Review: Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC2 V2

The Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC2 has been updated for 2013, and I am glad I fitted a set to my R6. For easier identification, the updated Diablo Supercorsa has an additional "V2" suffix to its name.

The Tyre
Diablo Supercorsas have been known for their excellent dry grip at breakneck cornering speeds, if you need a reference for that, go watch WSS races. The Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC series are race compound tyres, the same tyres that WSS race teams are using for their race bikes.

On first look, you would notice two distinct differences from the previous Diablo Supercorsas. Firstly, there is an embossed name on each side of the slick shoulder of the rear tyre, at the contact area where you are at maximum lean.

Secondly, and the most obvious change is the updated tread design, termed the single element tread design. This new tread design looks like streaks of lightning, and are more concentrated towards the centre of the tyre.

Grip & Handling
With less tread on the side of the tyres, the "naked" area of the slick shoulders are now 24% wider than the previous Diablo Supercorsas. The new Diablo Supercorsa provides a larger contact patch and increased grip at steep lean angles, which is an impressive update to a tyre that has been known to provide impeccable grip while leaned over.

The new 120/70 ZR17 front tyre has a 4 mm wider profile than its predecessor, which makes the front end feel slightly more predictable at maximum lean.

Practicality
From my own experience, the harder Diablo Supercorsa SC2 compound works well in Southeast Asia's hot climate. Pirelli also manufactures a SP version of the Diablo Supercorsa, which is a slightly more street oriented tyre. The Diablo Supercorsa SP favours tyre longevity over grip, and is still capable of handling a few track days. Personally, I would recommend the SC2 compound, to have the best grip available when you need it the most, especially at blistering speeds on the race track.

I use SC2s on the streets too, with a higher tire pressure to reduce tyre wear. Something like 32 PSI front and 29 PSI rear seems to suit my street riding style. My last pair of Diablo Supercorsa SC2s lasted me about 10,000 km, including 5 track days over 6 months of use. Though I must admit the grip on the last track day was not very confidence inspiring.

In the wet, I would be very careful with Diablo Supercorsas, including the SP version. On a wet track, Diablo Supercorsas should not even be on your consideration list, they are horrible in wet conditions. You should be fine with them on the street though, if you ride sensibly. Just use less lean angle (you shouldn't be scraping knee pucks on the street anyway), leave more room for braking, and you will finish the ride safe and sound.

Price
A 120/70 ZR17 front tyre and a 180/60 ZR17 rear tyre cost me SGD$550, including installation and balancing at HKL. Yes, it is expensive, but I would rather pay the difference to get the best grip that I can afford, than to spend more money repairing my bike after lowsiding it with a mediocre tyre.

Conclusion
If you are looking for the best track oriented tyre, look no further. If you are already a Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa fan, then get yourself the updated tyres and feel the difference. Don't judge based on my opinions, look at the WSS racers, and judge for yourselves.

RB Rating: 10 / 10

Ride safe.