I would use anti-seize paste. It's cheap insurance.
Curious why you would check the valve lash after only 1,200 miles? Did you hear unusual valve chatter? Did your mpg dramatically change? I check mine at 6,000 miles. Where did the miles go.
No, no issues with the engine. With less than 3000 miles on my scoot I am still learning this engine. I checked them at 200, 450, 1200 and 2900. 8 vavles over that period - 3 of which needed changing. The manual specifies checking them at weird intervals : 200, 1800, 4200, 6600.
The oil is to be changed at 1200 mile intervals - gear oil at 2400 miles.
All too strange for me - will probably settle in on : engine oil @ 1000 miles; valves and gear oil @ 2000; belt and Dr Pulley @ 8000.
I like pulling the seat/bucket and the front panel and going in there for a little look-see every so often. Wipe things down, blow off the dust, etc.
May try just removing the front panel next go, leaving seat in place.
BTW: disconnecting battery for a time did not change my idle. Still a little fast. But keeps me reassured at stop lights.