guide
The original Scrambler, built for the American market.
History
The Scrambler was built at the request of Berliner, Ducati’s American importer. The first version (1962–1967) used the narrow-case Monza engine with a hotter camshaft, a bigger carburettor and battery-less magneto ignition. Ducati sold it as a ‘4-in-1’ machine for road racing, short track, enduro and everyday use, with a racing kit in the box.
From 1968 it got the stronger wide-case engine and battery ignition, and from 1973 electronic ignition. European sales started in 1968. The Spanish firm MotoTrans built it under licence, and from 1973 some bikes had Spanish engines. Around 12,000 were made.
Key facts
| Engine | single, four-stroke, bevel-drive overhead camshaft |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 74 × 57.8 mm, 249 cc |
| Power | 18 to 30 hp, depending on year and version |
| Gearbox | four speeds, later five |
| Weight | 132 kg dry |
| Production | approx. 12,000 |
What to check when buying
- Narrow case or wide case? They are not interchangeable; the wide case is the smoother engine.
- Many Scramblers were used hard off-road. Check the frame for cracks and bends, and the rims for dents.
- From 1973 there may be a Spanish MotoTrans engine, sometimes with an Amal carburettor. Check this against the papers.
- Find out which ignition it has: magneto, battery and coil, or electronic.
- Listen to the bevel drive and ask about the crankshaft.
Nederlandse versie: Ducati 250 Scrambler in het Nederlands
SourcesWikipedia: Ducati 250 ScramblerWikipedia: Ducati Scrambler (original)
More English guides
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