Not sure how much effort/cash he wants to put into it. Are road tires common for MTB's? The shop I usually go to doesn't really deal with them much and I can't stand the local chains. Taking other weight off sounds like a good place to go as well. I think we will start with taking some of the accessories off, and changing out the front. And I WILL blame him I spent days trying to convince him that he would spend a lot more hours on road, than off... Almost as if he would rather ride with his friends than his dear old Dad, whats up with that?
I already purchased an additional pannier for his gear, so I have that one covered, although I was under the impression that the young guys were supposed to carry the load.

Thanks for the advice.
Joat