Every stock bike I have had is Step one, 1 tooth smaller on the front. But maybe cause I am about 220. With that and lowered my stock 2000 ran 9.9s, I used to have a katana 750 that redlined at 120 I could beat most 1100s to 300'.
Really all depends on your riding style and needs. I always like low end torque more than top end. And a lowered and or stretched bike can take a lot more gear than a stock height.