I really like my plot road 3's. I'm about 1700 miles in and have plenty of tread left. Great turn in and great in the wet. I was very impressed with the turn in considering he tire doesn't look like it had a very aggressive profile.
The f4i shock and springs are your cheapest options. I plan on doing the same thing to mine except I want to get everything revalved for the stiffer springs.
You have to consider what is more important, safe handling or more storage to further weigh down the bike?