FIRST LOOK: Fox 32 SC Factory suspension fork
In an Olympic year, product development for XCO bikes and equipment goes into overdrive. The world of suspension forks sees a new leader from Fox coming up to Rio.
Fox Suspension have come out swinging with their 2017 model range. With a new Float X2 shock with a lock out switch, revised damping options on the Performance forks, and a new high (or low?) bar for weight and performance with the 32 SC (Step Cast) range of forks.
While the 32 has previously been the top tier in XC forks for Fox, they have also been available in longer travel models, like 120mm set ups. Not that 120mm is that much travel, but the 32 SC has been optimised for cross-country racing. So travel options are 80mm and 100mm, plus the fork is available for 27.5" wheels and 29" wheels, plus in Boost 110mm spacing or standard 15x100mm spacing.
What does Step Cast mean?
One of the main things Fox have done with the 32 SC is making the fork narrower, but 10mm. Unfortunately, there's a bit going on with suspension forks so it's not as simple as just making things a bit more squished. Because of the need for a disc brake to sit in a set area, the lowers of the forks are stepped in.
The Fox 32 SC Factory fork we have for test is equipped with bar mount lock out. The 22 point FiT4 compression adjuster is still available, as it is with the non-remote lock out fork too. Fox also have IRD electronic lock out models – perhaps the perfect addition to a bike set up with Shimano's Di2 group set.
Riding the Fox 32 SC Factory fork
I've ridden and raced on probably the last 5 versions of this fork, plus some of the early ones over 10 years ago. Fox have long been known for a plush fork with great steering precision. Neither of those factors have gone. They have never been known for being the lightest, which is something the 32 SC has addressed. Even better, some damping changes have meant the fork holds its ride height when cornering aggressively, but keeps amazing low bump sensitivity. This is only from a few rides so far, but the ride quality has been exceptional.
What I really appreciate is that none of the ride quality has been compromised to get the lower weight – it's just due to intelligent design and engineering. Even on rockier, twistier trails the fork feels as precise as the Factory 32 it replaced.
If you need more details on the fork, head to the Fox website.
Don't miss the full review in Issue #156, which will come out on September 8th. If you don't want to miss it, you can subscribe.
