Also, in LS104, the CPU ships use Hyperthrust. Of course, they have a knack for always using it in the tunnel/hill, which is why they always catch up with you there.

The key is to use this to your advatage, and try to get in front of them where they bump you in the rear and give you a huge boost (while slowing them down). This allows you to get through that section without wasting your own hyperthrust. The hardest part of this is trying to make sure you can control your ship and not smack into the top of the tunnel at it's apex.