Fox Float X & DHX Updated for 2026 // More Sensitivity, Support, and Trail Control

Fox Updates the Float X and DHX for 2026

If you’re a mountain biker and you hear the word “Factory,” there’s likely one thing that comes to mind: the flashy golden Kashima coating synonymous with Fox Suspension. It’s the pinnacle of mountain bike suspension aesthetics. But while the gold finish gets most of the attention, it’s the internal workings of these shocks that truly deliver that Factory-level performance and feel.

Every year the engineers at Fox are hard at work refining and improving their suspension lineup. Recently, much of that attention has been focused on flagship forks like the Fox 34 lineup, Fox 36 forks, and the new inverted Fox Podium. The team also revisited their legendary gravity shock, the Fox Float X2 rear shock, addressing known issues and improving durability for gravity-focused riders.

Trail riders, however, have been waiting a bit longer for updates. The Fox Float X air shock and Fox DHX coil shock were originally released in 2022, and until now they’ve remained largely unchanged.

That changes this season!

Fox has introduced updated versions of the Float X and DHX trail shocks. While they may look familiar on the outside, the real improvements are happening internally. The goal: more sensitivity, more support, and ultimately more traction for modern trail bikes.

What’s New with the 2027 Fox Float X and DHX?

For 2026 (don't get confused they are calling it model year 2027, while we all live in 2026), the Float X, DHX, and their wireless NEO variants receive redesigned internals aimed at improving ride feel and suspension consistency on rough trails.

New High-Flow Main Piston

All of these shocks retain Fox’s proven monotube architecture, but now feature a new high-flow main piston.

Increased oil flow through the shock allows it to react more quickly to trail inputs. The result is improved small-bump sensitivity and better traction when the trail gets rough or technical.

More consistent oil flow also helps maintain support deeper into the travel, especially during repeated hits.

Improved Bottom-Out and Top-Out Bumpers

Fox also upgraded both the bottom-out bumper and top-out bumper on the new shocks.

The updated bottom-out bumper is more durable and helps eliminate harsh noises when the shock reaches full compression during large impacts. On the other end of the travel, the new top-out bumper helps quiet suspension action when the shock returns to full extension.

The result is a smoother and quieter ride feel overall.

Adjustability and Firm Mode

The standard Float X and DHX shocks feature a two-position Firm Mode switch.

This allows riders to quickly increase pedaling efficiency during long climbs or smoother terrain. Flip the lever one way, and the rear suspension firms up to help conserve energy when climbing. Flip it the other way, and you are wide open ready to enjoy the descent you just climbed to.

For riders who prefer electronic suspension, Fox also offers NEO wireless versions of the Float X and DHX.

Instead of a traditional climb switch, NEO suspension automatically adjusts firmness on the fly. Sensors detect rider input and terrain conditions, allowing the system to open or firm the suspension without the rider needing to touch a lever. Batteries might not be for everyone, but if you are tech curious and not afraid of occasionally charging a battery the NEO wireless system is pretty slick!

Compression and Rebound Tuning

For riders who want to dial in their suspension feel, the Float X and DHX still offer plenty of manual adjustment.

Each shock includes:

• 11 clicks of low-speed compression adjustment
  

• 16 clicks of low-speed rebound adjustment

These adjustments allow riders to fine-tune suspension performance for their riding style, terrain, and personal bike setup preferences.

All adjustments are made through tool-free dials located directly on the shock for quick and easy tuning trailside.

Who Are the Fox Float X and DHX Designed For?

The Float X and DHX are aimed squarely at the modern trail rider.

Fox designed these shocks to bring as much of the downhill capability of the X2 as possible into a smaller, lighter, and easier-to-tune package.

They are best suited for bikes in the 130mm to 150mm travel range, making them ideal for riders looking for a versatile “do-it-all” trail bike.

Think of the bike that climbs technical singletrack efficiently but still charges hard on the descents.

Riders looking for the lightest weight option will likely lean toward the Float air shock platform, while riders seeking maximum gravity performance and adjustability may prefer the X2 lineup.

The X family sits squarely between those worlds—delivering a balance of efficiency, traction, and durability for riders who want one bike to handle everything from technical climbs to aggressive descents.

How the Fox Shock Lineup Breaks Down

Trail shocks (X family)

• Designed for modern trail bikes in the 130–150mm travel range

• Simpler tuning and lighter weight

• Includes the Float X (air) and DHX (coil), as well as wireless NEO options in both shocks

Gravity shocks (X2 family)

• Built for enduro and downhill bikes

• Maximum external adjustability with 4-way damping and rebound control

• Includes the Float X2 (air) and DHX2 (coil), currently no NEO wireless options avilable in these shocks

Fox Float X vs X2 Comparison Chart

• Want the lightest trail setup? → Float X

• Want coil traction on a trail bike? → DHX

• Ride aggressive enduro terrain? → Float X2

• Want maximum downhill grip and consistency? → DHX2