It makes a world of difference if you run the bigger tires. I was lucky enough that a neighbor has a big shop press so didn't have to fabricate anything but there is a post in here somewhere about fabricating one pretty cheaply with bar stock and a threaded rod, and I'm pretty sure I read about just threaded rod and big washers/nuts.
If you run hills or mud you wont be happy without it. The manual guys are luckier on that, they can keep the powerband where they want without having to mess with the clutch. But it really is a pretty simple install. Just make sure to order an inner clutch cover gasket ahead of time in case you rip it you wont have to wait for a new one to come in.

 

I'm not really sure on changing the tires from stock, so this is probably a stupid question. But here it goes anyway. If I were to move to a 26" tire, do I have to buy new rims or will the 26" tire fit on the stock rims. Also, would there be an advantage to going to ITP rims and staying with stock size tires when it comes to power?

Thanks,
Matt

 

You can fit 26 on a stock rim. If the new wheels are lighter than stock it would save some power, probably not a huge advantage though. I only added new wheels so I could switch between stock and 26 quicker. Some places don't allow an aggresive tread around here.