Fox just updated Grip X for trail bikes, and firm mode is gone

The 2027 Fox Grip X damper drops firm mode and borrows X2 developments at a lighter weight.
By Jeff Barber
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Close-up view of a black and orange bike suspension fork with a blue adjustment knob at the top, featuring markings for compression settings and high-speed adjustments, set against a dark background.
Photos provided by Fox.

For 2027, Fox Factory is introducing a revamped Grip X damper designed specifically for trail biking. In a nod to how mountain bikers are actually using their forks for trail rides, Fox is doing away with firm mode. The suspension brand says the updated damper offers improved performance as well.

Apparently, most trail riders just don’t use firm mode

According to Fox, “firm mode saw limited use compared to open and trail settings,” with riders opting to climb in trail mode, or staying in open mode for the entire ride. The new two-mode Grip X setup simplifies operation while providing both full-open mode and a more efficient setting for the climbs that remains responsive to rocks and roots on the way up.

Mountain bikers walking on a dirt trail, with a close-up view of a bike's front fork featuring a vibrant orange color and the brand name "FOX." The background shows a blurred mountain bike and a wooded environment.

For riders who do prefer to have firm mode available, the Fox Grip SL damper will continue to offer all three selections. The Grip X damper is being positioned between the lightweight, climb-optimized Grip SL and the more fully featured and gravity-oriented GRIP X2 damper. Fox notes that the new Grip X damper is 120g lighter than GRIP X2 while borrowing some of its design and performance characteristics.

Grip X gets improved performance

Fox writes that the Grip X features a “completely redesigned mid-valve piston and valve stack” that “improves oil flow characteristics, resulting in increased sensitivity, greater mid-stroke support, and improved consistency on rough terrain.” The brand goes on to say that it’s the ideal damper choice for the majority of trail riders.

Still, buyers will have choices within the 2027 Fox trail fork lineup. The Grip X damper will be an option on Fox 34 SL and 36 SL forks, in addition to Grip SL. And the 150-160mm Fox 36 gets a Grip X damper option, alongside Grip X2. Given the damper’s positioning as the ideal choice for trail riding, it’s a little surprising that Fox isn’t speccing the mid-travel 36 SL with Grip X exclusively. Still, having choices is generally welcome.

Depending on the model, Fox forks with the newly revised Grip X damper will retail between $1,159 and $1,299.

 
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