Cold start and Tires questions

Recently took my 2009 Honda Shadow 750 to the dealer for a carb rebuild, tune up, new tires, etc

It's been garage kept and haven't been ridden in years. I figured the carb needed cleaning, etc because I've only had that done 1 time since biting bike in 2009. Only 3300 miles in it.

Question: prior to the service, trying to start the bike required alot of choke. Keep in mind it's 30 degree F where I live.

After the service, it starts up no problem with no choke. Same temperature. It's this due to the carb rebuild? Maybe the old one was gunked up causing the painful startup before the service?

Also do you think the new tires were a must? A mentioned they were the originals since 2009 but bike only has 3300 miles and has been garage kept.

Thanks