Motorcycle Repair: Dealer service, honda shadow 750, 2003 honda shadow 750

Question
I would like your take on the subject of dealer service. My 2003 Honda Shadow 750 A.C.E has just reached the four thousand mile mark and is due for (dealer service) I know that they claim to do a lot of things during this $175.00 check-up. I also have been told that this (can be, a big rip-off). I wonder what rules do they generally follow in regards to valve lash adj. etc.. I don't mind paying for something if I am indeed getting what I paid for. They want the bike dropped the day before so the engine will be cold for the valve adjustment.Is there a way to prove that it was done. I know it is best to have some trust but at my age I have learned that the world is full of rip-off artists. I have no reason at this time to doubt them but would feel better if there was a way to know that I got what I paid for. I had this service done at 1500 miles because of warr. reasons. Is it really needed again so soon, and at 1500 hundred miles was it really needed then? It's not cheap and the bike sounds fine to me. Thanks for your time.

Answer
Hi Donald,

I've seen guys employed in the dealerships who are very thorough. I've also seen guys who are less than thorough who would not perform all of the advertised work.

It is hard to find a person trustworthy and capable to maintain our vehicles. When you do, treat them well. The finest techs usually are self employed, though not always.

Ask the tech the following question as a test:
Q:  What is deck height?

A:  The Deck Height is the distance the piston EDGE is in relation to the top of the cylinder deck.

Any well trained mechanic should know the correct answer. If you get any other answer, say thank you and move on.

Valve clearances should be checked periodically. You can check the Owner's Manual periodic table of adjustments.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively