The Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2 is a high-performance suspension fork tailored for aggressive trail riders and all-mountain enthusiasts. Engineered with the GRIP2 damper, it delivers advanced tuning capabilities and refined control. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough for inspecting the Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2 suspension fork. It includes installation checks, maintenance intervals, adjustment procedures, and common troubleshooting tips to ensure top-tier performance.
Tools Required
- 4 mm and 5 mm hex wrenches
- Torque wrench [paid link] (Nm-specific)
- Suspension oil (Fox 20wt Gold or equivalent)
- Clean microfiber cloths
- Digital or analog shock pump
- Suspension cleaner or isopropyl alcohol
- Pick or seal puller
- Nitrile gloves
- Caliper or ruler (for measuring sag and travel)
Installation Verification
Proper installation ensures safe operation and longevity of the fork. Check the following after initial setup or whenever re-installing the fork:
Steerer Tube and Crown Race
Verify the steerer tube is cut to the correct length and deburred. The crown race should seat flush against the crown without gaps. Loose or misaligned races can induce headset play.
Axle Fitment and Torque
The Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2 uses a Kabolt-X or QR-style thru-axle depending on the variant. Confirm the axle seats fully into the dropout and is torqued to 19.5 Nm. Improper torque can result in side-loading or creaking.
Brake Mounts
Ensure the post-mount brake tabs are free of burrs and the caliper aligns cleanly with the rotor. Pad-to-rotor clearance should be symmetrical, and mounting bolts must be torqued to 6–8 Nm.
External Adjustment Checks
The GRIP2 damper offers four independent adjustment points. An inspection should include validation of click function and range for each dial.
High-Speed Compression (HSC)
Located on top of the right-side crown, the HSC dial should have 8–10 firm clicks. If rotation feels loose or sticky, inspect for contamination or detent wear.
Low-Speed Compression (LSC)
Beneath the HSC, this dial offers 16–20 clicks. Ensure it turns smoothly and doesn’t bind midway. A dragging LSC knob can indicate contamination in the cartridge.
High-Speed Rebound (HSR)
Located on the bottom of the right leg, the red HSR dial should rotate clearly through 8 clicks. Difficulty in turning this knob often correlates with oil viscosity issues or damper wear.
Low-Speed Rebound (LSR)
The smaller red dial nestled within the HSR adjustment should provide 16–20 distinct clicks. If rotational feedback is inconsistent, internal inspection of the rebound stack may be necessary.
Sag and Travel Measurement
Inspecting sag and usable travel ensures proper air spring function and rider-specific setup.
Measuring Sag
Set the air pressure according to rider weight using a shock pump. Slide the travel indicator o-ring to the base, have the rider mount the bike, and dismount carefully. Measure the distance from the o-ring to the fork seal. Typical sag is 15–25% of total travel (i.e., 18–30mm on a 130mm fork).
Full Travel Test
With HSC fully open, compress the fork with full force and check if it achieves full travel. If it consistently bottoms short, the negative spring or air shaft may require service.
Routine Maintenance
Fox recommends routine maintenance every 30 hours of riding, with a full damper and air spring service at 125 hours. Frequent inspection preserves damping integrity and stanchion condition.
Stanchion and Seal Wipe
After every ride, clean stanchions with a microfiber cloth. Lightly inspect for oil seepage or grime buildup near dust wipers. Persistent oil suggests worn seals or excessive internal pressure.
Foam Ring Lubrication
At 30-hour intervals, remove the lower legs and re-soak foam rings in 20wt Gold suspension fluid. Inspect for debris or ring collapse. Always replace if they appear dry or misshapen.
Air Spring Inspection
Remove the top cap and check the air chamber for any signs of contamination. The air piston and seal head should glide freely. Lubricate with specified grease and ensure the air valve holds pressure.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Proper identification of symptoms can guide effective repair strategies.
Fork Feels Harsh or Spikes Over Bumps
If the fork feels overly stiff or transmits sharp impacts, consider reducing HSC and LSC clicks. Also verify air pressure is within the recommended range. Excessive oil viscosity or contamination may also cause poor damping response.
Creaking Under Load
Inspect crown and steerer interface. Creaks can also originate from loose axle clamps or improperly torqued headset components.
Diminished Rebound Control
If rebound adjustment has minimal impact, air cavitation or damper oil breakdown may be present. This typically requires a complete damper rebuild.
Customization and Performance Optimization
Advanced users can fine-tune the fork beyond basic settings for a more responsive and personalized ride.
Volume Spacer Adjustment
Volume spacers change the progressiveness of the air spring. Reducing spacers provides a linear feel; adding spacers increases bottom-out resistance. Always consult Fox’s volume spacer chart to maintain compatibility.
Aftermarket Tuning Kits
For riders seeking even greater performance, brands like Vorsprung and Push offer tuning kits that enhance small bump sensitivity and mid-stroke support. These require advanced mechanical skills and should be installed by experienced technicians.
Rider-Specific Damping Setup
Using telemetry or ride feel, adjust HSC and LSC to suit trail speed and rider weight. Faster riders may benefit from increased HSC to control hard hits, while lighter riders should prioritize small bump compliance through softer settings.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The 34 Float Factory GRIP2 primarily affects front-end dynamics but must integrate seamlessly with other systems.
Headset and Frame Interface
Ensure the steerer diameter and crown race match the headset and frame specs (typically 1.5″ to 1-1/8″ tapered). Misalignment can impact steering precision and headset wear.
Brake Rotor and Caliper Fit
The fork accommodates up to 203mm rotors. Ensure your caliper spacing aligns with the fork’s post mount size. Improper adapters may induce rotor rub or alignment issues.
Front Wheel Spacing
The fork is available in Boost (110mm) spacing. Always verify that the front hub matches this standard to ensure proper fit and axle engagement.
Comparison with Similar Models
Understanding the Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2’s standing among peers can assist in decision-making.
Fox 34 Performance Elite GRIP vs Factory GRIP2
The Performance Elite offers the same chassis but lacks the Kashima coating and GRIP2 damper. While more affordable, it provides fewer external adjustments, making it less tunable for aggressive riders.
RockShox Pike Ultimate
Comparable in weight and travel, the Pike Ultimate uses a Charger 3 damper with fewer high-speed adjustments. Riders focused on plushness may prefer the Pike, while the GRIP2 caters to those demanding precision tuning.
FAQs
How often should I service the 34 Float Factory GRIP2 fork?
Fox recommends lower leg service every 30 hours and a full rebuild every 125 hours of riding.
Can I adjust the air spring travel on the 34 Float Factory GRIP2?
Yes, travel can be changed in 10mm increments by swapping the air shaft assembly.
Why is my fork leaking oil near the wipers?
Oil seepage indicates worn or contaminated seals. Perform a lower leg service and replace seals as needed.
Does the GRIP2 damper need specific tuning oil?
Yes, use Fox-specified damper oil for proper viscosity and temperature stability. Avoid using generic suspension oils.
What’s the ideal sag setting for aggressive trail riding?
Aim for 20–25% sag for a balanced feel between traction and support.
Can I install a 27.5” wheel on this 29” fork?
Technically yes, but it may alter geometry and reduce axle-to-crown height. This setup isn’t generally recommended.
Conclusion
The Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2 is a premium suspension fork offering refined performance for trail and all-mountain riders. Regular inspection, precise adjustment, and timely maintenance are essential to keep it functioning at its peak. With advanced features and compatibility across modern bike platforms, it remains a leading choice for riders seeking ultimate control and customization.