It’s been more than six months since my first ride on the new Fox 36 aboard my editor’s choice dream build–the Rocky Mountain Altitude 790 MSL Rally Edition. Those first rides coincided with my favorite time of year in Southern California, when cooler temperatures and tacky dirt make for incredible winter riding.
With such prime conditions, I could ride free from the guilt of subjecting my bike to more neglect and abuse than usual. Consequently, my poor 36 hasn’t had one minute of tender-loving care and affection. Not recommended of course, but despite my negligence the 36 is no worse for the wear. In fact I’d say six months in, it feels just as good as it ever has.
That’s exactly what I want–parts that I never have to think about or tinker with. Being able to pull my bike out of the garage at a moment’s notice and have it ride just like it did the day before tops my list of priorities.
But just because I’m ignoring the recommended service intervals clearly outlined by Fox doesn’t mean I haven’t taken the time to dial in the ride quality of the fork. With the equalized positive and negative air chambers in the revamped 36 there is no penalty of harsh ride quality when experimenting with higher pressures–its effortless initial stroke remains consistent regardless of PSI. That allowed me to experiment with the balance between the air pressure and the high- and low-speed compression settings. Add to that cocktail the optional volume spacers, and I had all the tools I needed to dial in the perfect, progressive stroke. Once I found the right recipe to suit my riding style the true capability of this fork was unleashed. Use whatever cliche you like to describe the ride quality–confidence-inspiring, bottomless, buttery. They all apply.
The new 36 can be everything to everyone. If you’re the ride-it-stock-out-of-the-box type you’ll get every bit of performance you need, but for the technically minded, hard-charging suspension gurus, this fork offers all the tools required to attack any type of terrain. Either way the consistency and durability will leave you with a smile on your face for many rides to come.
Anthony Smith
PRICE 1050$
