Steve (xchang)-
Thanks for the tip re: the shift shaft bolt...I'll pass that on to the dealer. They've adjusted the shift cables numerous times, and, I would assume, the fork as well.
I'm starting to wonder if there's a clutch problem at work here....although that would not explain the occasions when I get it into what feels like first or reverse, but get grinding when I release the clutch.
Anyway, the quest continues!