Model: Alexandra Zeresa
The upgrade parade:
Tires: Michelin
Doing a trackday with your street tires is plain silly. Once the pace picks up you'll want the confidence that only sticky tires provide, and the new Power One tires worked impeccably. Technically, these could be used on the street, and their dual compound construction (softer on the sidewalls than in the center) would let you get away with doing so, but their ideal environment is the racetrack. They didn't budge during our testing, and unlike the street rubber, these tires' grip levels weren't reached.
Michelin Power One tires
$local dealer
www.michelinmotorcycle.com
Suspension: Öhlins
The quick and obvious conclusion we came to is that stock suspension just isn't that good. It's fine for street riding and an occasional trackday, but if you're looking for the best ride possible, a rear shock and fork internals are imperative. The shock firmed up the rear enough to make the front end more planted, while the fork internals controlled the reactions to bumps and braking inputs with more precision than the stock forks.
Combined, these upgrades allowed for more speed with tighter and more controlled lines.
Öhlins TTX shock $1300 (plus $800 for Graves tune)
Öhlins fork kit $1500 (plus $800 for Graves tune)
www.ohlinsusa.com
www.gravesport.com
Fueling: Dynojet
The Power Commander V is an updated version of the popular fuel box we've all come to know and respect. One of its coolest features is the new AutoTune accessory that essentially takes care of creating the perfect fuel map. Once installed, the PCV and AutoTune work together and constantly alter the fuel map for the optimum air/fuel ratio.
Power Commander V: $359
AutoTune: $249
www.powercommander.com
Exhaust: Graves
The full titanium exhaust knocked off 11 pounds while adding over ten horsepower. OK, so this pipe is super expensive, but it comes in stainless steel at a much more reasonable price.
Full titanium/carbon fiber exhaust
$2559
www.gravesport.com
Rearsets: Graves
Though perhaps not at the top of many wish lists, a set of fully adjustable rearsets can easily be one of the most important mods. Whether for long street rides or quick trackday sprints, the ability and necessity to adjust your riding position can mean crucial comfort for one and precious seconds to the other.
Adjustable rearsets
$749
www.gravesport.com