A basic understanding of how engine's work is always a good idea - books, short course at local tech college, etc. No, I wouldn't start ripping into your bike just yet, but taking appart a dead lawnmower engine or such can really put things in perspective...
if I were you, I would focus on maintenance - what you need to do to keep the bike running well - Lubrication, filters, and such. Understanding what you are doing and why will help you to prevent making mistakes that might cause problems. Prepare the bike to avoid damage from spills and general travel wear.
Older bikes required more 'tuning' and hands on adustment - fuel injection and electronic engine management have taken most of that and made it less prone to break, but harder to fix without specialized equipment and the right parts on hand. You are not going to be balancing carbs and changing pistons on a monthly basis like Ted Simon on his first RTW trip! However, if you keep the maintenance up and a close eye for potential problems, you may never have to get out the wrenches in anger.....
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