Trail Rider Magazine

16 Trail Rider Product Features Product Features Slavens Racing S3 KTM Power Valve Adjuster Slavens Racing S3 KTM Power Valve Adjuster Here's a cool component offered by Slavens Rac- ing for those running 2-stroke KTM 250s and 300s. Most are well aware of the vast changes in power delivery by adjus ng the power valve (and springs) to fit your needs and riding style. Many are of the "set it and forget it" mindset once the op mum adjustment is found. Technical riders like the power valve dolly adjustment screw two turns in from flush with the case, and others who ride faster, more open terrain will wind the PV screw flush with the case and keep it there. Hard-core tuners even carry the special square tool in their tool kits and make trailside adjustments on occasion. This component by S3 greatly simplifies the power valve adjustment process with a handy knob han- dling PV adjustments in seconds; even with gloves on. As one who is always messing with clickers and se ngs, this piece sold through Slavens Racing caught my eye, and we ordered one immediately. Installa on process is as simple as removing the two 6mm head screws from the exis ng PV ad- justment cover and installing the S3 unit. S3 even includes a new O-ring. With plans on installing it on our new 2021 Erzbergrodeo, I thought it best to do a few hot laps around our test loop outside of the office doors. With only 18 miles on this par cular bike and over a month since I'd thrown a leg over, I thought it best to get good and friendly with the bike at the stock se ngs. Once familiar with the power delivery characteris cs (factory se ng two turns in from flush), I installed the new S3 adjust- er while on the trail. Not quite sure where S3 sets the adjustment knob compared to stock se ngs, I wound the adjuster in by eye, while comparing it to the OEM cover and screw se ng. Heading out on the exact same loop, the bike felt the same with no surprises. I then tested with half-turn increments. As I wound out the knob, the difference in low-end grunt was dras c. In the end, I wound the knob out two full turns, and that made the bike come alive down low with wheelies at will, while breaking the rear wheel loose any me I liked. Those who like to steer with the thro le would enjoy this se ng. As I con nued to rip around our test loops, I stopped a handful of mes to dial in the adjust- ment knob a bit to control wheel spin on the loose climbs and moss-covered rocks. Being able to make adjustments in seconds, right on the bike is pre y sweet. Having the ability to fine-tune power deliv- ery for the terrain at hand, literally within seconds and without tools is so convenient. Thanks Jeff for sending over the S3 Power Valve Adjuster; It's a pre y cool piece. We like! -Kurt

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