RussellT, the case can be prone to leaks if the engine mount bolts are overtorqued then the seal can migrate between the case halves. I do not believe this to be common, and do not think you would see the oil at the front of the case, but rather on the underside, below the skidplate. (Though I am just guessing.)
Crosspost from ADV R problem list:
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb...ML/000145.html
Just some thoughts. It is really important to bleed the USD forks, otherwise you asking for leaks and/or blown fork seals, with the KTM Hard Parts bleeders it just takes a push of a button to bleed them.
If you have a 2002, I would upgrade the front spokes, or at a minimum carry spares, and loosely zip tie the spokes, so a broken spoke will not cause a get off. Checking spoke tension, and not going to tight really seems to help as well. Always add grease inside the lip of the wheel bearing seals anytime the axle is removed, a small tin comes in handy for holding grease in the tool kit.
The pre 2003 L/H main bearing should be replaced with a 2003up upgraded bearing ASAP, if it fails you will most likely be looking at a major engine overhaul.
IMHO, it is best to use the kickstarter as much as possible, at least avoid multiple starting cycles by holding the button until you have a good start, as the electric starter geartrain is somewhat prone to failure. With a properly jetted carb, and consistant technique, kickstarting is fairly easy.
On my LC4s the vibration after rejetting and break in was approx 2/3rds less then when new. I attribute the majority of the reduction to the rejetting. Love this bike, but doubt I do a RTW trip on it. Cheers, Mack