FOX 36 Factory Grip X2 in the endurance test: The new benchmark for trail and all-mountain bikes?
Max Fuchs
· 03.01.2026
The revised chassis of the current Fox 36 already signals the new start. The most obvious feature is the load-optimised design of the bridge, which opens up in filigree recesses. There are also larger bushings, a new air spring and an optimised damping unit. Fox claims that the torsional stiffness has increased by around 20 per cent compared to the previous generation, bringing the 36 even closer to the level of the larger Fox 38 enduro fork. The protrusion of the bushings has also been extended by around 30 millimetres, which improves guidance and reduces friction.
| Feature | Specification |
| Weight | 2136 g |
| Spring travel | 160 mm |
| Damping cartridge | Grip X2 |
| High-speed compression stage | 8 clicks |
| Low-speed compression stage | 18 clicks |
| High-speed traction stage | 8 clicks |
| Lowspeed tension stage | 16 clicks |
| Centre distance | 15 x 110 mm Boost |
| Brake disc mount | from 200 mm Direct Post Mount |
| Price (RRP) | 1609 € |
The centrepiece of the new features is the revised FLOAT EVOL Compliant air unit. In order to improve the response behaviour under load, FOX now mounts the air spring floating inside via three rubber rings. This allows the system to decouple from the casting when twisting, allowing it to move more freely and preventing it from tilting. The result is a significantly more sensitive, more even response behaviour. There are also clever details such as a revised top cap, which can now be opened with a standard cassette tool - a small but significant plus in terms of ease of servicing. You can find more technical information, background information and details on the other FOX 36 model variants here.
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Test of the Fox 36 Factory Grip X2
The technical innovations of the FOX 36 are immediately noticeable on the trail. We tested the Factory version of the 36 with 160 millimetres of travel and Grip-X2 damping cartridge. The fork responds more sensitively than its predecessor, but remains high in its travel and provides plenty of support on hard compressions or hard landings. "Beautifully sporty" sums up the character of the fork perfectly.
Nevertheless, the new 36 is not a prodigy without weaknesses. The compression tune of the Factory version we tested is comparatively firm. Riders under 70 kilograms might miss out on some comfort despite the compression stage being fully open. For everyone else, the fork offers a nicely graduated adjustment range for the rebound and compression stages (high speed/low speed). Controlled and defined compression and rebound? Check! This gives the fork a confident and precise feel, especially on technical terrain.
However, the FOX 36 is not as buttery smooth and comfort-orientated as the RockShox Lyrik Ultimate with Charger 3.1 cartridge. If you are a sporty rider and want a lot of support and maximum precision when riding hard, you will be all the happier with the new fork.
Conclusion on the FOX 36 Factory Grip X2
The bottom line is that with the 36 (MY26), Fox delivers a strong return to the premier league of trail and all-mountain suspension forks. It is stiffer, more sensitive and more defined than its predecessor - and strikes a better balance between response behaviour and reserves than ever before. For bikes with 140 to 160 millimetres of suspension travel, it is currently one of the most exciting options on the market.
Max Fuchs
Editor
