i would not cut the front springs, i cut down my hd fork legs by one inch, i had to use a large drill bit to open the inside up and drill a new dowel pin hole. if you already have stiff springs i would just put hd fork tubes in, delrin bushings and replace the steering steam ball bearings with tapered bearings. a stock 50 motor should pull you up in first gear, may have to get the revs up chop the throttle lean back and get back on it. the only time i havent seen this work was with my nephew, but hes only 85lbs, not enough wieght leaning back, so we taught him how to neutral drop which is another option for you.