Electric motors don't just randomly start spinning the opposite direction 'just because' without changing the polarity. Sounds to me like they forgot to put in the little idler gears between the starter and the starter clutch and don't want to fess up to it. Also sounds to me like the 'mechnic' is a dumbass

 

Without having seen the innards of the bike, I understand what you're saying.

The 2nd opinion is from a new shop, so no motive for covering mistakes (they found other minor issues they reported to me).

They say that the motor works intermittently, but when it does its in reverse. They think somehow it was swapped with a 600RR starter because they spin opposite.

I'm sure the truth will come out. I got a deal on a used starter that will come with the gear you reference. If its missing, no way they won't be able to figure that one out.

Thanks Jared. Key ya posted.