So I went to my local dealer today to see how long and how much it would cost me to get my valves checked, as I'm riding on 17k and I know I should get it done... 720 just to inspect it, and 360 if I need to replace the shims.

Now, I'm a neophyte, so maybe I'm being ridiculous...but isn't that a bit much just to CHECK it? I understand that you have to break the bike down, but still...

Sounds about right?

What's the worst that could happen if I give it a few more miles before checking?

 

To be honest, getting to the shims to check clearances is a pretty big job (time wise), actually replacing the shims is just a couple of more steps, $360 for that sounds a bit much, but I'm in Australia so there is a cost difference.
Since your probably going to need some shims replaced, I'd be shopping around for a better deal (& maybe better mechanic). Last time I had mine done, I got charged about the same, but also had oil & air filters, carbie sync & tune, oil & coolant & (even though I didn't want it as I prefer to do my own) Brake fluid replacement.
It's not going to be a problem if your bike is running ok, to leave the service for a few more miles.

 

I had my valves inspected and shimmed about 6 months ago, it was only about a 3 hour job, came to around 250 dollars for labor+shims. I had new seals and oil put in my forks at the same time which was another 3 hours of work+materials. They even threw on some new front brake pads (I didnt ask them to and they didnt ask me if it was ok but whatever they charged me next to nothing for it). It all ended up comming to around $460. I feel like they might be charging you a bit much...

 

so a stack to check and adjust valve clearance? Guessing that's something I'll add to my "Do it myself or buy a new bike" list

 

Alright, I'm definitely calling some other places...Or I'm driving out of Florida to do it...seems like a good enough reason for a road trip:P