The Fox 38 Performance Elite suspension fork is engineered for aggressive trail and enduro riding, combining robust chassis design with high-end damping features. Maintaining this component correctly ensures long-term performance, rider safety, and confidence over demanding terrain. This guide offers a detailed look at the installation, adjustment, tuning, and care needed to keep the 38 Performance Elite fork running flawlessly.
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link] with Nm settings
- 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
- Suspension pump
- Shock oil (Fox recommended weight)
- Clean workspace and rags
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Lower leg removal tool (or plastic mallet)
- Grease (suspension-specific)
- Replacement seals (if applicable)
Installing the Fox 38 Performance Elite Fork
Correct installation starts with frame compatibility. The Fox 38 Performance Elite fork is built for 29” wheels and supports up to 180mm of travel. Ensure your frame accommodates the steerer tube length and axle-to-crown measurement.
Begin by inserting the steerer tube into the head tube. Carefully mark and cut the steerer to length using a guide. Install the star nut or threaded insert (for a carbon steerer, use only the manufacturer-approved method). Torque the crown race into place, fit the headset spacers, and install the stem. Secure the fork with appropriate torque to the top cap and stem bolts.
The final installation step involves attaching the front wheel using the 15x110mm Kabolt-X axle. Torque it to spec (usually around 19Nm) and ensure the axle is flush with the dropout. Verify the disc brake caliper is properly aligned and torqued to avoid rotor rub.
Adjusting Air Spring and Damping Settings
Proper fork performance depends heavily on tuning the air spring and damping settings to rider weight and riding style.
To set sag, inflate the air spring to the suggested pressure (refer to the chart on the fork leg) using a suspension pump. Sit in your normal riding position with gear on and allow the fork to compress. Sag should be between 15–20% of total travel. Adjust air pressure accordingly.
The GRIP2 damper on the 38 Performance Elite offers four separate adjustments:
- High-Speed Compression (HSC)
- Low-Speed Compression (LSC)
- High-Speed Rebound (HSR)
- Low-Speed Rebound (LSR)
Begin with factory base settings. Fine-tune by adjusting one click at a time. Compression affects how the fork handles impacts and pedaling forces; rebound governs how quickly the fork returns after compression. Avoid extreme settings unless necessary for very specific trail demands.
Routine Maintenance Tasks
Routine care of the Fox 38 Performance Elite involves cleaning, lubrication, and inspection. After each ride, clean the stanchions with a lint-free rag and isopropyl alcohol to remove dirt and dust. Inspect the dust wipers for cracking or debris buildup.
Every 50 riding hours, perform a lower leg service. This includes removing the lowers, cleaning the internals, replacing the bath oil, and re-greasing foam rings and seals. Ensure the proper volume and weight of oil is added during reassembly.
Air spring service is due every 100 hours. Remove the top cap, clean and lubricate internal o-rings, and inspect the air piston assembly. Replace seals as needed. For riders who frequently encounter wet or dusty conditions, these intervals should be shortened.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Several performance issues can arise from incorrect setup or worn components.
- Harsh Compression: Reduce HSC clicks or lower air pressure slightly. Check if the fork is over-inflated.
- Fork Not Rebounding Properly: Inspect rebound circuit for clogging or insufficient oil. Adjust rebound settings.
- Oil Leakage at Seals: Indicates worn or dry seals; perform lower leg service and replace seals.
- Loss of Air Pressure: Check Schrader valve and air spring assembly for leaks. Replace o-rings as needed.
A sluggish fork often results from contamination or neglected service intervals. Regular maintenance and inspection help avoid deeper internal damage.
Customization and Performance Optimization
The 38 Performance Elite is compatible with Fox’s air volume spacers. These spacers reduce air volume, increasing ramp-up for aggressive riders. Install spacers through the top cap, adding one at a time to avoid over-progression. Ideal for riders who bottom out too frequently.
Another customization is tuning the GRIP2 damper. Riders can achieve more supple small-bump compliance or firmer mid-stroke support by tweaking LSC and HSC settings based on terrain.
For additional stiffness, consider the bolt-on fender option and the use of the elliptical arch design, which enhances structural rigidity without compromising clearance.
Model Comparisons and Selection Guidance
The Fox 38 Performance Elite differs from the Factory series primarily in finish. The Performance Elite uses a black anodized stanchion rather than the gold Kashima coating. While both share the GRIP2 damper and chassis, the Factory model might offer slightly lower friction under laboratory conditions.
Compared to the 36 Performance Elite, the 38 offers greater stiffness and is better suited for enduro or eMTB applications. However, the increased weight may not be ideal for lighter trail bikes.
The Performance model (non-Elite) uses the simpler GRIP damper and is less adjustable. Riders seeking complete tuning control will benefit from choosing the Performance Elite over the standard Performance line.
Compatibility Considerations
The Fox 38 Performance Elite fork is compatible with a wide range of front-end setups, including tapered head tubes and modern 15×110 Boost hubs. It’s designed for use with 203mm rotors but can accept smaller sizes with adapters.
Drivetrain compatibility is generally not an issue, but riders using integrated cockpit designs should confirm clearance with oversized headsets. The fork’s rake (37mm or 44mm) should also match the bike’s geometry for proper trail and steering response.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I service the Fox 38 Performance Elite fork?
Service intervals are every 50 hours for lower leg maintenance and every 100 hours for a full air spring service. Adjust these intervals based on riding conditions.
2. Can I install volume spacers myself?
Yes. Volume spacers are user-installable. Unscrew the top cap, release air pressure, and add spacers as needed. Always refer to Fox’s installation chart for limits.
3. Why is my fork losing air pressure overnight?
Common causes include a leaking Schrader valve, worn o-rings, or internal damage. Perform a pressure check and inspect the air spring assembly.
4. Is there a significant performance difference between Performance Elite and Factory series?
Functionally, both share the same internals. The primary difference is the Kashima coating on the Factory, which may offer marginal friction reduction.
5. Can I use this fork on a 27.5” bike?
No, the 38 Performance Elite is built for 29” wheels. Using it on a smaller wheel size will alter geometry and affect performance negatively.
6. What is the recommended torque setting for the Kabolt-X axle?
The Kabolt-X axle should be torqued to 19Nm for proper clamping force and safe operation.