FOX debuted a new an electronically activated suspension system called Float Intelligent Ride Dynamics (iCD). Their goal is to provide balanced suspension and with this  iCD system they’ve taken things a step further to capitalize on their Cimb, Trail, Descend setup for 2013. Details inside from FOX.

FOX 2013 Product Update: Float iCD

Systematic Approach

For 2013, FOX has taken on a more systematic approach to ride dynamics [Learn about their CTD setup in our previous post]. Through testing and riding, they have learned to develop the front and rear suspension together as a unit to provide the most balanced feel. With that in mind, FOX has developed innovative concepts that design the fork and shock as a system to offer the best performance and control.

iRD Shift lever mounted to the left of the brake clamp

iRD lever

iRD Float Shox setup

Float with iCD

iRD Fork Setup

iCD Fork Setup

iRD

Intelligent Ride Dynamics (iRD) is FOX’s categorization for electronic products employing non-traditional solutions to help customers improve their ride experience. Items under the iRD umbrella will directly address a rider’s individual needs, be very intuitive and provide features beyond what has traditionally been offered.

Float iCD

Integrating FOX’s systematic approach to suspension tuning with iRD, Float iCD takes cross country and trail riding to a higher level. Float iCD integrates an electronic actuated system into FOX’s proven Float fork and shock designs to adjust between Climb and Descend modes. The system offers fast activation and effortless operation.

iCD equipped FOX fork

Float iCD shares features with Shimano’s E-Tube electronic shifting technology. Float iCD uses Power-Line-Communication (PLC) that allows data and power to flow along a single wire. This permits minimal wiring and ease of set-up, using only three wires for full suspension bikes and two wires for front suspension bikes. The system also has a PC interface option that allows customization of the remote switch function and provides access to diagnostic tools, switch operation counting and firmware updates.

iCD battery

Float iCD offers improved performance over standard remote and non-remote systems. The front and rear suspension are controlled with a single remote switch and activation requires minimal hand movement from the grip, allowing the rider to quickly adapt to sudden changes in trail conditions. The ease of use and very low remote activation force equals less rider fatigue and encourages increased use over other systems. Float iCD is also easy to setup, has improved reliability over mechanical cable remote systems and offers long battery life.

iCD equipped shock

Additional Details

• Fork features: Internal actuator unit, Factory series with FIT damper and Kashima-coated upper tubes, 100mm or 120mm, 26” or 29” wheel, and 9mm or 15QR axle options.\

• Shock features: External actuator unit, Factory series with Kashima-coated body and air sleeve, 6.5×1.5” to 7.875×2.0” sizes, and standard or large eyelet air volume options.

• Remote Switch: Right or left mounting option, two or three position rotary switch, non-contact operation and integrated battery low feature.

• Full Suspension System: System includes fork, shock, battery, battery bracket and remote switch with three cables linking the system together, left or right remote mounting options, three mode positions – Climb, Climb (Rear Only) and Descend.

• Front Suspension System: System includes fork, battery, battery bracket and remote switch with two cables linking the system together, left or right remote mounting options, two mode positions – Climb and Descend.

• Battery Life: In excess of 2.5 months (results may vary)

• Actuation Time: 0.25 seconds for fork, 0.45 seconds for shock

• Full Suspension Weight: Starting at 1860g / 4.10lbs

• Front Suspension Weight: Starting at 1555g / 3.43lbs

• Availability: September, 2012

Be sure to read more about the 2013 FOX lineup in our previous posting to learn more about FOX suspension products.