Let me tell you how I tested these Diablo Rosso 2 tires start to finish. Got my hands on a pair for my regular Suzuki last month, figured why not give ’em a real thrashing before telling you guys about it.
First Impressions Straight Outta the Box
Unboxed ’em in my garage – damn these things look aggressive. That zigzag tread pattern shouts “fast” right away. Measured the tread depth with my cheapo gauge: front’s at 3.5mm, rear 4mm. Not bad for fresh rubber. Weighed ’em too – couple pounds lighter than my old Battleaxes. Makes sense for sporty tires.
Mounting Drama at Tony’s Shop
Took ’em down to Tony’s spot Tuesday morning. “These Pirellis?” he grunts, scratching his beard. “Gonna fight me during mounting.” Sure enough:
- Front tire fought like hell getting seated – took three tries with the machine
- Had to use extra lube for the rear bead
- Balancing took way longer than usual
Tony cussed the whole damn time. Cost me extra $20 for the hassle.
The Scary First Ride
Morning after installation, roads were cold and slightly damp. Holy shit these felt like plastic:
- First left turn outta my neighborhood – front end washed out for a split second
- Took corner at 30mph that I normally do at 45 – asshole puckered
- Braking felt vague, like stepping on wet sponge
Felt like riding on damn banana peels first 15 minutes. Needed serious warm-up time.
Dry Performance – Where These Babies Shine
Afternoon sun baked the asphalt – totally different story:
- Got that “magic zone” after 15 minutes hard riding
- Took sweeping highway ramp at 80mph – bike stuck like glued
- Flicked through S-curves like nothing – responds to butt shifts
This is where Rosso 2’s earn their price tag. That sudden confidence? Felt like Pirelli flipped a switch in there. Steering’s stupid precise when hot.
Pushing Luck When It Rained
Got caught in surprise downpour Thursday – perfect test:
- First 10 minutes were sketchy – felt twitchy over painted lines
- Moderate rain at 50mph? Handled surprisingly steady
- Standing water still spooked me – hydroplaned for microsecond twice
Not totally awful in wet, but wouldn’t trust ’em in monsoon season. Better than old Dunlops though.
After 800 Miles – Good and Bad
Couple weeks later:
- Rear squared off slightly from highway commuting
- Front still looks surprisingly fresh
- Tread sipes showing minor feathering already
Here’s the real talk:
Would I buy ’em again? Hell yes – for weekend canyon carving.
Daily commute? Not worth the money or wear.
Track days? Baby Rosso Corsas cost just bit more honestly.
Final word? Great for Sunday rippers who ride hard when dry. Commuters/rain riders should keep looking. And for god’s sake – let those bastards warm up!