Updated: Today 12:09 p.m.

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The last time we spoke, I had shaped the Yamaha XSR900GP into a more manageable bike over distances, but it still needed a little more edge in the corners. First step? A set of Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires, which sit at the sportier end of the road spectrum, without going too far.

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The OE Bridgestone S23The tires are impressive to a point, but they meet their limits, particularly on the edge of the tire, while hours of abuse in hot conditions contributed to reasonable shoulder wear after 2000 miles of use .

After installing the Pirellis and giving them a quick break-in, there is a noticeable difference – but not where I expected. Yes, they feel snappy in hot conditions and offer an abundance of grip and feedback, but it’s actually in colder, wetter conditions that I felt the most benefit; whereas before the GP felt a little hesitant as grip deteriorated, it now feels planted no matter what the UK’s glorious weather might throw at it.

With the tire changeI also found some changes in the suspension adjustment make a welcome difference. I increased the preload a few clicks at the rear, to try and get a little more downforce under acceleration and use the extra grip, which works wonders.

This compresses the spring and lifts the rear slightly, which actually gives a slightly sharper feel up front – something I’ve long craved to combat the relatively long wheelbase and stable nature of the GP. On the other hand, the GP is now a bit tougher when it comes to normal road driving, but it’s a price worth paying when the perfect strip of tarmac presents itself.

I also softened the compression on the front to try and get a little more dive and load through the front. Small changes, but all make a big difference – especially since the stopping power isn’t brutal enough to upset the front end too much. As you read this article, I should have a set of EBC brake pads in these calipers, as I would still like to gain a little more bite in terms of stopping power.

Speaking of power, I was thinking of chasing ponies, but for the road this triple is always absolutely perfect, whether on cruise control on the A1 or against the throttle lock of a corner at the other. Forget the big numbers and focus on having fun.

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