In my opinion your money could be spent in better ways. As suggested above, start with suspension. You aren't going to be smoking people at olds with your mild banshee but you will rip around no problem. The best money I spent for sand riding was extened a arms, handling and ride are way better. Upgraded lights is a smart play, hard to go fast at night if you can't see. 6 pack rack, carrying beers/drinks is important on long rides.