You may have heard of smart watches or smart TVs, but have you heard of smart suspension? “Smart” is just the beginning when talking about the semi-active Live Valve shock system from FOX Factory. This intelligent system gathers information while you drive from sensors around the vehicle and interprets that data to intelligently adjust the shock’s damping in a fraction of a second.
These constant adjustments allow for continuous adaptation to changing conditions, such as while off-roading or driving on unstable terrain. Not only do the shocks adjust based on terrain, but they also sense when you’re using less throttle while decreasing damping for a more comfortable ride. Conversely, when you crush the throttle or speed up, it’ll increase the damping to all four shocks for more support during aggressive driving.
How Does It Work?
The Live Valve system is comprised of multiple sensors that measure wheel speed, brake pressure, steering angle and more. Intuitively, it takes that data through the onboard electronic control unit and creates a predictive model that determines if the terrain ahead is getting smoother or rougher.
Now matter how you put the system through its paces, the Live Valve system intelligently provides the best possible setting for optimal comfort and handling. In fact, FOX Factory engineers developed proprietary PTFE-infused ultra-low friction 5WT along with an internal bypass system that offers a 50% reduction in shock friction from the shock oil. What does this mean for you? A silky-smooth ride.
To see LiveValve in action, check out this video:
Built Tough, Built Smart
Through a larger shock body, the Live Valve shocks offer more oil capacity for optimal cooling that is essential under high stress, extreme terrain conditions. While any shocks periodically need maintenance, the sturdier components in the FOX Factory Live Valve shocks will stand up to aggressive use and extend the overall life and reliability of the shock.
The Future of Adaptive Suspension
At its core, FOX Factory has always been about innovation, pushing what’s next and trying to stay ahead of what’s coming. As sensor and computing technology progresses in the coming years, more manufacturers are looking toward adaptive suspension solutions like the Live Valve for their OE solution.
With the surge of AI taking over everything from content to social media and beyond, it begs the question of whether that will shape or play a role in adaptive suspension. No matter how progression shakes out, you can believe that FOX Factory will be on top of it.
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