The GT is also way overgeared, running only 4000 rpm at 70 mph in fifth, but that just makes for a relaxed cruising pace. The 56.1-inch wheelbase is short, so steering is nearly instantaneous and the fork settings deliver a firm ride. Out back the shocks feel spot-on for my 155-pound frame, and the dual 320mm disc, two-piston front brakes feel effortlessly powerful.
Peak horsepower at 8000 rpm is accompanied by a trademark rumble from the pipes, but if you order the factory-approved termignoni exhaust with ecu and airbox like we did that glorious basso profundo will have you weeping tears of joy (though the $1213 price won't). If you can afford it the gt is a beautiful motorcycle and a huge bag of fun-just watch for the mirrors vibrating loose.
Ducati's reinterpretation of a classic is more sporting than triumph's, but both reflect the era that inspired them. Though the scrambler is more cruisernatured, both can quite arguably be dubbed standards, if nothing else. But that's just semantics-at the end of the day it's all about the grin they leave on your face.
'08 Triumph Bonneville Scrambler
Suggested Base Price: $7999
Standard Colors: red/white, green/
silver, orange/silver
Engine
Type: 865cc, air-cooled parallel twin
Valve Train: DoHc, 4 valves per cylinder
Bore X Stroke: 90 x 68mm
Compression: 9.2:1
Fuel System: twin carburetors
Transmission/Final Drive: 5-speed/chain
Chassis
Weight: 451 lb. (dry)
Seat Height: 32.5 in.
Fuel Capacity: 4.4 gal.
Wheelbase: 59.1 in.
Rake/Trail: 27.8 degrees/4.13 in.
Front Suspension: 41mm fork
Rear Suspension: Dual dampers,adjustable preload
Front Brake: 310mm disc, 2-pistoncaliper
Rear Brake: 255mm disc, 2-piston caliper
'08 Ducati GT1000
Suggested Base Price: $10,495
Standard Colors: Gray, red
Engine
Type: 992cc, air-cooled, 90-degree l-twin
Valve Train: OHC, 2 valves per cylinder,desmodromic actuation
Bore X Stroke: 94 x 71.5mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Fuel System: Efi, 45mm throttle bodies
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/chain
Chassis
Weight: 407 lb. (dry)
Seat Height: 32.6 in.
Fuel Capacity: 3.9 gal.
Wheelbase: 56.2 in.
Rake/Trail: 24 degrees/3.6 in.
Front Suspension: 43mm fork, 4.7 in. Travel
Rear Suspension: Dual dampers
Front Tire: 120/70-17 tube
Rear Tire: 180/55-17Front Brake: two 320mm discs,2-piston calipers
Rear Brake: 245mm disc, 1-piston caliper