When it comes to high-performance rear shocks, the Fox DHX2 Factory has become a popular choice among mountain bikers. Known for its durability, smoothness, and adjustability, the DHX2 Factory rear shock is engineered to provide optimal performance on various types of trails. But is it the best option for your mountain bike? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore its installation, maintenance, customization options, troubleshooting, and how it compares with similar models to help you decide if the DHX2 Factory is the right fit for your ride.
Installation of the Fox DHX2 Factory Rear Shock
Installing the Fox DHX2 Factory rear shock requires precision to ensure proper function and maximum performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with the installation process:
- Preparation:
- Ensure your bike is clean and stable.
- Gather the necessary tools, including a shock pump, torque wrench [paid link], and correct shock mounting hardware.
- Remove the Existing Shock:
- Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the old shock to your frame.
- Carefully remove the shock from the mounting points.
- Install the DHX2 Factory Shock:
- Position the DHX2 Factory rear shock into the frame’s mounting points.
- Align the shock’s eyelets with the frame’s mounts.
- Insert the mounting bolts and tighten them with the torque wrench [paid link] to the manufacturer’s recommended torque value.
- Set the Sag:
- Use the shock pump to inflate the shock to the appropriate pressure.
- Adjust the air pressure until you reach the recommended sag (usually around 30% of the shock’s travel).
- Final Checks:
- Ensure that all bolts are tightened correctly.
- Check the shock’s functionality by compressing it and verifying that it moves smoothly.
Once installed, you can start making adjustments to the shock to suit your riding style and preferences.
Adjusting the DHX2 Factory Rear Shock
The Fox DHX2 Factory rear shock is highly adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune it for different trail conditions and personal preferences. The main adjustments available on the DHX2 Factory include:
Rebound Adjustment
The rebound adjustment controls the speed at which the shock returns after compression. It is vital for controlling how the bike reacts to successive bumps or drops. A slower rebound setting helps with stability on rough terrain, while a faster setting is better for smoother trails.
- Turn the rebound knob clockwise for slower rebound.
- Turn the rebound knob counterclockwise for faster rebound.
Compression Damping
The DHX2 Factory features separate high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments, allowing for a more tailored setup.
- Low-speed compression: Adjust this for overall bike handling on rough terrain, including climbs and cornering.
- High-speed compression: Fine-tune this for more aggressive impacts, such as drops and large obstacles.
Air Pressure
Proper air pressure is crucial for achieving the correct sag and maintaining optimal shock performance. Use the shock pump to adjust the air pressure based on your weight, riding style, and preferences.
Bottom-Out Adjustment
This adjustment controls the final stage of the shock’s travel to prevent harsh bottom-outs during aggressive impacts. Turn the knob clockwise to increase bottom-out resistance.
Maintenance and Care of the DHX2 Factory Rear Shock
Regular maintenance is essential to keep the Fox DHX2 Factory rear shock performing at its best. Follow these steps to ensure longevity and optimal performance:
Cleaning
- Routine Cleaning: After every ride, wipe down the shock with a clean cloth to remove dirt and debris.
- Deep Cleaning: Every few months, disassemble the shock to clean the internal components. This may require professional servicing depending on the frequency and intensity of your rides.
Lubrication
- Apply lubricant to the shock’s moving parts periodically to reduce friction and maintain smooth performance.
Seals and Bushings
- Inspect the seals and bushings regularly for wear and tear. Replace them if necessary to prevent leakage and ensure the shock operates correctly.
Air Pressure and Sag Check
- Check the air pressure regularly and adjust the sag as needed to suit your riding style.
Full Service
- Fox recommends a full service every 12 to 18 months depending on usage, or more frequently if the bike is subjected to harsh conditions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with the DHX2 Factory
Although the Fox DHX2 Factory is a durable and high-quality shock, some riders may encounter issues over time. Below are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
No Rebound Control
If the rebound adjustment seems ineffective or the shock is not returning properly:
- Check for air leakage: Inspect the shock for any signs of air loss. If air pressure is low, use a shock pump to re-inflate it to the correct level.
- Recheck the rebound setting: Ensure that the rebound knob is correctly adjusted.
Excessive Bottom-Out
If the shock bottoms out frequently:
- Increase compression damping: Adjust the high-speed and low-speed compression settings to stiffen the shock for better resistance to big hits.
- Check air pressure: Ensure the shock’s air pressure is within the recommended range.
Lack of Smooth Travel
If the shock feels jerky or lacks smoothness:
- Inspect seals: Worn-out seals can cause friction and affect the shock’s performance. Replace the seals if necessary.
- Clean the shock: Dirt and grime can build up in the shock body, causing rough travel. Clean it thoroughly.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
To optimize your Fox DHX2 Factory rear shock for your specific riding style and trail conditions, consider these customization options:
Adjusting Sag
Fine-tuning the sag to your weight and riding style is one of the most important factors in optimizing performance. Riders who prefer aggressive downhill riding may want to increase the sag, while those who focus on cross-country riding may prefer a firmer setup.
Fine-Tuning Compression
- Aggressive Riders: Use more high-speed compression damping to absorb large impacts, providing more stability.
- Endurance Riders: Lower the compression damping to improve traction on technical climbs.
Fine-Tuning Rebound
- Faster Rebound: For smoother terrain and lighter riders, faster rebound can provide a livelier, more responsive feel.
- Slower Rebound: Heavier riders or those riding in rougher conditions may prefer a slower rebound to maintain stability.
DHX2 Factory vs. Similar Models
To help you determine whether the DHX2 Factory is the best rear shock for your needs, it’s important to compare it to similar models available on the market.
Fox Float X2 vs. DHX2 Factory
While both shocks are designed for aggressive riding, the Fox Float X2 offers a more responsive, air-sprung design, making it slightly lighter than the DHX2 Factory. The DHX2 Factory, however, uses a coil spring that provides a more consistent and predictable feel on rough terrain, which is preferred by many riders for downhill and enduro applications.
RockShox Super Deluxe Coil vs. DHX2 Factory
The RockShox Super Deluxe Coil and the Fox DHX2 Factory both utilize a coil spring for superior performance on challenging trails. However, the Fox DHX2 Factory is known for its superior adjustability with separate compression and rebound damping, which offers finer tuning compared to the Super Deluxe Coil.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Fox DHX2 Factory rear shock is compatible with a wide range of mountain bike frames, but it’s essential to ensure that the shock’s dimensions (eye-to-eye length and stroke length) match your frame’s specifications. Most modern mountain bikes can accommodate the DHX2 Factory, but it is important to verify compatibility, particularly if you’re using a bike with unique frame geometry.
The DHX2 Factory is also designed to work well with both Shimano and SRAM drivetrains, providing smooth, uninterrupted performance. However, make sure your frame allows for the necessary shock travel to avoid any clearance issues during compression.