Despite having been reworked for 2015, the Canfield Brothers Balance has been tweaked and tuned for the 2016 model year. A trail/enduro/all-mountain bike, the Balance has 165mm of travel and – much like the rest of the range – draws heavily from the brothers’ downhill background. The revised model boosts travel while reducing shock leverage for improved suspension consistency and smoother travel. Further, the linkage has been made more progressive to better handle big hits. The upper link is has been ‘stiffened while a redesigned rear triangle improves tyre clearance’.
Rad-approved.
Taking advantage of the patent-pending Canfield Balance Formula four-bar suspension system, the Balance is said to be as comfortable on all-day backcountry rides as it is in the bike park. By precisely controlling the suspension elements, Canfield claims to have devised a system that is “virtually 100-percent anti-squat” regardless of sag level.
“What that means for the rider, is you’ll have the most efficient pedaling possible, regardless of where your sag is set,” according to designer (and company co-owner) Chris Canfield. “So if you like to run more sag for better downhill performance, you’re not going to be sacrificing anything on the ups. If anything, you’ll have even better traction and bump compliance without unwanted pedal bob.”
Other stats include a 65-degree head angle and snug 16.5in chainstays. Wheels are 27.5 and the rear end is compatible with existing (non-Boost) 12x142mm hubs. Complete with a Cane Creek Double Barrel Air rear shock, the third-generation Balance will be available to pre-order shortly (for January delivery) from distributors Cranknuts for a new, lower price: £1,749.