I got a hotrods crank on mine It has been reliable so far had it in since about September. As for pistons, Wiseco 795 is what I have. They have an excellent reputation. I Have run it hard with 180 compression using vp c-12 fuel and castor 927 and it runs great. Mine is set up for trail riding with PT mid pipes. Pipes will depend on your riding style. The biggest improvement I saw was the porting I had done. They port the cylinders for the new extended stroke and it really compliments the motor. That can also be modified to your riding style and how you want the power to come on, lightswitch or broad and smooth! Give me a PM if you want the name of the guy that did mine. And bore out only as much as is necessary otherwise you are taking life from the cylinders IMO. But ask around alot of good people on here you should get a bunch of good advice.