GS Trophy Challange Bike Prep

[HalfPlate]

A fellow ADV Rider and I will be competing in the 2012 GS Trophy Qualifying at the end of September and I wanted to hit up the knowledge bank that is the GSpot for some advice. I am looking for advice on tires, things to remove, things to add, etc....

Here is the fun part!! -- If you had to set-up a 07 GS1200 for 3 days of off road torture what would you do?

1. most aggressive tires -- off road only, mud, gravel, and woods riding
2. weight -- obviously the panniers are out, but what else should I pull off?
3. add on -- my bike is just about stock, I do have engine guards but that's it in the way of protection, should I add stump guards and the rest for 3 days riding?
4. misc off road prep -- I am sure there will be water crossing and the like, what are the known problem areas on the GS with this type riding?


-Thanks in Advance
Halfplate

And don't worry plenty of before, during, and after pictures will be posted.