Hey Lee,
A balancer with Road Force Variation would if picked up that bent rim and saved you a lot of time. Just because a wheel is "balanced" doesn't mean it won't vibrate. That statement might be a little confusing. These balancers spin the wheel ( just like any other balancer) but have a roller that pushes on the tread while the wheel is spinning. This simulates the road and finds road force which could cause a vibration.

I know I've been going on and on about this but bottom line is.. If you go to a tire shop and they DON'T have a machine that checks road force, Your only half balancing your tires..