The Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 fork is a high-performance suspension component designed for aggressive trail, enduro, and all-mountain riders. Its hallmark feature—the GRIP2 damper—brings race-tuned suspension control to a versatile chassis built for demanding terrain. With advanced adjustability and optimized construction, the 36 Factory GRIP2 enhances both descending confidence and climbing efficiency. This guide will explore its installation, setup, maintenance, and performance optimization in detail.

Tools Required

• Torque wrench [paid link] (Nm-specific range)
• 6mm, 5mm, 4mm hex wrenches
• Suspension pump (digital or analog)
• Isopropyl alcohol and clean rags
• Crown race setting tool (if installing new headset)
• Shock oil and syringe (for lower leg service)
• Torque chart for Fox 36 (refer to manual for updates)

Installation of the 36 Factory GRIP2 Fork

Installing the Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 requires precision and proper torque adherence to preserve performance and warranty coverage. Begin by ensuring your frame and headset are compatible with a 1.5” tapered steerer tube and boost spacing (15x110mm axle).

Steerer tube cutting must account for headset stack height and stem configuration. Use a guide to ensure a clean cut. After cutting, deburr and install the star nut or threaded insert, if applicable. Apply a thin layer of grease to the headset bearings and slide the fork into the frame.

Install the stem and spacers, and torque the top cap and stem bolts to manufacturer specs. Finally, insert the thru-axle with the front wheel and torque it precisely to 19 Nm.

Adjusting the GRIP2 Damper: High and Low Speed Tuning

The GRIP2 damper on the Fox 36 Factory provides independent high- and low-speed compression and rebound adjustments. Understanding how these interact is essential to maximize the fork’s capabilities.

• High-speed compression affects resistance during fast hits like drops or square-edged bumps.
• Low-speed compression manages chassis movement during climbing, braking, or body shifts.
• High-speed rebound determines how quickly the fork returns after big compressions.
• Low-speed rebound adjusts fork recovery after slow compressions.

To begin, set sag to 20-25% using the suspension pump and your body weight fully loaded on the bike. From there, adjust rebound and compression using the baseline settings from Fox’s tuning chart. Fine-tune based on trail feedback—reduce high-speed compression if the ride feels harsh or increase low-speed rebound to limit fork bounce during slow-speed tech climbs.

Routine Maintenance and Service Intervals

Routine maintenance is crucial to preserving the 36 Factory GRIP2’s sensitivity and longevity. At 30-hour intervals, perform lower leg service:

• Remove lowers, clean out debris and old oil.
• Replace foam rings and seals as needed.
• Apply 20cc of Fox 20wt Gold oil to each leg before reassembly.

At 100-hour or annual intervals, complete a full damper and air spring service. This involves disassembling the GRIP2 damper, cleaning internal components, and replacing seals and oil. If you’re inexperienced, professional service is advised for damper work due to complexity and tool requirements.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Fork Feels Harsh on Small Bumps

Check for excessive low-speed compression or insufficient sag. Reduce low-speed compression or increase air pressure slightly.

Fork Tops Out or Feels Bouncy

Often caused by too little rebound damping. Increase low-speed rebound gradually to regain control.

Excessive Dive During Braking

Adjust low-speed compression upwards and verify correct air spring pressure. Excess dive can reduce front-end confidence.

Travel Not Fully Used

Ensure air pressure isn’t too high and high-speed compression isn’t overly restrictive. Also verify volume spacer count—removing one may help.

Performance Customization and Tuning Tips

Riders can further tailor the GRIP2 experience through volume spacers, which modify air spring progression. More spacers increase ramp-up, offering better bottom-out resistance. Fewer spacers provide a more linear feel.

Experiment with compression settings based on trail types. For bike parks and flow trails, increase both low- and high-speed compression. For backcountry, rooty trails, favor more open damping for better traction.

Pairing the fork with a high-quality front tire and appropriate air pressures will also amplify small bump compliance and overall trail grip.

Compatibility with Drivetrain and Frame Standards

The 36 Factory GRIP2 is optimized for modern trail geometries and supports both 27.5” and 29” wheels, with appropriate axle-to-crown heights and offset options (44mm and 51mm). It is fully compatible with 1x drivetrains and fits frames with Boost hub spacing and post-mount disc brakes (up to 203mm rotors without adapters).

Its steerer tube is tapered (1.5” to 1 1/8”), compatible with most current trail and enduro frames. It supports both standard and direct-mount fender options.

Comparison with Similar Forks

When compared to the Fox 36 Performance Elite or the RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, the 36 Factory GRIP2 stands out with its unparalleled damper adjustability. The Lyrik Ultimate’s Charger 3 damper offers similar tuning range but is slightly heavier. Meanwhile, the Performance Elite shares the same chassis but lacks the Kashima coating and may use a different damper, such as FIT4, with fewer tuning options.

Riders seeking micro-adjustment for race scenarios or challenging terrain will appreciate the GRIP2’s detail-oriented performance. However, casual riders may prefer simpler interfaces offered by Performance variants.

FAQs

Q1: What is the recommended sag for the Fox 36 Factory GRIP2?
A: Aim for 20–25% sag, depending on riding style. Aggressive riders may prefer closer to 20%.

Q2: How often should I service the GRIP2 damper?
A: Lower leg service every 30 hours and a full damper service every 100 hours or annually.

Q3: Can I use the GRIP2 fork with non-Boost wheels?
A: No, the fork is designed exclusively for Boost (15x110mm) hub spacing.

Q4: What’s the maximum rotor size I can use with this fork?
A: Up to 203mm without adapters; larger sizes may require special mounts or void warranty.

Q5: How do volume spacers affect fork performance?
A: More spacers make the air spring more progressive, increasing bottom-out resistance.

Q6: Is the 36 Factory GRIP2 suitable for e-MTBs?
A: While not e-specific, its robust chassis and adjustability make it compatible with many e-MTB builds.

Conclusion

The Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 delivers elite-level adjustability, precise damping control, and durable construction for serious trail and enduro riders. Whether you’re fine-tuning for race day or seeking a smoother ride over technical terrain, its GRIP2 damper offers the flexibility and performance necessary to elevate your trail riding experience. Consistent maintenance and correct setup ensure that this fork remains a benchmark in trail suspension for years to come.