Installed the Fox 2.0 series yesterday and went on a long test drive. Here is my review of how they compare to the Rancho 5000x and my previous Rubicon Express shocks (which I found out were Bilsteins 5100s).
Rubicon Express (Bilstein 5100)
These shocks are very firm. They ride very smoothly on the highway but are too stiff and jarring around town under 45 mph. Good control overall and minimal body roll. Off-road, I felt like my teeth were going to fall out. Good overall finish and quality.
Rancho 5000x
These absorbed all the small bumps very well. It felt like I was driving on a squishy/mushy pillow. Rocks a little when braking, especially in reverse. Body roll increased just a tad. Not as much control on turns. They worked great on the highway and we’re stellar off-road. Washboard roads were easy. Terrible finish and looks ugly.
Fox Performance 2.0
My favorite shocks by a landslide. They are definitely on the firmer side but soft at the same time. They do a great job absorbing a lot of the little bumps while still providing a sports-like driving experience.
Riding on the highway is very smooth. Off-road they are a little stiffer than I would prefer but overall a great ride. Aluminum finish and looks great. No rust!
Conclusion
For most people, especially if you plan on going mostly off-road, I would recommend the Rancho 5000x. They are comfortable and soft.
if you prefer a more stiff but still soft controlled ride, then I would recommend the Fox 2.0. This is by far my preferred shock out of the three. I’m about 90% of the time driving in the city and like the feel of a sports car. They also do an excellent job off-road.
I see no reason to get the Bilstein 5100. They are too jarring which is why I upgraded to the Rancho 5000x. They seem like they are made for a heavy truck. They only performed well on the highway.
Obviously, all of my opinions are highly subjective. Your mileage may vary
Rubicon Express (Bilstein 5100)
These shocks are very firm. They ride very smoothly on the highway but are too stiff and jarring around town under 45 mph. Good control overall and minimal body roll. Off-road, I felt like my teeth were going to fall out. Good overall finish and quality.
Rancho 5000x
These absorbed all the small bumps very well. It felt like I was driving on a squishy/mushy pillow. Rocks a little when braking, especially in reverse. Body roll increased just a tad. Not as much control on turns. They worked great on the highway and we’re stellar off-road. Washboard roads were easy. Terrible finish and looks ugly.
Fox Performance 2.0
My favorite shocks by a landslide. They are definitely on the firmer side but soft at the same time. They do a great job absorbing a lot of the little bumps while still providing a sports-like driving experience.
Riding on the highway is very smooth. Off-road they are a little stiffer than I would prefer but overall a great ride. Aluminum finish and looks great. No rust!
Conclusion
For most people, especially if you plan on going mostly off-road, I would recommend the Rancho 5000x. They are comfortable and soft.
if you prefer a more stiff but still soft controlled ride, then I would recommend the Fox 2.0. This is by far my preferred shock out of the three. I’m about 90% of the time driving in the city and like the feel of a sports car. They also do an excellent job off-road.
I see no reason to get the Bilstein 5100. They are too jarring which is why I upgraded to the Rancho 5000x. They seem like they are made for a heavy truck. They only performed well on the highway.
Obviously, all of my opinions are highly subjective. Your mileage may vary
Last edited:
