initial valve inspection

[Kevin Green]

Hello all, I recently purchased a '00 KLR with 450 miles on it. Got a great deal at $3900 BTW. I ridden it about 400 additional miles and have read a lot of discussions regarding valve inspection/shimming on this list. I did the 500 mile service, all, except for valves. I talked with a Kawasaki mechanic in Atlanta regarding the inspection/shimming and was informed that they don't consider this necessary until the bike hits about 2500 miles. In fact he flat out said "We don't check them during the 500 miles service, but wait until 2500". He said that this gives the valves time to properly seat. I've seen people who have let 'em go and many who are meticulous about checking them. Bike runs great and no sounds of valve clatter. I guess I should be concerned about tightening though. I will be doing a number of mods this weekend and will check them then. Any thoughts/comments regarding the Kawasaki mechanics view point? Kevin Green