Balance

Plugging a better detailed review now that I actually finished a build up.

The newest gen frame is familiar but better then the last rev I rode ('16). Same hardware sizes, same silhouette, rides like a balance but tweaked and modernized. The internal cable routing definitely looks cleaner, the slightly raised leverage ratio ramp isn't crazy increased but noticeable over the old gen and it really is a better fit for coil then the older models. I can run a supple setup but im not in travel too deep as often as I was the older model. I appreciate that its still a light but robust frame. Its AL so random rocks dont kill it and it pedals like you'd expect a cbf bike to pedal (as in great even when running compliant suspension and moving through all of travel). I love the classic black ano look and the geo is spot on as well.

To me the balance is a sweet middle ground between a pedal day bike and a freeride rig. I guess hence the name. It is mild and reasonable in all its stats so that there really isnt a ride type it wouldn't be up for. I built mine to go for trail rides, go ride shuttle laps that arent dh bike appropriate, and occasionally for riding large'ish jump lines. For me its a bike of well thought out blends and decisions. Nothing abnormal, all very accessible. It really is a viable answer for any use case that's not lightweight XC or race dh rig at extreme ends of the bike spectrum.

I could talk setup and minutia all day but if your interested and think this might be for you at all, honestly it is. This is the cant make a bad choice bike to rule them all in my opinion.

Finally value and support wise no one out there is topping canfield. Lance and crew are all so awesome to work with. They care, are super friendly, and honestly how many brands have the owner answering the phone when you call to ask goofy questions? They've done more then right by me several times over now.

I'm 5'7" and chose a small frame w/ Kitsuma Air bc I prefer its reach and ease of adjusting spring rate. I love that the chainstays are so short because it allows me, as a shorter rider, to REALLY experience a snappy bike. The first time I tipped the bike into a berm, I heard Etta James' "At Last" in my head. It was effortless which was the opposite of my previous bike ('22 Status 160). The bike is exactly what I've been searching for in a park bike. Playful and eats the bumps. I'm not a racer so I'm not worried about all out speed, just having fun and this bike delivers ALL of the fun. Slap or shralp berms at will. Change lines whenever, wherever. The bike uses all of it's travel and I never feel a bottom out. Amazing. The bike is all about shenanigans and fun, but is also really happy on tight, fast trails like Jazz Hands at Angel Fire. Thank you, Lance, for keeping 27.5 alive and this shred machine in the lineup.

Solid classic balance frame. Enjoying seeing the black ano again as well

Hi Ya’ll.
Just purchased a Balance large size frame Balance. It arrived quick and safe! I’m so stoked to start this build. Aside from the frame itself, I want to say a bit about customer service. Three days prior to shipping, Lance Canfield himself phoned me letting me know it was on its way! I’ve never had the owner of a company personally contact me in this way! What a surprise! A few days later I had a a few questions about my build regarding brakes and crank lengths. So I gave them a shout. Guess who answers the phone? Yep Lance. We chat for 20 or so. Lance answered all my questions. Never felt like I was just a customer on the other end of the line. I truly felt like I was valued. I can’t say enough how grateful I am for the customer connection at Canfield. I’m looking forward to finishing this build. Never been prouder to own and ride a new bike.

Scotty Jenkins

I absolutely love that frame. It's exactly what i've been looking for.
27,5 wheels and short chain stay makes it really easy to maneuver and absolutely awseome to jump.
I'm 5'7'' and i got S size. With a short stem it feels like a dirt jumper. You can run it on your local trails and have lots of fun on bikeparks.

It was a little bit expensive to get it to Europe because of the import taxes but it was definitely worth it.
This thing sends it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WO-kDOnWexQ

I've got a few different full suspension bikes in the garage, but the Balance has been my go-to bike since I got it for all kinds of riding. Mine is setup up for trail with a Topaz and Mezzer. It's great for gnarly old-school trails, XC flowy rides and park. It climbs great. Usually I leave my shock open and appreciate how comfortable it is grinding up bumpy climbs.
The frame is super stout and holds lines without any flexy feeling. As a smaller rider on a small frame, I appreciate the short chain stays that make the bike feel a lot more natural than some frames that have chain stay lengths more appropriate on large size frames.
Overall a great bike at an amazing price point backed by super responsive personalized support!

The first time I got in one of these bikes the clouds parted and a choir of gnar angels began to sing. This bike will handle anything and everything you can throw at it. Highly recommend these bikes to anyone who is looking for a great all around mountain bike.

I purchased the Balance frame 2 years ago
and never wrote a review before. It isn't my primary trail bike, but I do ride it often. It is set up with a Zeb set at 170mm and does feel well balanced 😀 there. I purchased the frame with a DVO Topaz air shock. What I found, and have come to love about the bike, is the CBF. This thing pedals so well and really feels like you are pedaling a bike much lighter than it actually is. If you are unsure of buying a Canfield, find a way to test ride one.