I just bought a 2004 CRF450R (A little difficult to start when cold, push start works every time, however, when warm, not a problem); took it on a couple of rides and decided to check the valve clearances. Upon inspection I found the exhaust valves to be with in limitations but the intake valves are always open. I couldn’t even fit my smallest feeler gauge in there. I have been told by the local mechanic to go with SS valves, cut the seats and go on my way for 4000 miles without messing with anything(I'm skeptical). He also told me this is a very common problem and that Honda fixed it in the 06/07 model. I am an intermediate level rider who enjoys the desert and the mountains, not the track. I want to do the right thing but don’t want to spend a ton of money. I can do the work myself so labor is not the issue. I have been told that if I re-shim it the same problem is going to happen after a couple of rides. How could that possibly happen?
New Valves, TT or SS? New Head? Or, just new shims?
Opinions? Thanks