The Rival shifters were used, but the brakes and hoses are brand new.
I'm definitely willing to believe the shifters need lubed/serviced, if they end up being a problem I'll have the LBS take a look. But as they are second hand, I don't expect any warranty help from SRAM.

I felt the shifters of a few other SRAM HRD users at the last group ride and they all 'bit' at about the same point as mine did before adjustment, and noted that they always did, even new.
I think it might be that my expectations are just off. I set my rim brakes so the pads are like 1mm from the rims. Immediate 'bite' at the lever. None of the other hydro brakes I felt 'bit' that early, even the Shimano equipped bikes.