So, I got the bike back from the shop for the leaky valve cover gasket. They went ahead and checked the valve clearance for free and all are in spec at 64k miles. Had them change the oil to Motul 300 V full synthetic.
WOW! The bike has NEVER run and shifted so smooth. I've been using Mobil 1 and Repsol synthetic and Motul is significantly better as far as shifting action and general smoothness of the motor. I love it. From now on it's only Motul 300 V for me.
Mad