The Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 suspension fork is a premium component engineered for aggressive trail and enduro riding. Featuring advanced tunability with its GRIP2 damper and updated EVOL air spring, it offers a performance edge for riders demanding maximum traction, control, and precision. This guide provides expert-level instructions to help you install, adjust, maintain, and troubleshoot your 36 Factory GRIP2 for optimal performance.
Tools Required
- 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm Allen keys [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Shock pump with digital gauge
- Fox volume spacer tool (if modifying air spring curve)
- Suspension-specific grease
- Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol
- Suspension oil (if servicing damper)
- Oil pan or container
Installation of the Fox 36 Factory GRIP2
Proper installation ensures both safety and full performance potential. Begin by verifying the steerer tube length, headset type, and axle standards.
First, measure and cut the steerer tube to fit your bike’s head tube plus the headset and any spacers. Deburr the cut edge to avoid damage to headset components. Install the star nut or compression plug if using a carbon steerer. Torque the stem bolts according to manufacturer specifications (usually 5–6 Nm).
Next, secure the fork to the front wheel using the 15mm Kabolt or QR axle system, depending on your version. Align the fork legs before torquing the axle bolt to 19–21 Nm. Ensure the front brake caliper is centered and the rotor clears without rubbing.
Initial Setup and Air Spring Tuning
Setting the correct air pressure and sag is critical for performance. The Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 uses the EVOL air spring, which features a large negative chamber for better small-bump compliance.
Start by using Fox’s recommended pressure chart based on rider weight, then fine-tune by checking sag. Ideal sag is typically 15–20% of total travel (approximately 18–24mm for a 160mm fork). Measure this with full riding gear on, using an O-ring or zip tie on the stanchion.
Adjust pressure using a shock pump and cycle the fork several times between changes. Allow the pressure to equalize between positive and negative chambers to prevent misleading readings.
Understanding and Adjusting the GRIP2 Damper
The GRIP2 damper features independent high-speed and low-speed compression, along with high-speed and low-speed rebound adjusters.
- High-Speed Compression (HSC) controls bottom-out resistance during big hits.
- Low-Speed Compression (LSC) influences mid-stroke support and fork dive under braking or cornering.
- High-Speed Rebound (HSR) manages the fork’s recovery from deep compressions.
- Low-Speed Rebound (LSR) controls how quickly the fork returns after small bumps.
Use the factory baseline (open 8 clicks from closed for all adjusters) as a starting point. Adjust LSC and LSR for ride feel and traction tuning. Use HSC and HSR for terrain-specific control during high-speed descents or large impacts.
Maintenance Schedule and Procedures
Regular maintenance ensures consistent damping and longevity. Fox recommends 50-hour lower leg services and 125-hour full damper rebuilds.
For lower leg service:
- Remove the front wheel and axle.
- Drain the bath oil by removing the lower leg bolts.
- Slide off the lowers carefully, catching residual oil.
- Clean and inspect dust wipers and foam rings.
- Reinstall with fresh bath oil (Fox 20wt Gold) and torque bolts to 5.1 Nm.
Use suspension-specific grease on the seals and a torque wrench [paid link] to avoid overtightening. Always clean stanchions after every ride to prevent contamination.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
If the fork feels harsh or lacks support, incorrect air pressure or damper settings are likely causes.
- Harsh over small bumps: Check air pressure and reduce HSC and LSC by 2 clicks.
- Fork bottoms out too easily: Increase HSC or add volume spacers.
- Fork feels too slow to recover: Reduce rebound damping by 2–3 clicks.
Noisy performance often points to low oil levels or worn bushings. Oil leakage around the seals typically indicates damaged wipers or over-lubrication.
Performance Customization and Volume Spacer Adjustment
The EVOL air spring allows volume tuning using plastic volume spacers that adjust the air spring curve.
More spacers increase progression, helping resist bottom-out on big hits. Fewer spacers make the fork more linear, ideal for smoother trails or lightweight riders.
To adjust:
- Deflate the fork completely.
- Remove the top cap using a cassette tool.
- Add or remove spacers based on preference (max of 7 in most travel configurations).
- Reinstall cap and reinflate to proper pressure.
This customization fine-tunes mid-stroke feel and bottom-out resistance without affecting the overall spring rate.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain and Suspension Components
The Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 is compatible with most modern mountain bikes using a 15mm x 110mm Boost axle standard and tapered steerer tubes. It pairs well with a range of headsets and brake calipers using Post Mount 180mm configurations.
For drivetrain compatibility, the fork does not directly interact with the drivetrain but works best when matched with aggressive geometry bikes that utilize wide-range cassettes and clutch-style derailleurs for stability over rough terrain.
Comparison with Similar Fork Models
Compared to the Fox 36 Performance Elite or RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, the Factory GRIP2 offers superior adjustability and a more refined ride feel due to its high-precision damper.
While the Performance Elite shares the same damper, it lacks the Kashima coating, reducing small-bump sensitivity. The RockShox Lyrik matches in stiffness but uses a different damper philosophy, often described as more forgiving but less tunable.
The 36 Factory GRIP2 stands out for racers and aggressive riders who demand exact control and deep customization.
FAQs
1. How often should I service the Fox 36 Factory GRIP2?
Perform lower leg service every 50 riding hours and a full damper rebuild every 125 hours or once per season, whichever comes first.
2. Why does my fork feel sticky at the start of travel?
This may be due to dry foam rings or insufficient lubrication. Perform a lower leg service and re-lubricate with Fox 20wt Gold.
3. Can I use a non-Fox axle with the GRIP2 fork?
It’s recommended to use Fox’s Kabolt or QR axle designed for the fork to ensure proper fit and alignment.
4. Is the GRIP2 damper worth it over the FIT4?
For aggressive trail or enduro riders who value tunability and high-speed performance, the GRIP2 offers superior damping control over the FIT4.
5. How many volume spacers can I use in my 160mm GRIP2 fork?
The maximum recommended number is 7 volume spacers. Exceeding this may compromise performance and safety.
6. Why is my fork topping out with a loud clunk?
This could indicate too little rebound damping or insufficient negative air pressure. Recheck your air settings and rebound adjusters.