The Fox 38 Performance Elite is engineered for aggressive trail and enduro riding, offering high-end performance features without the Kashima coating found on Factory models. This guide provides in-depth, step-by-step information to help riders maintain, service, and optimize their 38 Performance Elite suspension fork for long-term durability and peak trail performance.
Tools Required
- 10mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link] (2–20 Nm range)
- Suspension-specific grease
- Suspension oil (Fox 20wt Gold, Fox Float Fluid)
- Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol (90%+)
- Pick or dental tool (for dust wiper removal)
- Suspension fork seal driver (Fox 38 specific)
- Shock pump
Understanding the Fox 38 Performance Elite Fork
The 38 Performance Elite is a robust single-crown suspension fork designed for 160–180mm travel bikes. It features the GRIP2 damper, air spring with volume spacer adjustability, and a stiffer chassis than the Fox 36, making it ideal for high-speed descents and aggressive terrain. Its Performance Elite designation includes all tuning technologies found in the Factory model, minus the Kashima anodizing.
Installation Overview
Correct installation ensures consistent performance and avoids long-term damage. The fork must be installed with a correctly sized crown race and torque-applied headset spacers. The steerer tube should be cut cleanly using a pipe guide and filed smooth.
Check axle torque (15x110mm Boost) and brake caliper alignment. Always use a torque wrench [paid link], setting bolts to Fox specifications—usually between 5.1 Nm and 6.8 Nm for pinch bolts, and up to 19 Nm for the thru-axle.
Air Spring Setup and Volume Tuning
Initial air pressure should be based on rider weight according to Fox’s pressure chart. Fine-tuning is done using volume spacers:
- More spacers increase progression, ideal for aggressive riders or bike park use.
- Fewer spacers create a more linear feel, better for trail riding and lighter users.
To add or remove spacers, depressurize the fork, remove the top cap with a 6mm Allen key, and screw spacers on/off the air shaft. Re-torque the top cap to 40 in-lbf.
Rebound and Compression Adjustment
The GRIP2 damper offers High-Speed and Low-Speed Compression (HSC/LSC), along with High-Speed and Low-Speed Rebound (HSR/LSR). Start with factory baseline settings, then tune based on trail feedback:
- Turn HSC and LSC clockwise for more damping.
- Use slower rebound (clockwise) for more control on steep terrain.
Adjust in one-click increments, noting trail feedback after each change.
Lower Leg Service (Every 40 Riding Hours)
Routine lower leg service is essential to maintain sensitivity and performance. Here’s the breakdown:
- Remove the lower legs by unscrewing the foot nuts and tapping them to release the legs.
- Drain old oil and thoroughly clean the lower legs and internals with isopropyl alcohol.
- Replace dust wipers and foam rings. Use a seal driver to seat new wipers evenly.
- Apply suspension-specific grease to the foam rings and inside lip of new seals.
- Reinstall the lower legs, add 20wt Gold oil (40ml each leg), and torque foot nuts to spec.
This process restores small-bump compliance and ensures proper lubrication.
Air Spring and Damper Service (Every 125 Hours or Annually)
More advanced than a lower leg service, this involves disassembling the air spring and damper side:
- Air Spring: Remove and clean each component, replace the air piston O-rings and seals, re-lube, and reassemble using Fox Float Fluid.
- Damper Service: Requires a full teardown of the GRIP2 unit, replacing seals and bladder as needed. This service is best performed by experienced home mechanics or professionals.
Always document settings before disassembly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Several issues can emerge with the 38 Performance Elite over time:
- Harsh top-out clunk: Likely caused by air spring over-lubrication or incorrect assembly.
- Oil leakage: Indicates damaged wipers or overfilled lowers.
- Reduced travel: May stem from stuck negative/positive air equalization—cycle the fork while unweighted to fix.
- Loss of small-bump sensitivity: Foam rings might be dry or worn out—check lubrication and replace if needed.
Address problems promptly to prevent deeper component damage.
Customization Tips for Better Trail Performance
Riders can enhance their fork’s feel through several personalization options:
- Add tokens for a firmer bottom-out: Helps for aggressive jump lines.
- Adjust HSC and HSR for brake dive: Increases stability under hard braking.
- Change fork offset (requires new crown/steerer): Modifies bike handling and steering responsiveness.
- Use low-friction aftermarket seals: Improve small bump sensitivity at the cost of slightly higher maintenance frequency.
Experimenting with tuning parameters helps optimize for local terrain and rider preferences.
Compatibility With Other Drivetrain and Frame Components
The Fox 38 Performance Elite is compatible with:
- Boost-spaced (15x110mm) front hubs.
- 180mm post-mount disc brakes (up to 203mm with adapters).
- Tapered head tubes (1.5″ to 1-1/8″).
- Most modern enduro and trail bikes with 160–180mm travel.
It is not compatible with older non-Boost wheelsets or straight steerer frames.
Comparison With Similar Fork Models
Understanding how the 38 Performance Elite stacks up can guide upgrades:
- Fox 38 Factory: Same internals but features Kashima coating for marginally smoother action.
- Fox 36 Performance Elite: Lighter and more agile, but less stiff—better for trail than enduro.
- RockShox ZEB Ultimate: Similar stiffness and weight; the ZEB may feel plusher off the top, but the GRIP2 offers more tuning range.
- Öhlins RXF38 m.2: Targets similar riders but with a different damper feel—more linear and less tunable.
The 38 Performance Elite offers an optimal blend of adjustability, performance, and price for aggressive riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I service the 38 Performance Elite fork?
Lower leg service every 40 hours; full air spring and damper service every 125 hours or annually.
Can I use non-Fox oil in the 38 Performance Elite?
No. Use only Fox-approved 20wt Gold oil and Float Fluid for consistent performance and seal longevity.
Is the 38 Performance Elite suitable for downhill bikes?
It can be used on freeride builds, but dual-crown forks are generally better suited for full downhill applications.
Can I convert it from 170mm to 160mm travel?
Yes, by replacing the air shaft assembly with the appropriate travel length. It requires full disassembly of the air spring.
Is the Kashima coating a major performance upgrade?
It offers a minor improvement in slickness and durability, but the internal performance is identical.
Do I need special tools for home servicing?
Yes. A suspension-specific seal driver, torque wrench, and appropriate fluids are necessary for proper DIY maintenance.
Conclusion
Routine care and smart tuning of your Fox 38 Performance Elite fork will ensure top-tier trail performance and extend the life of your investment. With its advanced damper and robust chassis, it’s built to take on the roughest terrain. Proper setup and regular maintenance allow it to perform at its best, whether you’re hammering down enduro stages or hitting technical climbs.