Research research research
You're already on the right track. Lots of reading.
I'd say start with the exhaust and go for some higher rpm clutch springs and torque spring. Clutch springs are the 3 small ones about an inch or two long and are also called fly springs. They only change the initial take off. 0 to 5 or 10 mph.
The torque spring is much larger and it only has 1. It can be called contra, contrast or compression spring. They are all the same thing. From what I understand it helps with uphill acceleration by adjusting the tension on the belt, thus changing the gear ratio.
The third factor in the CVT is the roller/slider weights. These control the movement of the variator. The variator is a movable drive pulley/face. The more roller weight the sooner the belt moves up the face and changes the gear ratio. Too much weight and it's like continuous short shifting. You'll never reach the ideal RPM. The opposite is to little weight. You'll be going too high in the RPMs. Past the ideal RPM range, also called the power band. Aftermarket exhaust will give you great power increase but will also change the power band. Which is why most aftermarket exhausts come with lighter roller weights.
I am still learning myself. There some far more experienced members on here that have helped me directly or indirectly. What I mean is sometimes it's best to search for your question/answer before you start a post. Chances are someone else has already been through exactly what you're going through.
Good luck man