Much like the recently launched 36 fork, the DHX2 and X2 shocks get a major overhaul, now operating on a single tube but increased tuneability, reliability and performance.
Fox’s gravity coil and air shocks get a major update to their chassis and internals becoming the first 4-way adjust monotube shocks.
Fox X2 Air Shock
Key features:
- 210×50, 210×52.5, 210×55, 230×60, 230×62.5, 230×65, 250×75 (eyelet)
- 185×55, 205×60, 205×65, 225×75 (Trunnion)
- High/Low-Speed Compression & High/Low-Speed Rebound
- Max Air Spring Pressure: 350 psi
- Air Volume Spacers: 1cc increments
- Starting Weight: 720g (210×55)
- Performance 2-pos and Factory DH £809.00, Factory 2-pos £849.00
- RideFox.com
The X2, and the DHX2 below, get a new monotube chassis that aims to allow full pressure balancing, this in turn should improve performance and reliability. Pressure balancing reduces the chance of aeration and cavitation, leading to more consistent performance and better grip. The main shaft diameter increases from 9.5 to 12mm.
In he hunt for better grip, support and less rider fatigue, the new shock comes with a larger base valve and multi-valve system in line with the new Grip X2 damper. You get the same 4-way adjust but both rebound dampers are at the bottom of the shock rather than separate. An oversized air chamber combined with a new reduced friction air seal offers a more linear, planted ride feel.
Twin tube shocks that we know well handily balance pressure either side of the piston and separate the damping circuits. Monotube shocks are more of a challenge to do this as the pressure is often imbalanced. A single tube also adds the benefit of a larger main shaft which reduces the chance of clevice mount shocks flexing.
Available in Performance 2-position and Factory DH for £809.00, the Factory 2-position comes in at £849.00.
Fox DHX2 Coil Shock
Key features:
- 210×50, 210×52.5, 210×55, 230×60, 230×62.5, 230×65, 250×75 (eyelet)
- 185×55, 205×60, 205×65, 225×75 (Trunnion)
- High/Low-Speed Compression & High/Low-Speed Rebound
- Factory DH £729.00, Factory 2-pos £829.00
- RideFox.com
The Fox DHX2 gets all the same upgrades as the X2 but the most obvious visual difference is a much meatier shaft (snarf). It’s not quite as meaty as the Cane Creek Tigon but it’s a fair jump in diameter over the outgoing DHX2. The new coil damper should also be more consistent and reliable like its air sprung counterpart. Pressure balancing here improves small bump sensitivity and control under high load.
Only the Factory DH at £729.00 and Factory 2-position at £829.00 will be available aftermarket. Matt black SLS springs will be available with the launch of this shock to compliment the gloss orange ones we know and love.
