This post is directed at brand new 800SXR owners (you guys that have been in the sport for some time will probably find it conservative) that are considering adding a few modifications to your ski. My criteria were based on a balance of performance, reliability, warranty concerns, and of coarse dollars. After a bit of research (and a lot of help from Riva too) here is what I settled on for my initial run:

RIDE PLATE / INTAKE GRATE / PUMP SEAL / SPONSONS
I knew I wanted to take advantage of some mods here to get better performance along with improved handling. With a plate/grate combo I looked at stock vs. modified stock (shaving the plate and removing grate middle bar) vs. new parts. I got a lot of feedback on the modified stock and for those on a tight budget it is probably the best option. I finally decided to go for the upgrade parts and settled on the R&D Plate and Aquavin Grate (standard, not pro) combo. Chose this over the Worx combination because it was a bit less expensive and the feedback I was getting didn't really separate them (Btw - use the BLUE loctite, not the RED if you ever want to get them off easily again after installation). The pump seal was an inexpensive part that prevents cavitations in your pump housing. Not sure if the sponsons were worth it in my particular application, but the $100 spent was not wasted either.

IMPELLER
Man, this was a real education. Trying to do research on this was tough due to the fact a recommended prop is dependent on so many variables. Since I was going with bolt on performance (no major engine work) my ski sort of fell into the light mod category. Riva tech support (Bubba is great if you can ever get him on the phone) helped me settle on the SOLAS 14/23 prop for best overall performance.

PIPE
This was something I was going back and forth on - that is until I rode a ski with one installed! My choice was the Factory Pipe (WET) model - wouldn't recommend the dry pipe unless you are willing to modify your hood cover and are planning to do more extensive mods than just bolt-on stuff. Believe me when I say you will definitely notice the difference with this pipe, especially combined with the prop/plate/grate upgrades. The pipe kit also includes the temp bypass module which provides 6 degree advance timing (works with 2004/05 models; can't use in 2003 models, you have to install the R&D timing advance plate).

ARRESTOR(S)
I was going to save a few $$$ by modifying the OEM stock piece by removing the rubber seal to improve airflow. This is a good low-budget option if you are not going to add a pipe. I am convinced, however, that an upgrade to the R&D model (my choice) or equivalent to increase airflow is best if adding the above pipe.

BILGE
Depending on what you plan on doing a second bilge may or may not be needed. Since I will be doing a lot of surf riding as well as some freestyle stuff I felt like the additional bilge was a smart move. A note when installing the billet - I would recommend placing on the side just above the water line where you can easily glance and verify the bilge is working.

FLOW-CONTROL VALVE
Helps control water flow and improves performance. Feedback I received was a decent (low-cost) option.

SPRING POLE & VANITY STUFF
Added the spring pole tensioner (inexpensive mod) that really helps with fatigue (bar gets heavy after riding a long time).

I decided to throw in a few vanity extras. The Blowsion billet gas cap and exhaust nozzle look pretty cool. Also changed out the hood latch to give more strength in the surf. Contacted Exotic Designs (right here in my backyard) and they hooked me up with some very cool graphics for surprisingly low cost. Check them out! I am probably going to do a few more things to the appearance later when I can afford to custom paint it.

Hope this post helps someone...

You ever in the stuart area?? I would like to ride one with a wet pipe before making a decision on what to buy. ridden a sxr with the dry pipe and OOHHH MMMYYYY!!!!!! I have an 05 with the timing bumped for now. GPS was 49.1mph on mine was mid 48s before timing bump