A FOX fork for 32” appears for the first time and changes the game

The 32-inch wheels continue to make their way into the market and have just taken another important step. At Sea Otter 2026, we just saw the first functional prototype of a fork signed by Fox, a key piece that has been missing until now for this new platform to start consolidating.

FOX is almost ready with its first 32” fork

During the Sea Otter event taking place in Monterey, several prototypes of XC bikes with 32” wheels showcased an unidentified fork that quickly caught attention. Without logos, commercial finishes, and completely in black, everything pointed to a product still in the development phase. However, the technical details quickly revealed its origin.

The design of the arch, the stanchions, and especially the upper controls confirmed that it was a FOX equipped with a Grip SL cartridge, the same system that the brand uses in its forks more oriented towards competitive XC. The architecture fits with the 34 SL platform, suggesting that the brand is adapting its lighter model to this new wheel size.

RECOMENDADO

The weight of the cyclist, the invisible limit of e-MTBs

From Ferrari to MTB: Brembo lands in mountain biking with a high-end brake system

New Specialized Levo 4 EVO, an electric enduro that climbs like a trail bike

Fizik redefines its fastest shoe for XC and gravel with the Ferox 2

Maxxis is making a strong bet on 32 inches with a new range that goes from gravel to MTB

New 3T Ultra Italy, now manufactured in Italy and ready for anything

The assembly seen at Sea Otter was associated with clearly experimental setups, such as the Ari Signal Peak in 32” version, reinforcing the idea that this is not just a simple laboratory exercise, but a development that is already rideable and undergoing real tests.

A functional prototype, but still without a clear timeline

Unlike other solutions seen in previous months, which combined modified parts or provisional assemblies, in this case, the fork is presented as a fully operational product. Even some attendees were able to ride briefly with it, confirming that it is not a static concept.

FOX acknowledges that it has been working on this project for some time, although it avoids specifying dates. In parallel, some indications suggest that the model could already be integrated into its internal ecosystem as a future product, opening the door to a possible arrival in the short or medium term.

Although there is no official specification, what has been observed allows for a fairly defined initial profile. The fork clearly operates in the XC segment, with a travel of around 120 mm and 34 mm stanchions. The choice of the Grip SL cartridge reinforces that competitive and lightweight positioning.

The absence of Kashima coating and any eye-catching aesthetic elements suggests that this is a test unit or an intermediate version within the development. Even so, the level of integration and finish makes it clear that FOX is in an advanced phase.

Another push for the 32 inches

Although new developments around this new size keep emerging, the main brake on the expansion of 32” is the lack of key components developed by major manufacturers. With tires, rims, and frames already evolving, the arrival of a reference fork changes the landscape.

The presence of this prototype at Sea Otter not only confirms that FOX is part of the project but also accelerates the entire ecosystem. From here, the transition to 32” no longer depends on isolated initiatives and begins to rely on a real industrial base.