Fox Revises FLOAT Lineup, Adds Lightweight XC Shock

Fox updates their FLOAT lineup and adds a lightweight shock to compete with the SIDLuxe.
By Matt Miller
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Fox suspension makes a great case for evolution: the brand has been making mountain bike forks, shocks, springs, and dampers for decades now. Every year, they give their lineups an update. Some years bring a little more tech than others, but surely, year by year, the suspension gets better and better.

This year, Fox has a fully revised Float lineup with a new shock, the Float SL.

Cross-country

The Float SL is Fox’s newest shock for cross-country riding and will compete directly with the RockShox SIDLuxe. The Float SL is the smallest and lightest shock in Fox’s lineup now with a new main piston, valving, and internal floating piston (IFP). Fox says the SL delivers improved traction, damping, and better adjustability. Pricing is said to range from $349-$519 USD for Float SL shocks.

Trail

Fox revised their widely used Float do-it-all trail shock too. The new Float shares damper pieces with the Float X, but “maintains the benefits of a smaller, lighter, in-line shock,” and saves 150g over the heftier Float X. Fox says this pairs well with the Fox 34 up front. The shock is said to be smooth over small bumps and maintains composure and consistent temperature over big descents, while gaining tuning capability. Prices are set at $349 – $499 USD.

The Float X with an added reservoir gives trail and enduro riders “advanced damping, fade free performance and class-leading durability,” in a lightweight package. The shock has tool-free adjustment via an 11-click low-speed compression dial and a two-position Open or Firm lever. Each size of the Float X has a size-specific reservoir for optimized air volume.

Enduro and DH

The latest Float X2 has 4-way adjustability with high and low speed compression and high and low speed rebound damping, all available externally. The biggest advantage of the X2 is the enlarged air chamber, which Fox says gives it a more linear and planted feel over smaller air cans. A bottom-out bumper lets it stay progressive at the end and avoid harsh bottom-outs.

Fox redesigned the piston and damper and gave the shock a smoother shaft finish which lowers the dynamic shock pressure and strain on the internals of the X2. Trunnion-mounted shocks also have a new eyelet design for more durability.

It appears the new and updated shocks will be available in both Factory and Performance levels.