Hi guys & Gals.

I am planning on putting my 2003 ss1000ds on the track at Loudin this summer after 2 more weekends with Penguins' 900ss bikes. I had a blast with their Duc, but I got eaten alive on the straight aways. There's nothing more frustrating than passing the same guys every lap just to have them pass me back on the straight on the way to the finish line. So I feel it is time to step up and track the 1000 which seems to have alot more power top end than the 900's.

I am planning on Sharkskins and a Dube rear cowl from BCM for weight reduction and a clean set of race plastics. From what I understand I am allowed to lighten my bike as low as 350 pounds. Starting at 415 pounds I have alot of room to shrink. I have put on Sil Motor carbon fiber cans which have shaved around 16 pound off right away. I am now trying to figure out the "best bang for the buck" in lightening and perfomance mods. I'm not too sure I want to spend $2,500+ on lighter wheels, or $1,600 on a carbon fiber gas tank, but what can you guys tell me about different clutch set ups, inexpensive carbon parts or what other things I can change that would help me make a reasonably competetive machine. Another consideration is that this bike will be changed over on Mondays to be road worthy until the next track day. At least for this season.

Any ideas on this topic would be greatly apreciated.

Thanks, Ted Duncan