Fox Suspension: Everything You Need To Know

Alright guys, let's dive deep into the world of Fox Suspension! If you're into mountain biking, motocross, or even just appreciate high-performance suspension systems, you've probably heard of Fox. They're a big name, and for good reason. Fox Racing Shox, to give them their full name, has been around since 1974, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in suspension technology. Whether you're a weekend warrior hitting the trails or a seasoned pro competing at the highest level, understanding your suspension is crucial. It's not just about comfort; it's about control, performance, and ultimately, having more fun. So, let's break down what makes Fox Suspension so special, what different types they offer, and how to keep your setup running smoothly.

What is Fox Suspension?

At its core, Fox Suspension is all about controlling the movement of your bike or vehicle over uneven terrain. Think about hitting a bump on the trail – without suspension, that impact would be transferred directly to you, making for a rough and unstable ride. Suspension systems, like those from Fox, absorb that impact, allowing the wheels to move up and down independently of the frame. This keeps your tires in contact with the ground, providing better traction and control.

Fox Suspension achieves this using a combination of springs and dampers. The springs, typically coil springs or air springs, provide the initial resistance to compression, absorbing the energy of the impact. The dampers, which use oil-filled chambers and valves, control the rate at which the suspension compresses and rebounds. This is crucial for preventing the suspension from bouncing excessively or feeling too harsh. The magic of Fox lies in their ability to fine-tune these components to create suspension systems that are incredibly responsive, predictable, and reliable. They offer a wide range of products, from basic entry-level forks and shocks to highly sophisticated, electronically controlled systems. This means there's a Fox Suspension setup to suit just about any riding style, budget, and performance requirement. Beyond just performance, Fox also places a strong emphasis on durability. Their products are built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding, using high-quality materials and construction techniques. This means you can spend less time worrying about maintenance and more time enjoying the ride.

Types of Fox Suspension

Fox offers a dizzying array of suspension products, so let's break down some of the most common types. For mountain bikes, you'll typically find Fox forks on the front and Fox shocks on the rear. Forks come in various travel lengths, ranging from short-travel options for cross-country riding to long-travel options for downhill and enduro. Some popular Fox fork models include the 32, 34, 36, 38, and 40 series, each designed for a specific riding style and wheel size. The numbers generally correspond to the stanchion diameter (the upper tubes of the fork), with larger diameters offering increased stiffness and durability.

Rear shocks are also available in a variety of configurations, including coil shocks and air shocks. Coil shocks offer a more linear spring rate, providing consistent performance throughout the travel. Air shocks are lighter and more adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the spring rate to suit your weight and riding style. Common Fox rear shock models include the Float DPS, Float X, and DHX2. Beyond mountain bikes, Fox also produces suspension systems for a wide range of other applications. In the world of motocross, Fox forks and shocks are a common sight on factory race bikes. They also offer suspension for ATVs, UTVs, and even snowmobiles. The specific technologies and designs vary depending on the application, but the core principles of damping and spring rate control remain the same. Fox is also making strides in the realm of electronically controlled suspension. Their Live Valve system, for example, uses sensors to automatically adjust the damping settings in real-time, optimizing performance for any terrain. This technology is becoming increasingly popular on high-end mountain bikes and other off-road vehicles. Regardless of the type, each Fox Suspension product is designed with performance and durability in mind.

Fox Suspension Technologies

Fox Suspension isn't just about springs and dampers; it's about the innovative technologies that go into their products. These technologies are what set Fox apart from the competition and allow them to deliver unparalleled performance. One of the key technologies is their FIT4 damper. FIT stands for Fox Isolated Technology, and it refers to a sealed cartridge damper that keeps the damping oil separate from the lubricating oil. This prevents aeration and cavitation, which can negatively impact damping performance. The FIT4 damper offers three on-the-fly compression damping positions: Open, Medium, and Firm. This allows you to quickly adjust the suspension to suit different terrain conditions. Another important technology is their EVOL air spring. EVOL stands for Extra Volume, and it refers to a larger negative air spring that provides a more supple feel at the beginning of the travel. This improves small-bump sensitivity and traction, making for a more comfortable and controlled ride.

Fox also utilizes advanced coatings to reduce friction and improve durability. Their Kashima Coat, for example, is a gold-colored anodized coating that's applied to the stanchions of their forks and the shafts of their shocks. This coating is incredibly smooth and hard, reducing friction and wear. In addition to these core technologies, Fox is constantly developing new and innovative features. Their GRIP damper, for example, is a simpler and more affordable damper that still provides excellent performance. They also offer a variety of tuning options, such as volume spacers and rebound adjustments, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to your exact preferences. Understanding these technologies can help you make informed decisions when choosing a Fox Suspension setup and allow you to get the most out of your equipment. By combining advanced damping systems, innovative air springs, and durable coatings, Fox is able to deliver suspension products that are at the forefront of performance.

Maintaining Your Fox Suspension

Like any high-performance component, Fox Suspension requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased performance, premature wear, and even damage to the suspension. The frequency of maintenance will depend on how often you ride and the conditions you ride in. However, as a general rule, it's a good idea to perform a basic service every 50 hours of riding and a more comprehensive service every 100 hours. A basic service typically involves cleaning and lubricating the seals, checking the air pressure, and inspecting the components for any signs of wear. A more comprehensive service involves disassembling the suspension, cleaning and inspecting all of the internal parts, replacing the seals and oil, and reassembling the suspension.

If you're not comfortable performing these services yourself, it's best to take your suspension to a qualified mechanic. They will have the tools and expertise to properly service your suspension and ensure that it's running at its best. In between services, there are a few things you can do to keep your suspension in good condition. Always clean your suspension after each ride, especially if you've been riding in muddy or dusty conditions. Use a mild soap and water solution and avoid using high-pressure washers, which can damage the seals. You should also lubricate the stanchions of your fork and the shaft of your shock with a silicone-based lubricant. This will help to reduce friction and keep the suspension moving smoothly. Finally, always store your bike or vehicle in a dry place to prevent corrosion. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your Fox Suspension and keep it performing at its best. Regular maintenance is not just about prolonging the life of your suspension; it's also about maintaining its performance and ensuring your safety on the trail.

Fox Suspension: Is It Worth It?

So, is Fox Suspension worth the investment? The answer, as with most things, depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're a casual rider who only hits the trails occasionally, you may not need the performance of a high-end Fox Suspension setup. However, if you're a serious rider who demands the best possible performance, Fox Suspension is definitely worth considering. Their products are known for their responsiveness, adjustability, and durability. They offer a wide range of options to suit different riding styles and budgets. While Fox Suspension can be more expensive than other brands, the investment can be worth it in the long run. Not only will you enjoy better performance on the trail, but you'll also likely experience fewer maintenance issues and a longer lifespan for your suspension. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy Fox Suspension is a personal one. Consider your riding style, your budget, and your performance requirements. Do your research, read reviews, and talk to other riders. If you decide that Fox Suspension is right for you, you can be confident that you're investing in a high-quality product that will enhance your riding experience. Remember, suspension is one of the most important components on your bike or vehicle, and investing in a good setup can make a world of difference in terms of performance, comfort, and control. So, weigh your options carefully and choose the Fox Suspension system that best suits your needs. Happy riding!