The Fenix is already one of the most sophisticated dampers on the market, so how could we make it evolve to really stay ahead of the game? The “issue” with the Fenix is that it already offers fantastic performance, and making it better is no easy task!
FAST Suspension Fenix 2.0
The Fenix was originally born from the idea of combining the performance of a downhill shock with the added support of a platform switch for climbing. Our “VDP” (velocity dependent piston) creates superb grip and traction, while our unique 3-way compression damping architecture increases control over all different types of suspension movements; low-, mid-, and high-speed events. The low- and mid-speed compression damping is externally adjustable, while the high-speed compression damping is set from the factory (each Fenix shock is custom-tuned to suit the bike and the rider preferences). The climb switch activates a separate, dedicated compression circuit that works to reduce any unwanted shock bobbing during climbs. It is equipped with its own, internally tunable shimstack that slows down the low-speed compression while still acting as a blow-off valve should you forget to open it up after the climb.
For the new 2.0 version, we started out with what the Fenix was missing: hydraulic bottom-out control, or HBO for short. To add this valuable feature to the Fenix, we brought over the HBO system from our Ride series of shocks – it has already proven itself in the field, garnering great feedback from both amateur and professional riders. Our HBO affects the last 25% of the shock stroke, and it is built around a self-centering piston featuring an internally tunable shimstack and a special release mechanism that prevents any risk of a “sticky rebound” feeling as the shock extends from a big hit.
We didn’t stop there, however; just adding the HBO would have been too simple! We have also worked on the overall form factor of the damper head to make it more compact. We have reduced the width by 6 millimeters and moved the piggyback reservoir 3 millimeters towards the rear, and we have reshaped the Trunnion head as well. As a result, the Fenix 2.0 is now compatible with more bikes, like the Orbea Wild 2023-2024 for example. This also simplifies our product line-up as there is now only one Fenix head shape going forward.
Purple Fun – Limited Edition
To celebrate the new Fenix, we’re producing a limited run of shocks with anodized purple body parts and a Croma+ treated shaft, available in 30 pieces only worldwide. Hurry up and talk to your dealer or to us directly if you want one!
The Fenix 2.0 is available now, directly from FAST or from one of our authorized resellers and service centers. The Fenix 2.0 list price is €995.00 EUR, which includes one spring and the mounting hardware (the limited edition purple ano lists at €1200.00 EUR). In keeping with our commitment to customer satisfaction and standing behind the longevity of our products, we are also offering a 2.0 upgrade kit for Fenix 1.0 owners. The price of the kit is €149.00 EUR, and customers can choose to have it installed as part of the annual service of their shock. The Fenix 2.0 also benefits from our warranty extension program, where the original 24-month warranty is extended by 12 months after each yearly damper service, for the duration of the product’s lifetime.
FAST Fenix 2.0 Highlights
- Monotube damper architecture
- 100% CNC 7075 T6 aluminum, anodized with PTFE impregnation to reduce friction
- Alloy shaft used on standard version
- Chrome steel shaft installed for bikes equipped with a yoke
- Piggy-back reservoir uses an internal bladder to reduce friction and temperature
- Viton seals for improved temperature resistance
- Velocity-dependent piston (VDP) = improved bike control and traction
- 3 independent compression damping circuits (Low-Speed/Mid-Speed/High-Speed)= control over every suspension event type
- Externally adjustable LS/MS compression damping, LS rebound damping
- Independent climb mode circuit with dedicated shimstack (increased compressiondamping to reduce unwanted bobbing and suspension movement)
- HBO – hydraulic bottom out, effective on the last 25% of the shock’s stroke (self-centering piston with rebound release mechanism)
- Each Fenix shock is custom-tuned to the bike and the rider’s preferences
- Upgradeable shock absorber: change bikes but keep the Fenix (including change ofshock length, stroke, and switch between regular and Trunnion mounting options)
- Standard color: all black or black with purple accents (optional, limited-editionpurple ano body parts available, 30 pcs only)
- Original warranty: 24 months
- Warranty extension program: the warranty is extended for a further 12 months aftereach yearly service for the first owner, for the lifetime of the product (service to becarried out by an approved FAST service center)
- MSRP (standard): €995.00 EUR, including ICHU spring and hardware
- MSRP (ltd edition purple ano): €1200.00 EUR, including ICHU spring and hardware
More information: fast-suspension.com