The past two years have seen FOX make substantial gains at the front end of bikes. We got new Grip dampers, a 32 Step-Cast fork, and just last week, the new 34 SL, 36 SL, and 36 models. But out back, it's been some time since FOX made any significant performance updates. There have been a few quietly introduced changes to better support Float X and Float X2 models, but there is no denying that both deserved a full overhaul. Thankfully, FOX took the time to not only improve the performance of their 2026 gravity shocks, but they've also addressed some of the major problems of the past that needed reworking.
Highlights
- New Monotube design for better response
- Identical internal architecture for both shocks
- New 12.7mm (1/2") damper shaft
- 4-way adjustability:
- Positive air chamber w/ volume spacers (Float X2)
- Low and high-speed compression adjustments
- Low and high-speed rebound adjustments
- Sizes (Eyelet Mount): 210x50 // 210x52.5 // 210x55 // 230x60 // 230x62.5 // 230x65 // 250x75
- Sizes (Trunnion Mount): 185x55 // 205x60 // 205x65 // 225x75
- 350 psi max pressure
- New 1cc increment volume spacers
- New Matte Black SLS Springs
- Starting Weight, Float X2: 720g (210x55)
- MSRP: Float X2 - $699-$739 USD // DHX2 - $679-$719 USD
What’s New?
The main updates for the 2026 Float X2 and DHX2 shocks focus on removing noise from the trail. FOX wanted to reduce feedback to the rider so you can focus on the trail ahead and feel more comfortable riding near the limits of your abilities. The path to achieving these goals came in the form of incremental improvements over numerous years that led to a ground-up redesign of the shocks' architecture.
The X2 and DHX2 now share some design aspects with the Float X and DHX, namely a monotube design. However, the X2 and DHX2 now bring 4-way adjustability to the monotube construction for the first time ever on a mountain bike shock.
The benefits of the design are said to improve the responsiveness of the shock to opposing forces. This means the shock can move more easily under compression and can transition more seamlessly into rebound. FOX achieved this through an entirely new damper layout, architecture, and a durability-minded approach to improving damper performance.
Starting with the visual changes of both shocks, they use the same transverse reservoir orientation to help with frame fitment and damping characteristics. This layout also helps isolate the compression and rebound circuits by moving low-speed rebound to the lower eyelet to join high-speed rebound. Performance benefits aside, both knobs can actually be turned while mounted to bikes with even the tightest frame fitment, unlike the previous generations where high-speed rebound was next to impossible to access on some bikes. Looking inside the shocks reveals their monotube design, which better helps balance internal pressures and creates more predictable handling.
This newfound predictability and pressure balancing comes from the update most users and service techs will be grateful to see: a larger 12.7mm damper shaft and a larger diameter main piston to increase oil flow. Before, the Float X2 and DHX2 used a 9mm shaft. The larger shaft also significantly increases durability in an area that plagued the previous Float X2. With the DHX2, the larger shaft increases eyelet rigidity, allowing the shock to support the extra lateral loading from clevis-mounted bikes without worry. The Float X2 and DHX2 also now use the same seal package as the Float X and should mimic the same level of reliability.
On top of the new structural changes to both shocks, FOX really wanted to bump up the damping characteristics of their X2 shocks to match the consistency and performance they'd achieved with their Grip X2 fork damper. So logically, FOX took a similar approach when redesigning the X2 shock damper, including a larger base valve with double the number of shims as before. This allows for a smoother and more consistent change in damping between clicks.
2026 Float X2 Initial Impressions
Right off the bat, the initial breakaway of the shock was impressive. Sure, you could chalk some of this feeling up to it just being new. But having come off the previous gen Float X2, it was a considerable improvement, and the suppleness of the shock remained impressive throughout the few weeks of testing. At the same time, I ended up a bit lower on pressure than before while still achieving my desired 28% sag, which I think is a huge positive. While the parking lot test tells virtually nothing about on trail performance, it's a solid baseline we can all relate to, and both the air and coil variants felt phenomenal.
Like most rides, my initial outing on the Float X2 started with a climb, and like most trails in Phoenix, it was littered with a variety of square edge bumps. What stood out most about the Float X2 was how well it supported my body weight while remaining sensitive to inputs. I used the climb switch briefly to see how the firm mode felt. The initial breakaway stayed relatively supple, with an immediate ramp for a solid pedaling foundation. That's good news if climb switches are your thing, but I personally never find myself reaching for a lockout. I see the biggest benefit of the climb switch being the ability to adjust the lever to different amounts to create a slight ramp rather than a complete lockout. This would be especially beneficial on the DHX2.
Moving on to where the bulk of the work was done with the new shock, the descending performance was top-notch, as usual, but with some favorable differences over the outgoing model. What stood out most was the transition from compression to rebound through successive hits and chatter. And I'm not just drinking the Kool-Aid from the presentation during the press camp. I tested on familiar trails that I ride every day. I quickly noticed my bike feeling less unsettled through difficult sections with large compressions, braking bump-filled corners, and rock gardens with successive, fast hits. The rear of my bike recovered better from initial compressions, minimizing chatter when sitting in the middle of travel. This gave my bike a bigger safety net feeling that translated into more traction at the rear wheel, allowing me to look ahead and focus on where I wanted to carry speed rather than thinking about feedback from the trail.
What's The Bottom Line?
FOX has succeeded in upping the control and comfort of their gravity shocks to match the traction and performance of their latest forks. And most importantly, the new architecture and internal layout should ensure durability. The increase in sensitivity and traction puts the Float X2 back toward the pointy end of the gravity air shock category, while the DHX2 feels more supportive than before. The latest damper delivers the class-leading adjustability we've come to expect from FOX, with an uptick in micro-tunability and usability throughout the range of adjustments.
View key specs, compare shocks, and rate the latest FLOAT X2 and DHX2 models from FOX in the Vital MTB Product Guide.
About The Tester
Jonathon Simonetti - Age: 31 // Years Riding MTB: 22 // Height: 6’4” (1.93m) // Weight: 230-pounds (97.5kg)
Jonny started mountain biking in 2003 after a trip to Northstar showed him how much more could be ridden on 26” wheels than on a BMX bike. He began racing downhill in 2004 and raced for 12 years until ultimately deciding having fun on a bike was more important than race results. After working as a mechanic in the industry for a few years and developing a deeper understanding of bikes inside and out, he has an aptitude for pairing his riding ability with the analysis of bikes and breaking down what makes them work well. He spends most of his time between trail rides and skatepark sessions, with occasional days on the downhill bike.
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Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply. |
Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only).
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply. $26.00
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Free shipping on orders over $49 (continental U.S. only).
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply. |
Free shipping on orders over $49 (continental U.S. only).
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3/31/2025 9:00am
View replies to: First Look: 2026 FOX Float X2 and DHX2 Shocks
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