Could this Be the New Fox 36?

Images have been leaked showing what is seems to be a new FOX 36, or at least, a new set of lowers for the new upcoming model. The Fox 36 is a high-performance suspension fork designed for aggressive trail and all-mountain riding.

Removing material from the arch area can indeed affect the overall stiffness of the fork's chassis, potentially making it more compliant and less rigid in certain situations.

Fox's new design philosophy appears to be focused on improving suspension performance by reducing weight while maintaining or improving overall performance in terms of sensitivity and bump absorption. The arch redesign may be aimed at optimizing airflow and lowering the overall weight of the fork, which would be beneficial in terms of handling and performance on lighter, faster rides. However, this could come with the trade-off of reduced torsional rigidity.

The idea behind this change is likely to balance out stiffness with improved compliance and small-bump sensitivity, as many riders find that excessive stiffness can lead to a harsh ride. By reducing material in the arch, Fox might be aiming for a more lively feel to the fork, which could improve its ability to track the ground and provide a smoother ride, especially in technical terrain or on smaller impacts. However, this could potentially be a concern for riders who push the fork to its limits in very aggressive riding styles or on more challenging terrain where stiffness is a key factor in handling and control.