BTA Off-Road Test:
Ducati Scrambler Icon Dark Goes Beyond the Pavement
The adventure begins with a roaring engine and an open road—or, in this case, a dusty off-road trail that tests both rider and machine. My latest journey took me from the bustling city of Bogotá, Colombia, through some of the country's most captivating terrain. Behind the handlebars of a 2025 Ducati Scrambler Icon Dark, I embarked on a day filled with tight passes, rugged trails, and unforgettable scenery.
This event was organized by Ducati Colombia and led by Nicolás Builes, whose expertise helped guide our group of 12 riders safely through the ever-changing terrain.
The Kickoff: Bella Suiza Ducati Store to La Calera
It all started in Bella Suiza, at Bogotá's iconic Ducati dealership. Our engines came to life after a quick briefing and final gear checks. The first stop was the Carulla supermarket in La Calera, a meeting point before heading off-road.
As is typical on Sundays, the main road was packed with cyclists, many riding in tight groups across the asphalt. Navigating between them required patience and precision and served as a warm-up for the challenges ahead.
The Real Adventure:
Off-Road to Guasca
The real fun began about 660 feet (200 meters) past Carulla, where we veered off the paved road and onto the dusty, sandy tracks leading behind La Calera Dam. This was my first time taking the Scrambler Icon Dark into the off-road territory, and I was eager to see how it handled the unpredictable terrain.
The route was a mix of sandy stretches, loose gravel, and unexpected rocky sections that looked like dried riverbeds. I braced for impact more than once, convinced I'd hit a boulder hard enough to do some damage—but the Scrambler took it in stride. Its lightweight build and steady throttle response made it easy to maneuver through technical sections without feeling overwhelmed.
We arrived in Guasca for a quick pit stop, refueling on water and snacks before pushing onward to Gachancipá.
Tonime Dam to Gachancipá
The next section followed the shoreline of Tonime Dam (also known as Guatavita Dam). This part of the ride was smoother, giving us a chance to open up the throttle and enjoy the open landscapes. The serenity of the water on one side and rolling hills on the other made for an unforgettable stretch of riding.
Crossing the highway in Gachancipá, we approached the final segment—one that would prove to be the most memorable.
The Final Push:
Suezca and the Unexpected
Leaving the highway behind, we rode alongside old train tracks, weaving through historic wooden rail foundations and crossing a few dark, narrow tunnels. The terrain varied between hard-packed dirt and looser gravel, making for a dynamic ride.
As we neared Suezca, the challenge ramped up. Steep 30-degree inclines and sharp switchbacks tested my skills—and my luck. There were moments when I thought I might lose control on the steep descents, but the Scrambler Icon Dark proved a trustworthy companion. That said, I did push my luck a little too far—one deep rut left me stuck, and I took a tumble. Thankfully, the bike and I walked away with nothing more than dirt and lessons learned.
Reflections on the Ride
This journey wasn't only a test of the Ducati Scrambler Icon Dark; I tested my adaptability. The bike's balance and predictable power delivery made it a great off-road partner, even for someone new to dirt riding. It conquered obstacles I thought wouldn't survive and gave me more confidence with each mile.
More than anything, this ride highlighted the importance of good leadership and a well-organized group. Nicolás Builes and the Ducati Colombia team ensured we had a well-structured route, a support truck, and guidance that made even the most challenging sections manageable.
By the time we rolled into Suezca, exhaustion mixed with exhilaration. We had tackled urban chaos, dusty backroads, high-altitude trails, and steep technical climbs—all in a single day. Looking around at the dust-covered faces of my fellow riders, it was clear we all felt the same thing:
It was a great adventure.
And remember:
Don’t just collect miles, collect memories.
Words by: Gab Parra – Photo Credits: Ducati Colombia Group
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