Fox Racing Shocks 981-20-048 Performance Elite 2.0 x 8.5 Off-Road Air Shock

The Fox Racing Shocks 981-20-048 Performance Elite 2.0 x 8.5 Air Shock is a purpose-built off-road suspension component designed for serious off-road competition and rock crawling applications. With a 2.0-inch body diameter and 8.5-inch travel, this air shock delivers race-derived damping performance with the unique advantage of infinitely adjustable spring rate tuning via nitrogen charge pressure.

Unlike conventional coil-spring shocks, the Performance Elite air shock allows riders to dial in spring force on the fly by adjusting nitrogen pressure—ranging from 10 PSI to 500 PSI—making it exceptionally versatile for varying terrain and load conditions. The spring force is directly proportional to the nitrogen charge, giving competitors precise control over ride height and spring stiffness without changing springs.

Key Features:

• Infinitely Adjustable Spring Rate — Nitrogen charge pressure allows fine-tuned spring rate adjustment to suit any terrain or load
• Race-Proven Damping Technology — Uses the same performance damping internals as the full Performance Elite Series, keeping servicing and valving adjustments consistent across the lineup
• Hollow Chromoly Shock Shaft — Incredibly strong yet lightweight 4130 hollow chromoly shaft reduces unsprung weight, ideal for competition rock crawlers and off-road racers
• 2.0-Inch Smooth Body Construction — Zinc-plated seamless steel body provides excellent corrosion resistance and long-term durability in harsh environments
• Standard 40/90 Valving — Factory-tuned compression and rebound valving (40 compression / 90 rebound) optimized for off-road performance
• Maximum Load Rating: 500 lbs per shock — Engineered to handle the demands of competitive off-road use
• Owner Serviceable and Rebuildable — Designed to be rebuilt and revalved through authorized Fox service centers, maximizing the long-term value of your investment
• 1-1/4-Inch Shaft Diameter — Heavy-duty shaft size suited for high-stress suspension applications

The Fox 981-20-048 is nitrogen-charged from the factory and must not be filled with compressed air, as introducing moisture will cause internal corrosion. Nitrogen fills are available at most off-road shops and Fox service centers. This shock is ideal for competition rock crawlers, prerunners, and custom off-road builds where precise suspension tuning is critical.