The Sled runs the Pirelli MT60 RS, a scrambler-style tyre that looks tough but leans toward tarmac. The GS 1250 wears Michelin Anakee Adventure tyres, purpose-built for serious terrain and long-distance touring.
So why the split? Let’s get into it.
Not All Dual-Sports Are Cut from the Same Cloth On paper, both bikes fall into the same category. But in the real world, they couldn’t be more different.The Ducati Desert Sled is a retro-inspired scrambler designed for street fun and the occasional trail run. Think urban performance with a taste of dirt.
The BMW GS 1250, however, is a full-blown adventure machine — engineered for long-haul rides, off-road exploration, and global touring.
That contrast in purpose is exactly why they get very different tyre treatments from Pirelli and Michelin.
Why Ducati Went with the Pirelli MT60 RS
The Pirelli MT60 RS is a dual-sport tyre that fits perfectly into the scrambler scene. It looks rugged, with blocky tread patterns that give off-road vibes, but it’s really designed for confident performance on the road.Ducati chose the MT60 RS for the Desert Sled because: It offers strong on-road grip thanks to its silica-rich compound. The tread, while aggressive-looking, is tuned more for tarmac than trails. It can still handle gravel roads, light dirt, and uneven surfaces — just not hardcore off-road terrain. It supports the Sled’s identity as a stylish, versatile street machine with some trail muscle. In short, Pirelli built the MT60 RS for exactly the kind of riding most Sled owners do — city, twisties, and a few unpaved adventures.
The BMW GS 1250 Gets Michelin Anakee Adventure Tyres
The Michelin Anakee Adventure is built for riders who demand versatility, traction, and mileage.It’s the tyre of choice for the BMW GS 1250, and for good reason. BMW GS riders often tour across varied terrain, from highways to broken mountain paths. The Anakee Adventure: Has deeper grooves and a more aggressive tread than the MT60 RS. Offers superior grip on dirt, gravel, and even muddy sections. Features Michelin’s dual-compound tech for a balance of cornering grip and long-term durability. Handles well on-road while giving riders the confidence to venture far off it. These are adventure tyres, not scrambler-style fashion pieces. They’re chosen because the GS 1250 isn’t just for looks — it’s for real-world exploration.
Two Bikes. Two Missions. Two Tyres That Get It. The Pirelli MT60 RS and the Michelin Anakee Adventure represent two philosophies of what “dual-sport” really means.
Ducati’s approach leans on the scrambler culture — looks, style, and versatility. BMW’s approach is about functional performance and readiness for any challenge the road — or lack of one — might throw at you.
Both tyre brands, Pirelli and Michelin, have delivered the perfect match for each bike. And if you ever forget what kind of rider a bike is built for — just look at the tyres. They’ll tell you the truth.