The Fox 32 Float Factory Step-Cast suspension fork is a lightweight, high-performance fork engineered specifically for cross-country (XC) racing. It represents a culmination of Fox’s innovative approach to suspension design, balancing stiffness, weight, and precision. This guide offers an in-depth look at its installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization to help you maximize its potential.
Tools Required
- 32 mm flat wrench
- Torque wrench [paid link] (2–20 Nm range)
- Suspension oil (Fox 20wt. Gold or specified alternative)
- Shock pump (accurate to 0.5 psi)
- Allen keys [paid link] (4, 5, 6 mm)
- Isopropyl alcohol and clean rags
- Pick tool or seal puller
- Fox Fork-specific lower leg service kit
Installation Process
Correct installation of the 32 Float Factory Step-Cast is crucial to ensure structural integrity and performance.
Begin by confirming the steerer tube length matches your bike’s head tube, including spacer and stem stack height. The fork crown race must match your headset system—commonly integrated or tapered.
After installing the crown race, insert the steerer through the head tube. Apply torque to the headset preload cap to remove play, then tighten the stem bolts evenly using a torque wrench [paid link], typically to 5 Nm. Verify fork alignment to avoid unwanted rotational stress.
Brake caliper mounting is Post Mount. Align the caliper over the rotor without pad drag, adjusting laterally as needed before torquing the bolts to 6–8 Nm.
Air Spring Setup and Adjustment
The 32 Float Factory Step-Cast uses the EVOL air spring system, which provides a supple initial stroke and ramp-up at mid-stroke.
To set up the air spring:
- Determine your rider weight including gear.
- Consult Fox’s air pressure chart for your weight range.
- Use a shock pump to inflate the fork to the target psi.
- Cycle the fork through 2–3 compressions to equalize positive and negative chambers.
- Fine-tune pressure in 1–2 psi increments based on sag measurement (recommended: 15–20%).
Compression and Rebound Tuning
This model includes the FIT4 damper, offering three compression modes—Open, Medium, and Firm—with 22 clicks of low-speed compression in Open mode.
Begin with the Open mode fully counter-clockwise. Add low-speed compression clicks if brake dive or excessive movement occurs during cornering.
For rebound, turn the red dial clockwise for slower return and counter-clockwise for faster return. Start in the middle of the range and adjust according to your riding terrain and speed. A slower rebound suits rocky terrain, while faster rebound benefits smoother courses.
Lower Leg Service and Maintenance
Routine maintenance ensures longevity and consistent performance.
Fox recommends a 50-hour service interval for the lower legs. Remove the fork from the bike, then the lower legs by releasing the bottom bolts and gently tapping to free the internals.
Clean the stanchions and inside of the lowers with isopropyl alcohol. Replace foam rings and dust wipers. Re-lubricate with Fox 20wt. Gold suspension fluid before reinstalling and torquing to factory specs.
Every 125 hours or annually, a full damper and air spring service is advised. This includes oil replacement, air piston inspection, and seal condition checks.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
Excessive Sag or Harsh Bottom-Outs: Underinflation or lack of volume spacers. Increase air pressure slightly or add a volume spacer to increase ramp-up.
Stiction or Poor Small Bump Compliance: Dirty stanchions or worn seals. Clean stanchions and replace wipers and foam rings during the next service.
Unresponsive Rebound Adjustment: Check for damper oil contamination or air intrusion. This requires damper servicing by a trained technician.
Brake Rub or Rotor Misalignment: Often due to improper caliper centering. Loosen the caliper bolts, squeeze the brake lever, and re-torque evenly.
Customization and Performance Optimization
Volume spacers can be used to fine-tune the air spring curve. Adding spacers increases end-stroke ramp-up, improving bottom-out resistance. Riders seeking a more linear feel can remove spacers.
Adjusting low-speed compression in Open mode allows riders to control fork dive and responsiveness. Racers might opt for more compression damping for sprint efficiency.
Upgrading to a Kabolt axle can reduce weight and improve stiffness slightly. It replaces the standard QR-style thru-axle with a bolt-on variant.
Compatibility with Other Components
The 32 Float Factory Step-Cast is designed for 100 mm travel XC frames and typically fits 29″ wheels with up to 2.3″ tire clearance.
It uses a Boost 110 mm axle spacing and is compatible with flat-mount or post-mount disc brakes up to 180 mm rotor size with proper adapters.
Ensure headset compatibility for tapered steerers (1.5” to 1 1/8”). It matches well with lightweight XC stems and handlebars, but always verify clamp diameters and torque values.
Comparison with Similar Models
Compared to the Fox 34 Step-Cast, the 32 SC is lighter and more efficient for pure XC use but sacrifices some stiffness for aggressive trail riding.
Versus the RockShox SID SL, the 32 SC offers greater adjustability with the FIT4 damper and a slightly more progressive spring feel. However, the SID SL may edge it out in pure weight savings for weight-obsessed racers.
The 32 SC is not designed for downcountry use or heavy drop-offs. Riders looking for more versatility should consider the Fox 34 SC or Fox 34 Factory with higher travel options.
Conclusion
The Fox 32 Float Factory Step-Cast is engineered for elite cross-country racing, delivering a finely tuned balance of lightweight design, adjustability, and reliable performance. With regular maintenance and careful tuning, it offers a competitive edge on modern XC courses. Its customization options and compatibility with current drivetrain and brake standards make it a top-tier choice for serious racers.