The Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2 is a premium suspension fork designed for aggressive trail riding and technical cross-country terrain. With high adjustability and the latest GRIP2 damper technology, this fork allows riders to fine-tune performance across a wide range of conditions. Optimizing the 34 Float Factory GRIP2 for your riding style can significantly enhance control, comfort, and overall bike handling.
This guide provides a technical breakdown on installation, tuning, maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance optimization for the Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2. Each section is tailored to ensure both novice riders and experienced mechanics can effectively manage this high-end suspension component.
Tools Required
- 6mm and 4mm hex wrenches
- Torque wrench [paid link] (with Nm scale)
- Shock pump (with fine adjustment bleed valve)
- Suspension sag meter or ruler
- Suspension grease (Fox recommended)
- Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol
- Digital caliper [paid link] (for fine measurements)
Correct Installation of the Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2
Proper installation ensures optimal structural integrity and functional alignment. Begin by checking that your frame’s head tube and steerer tube length are compatible. The 34 Float Factory features a 1.5″ tapered steerer, requiring an appropriate headset.
Install the fork with the steerer cut to length, allowing space for stem height and spacers. Apply grease to the crown race and press it onto the steerer. Insert the fork into the head tube, install the stem and spacers, and torque the top cap to preload the headset bearings. Tighten stem bolts to manufacturer torque specifications, typically 5–6 Nm.
Before mounting the wheel, ensure the thru-axle fits the 15x110mm Boost spacing. Align the brake caliper with the fork post mounts. Secure the front brake line using the integrated hose guides on the fork leg.
Setting Sag and Air Spring Pressure
Accurate sag is the foundation of proper suspension setup. The recommended sag for the 34 Float Factory GRIP2 is 15–20% of total travel (140–150mm).
Set sag by:
- Wearing your full riding gear.
- Using a shock pump to add air to the positive chamber via the Schrader valve.
- Mounting the bike and assuming your normal riding position.
- Measuring stanchion compression relative to total travel using the o-ring.
Adjust air pressure incrementally in 2–3 psi steps until the desired sag is reached. Use the Fox setup chart as a baseline, then fine-tune based on trail feel and rider weight.
Dialing in the GRIP2 Damper Adjustments
The GRIP2 damper offers four-way tuning: high-speed compression (HSC), low-speed compression (LSC), high-speed rebound (HSR), and low-speed rebound (LSR). Each knob offers independent control for nuanced tuning.
Low-Speed Compression (LSC): Impacts fork response to rider inputs and slow terrain changes. Start mid-range (8–10 clicks) and adjust to balance support with comfort.
High-Speed Compression (HSC): Affects big-hit absorption and fork blowoff characteristics. Begin with 6–8 clicks from fully open. Increase for aggressive terrain.
Low-Speed Rebound (LSR): Influences fork recovery after small bumps. Too fast causes pogo effect; too slow leads to packing down. Adjust 8–10 clicks from full slow.
High-Speed Rebound (HSR): Controls return speed from large impacts. Begin mid-range and tweak depending on ride harshness or springiness.
Document your settings and re-adjust after each ride based on feedback.
Routine Maintenance for Longevity
To preserve performance, follow Fox’s 50-hour and 125-hour service intervals.
50-Hour Service Tasks:
- Clean and inspect stanchions.
- Check for oil residue or leakage.
- Lubricate the dust wipers with Fox suspension oil.
- Verify torque on axle, crown bolts, and damper knobs.
125-Hour Service Tasks:
- Replace foam rings, seals, and oil.
- Remove lower legs, clean thoroughly, and reassemble with proper lubrication.
- Inspect for bushing wear and stanchion scoring.
Use only Fox-specified oils and greases. Neglecting service reduces small bump sensitivity and damper effectiveness.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
Harsh Ride Feel: Often caused by excessive HSC or low sag. Reduce compression damping or decrease air pressure slightly.
Excessive Dive: Occurs under braking or steep descents. Increase LSC slightly or add volume spacers to raise mid-stroke support.
Slow Rebound: Causes the fork to feel stuck or harsh over successive hits. Reduce LSR or HSR in 1-click steps.
Fork Topping Out: Sign of too little rebound damping. Increase rebound clicks to slow return speed.
Check that damper knobs turn smoothly and that air chambers are not leaking. If problems persist, inspect internal seals or consult a service technician.
Optimizing Performance with Volume Spacers
Volume spacers fine-tune air spring progression. More spacers make the fork ramp up faster, providing better bottom-out resistance for aggressive riders.
To install:
- Deflate the fork completely.
- Remove the top cap using a cassette tool.
- Clip in or out volume spacers (check maximum number allowed for your travel).
- Reinstall the cap and inflate to proper pressure.
Start with stock setup and adjust based on bottom-out frequency or mid-stroke support concerns.
Customization Tips for Specific Trail Conditions
- Loose or Rocky Trails: Run lower pressure and slightly reduced LSC to maintain traction.
- Smooth Flow Trails: Increase HSC and LSC to maintain support and limit bob.
- Technical Climbs: Increase LSR for better traction without affecting front-end feel.
- Enduro Racing: Use more volume spacers and firm up both compression settings.
Always revisit rebound settings after major terrain or pressure changes.
Model Comparisons: Fox 34 Float Factory GRIP2 vs. Competitors
Compared to the RockShox Pike Ultimate, the Fox 34 GRIP2 offers more fine-tuned compression control and slightly stiffer chassis performance in lateral forces.
In contrast to the Fox 34 Performance Elite, the Factory version includes the high-end Kashima coating for smoother initial travel and improved durability, as well as the full-featured GRIP2 damper.
While the Marzocchi Bomber Z2 presents an affordable alternative, it lacks the high-speed adjustability and precision that the GRIP2 delivers, making the Fox 34 Factory more suitable for demanding riders.
Compatibility Considerations
The 34 Float Factory GRIP2 is designed for Boost front axle spacing (15x110mm) and 29-inch wheels. Ensure your frame, headset, and front hub align with these specs.
Brake mounts accommodate 160mm post-mount rotors, upgradable via adapters. It pairs best with aggressive trail tires and is ideal for bikes with 120–150mm rear travel.
Internally, this fork is not compatible with FIT4 or Rhythm-series damper components. Use only GRIP2-specific service parts and volume tokens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How often should I service my Fox 34 GRIP2 fork?
Every 50 hours for cleaning and lubrication; every 125 hours for a full service including oil and seal replacement.
Q2: Can I use this fork on a non-Boost frame?
No. The 34 Float Factory GRIP2 is built for Boost spacing and is not compatible with standard 100mm forks.
Q3: How do I identify the correct volume spacers?
Use the official Fox volume spacer chart based on travel and year. Each spacer is color-coded for easy identification.
Q4: What does Kashima coating do?
Kashima reduces friction and improves small bump sensitivity while increasing durability of the stanchion tubes.
Q5: Can I swap the GRIP2 damper into another Fox fork?
Only within select compatible models like the 36 series. Always check chassis and damper compatibility.
Q6: Why is my fork leaking oil near the dust seals?
Likely due to worn wipers or overfilled bath oil. Replace seals and recheck oil volumes during service.