The Pirelli vs. Metzeler merger is a silly distinction as they share R&D and manufacturing/engineering ideas and such.
What makes the Diablo a new type of tire is the way it is manufactured. It is the first tire to be manufactured by automation at a critical stage (forget which) but the result is a stronger and lighter tire. The Diablo Corsa is almost the same but it has more grip compound.
I used to run Metzeler's M1 then switched to the Diablo Corsa. Yes, you get only 70% of the mileage and they cost $30 more a set, but the results are well worth it, which means the tire is more stable at higher speeds, inspires loads more confidence. Makers you a better rider than your skill level may deserve. And lets you stay in your safe zone way longer than a Bridgestone.
Now, if you are just a commuter -- this may not be worth it, but if you do an odd trackday or ride aggressively then try the Corsas. It's a shame not to take advantage of the technology when it's there at such an easy price -- compared to all the expensive mods out there.
That is, tire technology advances are one of THE premiere factors that allow top racers to do what they are doing -- cutting lap records to shreads. And when the technology trickles down to the consumer -- man, it's almost a sin not to bite on it.
You want to expand your performance envelope -- the grippiest most stable tires will add more for less money than any other upgrade. Name one does more for less, if you can -- well, you just haven't tried these near racetrack spec treads yet. I'd rate this switch higher than changing sprockets or washer shims for the rear suspension as far as performance improvement goes.
Lastly, as to big feet and hard riding. Any one with this problem would do well to invest in a set of those multihole mounting plates which allow the foot pegs to be raised and lowered. Should take less than 10 minutes to switch from one to the other position.
