So, after some reading around on here, it seems like I might be losing some power from the suspension forks. I'm getting some kevlar-lined slicks in a few days and I will be getting a rack and pack for it a week or so after that. I figured a good upgrade for this thing will be to get rid of the mushy front suspension.

Also, I'd like to change out the stem (I think that's what it's called... sorry I'm a newb) to something that will set the handle bars a bit lower. I want to be able to lean forward a bit more.

I was searching around on here and I found a post that said this particular bike ('04) was very upgradeable. Where the hell do I look for these 'upgrades'? How would I go about finding out what will fit and what won't? What specs (lengths, diameters, etc.) do I look at when changing out these two things?

I really appreciate all of the help guys! You've been great so far!