Fox 34 GRIP2, new Transfer dropper, DPX2 and more!
After Fox showed off their big toys for 2021, the new trail suspension updates are just as good.
Last week Fox showcased their latest, biggest, stiffest and most tuneable suspension to date. Not only did they overhaul the Fox 36 and Fox 40, they released a new platform in the Fox 38. This boss fork is aimed squarely at riders on the Enduro world stage, and those who want to emulate their riding.
Along with extensive updates to the Fox DHX2 and Float X2, there was still more on the boil from the suspension masterminds – and now that has all been revealed.
Fox bring GRIP2 to the Fox 34
The Fox 34 might just be the original trail fork. With the light weight Fox 34 SC added to the range two years ago, and the Fox 36 taking on the big bike duties, some feel the Fox 34 can get a little lost.
The 34 GRIP2 brings Variable Valve Control (VVC) as seen on the 36, 38 and 40 GRIP2 models for 2021. VVC brings damping adjustments outside that used to be only accesible inside – so you get greater tuning options without having a personal suspension tuner on speed dial.
Of course, Fox still let you have a choice of damper options, with FIT4, Live Valve and GRIP dampers across the range to control the Float air spring. Travel options are 120-140mm, in 27.5" or 29" and 44mm or 51mm offsets. Axles are Boost or 15×100. If you need more travel you should be on a 36 – if you want 100, 110 or 120mm then a Fox 32 SC or Fox 34 SC are what you should be looking at.
Fox will have the Factory Series, Performance Elite, Performance and e-Bike models available of the 34, weight starts at 1770g.
The Fox DPX2 gets a tune up
The highly popular Fox Float DPX2 has had some improvements as well, something anyone looking for a little more fine tuning and trail feel will appreciate. The DPX2 is a happy medium offering low weight like the DPS shocks, and small bump sensitivity and lots of adjustments like the X2.
With a new oil recirculation design and base valve tune and an updated EVOL air can, riders will appreciate the added sensitivity of the 2021 DPX2. Now add in 10 clicks of compression adjustment on the open mode (one of three positions) and your tuning options expand. We do like the option of a remote lock out as well – that's totally down-country!
Jokes aside, a DPX2 with a remote lock out would be really popular on the range of short travel trail bikes that are around right now. From upgrading a Norco Optic or Transition Smuggler, or a whole myriad of bikes with 120-140mm travel out the back that already pedal well, but where access to a remote lock out really gives benefits when you need to give it some beans.
The Fox Transfer gets lighter and shorter
The Fox Transfer has been one of the most reliable dropper posts around. And if you have ever had a dropper post that isn't reliable – you'll know how important it is to have one that works consistently.
The 2021 Fox Transfer has been redesigned to make it easier to service when the time comes for that, but what most people will notice is the shorter overall length, in part due to a lower clamp design. This means you might well be able to have more drop in a given frame. Fox's own diagram shows it best.
You can get the Fox Transfer in 100/125/150 and 175mm drop, in either 30.9mm or 31.6mm seat post sizes. There are Factory models with Kashima coat, or the Performance models.
There is also a new 1x dropper lever that is under 35g, and works with MatchMakers or iSpec EV for a less cluttered cockpit. That's to say, you can have to mount directly to a SRAM or new Shimano brake lever.
Taking all the updates into account, Fox are in a great position with trail bikes and all-mountain/Enduro and downhill bikes with the new products and updated tech. If you need exact spec details on the new range head to the Fox website, or drop in to your local Fox dealer.
