cb550k tires

depends also on how much you want to spend. Dunlops will run big bucks for their GT501's but Continental Ultras aren't too much and are pretty sticky (depends on conditions, though).

wrench

yes, there is definitely a difference in grip as far as i've been able to feel while putting the tires onto rims; the real difference is probably in the construction of the tire's carcass. anybody really know offhand without resorting to a google search? also pirelli makes the sport demons--my brother has those on his '77 CB750 and he sez they're pretty sticky (but he doesn't ride that hard anymore, or that often).

if at first you don't succeed, use a bigger hammer