Justin Fivella: Associate Editor
Miles Ridden: 2,450
Modifications: Pirelli Supercorsa SP tires
I've always preferred to run the softest tires possible on the street. Don't get me wrong-I'm not running slick race tires. But, I've been known to use some race-compound rain tires on occasion.
It's always been my motto to forgo some traction while the tires are cold in favor of ultimate grip once they're up to temp. Thankfully, the OEM rubber on the R6 was more than sufficient for both hitting the canyons and commuting to work. But when it was time to replace the rubbers it just so happened that I had several trackdays planned. With that on the horizon I had the perfect excuse to shod the R6 with some really sticky-icky rubber.
In search of ultimate grip I contacted Pirelli and asked for the best of the best. The response came as a set of Supercorsa SP tires. At the time I knew little about these sticky buns other than the recommended street/track pressures and that they'd adhere like grandpa's denture cream.
Justin was all wrapped up...
Justin was all wrapped up with the idea of using tire warmers. He got a little confused though.
No less than 25 miles later and I was hot-lapping the Streets of Willow on the new Pirellis-and they worked great. In fact, they offered more grip than I'd ever experienced and never once did they squirm.
After returning to the daily grind of commuting I prepared to remove my "race rubber" for something more appropriate for the street. Thankfully though (and much to my surprise) the Supercorsa SPs are street tires. That's right. The Supercorsa SPs come stock on several Ducatis, so you know they're a safe bet on and off the track.
Fast-forward nearly 1,000 street miles later and the Supercorsa SPs are wearing great, not to mention their grip when cold is more than ample. However, once up to temp, look out! I've yet to experience tires this good and unless someone can better these beasts, I know what I'll be replacing them with when they eventually wear out.
Coming Next Month: Fueling computer, air filter and dyno tune