+1
I agree. As near zero as possible with no binding. I've never measured the play, wasn't aware there was a spec for it.
i likewise have taken the play to near zero. it's much smoother on/off, and the only thing i have to watch out for with steering play (I have adjusted to lock to lock out as much as i can without the bars connecting with the tank, i have the 3" rise city bars on my bike) is the fast-idle cable gets a bit tight at full left steering lock, not really a problem but you have to watch for it