The Fox Suspension 36 Float SL Factory is the lightest 36 model to date, injecting plushness and steering responsiveness into a true trail fork. As an evolution of the 36 chassis optimised for 120mm to 140mm of travel, this fork provides modern trail riders with the confidence to tackle demanding terrain without the weight penalty.
Performance and Design
Trail riders have long had to choose between over-forking for stiffness or under-forking for lower weight. The 36 SL supplants the 34 with 20% additional torsional stiffness while the updated chassis minimises the weight increase to just 100 grams. The arch and crown are generatively designed and optimised to increase torsional stiffness by a full 20% over the previous 34 trail fork, with strategic cutouts and lightening bores to help minimise weight.
Advanced Suspension Technology
The redesigned and compliant FLOAT air spring decouples the stanchion from the air shaft, allowing the piston to move with the fork while under bending loads rather than resisting them. This results in smoother suspension action overall, especially when the fork is experiencing high loads from speed or rider weight. Additionally, the 36 SL features 20mm of additional bushing overlap compared to the 34, which reduces friction between the stanchions and lower legs throughout the stroke.
The GRIP X damper provides uncompromised all-mountain performance, offering the descent capabilities of the GRIP X2 refined for less weight, easier setup, and an easy-access firm mode for pedalling efficiency. Inboard bypass channels help curb pressure ramping for increased small bump sensitivity and recirculate oil to lubricate bushings and seals. By relocating these channels to the inboard side, they are kept out of the fore-aft load path to further reduce friction.
Utility and Maintenance
- Low profile bleeders: A grooved design allows pressure to escape around your finger as you press the bleeder.
- Air spring top cap: Compatible with a common Shimano cassette tool for easy volume adjustments.
- Mudguard: Mounts to seal flanges and arch instead of bleeder ports, offering a refined aesthetic, improved durability, and seal protection.
Technical Specification
- Wheel Size: 29"
- Travel: 130mm/140mm
- Rake: 44mm Offset
- Axle: Kabolt 15 QR
- Rotor Size: 180-230mm
- Air Spring: FLOAT EVOL
- Steerer: 1.5 Taper
- Weight: 1755g