I agree that it is not the quad that makes you comeptive... its mostly the rider. I can beat 450s all day on mine, my motor is mostly stock with pipes, cool head, and a single carb. For suspension i have 2+1 arms, -2 swinger, and a steering stabilzer. You sound like you have the right idea... just get more suspension to make it easier to ride. Id go with 2+1 arms and shocks made for the banshee.