Hello, I have owned the 96 tiger for four years and put over 15,000 miles on it. I would advise nothing but the Metzler Tourance tires for the bike. I have ran on Brigestones and the Michelin T-66. The Tourance tires are more money but well worth it when you factor in the preformance and life you get out of the tire. I rode on the rear for 8500 miles! I have never gotten that much mileage out of a dual sport tire. As for the forks... I thought the forks were to soft for me too so I explored my options. The easiest solution was for me was to put shims under the fork caps and lower the forks in the clamps 3/4 of an inch. This stiffened up the front suspension and helped the bikes handeling in the corners. This solution provided good results and didnt cost anything! You can use different fork oil also. I hope this helps, Good luck.