
( Brand: Fox ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 973-87-117 ), ( Part Type: Float Bike ), ( Item Width: 55 Mm ), ( Shock Type: Air Shock ), ( Compatible Bike Type: Mountain Bike ), ( Set Includes: Rear Shock ), ( Item Length: 210 Mm )
The **Fox Float 973-87-117 DPX2 210mm Rear Mountain Bike Shock** is a high-performance, lockout-equipped suspension fork designed to deliver unparalleled control, comfort, and efficiency for aggressive riders tackling the toughest trails. Engineered with Fox s legendary **DPX2 (Dual Path eXtreme)** technology, this shock combines a **highly efficient, low-friction piston system** with a **smooth, progressive valve** to provide a responsive yet forgiving ride, whether you're carving through technical descents, bombing down rocky descents, or pushing hard on endurance climbs. The **210mm travel** offers ample stroke for absorbing big hits while maintaining precise handling, making it ideal for riders who demand both comfort and control in extreme terrain.
At the heart of the Float DPX2 is Fox s **adjustable rebound damping**, allowing riders to fine-tune the shock s response to their weight, riding style, and trail conditions. The **Pos-Adj (Position Adjustment)** feature lets you dial in the sag (preload) by simply rotating the shock s lower leg, ensuring optimal performance without needing a pump perfect for quick on-the-fly adjustments during rides. This system also enhances pedal efficiency by maintaining consistent contact with the wheel, reducing wasted energy and improving climbing performance.
Built with **durability in mind**, the Float DPX2 features a **high-strength aluminum fork crown** and **steel axle** for rigidity and strength, while the **sealed, maintenance-free design** minimizes the need for frequent servicing. The **low-friction DPX2 piston** reduces energy loss, allowing for smoother compression and extension, which translates to better traction and control. Whether you're riding in the dirt, mud, or technical singletrack, this shock absorbs impacts with ease while keeping the bike planted and responsive.
The **Float DPX2 s lockout mechanism** is another standout feature, providing a quick and reliable way to lock out the suspension for climbing or when maximum stiffness is needed. This not only improves pedal efficiency but also reduces wear on the suspension components, extending the life of the fork. The **smooth, progressive valving** ensures that the shock remains compliant over the entire range of travel, preventing bottoming out while maintaining a neutral ride feel.
Ideal for **enduro, downhill, and aggressive trail riders**, the Fox Float 973-87-117 DPX2 210mm rear shock is a premium choice for those who refuse to compromise on performance. Whether you're shredding steep descents or tackling grueling climbs, this shock delivers **consistent, high-performance suspension** that keeps you in control and ready to push your limits. With its **adjustable rebound, Pos-Adj sag tuning, and Fox s signature reliability**, it s a game-changer for riders who demand the best in modern mountain bike suspension technology.
### **Pros and Cons of the Fox 973-87-117 Float DPX2 210mm Rear Mountain Bike Shock (Position-Adjustable)**
#### **Pros:**1. **High-Quality Construction** Fox is a well-respected brand in the cycling industry, known for durable and reliable suspension components. This shock features a robust build with a sealed cartridge design, reducing maintenance needs and improving longevity.
2. **Position-Adjustable (Pos-Adj) System** The ability to adjust the shock s position (sag) allows riders to fine-tune their suspension setup for different body weights, riding styles, and terrain. This flexibility enhances comfort and performance across various conditions.
3. **210mm Travel** With 210mm of rear suspension travel, this shock is well-suited for aggressive trail riding, enduro, and light downhill applications. The extended travel helps absorb large impacts from rough terrain, improving control and stability.
4. **Float Technology** The Float DPX2 incorporates a floating piston design, which improves efficiency and damping response. This reduces energy loss and provides a smoother ride by allowing the shock to adapt better to varying terrain.
5. **Adjustable Rebound Damping** The ability to adjust rebound damping lets riders fine-tune how quickly the suspension returns to its extended position. This is particularly useful for tailoring the shock to personal preferences or specific riding conditions.
6. **Compatibility with Modern Frames** The DPX2 series is designed to work seamlessly with modern mountain bike frames, offering a good balance of performance and compatibility with aftermarket components.
7. **Durability and Reliability** Fox shocks are known for their durability, especially in demanding conditions. The DPX2 series is built to handle the stresses of frequent use and harsh terrain without frequent failures.
8. **Good for Intermediate to Advanced Riders** The shock s performance characteristics make it suitable for riders who demand more from their suspension than basic trail riding offers, such as those engaging in enduro or aggressive trail riding.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Higher Cost** Fox shocks are premium-priced, and the DPX2 series is no exception. This shock will likely cost significantly more than entry-level or mid-range alternatives from other brands, which may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
2. **Complexity for Beginners** The pos-adjustable and rebound damping features add complexity to setup. Beginners or casual riders may find the additional adjustments overwhelming or unnecessary, especially if they don t fully understand how to optimize the shock for their riding style.
3. **Maintenance Requirements** While Fox shocks are durable, they still require periodic maintenance, such as checking for leaks, adjusting sag, and ensuring proper lubrication. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance or premature failure.
4. **Weight** Like most high-performance suspension components, this shock is relatively heavy compared to basic or entry-level shocks. The added weight may slightly reduce pedal efficiency, though the impact is usually minimal on modern bikes.
5. **Limited Off-Road Versatility** While the 210mm travel is excellent for trail and enduro riding, it may not be sufficient for extreme downhill or freeride applications, where longer travel (e.g., 250mm or more) is often preferred.
6. **Potential for Overkill for Casual Riders** If you primarily ride smooth trails or use your bike for fitness rather than aggressive off-road riding, the advanced features of this shock may not be fully utilized, making it an unnecessary investment.
7. **Compatibility Issues with Older Frames** Some older mountain bike frames may not be fully compatible with the DPX2 series due to differences in axle standards (e.g., thru-axle vs. quick-release). Ensure your frame is compatible before purchasing.
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### **Conclusion:**The Fox 973-87-117 Float DPX2 210mm rear shock is an excellent choice for riders who demand high performance, durability, and customization in their suspension setup. Its pos-adjustable system, float technology, and 210mm travel make it ideal for aggressive trail riding, enduro, and intermediate to advanced riders who want to fine-tune their bike s handling. However, its premium price, complexity, and weight may not justify the investment for casual riders or those on a tight budget. Additionally, it may not be the best fit for extreme downhill applications where longer travel is required.
### **Recommendation:**- **Buy it if:** You are an intermediate to advanced rider who engages in trail or enduro riding, prioritize durability and performance, and are willing to invest in a high-quality suspension component. The pos-adjustable feature will allow you to optimize the shock for your specific needs.
- **Avoid it if:** You are a beginner or casual rider, primarily ride smooth trails, or are looking for a budget-friendly option. In such cases, a more affordable shock with simpler adjustments (e.g., a Fox Float 34 or RockShox Deluxe) may be a better fit.
- **Consider alternatives:** If you want a slightly more budget-friendly option with similar performance, look at the Fox Float 34 or RockShox Deluxe/Reverb series. For extreme downhill applications, a longer-travel shock (e.g., Fox DHX2 or RockShox SID) would be more appropriate.
Used and in good overall shape. I don't have the full history of shock but personally ridden it for 100 miles with no issues. Decal has some wear from water bottle see photo. This shock was originally 52.5mm stroke - the travel reducer has been removed allowing full 55mm.
Everything works like it should compression adjustments, rebound adjustments.