I just built my 363 stroker last year,mx setup. While the more you modify anything the less reliability you will have, they are still very reliable. Tbone and Burn363 both do XC racing with theirs. I race mine mx and Burns used to as well. The motors are very strong and they will hold up just fine for you. Since there isn't much cost difference, go for the 363 set up. I love mine. Like tbone said, the 38mm is plenty for XC racing. You don't need the 40mm. The bottom end will be more responsive with the 38.