best setup i had with stock 00 sxr 700 was what mr viper told me to do.reed spacers,142.5 mains in all three cylinders,needles in #3 position with both washers on top.bored the stock can,and changed the helix to an 8bvfa 51/43.put the stock carbs back on with this setup, and give that a try.i wouldnt mess with the head gasket personally.if you want it to hook hard, then remove the top spacers in the transfer rods, and adjust the springs on the rear shocks, and or full rate adjuster until the spaces are equal on the transfer rods top and bottom.it will ride smoother in the bumps, and hook 10 times better than stock.the front shock in the rear skid is what takes the big bumps,and the rear is your comfort.hope this helps.