Tire Selection for Modified Superbikes

The Ultimate Variable

You can spend $20,000 modifying a superbike with carbon wheels, full exhaust systems, and Öhlins suspension, but it all means absolutely nothing if your tires cannot grip the road. The contact patch—an area roughly the size of a credit card—is the only thing keeping you upright.

Choosing the right rubber for your specific riding style is paramount.

Street vs. Track Compounds

Track-focused tires like the Pirelli Supercorsa SP or Michelin Power Cup 2 offer mind-bending levels of edge grip. However, they have a massive flaw for street riders: they require extreme heat to function. If you are riding on a cool morning or get caught in the rain, track tires can be dangerously slippery.

For 90% of street riders, a premium hypersport tire like the Michelin Road 6 or Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV is a vastly superior choice. They heat up instantly, perform brilliantly in the wet, and offer more grip than most riders will ever use on public roads.

Profile and Handling

Different tire brands use different profiles. A tire with a steep, V-shaped profile will make the bike 'fall' into corners incredibly quickly, making a heavy bike feel agile. A rounder, U-shaped profile offers more stability mid-corner and a more neutral turn-in.

Always match your tires to your environment. A custom build deserves the best rubber available.

"Tires are the single most important performance component on any motorcycle. Never skimp on rubber."