Do you guys check your valve clearance at the recommended intervals?

There's no doubt that manufacturer's schedules will err on the side of caution, as they don't really want warranty claims for parts that fail due to improper maintenance, and I expect they base the frequency of oil changes and valve checks etc on worst case scenarios of rider style and climate. Conspiracy theorists may also suggest the frequencies ensure dealership mechanics get plenty of paid work.

I'm sure that if you know the maintenance history of your bike, you could make a judgement call about how often to check valve clearances. For myself (and I am anally retentive when it comes to maintenance), I had no idea what had been done to any of my three bikes prior to buying them, so I made a point of checking them over carefully including valve clearances. All 3 bikes use the exact same shim under bucket system, and my VFR from memory needed 4 intake shims changed, my VTR just one exhaust shim, and my ST1100 just one intake shim. When I next come to check these, if I find little or no change in clearance, I will probably let them go longer before the next check.

Had I not checked them, I would ride with the nagging doubt that imminent failure was just around the corner...

 

No, a cylinder leak test would be an indication that it's now too late, and a valve/s need to be replaced.