I like Hondas just as much as the next guy, but not having to check the valves when recommended because they are so well designed??? They're pretty much the same as all the rest of 'em. HONDA says to check the valves at 16,000 miles. HONDA designed the engine. Don't you think they know better than anyone else when the valves should be checked? Sure it's quite possible that they will all be in spec. and if this is the case, the cost will be less because you don't have to remove camshafts and replace valve shims. And no - you don't have to "basically disassemble the head". It takes MAYBE about2 hours to check the valve clearances in most sportbikes. About an hour more if you're actually adjusting anything. I've seen bikes that have gone 32,000 miles and the valves still be in spec. Contrastingly, I've worked on bikes that needed adjusting after 7500 miles. If the manual recommends it, it must be there for a reason. If you really don't want them checked, though, you can request a service without the valve inspection.

 

I think that if your warranty is up and unless you're completely dumb mechanically, you should do the maintenance yourself. It's very easy to do, and even though I have also heard a few mechanics say that the valve clearance doesn't need to be checked, it's worth your time to do it. As for the plugs and oil and coolant, it's advantageous of one to do it himself. $60-70/hr in labor at the dealer is not worth it to do those simple things.

 

The Only reason Honda recommend it is due to warranty issues.....And its only a precaution for them....Ive spoken to coutless members of Honda owners all over the world in the last few weeks on this issue and majority of people all tell me not to worry bout it till next major service.....and that a 16,000miles...the motor is still young and beautiful.....