No i didnt not try a different spring. The spring will lower your clutch engagement but it was only by like 2-300 rpms. I can deal with it but it's a pain.
The problem with reverse isnt a huge one, but when you put your stock machine in reverse and give it throttle, the engagement is nice and smooth. Since the clutch kit raises the engagement, reverse can be a little jerky! I have gotten used to it and it's not always bad but it is noticable.
BUT i dont think that's any reason NOT to put the clutch kit in. I have really noticed a huge difference especially sand hill climbing that it does not take as much RPM's to go up a steep Gravel/Sand hill as it did stock.