Canfield shelved its aggro hardtail platform back in 2017, but the alloy Yelli Screamy returns with some modern updates. Most hardcore hardtails are steel, such as Canfield’s Nimble 9. But as a reconstituted boutique mountain bike brand, Canfield wanted to produce something a touch lighter, too.
The original Yelli Screamy was one of the best hardtail mountain bikes for trail riding of its time, with very progressive frame angles. This third-generation version is much of the same.
As with all Canfield hardtails, the new Yelli Screamy is for 29er wheels only and designed as a trail and all-mountain hardtail. These are bikes for descending and experiencing maximum trail feedback. Lance Canfield has shaped the Yelli Screamy 3.0 for 120-140mm forks and its reference geometry numbers, are based on 130mm of front suspension.
A size large Yelli Screamy now has 475mm of reach and all the bikes sit at a 65.5-degree head angle with the recommended 130mm fork. The original Yelli Screamy had 429mm of reach, as a size large, and a 68-degree head angle with a 120mm fork. The most significant update is an increase of over 8-degrees for the seat angle, bringing it to a more contemporary 76.4-degrees.
Bright colorways
Boutique brands are known for bold colors and Canfield is no different, with the Yelli Screamy available in Orange Dreamcycle, Purple Haze, Slate Train and Blue It.
The most notable frame standard upgrades are stealth dropper post routing and a boost rear axle. Canfield has opted for a relatively small diameter 30.9mm seat tube, but you should find adequate dropper post options in this size.
Shifter and rear brake cables remain externally routed for ease of access and maintenance. A threaded 73mm bottom bracket should also reduce creaking risk, due to dust or mud.
For those hardtail enthusiasts who will send their Yelli Screamys down more challenging trails, there are ISCG 05 tabs, to secure a chain retention device.
Canfield has ensured that hydration is never an issue with the new Yelli Screamy. It has no less than three bottle cage mounts, two in the front triangle and one on the underside of its down tube.
Pricing for a frame is $799.99 and complete bikes start at $3,399.99. Canfield is offering sizes small, medium, large and extra-large.
