[Op/Ed] Will the 2022 Ford Raptor R Use the New FOX LiveValve X2 Shock Technology? Here Is How It Works

Jan 08, 2024

This is the next step in shock technology.

Which suspension will underpin the new 2022 Ford Raptor R? Here is one unofficial guess. As the new 2022 Polaris RZR Pro R makes its world debut, it also introduces us to the new FOX LiveValve X2 shocks. This is the latest semi-active shock system that electronically and independently controls and adjusts the compression and the rebound damping in real-time.

The FOX LiveValve shocks that have been introduced on the 2019 Ford Raptor electronically control a single valve within the shock absorber system. It changes the stiffness of the shock, but it also affects both compression and rebound in the same way. The new LiveValve X2 system uses two valves to control compression and rebound sides independently. This allows for more precise control of the ride.

Here is how FOX explains the new X2 system.

Given that the current 2021 Ford Raptor is using the FOX LiveValve 3.1 shocks, it seems logical that the next Raptor R truck will switch to the latest LiveValve X2 technology. This would allow the Raptor to more directly compete against the Ram TRX. The TRX rides on a Bilstein Blackhawk e2 shock system with dual valve technology.

While we wait for the 2022 Raptor R to be officially announced here is how the 2021 Raptor performs in the dunes!

Another vehicle that may use the new LiveValve X2 shocks is the upcoming all-new Ford Bronco Raptor.