Ducati motorcycles are known for their performance, design, and Italian craftsmanship. While many of their high-end models come with premium price tags, there are several affordable Ducati motorcycles that offer first-time buyers the opportunity to own a piece of Ducati heritage without breaking the bank. These bikes provide the perfect balance of power, handling, and style, making them ideal for new riders or those upgrading from smaller bikes.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top affordable Ducati motorcycles that are great for first-time buyers. We’ll focus on bikes that offer a mix of value, performance, and user-friendly features, so you can make an informed decision as you take your first steps into the Ducati world.
1. Ducati Scrambler Icon: A Perfect Entry-Level Bike
The Ducati Scrambler Icon is one of the most popular choices for new riders, offering an ideal combination of affordability, style, and versatility. It belongs to Ducati’s Scrambler family, which is known for its retro-inspired design and modern performance features. The Icon stands out as a bike that is both beginner-friendly and capable of delivering a fun riding experience.
Key Features:
Engine: The Scrambler Icon is powered by an 803cc air-cooled L-twin engine that delivers 73 horsepower. This engine offers plenty of power for city commuting and weekend adventures without being overwhelming for new riders.
Lightweight Frame: Weighing just 410 pounds, the Scrambler Icon is easy to handle, especially for riders who are still building confidence on two wheels. Its lightweight frame makes it agile in traffic and easy to maneuver on twisty roads.
User-Friendly Riding Position: The upright riding position and comfortable seat make the Scrambler Icon an ideal choice for beginners. Whether you’re riding in the city or taking a longer trip, this bike is designed to keep you comfortable for miles.
Affordable Price: Priced competitively, the Scrambler Icon is one of the most affordable Ducati motorcycles on the market, making it an excellent option for first-time buyers who want to experience the Ducati brand without a high price tag.
The Scrambler Icon’s combination of style, performance, and affordability makes it one of the best entry-level Ducati motorcycles available today.
2. Ducati Monster 797: Classic Naked Bike Design
The Ducati Monster 797 is another fantastic option for first-time buyers, particularly those who are drawn to the classic naked bike design. The Monster series has been a staple of Ducati’s lineup for decades, known for its minimalist design, exposed engine, and aggressive styling. The Monster 797, in particular, offers an approachable entry point for new riders.
Key Features:
803cc Engine: Like the Scrambler Icon, the Monster 797 is powered by an 803cc L-twin engine, providing a smooth and responsive power delivery. With 73 horsepower on tap, the Monster 797 offers enough power to keep things exciting without overwhelming novice riders.
Ergonomics for Beginners: The Monster 797 features an upright riding position with wide handlebars, which enhances comfort and control for new riders. Its seat height of 32.3 inches makes it accessible for a wide range of body types, allowing riders to easily plant their feet on the ground.
Iconic Monster Styling: The exposed trellis frame, minimalist bodywork, and aggressive stance make the Monster 797 one of the most visually striking bikes in its class. It’s a great way to experience the iconic Monster design at an affordable price point.
Lightweight and Agile: Weighing in at around 425 pounds, the Monster 797 is light enough for easy maneuverability in tight city streets while still providing stability on faster rides.
The Monster 797 is a well-rounded option for first-time Ducati buyers who want a bike with iconic looks, balanced performance, and an approachable price.
3. Ducati Scrambler Sixty2: The Lightweight Urban Commuter
For those who want a smaller, lighter bike for city riding, the Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 is a fantastic choice. As the smallest and most affordable model in the Scrambler lineup, the Sixty2 is designed to be easy to handle, fun to ride, and perfect for urban environments. Its smaller engine and lightweight design make it particularly suitable for beginner riders or those who prefer a more relaxed riding experience.
Key Features:
399cc Engine: The Scrambler Sixty2 is powered by a 399cc L-twin engine that produces 40 horsepower, making it the most beginner-friendly engine in Ducati’s lineup. While it’s less powerful than other models, the Sixty2’s lightweight frame and manageable power delivery make it an excellent bike for new riders.
Compact Size: Weighing just 403 pounds, the Sixty2 is one of the lightest Ducati models available. Its compact size and low seat height of 31.1 inches make it easy for shorter riders to handle and control, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Urban Versatility: The Scrambler Sixty2 is designed for urban riding, with its nimble handling and compact dimensions making it a breeze to weave through traffic and navigate tight city streets. Its retro styling also gives it plenty of personality, making it a stylish choice for daily commuting.
Affordable Entry Point: As one of the most affordable Ducati motorcycles, the Sixty2 offers a great entry point for riders who want to experience Ducati’s design and engineering without spending too much. It’s a fantastic choice for beginners who are looking for a reliable, stylish commuter bike.
The Scrambler Sixty2’s combination of lightweight handling, approachable power, and affordable price makes it a top pick for first-time buyers who want a city-friendly Ducati.
4. Ducati Multistrada 950: The Adventure-Touring Option
For first-time buyers interested in adventure touring, the Ducati Multistrada 950 is an excellent choice that combines affordability with the versatility of a dual-purpose bike. The Multistrada 950 is designed for riders who want to explore both on and off-road terrain without sacrificing comfort or performance.
Key Features:
937cc Engine: The Multistrada 950 is powered by a 937cc Testastretta L-twin engine that produces 113 horsepower. While this engine offers more power than other beginner models, its smooth power delivery and wide torque band make it manageable for new riders who are comfortable with larger bikes.
Adventure-Ready Features: The Multistrada 950 comes equipped with long-travel suspension, adjustable riding modes, and a comfortable seat designed for long-distance travel. Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or hitting some light trails, this bike is ready for any adventure.
Rider Aids and Technology: Ducati’s Multistrada models are known for their advanced technology, and the 950 is no exception. It comes with features such as traction control, ABS, and customizable riding modes, which help make the bike more accessible for newer riders.
Comfort for Long Rides: The upright riding position and wide handlebars provide excellent comfort, making the Multistrada 950 a great option for long-distance travel. The adjustable windscreen also adds to the comfort, protecting riders from wind fatigue on highways.
While the Multistrada 950 comes at a slightly higher price point than other models on this list, it’s still one of the more affordable Ducati motorcycles in the adventure-touring category, offering exceptional value for riders who want a versatile, adventure-ready bike.
5. Ducati SuperSport: The Sporty, Everyday Bike
If you’re a first-time buyer looking for a bike that offers sporty performance without sacrificing everyday usability, the Ducati SuperSport is an excellent choice. It combines the looks and performance of a sportbike with the comfort and practicality of a more versatile ride.
Key Features:
937cc Engine: Like the Multistrada 950, the SuperSport is powered by a 937cc Testastretta L-twin engine. With 110 horsepower, the SuperSport delivers enough power to satisfy experienced riders while remaining manageable for newcomers.
Sporty Yet Comfortable: Unlike more aggressive sportbikes, the SuperSport has a more relaxed riding position, making it comfortable for longer rides and daily commutes. The bike’s adjustable windscreen and ergonomic seat provide additional comfort, while still delivering the excitement of a Ducati sportbike.
Rider Aids: The SuperSport comes with modern rider aids, such as traction control, ABS, and selectable riding modes, helping new riders feel more confident in a variety of conditions.
The Ducati SuperSport is ideal for riders who want a bike that offers sporty performance without compromising on comfort and usability, making it a great entry point into Ducati’s sportbike lineup.
Conclusion
Ducati may be known for its high-performance motorcycles, but there are plenty of affordable Ducati motorcycles available for first-time buyers. Whether you’re looking for a versatile Scrambler, a classic Monster, or an adventure-ready Multistrada, Ducati offers a range of models that cater to beginners while delivering the performance and style the brand is famous for.
By choosing one of these entry-level Ducati motorcycles, first-time buyers can experience the thrill of riding a Ducati without the steep price tag, all while enjoying a bike that’s easy to handle, stylish, and built to last.