the 18's might be ok for the mx but i agree not much good for woods riding. i have been running the 22" bear claws but they are kind of a heavy tire with not much traction in the turns. on the straight away they grip hard and they last almost literally forever. i have used a single carb before and i didnt like it, seemed like it wouldnt let the bike rev out like it should and it always wanted to be lean in the mid range throttle even with an eek needle and i think thats the richest you can get.. could grind a custom needle but to me was easier to go with dual carbs. i like the 28pwk's they have been working well for me with an airbox with no lid and a foam filter. i gotta have the box in muddy woods riding. if your not ported you would probobly just stick with stock carbs