Picture below shows the clutch lever as the bike sits cold and not running.
As far as the clutch cable adjustment, sitting cold there is very little slack in the cable, clutch starts to engage almost right away. Which isn't right. I should have some play, right? As far as when it is warm, I can't tell you. I haven't ridden it since I got back from the malfunction trip. I do not recall anything way out of whack at the time, though. I know I inspected all the cables when it happened, but thinking back I was so pissed off at the situation and having to be THAT GUY holding up my group on the side of the road that I can't honestly say I was making clear assessments.
I DO check these things on a regular basis. I've totalled a bike and almost destroyed my military career (through injury) in an accident, and I tend to be incredibly paranoid when it comes to riding. But, roght now I'm starting to doubt myself quite a bit...
As for oil: I got the bike on a trade from a dealer. One previous owner, 2300 and change on the speedo. Oil change was recorded in the manual, but dealer did not have the actual record. The oil looked good, did not smell burnt, and it hasn't burned ANY since I got it. So I ASSUMED it was good (I know, I know.... shoulda changed it myself to know.) PO was first time rider who only put 2300 on it in three years of ownership- I have no idea if correct oil was put in.
I got a feeling I'm gonna end up feeling like a jackass by the time this is figured out. Assumption is the mother of all F-ups....