Be aware that some of the old (read real old) Tigres did not have a sealed front bearing. The G60 Bluehead is a fine example, you could always tell if they were getting adequate lubrication by the oil spray.

To your problem, sounds like your idle is way rich. Lean by 1/8 or initially no more than 1/4 turn and try again. etc.

If the oil spray annoys you particularly, change the bearing by all means, even if it is (mechanically) not necessary.