Could be an issue with the can sensor, or if the bike really has high mileage/km on it and still has the stock can chain, it may be stretched beyond the limits of the tensioner, or the guides worn enough to have the intake can beyond the usable range for the can sensor.
As far as free reccinf the engine and having it blow up, I agree that there is no need for it, but that said , I've never seen a modern inline 4 engine blow up from revving it.