At the start of any non-Boss level, you can get an extra boost of speed out of the start gate. Quickly hold Right just before the counter says "START!". This may require a few attempts to get the correct timing. Also, use the following for a speed boost on Sky Canon. Choose any character that is fast. Select the Sky Canon Act 2 stage. Once you find a fan that blows you to get more speed, go back near the fan. Wait a few seconds and their speed will increase. After this process, turn around. This is useful with Tails because he starts by walking, then jogging, and finally flying.