to be absolutely certain whether the valve clearances are within the specified limit then you will have to check them correctly.

i think for peace of mind and with the mileage being at 30k,and maybe not knowing if they have ever been checked previously then i would get them checked just for peace of mind.in the long run it could be the difference between having to spend a fortune if it all goes wrong(valve hitting piston)or getting plenty more miles without worry'ing...."as much"



william

Definitely going to get them checked; peace of mind is a good enough reason for me. Should I not be able to hear any tapping/rattling at all, or is it normal to be able to hear it slightly?

i think when the bike is warmed up and maybe being on the hot side,whilst sitting in traffic etc is usually when people complain of hearing the tapping noise.




william

I did the above recomended procedure.
If i can do it, anyone can.
it didnt stop the rattling, just as you described, but it was satisfying.



did you ever discover the tapping noise?

A compression check is not a very professional way of checking if your clearances need doing-i would think about maybe changing garages!!Its called preventative maintenance-if a gauge is showing low compression then there is obviously no clearances there and the risk of burning out your valves is already upon you rather than being able to see a valve shim out of tolerance and requiring changing BEFORE you lose compression.im a bike mechanic

And just to add to your previous post then yes i agree with the other guys-get them checked as ive come across a few that home mechanics have done and theyve been all over the place(zero clearances on some,mahooosive on others)like was said previously by someone its quite rare but they will make a tapping noise.Also check for loose plugs,leaking exhaust headers,cam chain?its not hard so long as you take your time and do it methodically