Is the Float 36 Rhythm eMTB the Best Suspension Fork for Mountain Biking?

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The Fox Float 36 Rhythm eMTB fork is a purpose-built suspension fork tailored specifically for the demands of electric mountain bikes. With a solid chassis, eMTB-tuned damper, and reliable support on rough terrain, it has earned a strong reputation among trail and enduro riders. This guide provides a comprehensive technical breakdown of the Float 36 Rhythm eMTB fork, covering installation, adjustment, troubleshooting, performance tuning, and drivetrain compatibility.

Tools Required:

  • Torque wrench [paid link] (Nm calibrated)
  • 6mm and 5mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Suspension pump
  • Lower leg removal tool
  • Fork-specific oil and grease
  • Measuring caliper
  • Cable cutter and zip ties

Installation of the Float 36 Rhythm eMTB Fork

Installing the Float 36 Rhythm eMTB fork is a process that requires precision and mechanical familiarity with the steerer tube and headset interface. Begin by confirming steerer tube length compatibility with your frame’s head tube and stem stack height. Carefully measure and cut the steerer tube if needed, ensuring a clean, square cut. Install the star nut or threaded insert (for carbon steerer) using a setting tool.

Mount the fork onto the head tube with headset bearings properly seated and lubricated. Torque the stem and top cap to specification (5Nm and 1.5–2Nm respectively). Route and secure the front brake line through the fork’s hose guide, ensuring no kinks or tight bends occur. For eMTB setups, additional routing support may be necessary due to thicker cables.

Suspension Setup and Adjustment

Proper setup of the Float 36 Rhythm eMTB fork is essential for optimal performance and safety. The Rhythm fork uses Fox’s GRIP damper, which offers compression and rebound control, along with a Float EVOL air spring for consistent mid-stroke support.

Start with sag adjustment: depressurize the fork, then inflate the air spring to the rider’s weight using the Fox air chart. Aim for 20-25% sag. Measure stanchion compression under rider load to confirm accuracy.

Fine-tune the rebound knob at the bottom of the right fork leg. Turn it clockwise for slower rebound and counter-clockwise for faster. Adjust compression using the top cap knob—open for plushness, closed for firmness. For aggressive descents, maintain a balance favoring low-speed compression for traction and support.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance extends the life and performance of the Float 36 Rhythm eMTB. Fox recommends lower leg servicing every 30-50 riding hours and full damper service every 125 hours.

For lower leg service:

  • Remove the fork from the bike.
  • Loosen lower leg bolts and gently slide the lowers off the stanchions.
  • Clean and inspect wiper seals and foam rings.
  • Replace seals if worn; re-lube with Fox 20wt Gold oil.
  • Reassemble and torque bolts to factory spec (5.1Nm).
  • Check air pressure post-assembly and adjust as needed.

Inspect stanchions for scratches and maintain clean external surfaces to prevent contamination. Always check bushing wear and fork crown integrity during service.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Several setup issues can compromise the performance of the Float 36 Rhythm eMTB fork. The most common problems include:

Excessive Dive Under Braking: Caused by under-inflated air spring or open compression settings. Increase air pressure slightly and adjust low-speed compression for firmer initial stroke.

Harsh Top-Out Feeling: Typically linked to excessive rebound speed. Dial in slower rebound damping to control extension.

Oil Leakage: Check for damaged wiper seals or overfilled lower legs. Clean and replace components if needed, ensuring correct oil volume is maintained.

Inconsistent Travel: Often a sign of trapped air in the negative spring chamber. Perform a full reset by deflating and cycling the fork before reinflating.

Customization and Performance Tuning

While the Rhythm line is considered entry-level among the Fox 36 lineup, its performance can be optimized for aggressive eMTB use. Upgrade potential includes:

  • Installing volume spacers to increase mid-stroke support and bottom-out resistance. Use 1-3 spacers based on rider weight and terrain.
  • Adjusting compression range by tuning GRIP damper settings. While the GRIP damper is non-adjustable internally, external tuning provides substantial range.
  • Upgrading bushings and seals to Kashima-compatible ones for smoother small bump compliance (though this may void warranty).
  • Pairing with an e-bike-specific chassis for reinforced stiffness when descending technical trails under motor-assisted torque loads.

Comparison with Similar Models

The Float 36 Rhythm eMTB sits just below the Performance and Factory series in Fox’s hierarchy. Compared to:

Fox 36 Performance: Offers a more tunable GRIP2 damper with high- and low-speed compression and rebound adjusters, better suited for racers or advanced riders.

Fox 38 Rhythm eMTB: Designed for even more aggressive terrain with a burlier chassis. Best for riders prioritizing extreme enduro performance.

RockShox Yari RC: A direct competitor with similar damping but slightly less small-bump sensitivity. The Float 36 Rhythm excels in mid-stroke support and chassis stiffness.

For most trail riders and mid-weight eMTB applications, the Rhythm 36 delivers a well-balanced compromise between cost, weight, and performance.

Compatibility with Drivetrain and Frame Standards

The Float 36 Rhythm eMTB fork is compatible with tapered steerer tubes (1.5″ to 1 1/8″) and Boost front hub spacing (110mm x 15mm). Its 44mm offset suits modern trail geometries, and it integrates seamlessly with 27.5” and 29” wheels.

It supports brake rotors up to 203mm and is compatible with post-mount disc brakes. For eMTB builds, ensure the fork’s axle torque caps are aligned with the front hub motor system if applicable. It pairs effectively with both SRAM and Shimano drivetrain setups without interference or alignment issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I upgrade the GRIP damper on the Rhythm 36 to GRIP2?
No, the Rhythm chassis does not support GRIP2 damper swaps due to internal diameter differences.

2. What is the maximum tire width the Float 36 Rhythm supports?
It supports up to 2.6” wide tires depending on wheel size and mud clearance.

3. Does the Rhythm 36 use the same seals as the Factory 36?
No, Rhythm forks use slightly different seals and bushings specific to their chassis and stanchion finish.

4. How often should I check the air pressure in the fork?
Check air pressure before every ride to maintain consistent sag and ride feel.

5. Can this fork be used for non-electric mountain bikes?
Yes, while optimized for eMTBs, it performs well on regular trail bikes due to its stiff chassis and tuning range.

6. Is the Rhythm 36 coil-spring compatible?
No, the Float 36 Rhythm uses an air spring only. It cannot be retrofitted with a coil spring without significant structural modification.

Conclusion

The Float 36 Rhythm eMTB fork is a high-value, robust suspension component built for the unique stresses of electric mountain biking. While it lacks the full tunability of higher-end Fox forks, it delivers dependable support, easy setup, and low maintenance—making it a standout choice for riders seeking performance without over-complication. For trail and enduro enthusiasts using eMTBs, this fork provides a well-rounded option worthy of serious consideration.