Fox Float X2 shock undergoes design change, now singles tube instead of twin-tube, with a valid justification for the transformation.
Reimagined Ride with Fox Float X2 and DHX2 Shocks!
Get ready to conquer the trails with style, as Fox unveils an extreme makeover for its iconic Float X2 and DHX2 shocks. The brand is shaking up the scene, pushing boundaries for unparalleled downhill performance.
Brace yourself, riders! The Float X2 shock will not fail to impress with its transformation from a twin-tube design to a brand-new monotube body, featuring over 100 revamped parts, ensuring improved reliability and performance while retaining its status as a top-performing shock absorber in the market.
The revolutionary Float X2
The new Float X2 sports a familiar look but hides a plethora of exciting changes under its hood.
Key Features
- New chassis and monotube internals for enhanced performance
- Pressure balanced damping circuit minimizes cavitation and boosts response and control
- Four-way adjustability for versatility and personalization
- Revamped base valve with plethora of shims for greater tunability
- Enhanced main shaft for strength and durability
- Micro-adjustable volume spacers for customized progression
- Max pressure increased to 350psi (22.7 MPa)
- Weight from 720g for lightweight feel
The new shock is priced at £849 for the Factory version.
The updates to the Float X2 air shock are reflected in the DHX2 coil shock, minus the inclusion of an air chamber surrounding the damper. Let’s delve into the main changes in the revamped Float X2 shock and explore why Fox made these alterations.
A closer look reveals the extended piggyback reservoir and base knobs for easy rebound adjustments.
So, why monotube?
To understand the shift to a monotube damper design, you must first know about twin-tube dampers. In a twin-tube system, the main piston slides within a tube within a tube, while in a monotube, a single chamber houses the piston.
The twin-tube design is challenging to manufacture and package effectively, making it difficult to achieve optimal strength and reliability, particularly with limited space for crucial components like the piston shaft.
Going monotube allows Fox to beef up the internals and unleash significant benefits like improved pressure balancing.
Pressure balancing: The X factor
Pressure balancing is a technique that equalizes pressure across both sides of the main piston for superior performance. This process reduces hysteresis and lag between impact and piston movement, promoting faster response and increased grip at the tire for smoother and more controlled rides.
The newest Float X2 shock features pressure balancing technology—a first for Fox in a production shock.
Challenges: Redefining the design
Transitioning to this radical shift in architecture proved challenging. Fox had to find creative solutions to preserve the shock's four-way adjustability and optimize rebound performance while ensuring precision manufacturing and consistent performance.
On the rebound side, a new needle and cam-gear mechanism were developed to control high-speed rebound damping alongside its low-speed rebound orifice. Meanwhile, compression adjustments still involve 3mm and 6mm hex keys.
The additional shimwald and improved fidelity provide unrivaled fine-tuning possibilities for the Float X2, matching the performance of the latest Grip X2 fork damper.
So, gear up and get ready to feel the difference! With numerous size options available, the revamped Float X2 promises to elevate your downhill riding experience to new heights.
Protect your head while cruising the trails with confidence, as the Float X2 shock upgrade now includes a redesigned helmet-mountable remote control for adjusting rebound and topping your mountain bike gear with a touch of technology.
As you race down the slopes, don't forget to pair the new Float X2 with the latest sports-oriented gadgets, enhancing both style and performance for a thrilling and connected ride experience.
