Motorcycle Repair: valve clearance check, valve clearance, manual states

Question
Hi Chris:
I own a 2002 kawi vulcan 800. A few friends have
suggested that I don't need to check the valve
clearance on my bike as often as the owners manual
states. What's your take on this?
Thx, John

Answer
Hi John.
 If you don't really care how well the bike runs, then follow your friends' advice.  However, since both the owner's manual and the repair manual were both written by tech writers that got their information from the engineers who designed the bike, then I would follow what the manual says.

 No offense to your friends, but I would imagine that the engineers who designed the bike have a better understanding for what that bike and engine need than your friends do.

If you want the bike to run well and last, then you maintain it as per the book.

Ride safe.  Have fun.
FALCON