I don't have the expertise in tires to make a recommendation, but I sure like the Surveys tab on TireRack. They rank various aspects of the tire and you can also select the link to "Compare This Tire to Other ____ Tires" of the same general style. I suspect "who's cheaper" may depend on the tire.

Go to the Downloads section (<---- left column) and find the VX Owner's Manual. It has all the recommended service intervals. Even if you get a paper copy with your VX, having an electronic copy is handy to have around, too. I keep it at work, at home, on my phone…

On other forums, I've read about people using dental floss, fishing line or light weed trimmer line to carefully saw through the adhesive between the paint and the badges. Don't use anything metal unless you like scratches! The remaining adhesive can be removed with Goo-Gone, WD-40 or 3M Adhesive Remover (without acetone!) I think an old terrycloth rag works best because the texture helps remove the glue as it becomes a mess. Don’t use paper towels (they can scratch).