Suspension Tutorial?

Would anyone mind providing a suspension 101 for the middle-aged and overweight?

2010 Tiger 1050.

Front suspension.

I get that there is rebound and compression adjustment. I get that there is preload adjustment.

But...what do these things actually mean. And, not only what do they actually mean...but what does one actually feel?

Do I want more rebound? Or more compression? What will I feel with which?

What will less preload mean?

I spend a lot of time finding with setup when it comes to positions of clutch or levers, handlebar rake etc...but never suspension as it seems like a dark art.

I'm not racing or anything...just pottering round Oxfordshire, speed humps etc...may be a pillion now and again.

Thank you!

 

yeah, that sounds reasonable in both cost and thinking... I don't think I have a refined enough riding palette to notice much difference...

I go over bumps...and the bike goes up and down... Maybe there's not much more to add!?

 

This is excellent @Helmut Visor ; tonight's whiskey homework!