Valve cover removal

[three season]

Hi folks, gonna have a go at the valve clearances, bikes at 28odd K. I know i dont need to remove the carbs (thanks to PieEater) But just wanted to ask if i still have to remove the fairing and thermostat housing (as per Haynes manual) to get the valve cover off? AIS has been removed.
Also, my feeler gauges are not tapered, will this matter?
Thanks in advance guys.