FOX’s Float X has to be the most specced shock across the widest array of bikes since its 2021 release. And it makes sense—it’s reliable, easy to set up, and feels solid. It’s one of those products that isn’t trying to be something it’s not, yet performs beyond expectations. Its coil-sprung counterpart, the Float DHX, is less commonly seen in the wild but has been a nice option for those wanting an aggressive shock that isn’t as burly as FOX’s X2 models.
The X models were doing just fine until the new X2 shocks came around. The ability of those shocks, especially the X2, to remain calm and hold up to intense riding while remaining sensitive and responsive has been wildly impressive. The gap between the two tiers of shocks definitely widened after the latest X2 introduction. Thankfully, FOX learned a lot from its gravity shocks and has introduced internal updates to the Float X and DHX to give them similar levels of ground-hugging control and support.
Float X & DHX Updates
FOX is continuing to position the Float X and DHX as the shocks for ‘trail’ riding (i.e., mountain biking). They may look the same from the outside, and that’s because they are. It’s what’s on the inside that counts (we’ve all heard that before). Both shocks still use a monotube architecture, but now feature new base valves, a new high-flow main piston assembly, and updated MCU bottom-out bumpers.
The new base valve has a smaller contact area with the valves, reducing surface tension as the valves open. It now takes less pressure for the valves to open, reducing the lag in damping forces and increasing suppleness.
On the main piston assembly, there is now a bleed valve like what’s been used in the X2 shocks. The bleed valve is an unchecked flow path that allows oil to flow freely in both directions. When the shock compresses, oil flows first through the low-speed compression orifice. Once pressure reaches a certain point, that circuit chokes, and pressure builds until the high-speed compression valve stack begins to flex, allowing oil to flow. The bleed valve helps blend this transition, making it feel more seamless. This plays into how smooth and consistent the shock performs. The bleed isn’t something you can easily tune; it is more of an extra tuning tool for OEMs to match the shocks to a bike's kinematics.
External adjustments remain unchanged—there is a 2-position climb switch, 10 clicks of low-speed compression (Factory & Performance Elite shocks), and 14 clicks of rebound. The dials still have numbers to help count clicks, and Performance level shocks are still compatible with the LSC upgrade kit. The LSC knob has also been revised to make serving the detents easier, and the upgrade kit will come with the new knob ones FOX sells through the old ones.
Both shocks are available in trunnion and standard mounting interfaces, with a plethora of lengths to fit basically every major bike on the market. The aftermarket tune is as follows
- Float X: 0.6ci Spacer, CS50, RL50, LMM, Rezi B60, Bleed 0.9
- DHX: CL60, RL60, LMM, Rezi B60, Bleed 0.7
There are also Live Valve Neo versions of both shocks for those seeking peak efficiency. Internal updates and external adjustment are the same as the non-Neo models, except for an additional ‘Firm Mode’ adjuster to set the firmness of the shock when electronically locked out. If you aren’t familiar with FOX’s electronic, wireless, adaptable suspension tech, you can get tuned up on all the deets by watching this video.
Float X Family Overview
Float X
- Tiers - Factory, Performance Elite, Performance
- Metric sizes from 45-75mm stroke
- Trunnion and standard eyelet options
- Bearing mount compatible on both sides
- Remote compatible
- Starting weight: 459g
- MSRP: Factory Series - $679 // Performance Elite Series - $599 // Live Valve Neo - $1,099 USD // Live Valve Neo Sensor and Battery Kit - $419 (required, sold separately)
Float DHX
- Tiers - Factory, Performance Elite
- Metric sizes from 45-75mm stroke
- Trunnion and standard eyelet options
- Bearing mount compatible on both sides
- Remote compatible
- Detents on preload collar for spring
- Starting weight: 465g (w/o coil)
- MSRP: Factory Series - $659 // Live Valve Neo - $1,039 USD // Live Valve Neo Sensor and Battery Kit - $419 (required, sold separately)
View key specs, compare rear shocks, and review the new FOX FLOAT X and DHX in the Vital MTB Product section.
| Where To Buy | |||
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Free U.S. shipping on everything.
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply. |
Free U.S. shipping on everything.
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply. $53.00
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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. $21.00
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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).
International shipping available. Some exclusions apply. $53.00
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3/17/2026 9:00am
View replies to: First Look - 2027 FOX Float X, DHX, and Live Valve Neo Shocks
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