Evening,
This is the first time I've posted on something like this, so I hope I get it right!

I have recently aquired a 96 GPX 250 which I have the intention of getting right as a first bike for the better half. It hasbeen down the road and needs alot of tlc, but it gives me something to do. Upon getting it I found out that it hasn't been started in a long time (approx 18 months) so the first place I statred was seeing if the thing will run. Cleaned the carbys and took the engine case covers off both sides. removed the clutch and basket chasing what I thought to be a shift mechanism issue but turned out not to be. So begins my issue. I don't recall turning the alternator rotor whilst I had the clutch basket out (as the timing appears to be controlled by the sprocket on the back of the clutch basket), however I may have. Upon reassembly and attempting to fire the bike up, it seemed to attempt to fire but then started making some strange thumping sounds like it was trying to fire but running rough as guts. It didn't sound like pistons hitting valve heads. Now finally after all that, my question is can I check the position of the valves to determine power stroke without having to drop the rocker cover off. My brother suggested giving it a little start ya bastard through the carbs and once it was running determine the problem, however I'm not keen as I on't want to bent the valves. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers
Phil
01 Hayabusa
Objects in mirror disappear quickly!!