Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Fox 34 Performance Elite fork. If you're a mountain biker looking to upgrade your ride, this review is for you. We'll break down everything you need to know, from its performance on the trails to its value for money. So, let's get started!

Overview of the Fox 34 Performance Elite

The Fox 34 Performance Elite is a high-performance suspension fork designed for trail and all-mountain riding. It sits in Fox's lineup between the standard Performance series and the top-tier Factory series. What sets it apart? Well, it offers nearly the same level of performance as the Factory model but at a more accessible price point. This makes it a popular choice for riders who want premium features without breaking the bank.

Key Features

• FIT4 Damper: The Fox 34 Performance Elite boasts Fox's renowned FIT4 (Fox Isolated Technology) damper. This damper offers three on-the-fly compression damping positions—Open, Medium, and Firm—allowing you to quickly adapt to varying trail conditions. In the Open mode, you can further fine-tune the compression damping with a low-speed compression adjuster.
• EVOL Air Spring: The EVOL (Extra Volume) air spring increases negative air spring volume, which enhances small bump sensitivity and provides a more linear spring curve. This means improved traction and control, especially on technical trails.
• Lightweight Chassis: The Fox 34 Performance Elite features a lightweight chassis that balances stiffness and weight. This ensures efficient power transfer and precise handling without adding unnecessary bulk to your bike.
• Kashima Coating (on Factory models): While the Performance Elite doesn't get the Kashima coating found on the Factory series, it still uses a durable anodized finish on the stanchions, providing smooth performance and longevity. The absence of Kashima is one of the key factors that help keep the cost down.

Performance on the Trail

Alright, let's talk about how the Fox 34 Performance Elite actually performs when you're out on the trails. This is where it really shines.

Small Bump Sensitivity

Thanks to the EVOL air spring, the Fox 34 Performance Elite excels at soaking up small bumps and trail chatter. This significantly improves comfort and reduces fatigue, allowing you to ride longer and with more control. The fork feels incredibly supple off the top, providing excellent traction even on loose or rocky surfaces. Whether you're navigating root-infested climbs or bombing down rocky descents, the Fox 34 Performance Elite keeps your front wheel planted and tracking smoothly.

Mid-Stroke Support

One of the standout features of the Fox 34 Performance Elite is its excellent mid-stroke support. This means the fork doesn't dive excessively under braking or when hitting berms and rollers. The FIT4 damper does a fantastic job of controlling the fork's movement, providing a stable and predictable feel. This is crucial for maintaining momentum and confidence on challenging trails. You'll find that the Fox 34 Performance Elite allows you to push harder and ride more aggressively without feeling like you're going to lose control.

Bottom-Out Resistance

For those bigger hits and drops, the Fox 34 Performance Elite offers ample bottom-out resistance. The progressive nature of the EVOL air spring helps prevent harsh bottom-outs, protecting your hands and wrists from jarring impacts. This is particularly important for riders who like to tackle jumps and technical features. You can confidently send it knowing that the Fox 34 Performance Elite has your back.

Adjustability

The Fox 34 Performance Elite offers a wide range of adjustability to suit different riding styles and trail conditions. The FIT4 damper's three compression damping positions—Open, Medium, and Firm—allow you to quickly adapt to varying terrain. The Open mode is ideal for technical descents, providing maximum sensitivity and compliance. The Medium mode is perfect for rolling terrain, offering a balance of efficiency and control. And the Firm mode is great for climbing or riding on smooth surfaces, providing maximum pedaling efficiency. Additionally, the low-speed compression adjuster in the Open mode allows you to fine-tune the fork's feel to your exact preferences.

Comparison with Other Forks

So, how does the Fox 34 Performance Elite stack up against other forks on the market? Let's take a look at some comparisons.

Fox 34 Performance Elite vs. Fox 34 Factory

The most obvious comparison is with the Fox 34 Factory series. The main difference between the two is the Kashima coating on the Factory model's stanchions. Kashima coating is known for its smoothness and durability, but it also adds to the cost. In terms of performance, the two forks are very similar. Both use the FIT4 damper and EVOL air spring, providing excellent small bump sensitivity, mid-stroke support, and bottom-out resistance. For most riders, the Fox 34 Performance Elite offers nearly the same level of performance as the Factory model at a lower price point.

Fox 34 Performance Elite vs. RockShox Pike Select+

The RockShox Pike Select+ is another popular option in the trail/all-mountain category. Both forks offer excellent performance, but there are some key differences. The Pike Select+ uses RockShox's Charger 2.1 damper, which is known for its smooth and consistent feel. The Fox 34 Performance Elite's FIT4 damper, on the other hand, offers more distinct compression damping positions. Some riders prefer the simplicity and adjustability of the FIT4 damper, while others prefer the plushness of the Charger 2.1. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference.

Fox 34 Performance Elite vs. Marzocchi Z2

The Marzocchi Z2 is a more budget-friendly option that still offers impressive performance. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the Fox 34 Performance Elite, it's a great choice for riders who want a reliable and capable fork without spending a fortune. The Z2 uses a simpler damper design, but it still provides good small bump sensitivity and mid-stroke support. If you're on a tight budget, the Marzocchi Z2 is definitely worth considering.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Fox 34 Performance Elite:

Pros

• Excellent small bump sensitivity thanks to the EVOL air spring.
• Great mid-stroke support for confident handling.
• Ample bottom-out resistance for bigger hits.
• Wide range of adjustability with the FIT4 damper.
• More affordable than the Factory series.

Cons

• Doesn't have the Kashima coating found on the Factory model.
• May not be as plush as some other forks on the market.

Who Is This Fork For?

The Fox 34 Performance Elite is ideal for trail and all-mountain riders who want a high-performance fork without paying top dollar. It's a great choice for riders who value small bump sensitivity, mid-stroke support, and adjustability. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, the Fox 34 Performance Elite can help you take your riding to the next level.

Final Verdict

So, is the Fox 34 Performance Elite worth it? In my opinion, absolutely. It offers an excellent balance of performance, features, and price. While it may not have the Kashima coating of the Factory model, it still delivers exceptional performance on the trail. If you're looking to upgrade your fork, the Fox 34 Performance Elite is definitely worth considering. You get a top-tier fork without the top-tier price tag.

Hope this review helps you guys make an informed decision. Happy trails!