I'm running a 1x10 drivechain this year which should eliminate the chain suck I struggled so badly with last year. With less components and moving parts the single front chainring means there is less to go wrong! A single speed would be the ultimate extreme, but it won't be the fastest way around a race course.
Mud tyres like the Maxxis Beaver are great if the conditions are really boggy and grim. However, they will be slower on open fireroads. Taking the gamble on lightweight race tyres might seem tempting, but the time gained will be nothing compared to what you lose when a puncture strikes. So I compromise with a middle ground solution. At the moment I'll be going with a Rocket Ron on the front and a Fast Trak Control on the rear - but I'm watching the weather forecast....
Make sure your grips are fitted firmly, if it rains and they start to slip you'll struggle for control especially in muddy conditions.
If possible fit new brake pads! I wore a set down to the pistons in one enduro and I've frequently burnt through pads before the end of a race. Once you've lost your brakes you'll lose all confidence in technical sections and haemorrhage time. Sintered brake pads don't offer the same bite as organic but are more durable so will last longer in tough conditions.
Finally a GPS or computer is useful for keeping an eye on your progress and that critical cut off time for the final lap.
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