The Fox 38 Factory GRIP2 is a premium suspension fork engineered for aggressive enduro riding and heavy-duty trail applications. Designed with stiffness, adjustability, and downhill performance in mind, it caters to riders demanding high performance in the most challenging terrain. This article provides an in-depth comparison of the 38 Factory GRIP2 with other top-tier suspension forks, covering its installation, performance tuning, maintenance, and compatibility details. Riders will also gain insight into how it stacks up against similar models from other brands.
Tools Required
- 6mm and 5mm hex wrenches
- Torque wrench [paid link] with Nm scale
- Shock pump
- Crown race setter
- Star nut installation tool (if using a straight steerer)
- Suspension grease
- Suspension oil (Fox 20wt. Gold, Fox Float Fluid)
Installation of the Fox 38 Factory GRIP2
Installing the 38 Factory GRIP2 involves a few specialized steps due to its burly chassis and advanced damping system. Begin by measuring the head tube to cut the steerer tube to the appropriate length. Press in the crown race, install the star nut if needed, and slide the steerer into the head tube with the headset bearings in place.
Torque specifications are critical for the Fox 38. The pinch bolts on the lower legs and the crown bolts must be tightened to factory-recommended torque values to avoid creaking or damage. The floating axle system requires precise alignment to reduce bushing bind and improve sensitivity.
The GRIP2 damper and air spring require initial pressure and rebound settings based on rider weight. Fox provides a base tune chart, but fine-tuning is necessary after the first few rides.
Adjustment Features and Customization
The GRIP2 damper stands out for its independent high- and low-speed compression and rebound adjustments, giving riders granular control over suspension behavior. These adjusters use detented knobs for precise feedback and repeatability.
The 38 Factory includes a floating axle system, which minimizes torsional flex and allows the lowers to align perfectly with the hub spacing. This improves small-bump sensitivity and cornering stability.
Additionally, the air spring features volume spacer customization, allowing the progression of the spring curve to be tuned for either a more linear or ramped feel, depending on rider preference and terrain.
Routine Maintenance and Servicing
To keep the 38 Factory GRIP2 running smoothly, lower leg service should be performed every 30 to 50 hours of riding. This includes cleaning and regreasing the dust wipers, replacing foam rings, and refreshing the bath oil. Damper and air spring service intervals vary but are generally recommended every 100 to 125 hours or yearly.
It’s important to use only Fox-approved lubricants and seals to preserve performance and warranty status. The GRIP2 damper requires professional servicing due to its complex internal shim stacks and high-speed valve design.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
Incorrect axle installation is a frequent issue. The floating axle must be properly torqued after aligning the lowers to avoid binding and poor performance. If creaking occurs, inspect the crown and stanchion interface and retorque the crown bolts.
Over-damping is another concern. Riders sometimes use too much compression or rebound damping, which can lead to a harsh ride or lack of traction. Use baseline settings and adjust one parameter at a time for accurate feedback.
Air spring noise or inconsistent pressure can stem from a leaking negative air chamber. Performing a full air spring service will typically resolve this issue.
Optimizing Performance on Trail
For riders pushing limits on steep and technical terrain, the 38 Factory GRIP2 offers unparalleled tuning. With high-speed rebound adjustment, it’s possible to manage return speed on big hits without compromising small-bump recovery. Pairing with Fox’s Live Valve rear shock or a similarly tuned coil shock further enhances chassis balance.
Reducing volume spacers increases suppleness, while adding them increases bottom-out resistance. Riders can experiment with different spacer configurations to suit their trail type—flowy singletrack versus steep enduro stages.
Tire pressure and frame geometry also influence fork performance. Combining the GRIP2 with a slack front end and proper bar height enhances confidence and control.
Compatibility With Other Components
The 38 Factory GRIP2 is designed for Boost-spaced 15x110mm hubs and comes in 160mm to 180mm travel options, with 44mm or 51mm rake. It is compatible with most modern enduro frames that use tapered head tubes.
Brake compatibility includes post-mount calipers with 180mm minimum rotor size. The arch allows clearance for up to 29×2.6” tires, making it suitable for wide-rim, high-volume setups.
While it pairs best with Fox rear shocks due to matched damping characteristics, it integrates well with other top-tier dampers like RockShox Super Deluxe or Cane Creek Kitsuma.
Comparing Fox 38 Factory GRIP2 to RockShox ZEB Ultimate
The RockShox ZEB Ultimate is the closest competitor to the 38 Factory. Both target enduro and E-MTB applications and offer high-end damping features. The ZEB uses the Charger 3 damper with ButterCups for improved trail feel, while Fox’s GRIP2 offers finer independent tuning and greater support in fast, repeated hits.
Fox has the edge in stiffness due to a more robust chassis design and floating axle. However, ZEB excels in out-of-the-box comfort and ease of tuning. Riders preferring more plug-and-play performance might favor the ZEB, whereas those desiring maximum customization will lean towards Fox.
Comparing Fox 38 Factory GRIP2 to Öhlins RXF38 m.2
The Öhlins RXF38 m.2 prioritizes plushness and mid-stroke support, making it a strong contender for rough terrain. Its TTX18 damper is known for traction and consistency but offers fewer external adjustments than GRIP2.
In terms of structure, the RXF38 uses a slightly lighter chassis but lacks the floating axle, which can affect small-bump sensitivity. Fox retains an advantage in adjustability and stiffness, but Öhlins delivers a uniquely smooth ride appreciated by aggressive trail riders.
Comparing Fox 38 Factory GRIP2 to Marzocchi Z1 Coil
While not a direct competitor in damping complexity, the Marzocchi Z1 Coil appeals to riders prioritizing simplicity and coil performance. The Z1 offers plush coil sensitivity and minimal maintenance but lacks the tuning range and support of the GRIP2.
Fox 38 Factory GRIP2 outperforms the Z1 in high-speed support, damping precision, and weight. However, riders wanting a more forgiving ride with minimal fuss may consider the Z1 as an alternative.
Conclusion
The Fox 38 Factory GRIP2 represents a high watermark in enduro fork design, blending stiffness, adjustability, and small-bump compliance in a way few others can match. Compared to other top models like the RockShox ZEB Ultimate, Öhlins RXF38, and Marzocchi Z1 Coil, it stands out for its meticulous customization and race-level performance.
Ideal for aggressive riders and those who demand the most out of their suspension tuning, the 38 Factory GRIP2 delivers superior control on rough terrain. For riders considering their next fork upgrade, it offers a compelling balance of refinement, performance, and adjustability that few competitors can rival.