The 32 Float Factory Step-Cast from Fox is a lightweight, high-performance suspension fork designed for aggressive cross-country riders who demand precision, stiffness, and weight savings. Its Step-Cast (SC) design carves away material without compromising structural integrity, making it a staple in competitive XC race environments. This guide will walk through installation, setup, maintenance, and technical comparisons to determine whether this component is the right upgrade for your rig.

Tools Required

• 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link] with Nm settings
• Crown race setter and star nut installation tools
• Suspension pump
• Suspension oil and Fox Gold lubrication fluid
• Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol
• Shock pump with fine-tune capability

Installation Guide

Installing the 32 Float Factory Step-Cast requires attention to torque specifications and frame compatibility. Begin by ensuring your head tube is properly sized for the steerer tube. This model uses a standard 1.5″ taper steerer.

After cutting the steerer to fit your stack height, install the crown race and star nut or a compatible compression plug if using a carbon steerer. Insert the fork, add spacers and the stem, and torque the top cap and stem bolts to manufacturer specifications. The brake caliper mounts via a flat-mount or post-mount system depending on the version, so ensure you’re using the correct adapter for your rotor size.

Fox recommends setting the fork’s initial air pressure based on rider weight. Use their tuning chart as a starting point and adjust using a shock pump.

Adjustment Settings and Setup

The 32 Float Factory Step-Cast includes a range of fine-tuning options. The primary adjustments are:

Air Spring Pressure: Begin with the recommended PSI for your weight. Adjust in small increments for sag between 15-20% for XC riding.

Rebound Damping: The red dial under the right leg adjusts how quickly the fork returns after compression. Slower rebound adds control on rough terrain, while faster rebound increases responsiveness.

Compression Damping: On top of the right leg, the FIT4 damper offers Open, Medium, and Firm modes. Open mode includes 22 clicks of low-speed compression for trail tuning. Medium adds pedaling efficiency, and Firm acts like a lockout for climbing or sprinting.

Volume Spacers: These can be added internally to make the fork feel more progressive and resist bottoming out. This is particularly useful for aggressive XC racing or technical courses.

Maintenance Schedule and Best Practices

Proper upkeep will maximize longevity and performance. Fox recommends the following intervals:

• Every 30 hours: Clean and inspect dust wipers and stanchions. Apply Fox Gold oil to seals and cycle the fork several times.
• Every 100 hours or annually: Perform a lower leg service. This includes draining the lower leg oil, cleaning the inside of the legs and bushings, and replacing with fresh suspension fluid.
• Every 200 hours or 2 years: Full damper and air spring service by a qualified technician or suspension center.

Always inspect for signs of oil leakage, worn bushings, or damage to the Kashima coating on the stanchions, which could indicate deeper mechanical issues.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Many riders report initial difficulties in balancing air pressure with rebound damping. If your fork feels harsh or bounces excessively, start by rechecking sag and rebound settings. Too much rebound damping can pack the fork down over successive hits.

If you notice inconsistent travel or “dead spots” in the stroke, it’s often due to air spring issues—check for proper lubrication and equalized positive and negative chambers. When the compression settings feel ineffective, the FIT4 damper might need service.

Brake mounting issues can arise due to improper adapter sizing. Always verify that your rotor size matches the fork’s minimum specifications and that you’re using torque caps if your hub is compatible.

Customization and Optimization Tips

To tailor the fork for your specific riding style, consider the following:

• Volume Spacers: Installing one or two tokens will steepen the spring curve, providing more bottom-out resistance.
• Remote Lockout: Upgrade to a handlebar remote lockout if you prioritize on-the-fly control during races.
• Upgrade Axle System: The Kabolt-X axle offers a lighter, stiffer alternative to standard QR axles, improving front-end rigidity.
• Match Kashima Aesthetics: Pair the Kashima-coated fork with Fox Transfer posts or rear shocks for a cohesive look and performance setup.

Compatibility with Drivetrain and Frame Standards

The 32 Float Factory Step-Cast is designed for 100mm front hub spacing with Boost (110mm) not available on this model. It’s best suited for modern XC race frames with standard 44mm or tapered 1.5″ head tubes.

Be cautious if pairing with oversized tires; while Fox rates clearance for up to 2.3″, larger tires may contact the arch on narrow rims or under hard compression. The fork supports rotor sizes up to 180mm with the correct adapter.

Comparative Analysis with Competing Models

Compared to the RockShox SID SL Ultimate, the 32 Float Factory Step-Cast offers slightly stiffer chassis performance due to its unique offset crown and Step-Cast lowers. The FIT4 damper provides more tuning granularity than SID’s Charger Race Day damper.

Against the Manitou R7 Pro, Fox retains an edge in overall damping refinement and Kashima-coated stanchions, which offer better durability and stiction resistance. However, the R7 Pro is slightly lighter and more budget-friendly.

The Fox 34 SC offers a beefier build for downcountry use, but it weighs more and sacrifices some sprint efficiency, making the 32 SC better suited for pure XC racing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 32 Float Factory Step-Cast compatible with a remote lockout?
Yes, Fox offers remote lockout kits compatible with the FIT4 damper for this model.

Can I use a 2.4″ tire with the 32 Step-Cast?
It is not recommended. Official max tire clearance is 2.3″. Larger tires may cause arch contact.

How often should I service the 32 Step-Cast fork?
Basic service is recommended every 30 hours of riding; a full lower leg service should be performed every 100 hours.

Does the Kashima coating wear off over time?
Kashima is highly durable, but improper cleaning or riding with damaged seals can accelerate wear.

Can I install this fork on a gravel bike?
Only if the gravel frame accepts a 100mm suspension fork with a tapered steerer. Check head tube and axle compatibility.

What is the weight difference between 32 SC and 34 SC?
The 32 SC weighs around 1,350g (including axle), while the 34 SC weighs approximately 1,600g, depending on travel and steerer length.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

The Fox 32 Float Factory Step-Cast is a premium component engineered for riders who demand elite XC performance without compromise. With its lightweight design, sophisticated damping, and race-proven reliability, it delivers substantial performance gains for competitive cyclists. While it commands a higher price point, its precision and tunability justify the investment for serious racers and riders who prioritize efficiency, weight savings, and long-term durability.