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With the 36 SL Grip X Fox is responding to the changing demands placed on trail bikes. Whilst these bikes are becoming increasingly high-performance and travel of 130 to 140 millimetres is now regarded as the universal trail standard, the Fox 34 was increasingly reaching its limits. At the same time, the classic Fox 36 was simply too heavy for many riders and designed for more demanding conditions with 150 to 160 millimetres of travel. The Fox 36 SL is neither a stripped-down 36 nor a reinforced 34. Instead, it is a completely new platform developed specifically for modern trail bikes. We have already tested the fork.
Conclusion
In my opinion, the Fox 36 SL Factory Grip X is currently one of the best suspension forks on the market. Its well-defined character and respectable weight make it an excellent fit for sporty trail bikes. The increased stiffness compared to the tried-and-tested Fox 34 is a particular advantage in the 140mm version and for heavier riders. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor
The Fox 36 SL Factory Grip X in detail
- Intended use: Trail bike
- Wheel size: 29 / 27.5”
- Adjustment options: air pressure, high- and low-speed compression, rebound
- Tested suspension travel option: 140 mm
- Weight: 1760 g
- Price: 1,539 euros >> available here
36-millimetre standpipes – but lighter
On the 36 SL, Fox combines 36-millimetre stanchions with a particularly lightweight trail platform. The aim is clear: the larger stanchion diameter is designed to significantly improve steering precision and torsional stiffness without having to put up with the weight disadvantage of a classic Fox 36. According to Fox, the 36 SL achieves around 20 per cent greater torsional stiffness than the previous 34 model, whilst remaining at almost the same weight. This is made possible by a magnesium stanchion unit with a generatively optimised crown and a revised material distribution.
The design is particularly interesting when examined in detail. Although the 36 SL is visually very similar to the well-known Fox 36, it does not simply adopt the latter’s chassis. Fox developed a unique casting with a wider bushing spacing to improve the guidance of the stanchions under high lateral loads. Modern trail bikes in particular, with their long reach, flat steering angles and powerful four-piston brakes, generate significantly higher forces than trail bikes did just a few years ago. The additional stiffness is therefore expected to make a noticeable difference, particularly in fast corners and on rough trails.
The Factory version features the latest Grip X cartridge. Compared to the enduro-oriented Grip X2, Fox places greater emphasis in the trail sector on lower friction, a sensitive response and practical adjustment options. High- and low-speed compression, as well as rebound, can be finely tuned without overwhelming the rider with a multitude of clicks.
Who is the 36 SL designed for?
The target audience is clearly defined. Anyone who rides a lightweight down-country bike, has no issues with the stiffness of their suspension forks and often rides on flowing trails will continue to be happy with a Fox 34. On the other hand, anyone who regularly rides challenging, bumpy trails, fits larger brake discs or rides modern trail bikes with plenty of grip and aggressive geometry will benefit from the 36 SL’s greater front-end stiffness. Riders weighing over around 80 kilograms in particular are likely to notice the difference clearly on hard berms, root sections or during quick changes of direction. At the same time, it eliminates the previously necessary compromise of having to switch straight to the significantly heavier Fox 36 for greater precision. The introduction of the 36 SL makes the product range clearer. Fox is thus closing a gap that many manufacturers have recently filled with a shortened Fox 36 or an overworked Fox 34.
- Fox 34 (SC): Uncompromising XC and downcountry fork
- Fox 36 SL: lightweight trail fork with 130 to 140 millimetres of travel
- Fox 36: All-mountain use with 150 to 160 millimetres
- Fox 38: Enduro and Bike Park
Defined concept
Greater suspension travel, higher speeds and tyres with better grip mean that trail bikes need a stiffer front end – without adding unnecessary weight. The 36 SL combines the precision of a full-fledged 36 with the weight of a classic trail fork, making it arguably the most appealing suspension fork in the Fox range for many riders. Even on rough trails, there’s no discernible difference in stiffness compared to the classic 36. The SL version responds sensitively even to small bumps and delivers plenty of grip at the front wheel. The butter-smooth response is typical of Fox’s top-of-the-range models. At the same time, the 36 SL remains slightly more composed than a classic Fox 34 in fast corners or during hard braking. This instils confidence – particularly on modern trail bikes with slack head angles and wide tyres.
Our highlight during testing is the precise damping of the Fox 36 SL Factory Grip X. The suspension fork generally sits slightly higher in its travel than models from previous generations. As a result, it always provides a high level of control at the front of a trail bike and never feels ‘mushy’. Instead, its character is sporty and progressive. Pulling away from the root edge and then ploughing through a field of rocks? No problem! The way the Fox 36 SL balances sensitivity with controlled resistance is exemplary.
Strengths and weaknesses
Pro
- light yet rigid
- sensitive yet controlled
- The damping characteristics are very well suited to modern trail bikes
Cons
- Premium price for the Factory version
What do you think? Which suspension fork do you prefer on your trail bike? Let us know in the comments!
Jan Timmermann
Editor