2021 52cm trek checkpoint alr 5

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 review – a confident, capable gravel bike

Trek's updated aluminum checkpoint is a surefooted, confidence-inspiring ride that's perfect for ruined back lanes, byways and well-laden travels.

BikePerfect Verdict

The reshaped Checkpoint frame neatly combines confidence-inspiring stability with a fun, engaging feel which goes well at all speeds on all sorts of surfaces. This might not be the lightest or fanciest build, but the key bits are great and the rest just quietly works.

Stable and predictable

Comfortable

Great shifting and brakes

Gearing a bit tall for the weight

Could use a dropper post

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We'll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

The aluminium-framed ALR models sit at the bottom of Trek's Checkpoint range, with the lighter carbon SL and race-focused SLR bikes above, but in truth that's not a bad place to be. The ALR 5 gets a full set of excellent Shimano GRX components for the drivetrain and brakes, decent tires on tubeless-ready rims and lots of rack and fender mounts. 

The result is a surefooted, confident bike that's ready for exactly what Trek says it's for – gravel riding for fun, commuting or just general adventures. Which is pretty much what most people are after when looking for the best gravel bikes or best cheap gravel bikes .

Design and geometry

For 2023, the Checkpoint frame has seen some changes – basically it's got longer both in the front centre and the chainstays, and the stem is shorter to compensate. I tested a 58cm, and compared to the 2021 model it has 10mm longer chainstays, 20mm more reach and is 26mm longer overall. The 90mm stem and 60.9cm/41.1cm stack and reach figures keep the overall riding position fairly relaxed, with a usefully tall front end and slightly head-down, but certainly not front heavy, bias.

The head angle is the same as before at 72.3 degrees, presumably to keep the steering decently snappy, as is the bottom bracket drop at 7.4cm. 

This might be the 'poor man's' model with its humble alloy frame, but that doesn't mean it's unsophisticated. The various touring-friendly mounts are complimented by internally-routed cables that help a lot when strapping on frame bags or cages, as well as keeping them generally out of harm's way. I did find several of the bungs protecting the mounting/cable holes disappeared overboard on rough trails though, so if you want to keep filth out of your threads/frame you might want to stock up – or wind in some actual bolts where you can.

Components and build

Trek has spent the budget wisely here, speccing the excellent Shimano GRX shifters, levers and hydraulic brakes. The flat-fronted levers are particularly good for grip when it's rough, the shifts are always positive and the two-piston calipers are powerful and easy to modulate on the 160mm discs. Basically, the whole stop and go thing is covered perfectly.

Well, almost perfectly. The 2x11 drivetrain gives a very useable spread of ratios, but for the most serious off-road climbing it's a little high. At the top end it's good for 35mph before you spin out, which is great for the road and fireroad descents, but leaves the lowest gear (30/34t) slightly high for the steepest, techiest climbs. That's especially true if the bike's loaded up.

That's the lowest combination of ratios that will fit, though, so your options there are either to keep the bike as light as possible, fit a 1x crank and lose a fair bit of top speed, or get stronger...

The finishing kit is all in-house Bontrager stuff, and while it's all perfectly good they're pretty easy targets for weight loss upgrades. The Bontrager Elite Gravel bar is 44cm wide on this frame size with a good flare to the drops for extra leverage, and the comfy GRX hoods tilt inwards just enough to encourage a slightly elbows-out stance that's good for control.

The wheels – Switch hubs, 21mm wide Paradigm rims (the SL version on one end, presumably the front) and 24 spokes on each – are similarly utilitarian, being strong, middling for weight and entirely decent for the job. Wearing Aeolus XXX rim strips they're tubeless ready, and so are the Bontrager GR1 Team Issue tires, which is nice – in fact, Trek lists 6oz of its TLR sealant as a 'tire part,' so presumably consumer bikes are supplied already set, just as our test bike was.

The tires are predictable and confidence inspiring on the unusually dry terrain of our test period, as well as on tarmac both damp or dry, but are clearly not designed for mud. There's room in the frame for up to 45mm rubber should you want to go wider.

Oh, and while the front axle looks like you'll need to carry a hex key to get it out, the lever on the rear thru-axle actually pulls out to fit in either one. 

Performance

The Checkpoint has a confident feel – its length and reasonable heft keep it planted, while the steering is stable without being sluggish. It's the same whether you're on gravel or tarmac, and predictable in a friendly but not boring way. The chunky headtube and sizeable welded junctions do a great job of keeping it tracking where it's pointed in the rough.

Despite the chunky, almost box-section seatstays and generally rigid-feeling frame, it's comfortable for long rides, thanks to the high volume tyres, well-cushioned bar tape and a supportive, hammocky P3 Verse Comp saddle you really sit 'in'.

Get up some speed on gravel though and there's no disguising the aluminum build. By 30mph on a fireroad, your hands and feet are taking some serious vibes, and the chatter from sustained speed does reduce comfort. 

Switching to carbon at the bar (and at the Bontrager seatpost) would both increase comfort and reduce weight, and though I found the saddle supportive and comfy both for long rides and hard pedaling efforts, it does have steel rails – it's another easy and relatively cheap target for weight loss and vibe reduction.

Alternatively, if you want more speed whatever the trails do, fit the best dropper post that will suit the 27.2mm seat tube and reap the rewards.

Personally, I would have quite liked the shorter cranks of the smaller sizes instead of the 175mm GRX RX600s fitted here, which would allow an even lower BB for descending confidence, but that's really just preference. The 7.4cm BB drop is pretty low in the scheme of things, cornering feel is predictable, and ground clearance is good.

This is an extremely usable yet still very enjoyable bike. It nails that '2/3rds road bike, 1/3rd XC bike' feel that makes gravel bikes so good for so many things – commuting while avoiding the worst traffic, touring, exploring dilapidated rural lanes, getting in hard climbing efforts away from ANY traffic, or just generally getting out there and enjoying the view. 

It's comfortable and reassuring from the off whatever the surface, and the money's been spent in the right places – this is a really solid base for years of riding fun.

Test conditions

• Temperature: Rarely less than 20 degrees C and up to 35
• Conditions: Dry, hard and dusty with almost zero rain
• Trails: Mountain singletrack, bridleways, forest gravel and crumbling rural lanes

Tech specs: Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

• Price: $2,500 / £2,400
• Discipline: Gravel
• Frame size tested: 58cm
• Seat tube angle: 72.5°
• Head angle: 72.3°
• Effective top tube: 59.7cm
• Bottom bracket drop: 7.4cm
• Wheelbase: 105.8cm
• Reach: 41.1cm
• Frame: 300 Series Alpha Aluminium
• Tires: Bontrager GR1 Team Issue 40mm, Tubeless Ready 
• Drivetrain: Shimano GRX
• Sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 (tested), 61cm
• Claimed weight: 9.75 kg / 21.5 lb (56cm)

Steve is a highly experienced journalist and rider who's been involved with bikes of all kinds for more years than he would care to remember. Based in South Wales, he has mile upon mile of swooping singletrack, an array of plummet and winch descents and everything in between right on his doorstep.

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Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 61cm

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame 300 Series Alpha Aluminum, tapered head tube, Control Freak internal routing, 3S chain keeper, rack and fender mounts, flat mount disc, horizontal sliding dropouts, 142x12mm thru axle
• Fork Checkpoint carbon, tapered alloy steerer, rack mounts, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle
• Hubs Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, centerlock disc, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12mm thru axle
• Wheels Bontrager Tubeless Ready, 28-hole, 17mm width, presta valve
• Spokes 14g stainless steel
• Tires Bontrager GR1 Comp, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x40c
• Chain Shimano 105 HG601, 11 speed
• Crank Size: 49, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 165mm length; Size: 52, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 170mm length; Size: 54, 56, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 172.5mm length; Size: 58, 61, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 175mm length
• Bottom Bracket Shimano RS500, 86mm, PressFit
• Front Derailleur Shimano GRX RX810, braze-on
• Rear Derailleur Shimano GRX RX810, long cage, 34T max cog
• Shifters Shimano GRX RX600, 11 speed
• Brakeset Shimano RX400 hydraulic disc, flat mount
• Handlebar Size: 49, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8mm, 93mm reach, 123mm drop, 38cm width; Size: 52, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8mm, 93mm reach, 123mm drop, 40cm width; Size: 54, 56, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8mm, 93mm reach, 123mm drop, 42cm width; Size: 58, 61, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8mm, 93mm reach, 123mm drop, 44cm width
• Saddle Bontrager Montrose Comp, steel rails, 138mm width
• Seatpost Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 27.2mm, 8mm offset, 330mm length
• Stem Size: 49, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length; Size: 52, 54, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length; Size: 56, 58, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length; Size: 61, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 110mm length
• Headset FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

Q: How much is a 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5?

A 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is typically priced around $2,199 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5?

The 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 should I get?

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Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Colour / Trek Black, Purple Abyss, Teal

Size / 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 61cm

At a glance

- Checkpoint ALR 5 is the best value gravel bike in the lineup. It’s a high-quality build that will hold up for long, rugged miles on pavement, dirt, and even the most treacherous gravel roads. But what sets this model apart is the performance parts and the wealth of features like adjustable Stranglehold dropouts, massive tire clearance, and extra mounts that make it easy to customize for your kind of adventure.

It’s right for you if… Unlike the pure roadie who measures watts and weighs out meals, you favor epic all-road adventures that probably end with a beer and a burrito. But that doesn’t mean you’ll compromise on performance. You expect to get a lot for your hard-earned dollar, including quality, versatility, durability, and a ridiculous amount of fun.

The tech you get A stout aluminum frame with rack and fender mounts, a vibration-absorbing carbon fork, a 2×11 Shimano GRX drivetrain with lower gears for grinding up hills or through rough gravel, hydraulic disc brakes for all-condition stopping power, and wide 700x40c gravel tires for added stability and traction.

The final word If the amount of adventure you can get per dollar spent is a priority for you, you won’t do better than Checkpoint ALR 5. Quality parts, a durable alloy frame that keeps the price in check, and a wealth of features like extra tire clearance and customization options so you can confidently take on bigger, better adventures.

Why you’ll love it

- With Checkpoint ALR 5, you’re getting high-quality parts at an exceptional value, which means you’ll have extra dough for adventure travel… and burritos

- This bike is exceedingly versatile and suited to a wide variety of ride styles, including gravel rides, bikepacking, and daily commutes

- Massive tire clearance means you can use tires up to 45c for extra traction and stability in any conditions

- Mounts on the seat tube and both sides of the down tube make it easy to carry extra gear and water

- The Stranglehold Dropout makes it easy to fine-tune your geometry or run singlespeed

Where To Buy

Specifications

• Frame 300 Series Alpha Aluminum, tapered head tube, Control Freak internal routing, 3S chain keeper, rack and fender mounts, flat mount disc, Stranglehold dropouts
• Hubs Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, Center Lock disc, Shimano / SRAM 11-speed freehub
• Wheels Front: 12 x 100mm thru-axle Rear: 12 x 142mm thru-axle
• Tires [F] Bontrager GR1 Comp, wire bead, 60TPI, 700x40c
• Chain Shimano 105 HG601, 11-speed
• Crank Shimano GRX RX600
• Bottom Bracket Shimano RS500, 92mm, PressFit
• Front Derailleur Shimano GRX RX810, braze-on
• Rear Derailleur Shimano GRX RX810, long cage, 34T max cog
• Shifters Shimano GRX RX600, 11 speed
• Brakeset Shimano GRX hydraulic disc, flat mount, w/ Shimano SM-RT70, 160mm, Center Lock rotors
• Handlebar Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8mm, 93mm reach, 123mm drop
• Saddle Bontrager Montrose Comp, steel rails, 138mm width
• Seatpost Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 27.2mm, 8mm offset, 330mm length
• Stem Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree
• Grips Bontrager Supertack Perf tape
• Headset FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

Q: How much is a 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5?

A 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is typically priced around $2,200 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: What size 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 should I get?

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2022 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review

Garret seacat, c.s.c.s..

Reviewing the all-new 2022 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

The 2022 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is a welcomed update to an already successful line of gravel bikes from Trek. As a long-time cycling coach and native of the Flint Hills of Kansas, we didn’t hold back on our Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 review. 

2022 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

• Lighter frame than the previous version
• Nicely equipped components.
• Feels quick and nimble even with the long-wheelbase
• Updated geometry
• Lifetime Warranty
• We don’t mind but the removal of sliding dropouts
• Not as relaxed geometry as Trek Domane making it more of a race bike than a relax gravel bike

First Impressions

The Checkpoint needs almost no introduction to most riders familiar with the gravel scene but this year brought along an update to the already popular bike. While you could spend big money and go for the incredibly well-equipped and lightweight SLR model, we decided to stay more modest and review a more humble ALR 5 that will likely find its way into your garage.

Before we get too far, I want to mention I am VERY familiar with the Checkpoint, and this is the 4th different one I’ve owned. And well before that, I was part of a bike shop that helped contribute and give input on the “new gravel” bike from Trek, or what we would later learn was the first version of the Checkpoint. I sold my 2020 SL after just deciding it wasn’t the right fit for me, but here I am again with another Checkpoint added to the stable of bikes.

Straight out of the box, I was impressed with how light it was, even with all the stock components at the time. Also, the updated paint schemes on all the models are gorgeous in person! However, I quickly realized while assembling the bike my taste for carbon would likely result in some upgrades reasonably quickly to help lighten the bike even more and improve the feel. More on that later.

Riding the Checkpoint

It wouldn’t be a Checkpoint ALR 5 review without putting it on the gravel in Kansas, and luckily that’s exactly where we are located. While you miss out on the Iso-Speed of higher-end carbon Checkpoints, you won’t notice it much. Having ridden a variety of carbon Trek bikes with Iso-Speed, I was pleasantly surprised at the ride quality of the ALR. To help take the edge off, I added an RSL seatpost, and then the bike came to match the ride quality of much more expensive bikes.

On the same idea of changing things, take the stock tires ASAP. They aren’t that good! They roll fast, but you will flat in no time and ruin that new bike experience.

After a quick 20-mile break-in ride with stock parts, I changed the wheels to a pair of Bontrager RSL 37V and changed the seatpost and stem to Bontrager RSL carbon bits. I also put a wider 44cm width bar on. Is this necessary? Absolutely not, but the bike really comes alive!

One note on the geometry, it feels great but is noticeably different than the previous model. While the effective top tube says it is longer it felt shorter! The wheelbase also got shortened this year but has more front toe clearance and a similar chainstay length to previous years.

Since putting this bike together, I have almost shelved my carbon bikes completely. I even went to a couple of gravel races and left the carbon race bike at home because I enjoy the new Checkpoint ALR 5 that much! The best part is having riders come over and pick it up and their shock when I tell them how much I have invested in it compared to what they have spent.

Final Thoughts

At $2500 retail, you cannot go wrong with the Checkpoint ALR 5. It is just a all around fun bike to ride. The stock Shimano GRX R600 and R800 components and tubeless-ready wheels will have you ready for whatever you want. If you can swing it, grab a carbon seat post, I recommend the Bontrager RSL for the “flex” to help take a little more out of the gravel.

If you can find a shop with an ALR 5 in stock then give it a ride and don’t think twice about taking it home if it fits!

Coach Seacat has carved a space for himself as an expert coach in the discipline of cycling. With 15+ years of coaching and prestigious certifications from USA Cycling and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Coach Seacat brings a comprehensive approach to coaching that combines advanced training techniques with fundamental cycling strategies.

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Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Shimano GRX Gravel Bike 2021, Size 52cm

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If you are unhappy with the product when it arrives with you simply let us know as soon as is possible. You can then either drop it back instore or have it collected for a small shipping fee.

As long as the product is unridden and comes back to us how we gave it to you we will refund you from there.

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• Checkpoint ALR 5

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

Checkpoint ALR 5 is the best value gravel bike in the lineup. It's a high-quality build that will hold up for long, rugged miles on pavement, dirt, and even the most treacherous gravel roads. A wealth of features like nimble-yet-stable progressive geometry, loads of mounts, plus a GRX drivetrain make it easy to customize for your kind of adventure. It's right for you if... Unlike the pure roadie who measures watts and weighs out meals, you favor epic off-road adventures that probably end with a beer and a burrito. But that doesn't mean you'll compromise on performance. You expect to get a lot for your hard-earned dollar, including quality, versatility, durability, and a ridiculous amount of fun. The tech you get A stout aluminum frame with a progressive geometry that's stable at speed and efficient when you're grinding up a climb, hidden cables that won't interfere with bags, rack and fender mounts and integrated frame bag mounts, a 2x11 Shimano GRX drivetrain with lower gears for grinding up hills or through rough gravel, hydraulic disc brakes for all-condition stopping power, tubeless ready rims, and wide 700x40c gravel tires for added stability and traction. The final word If the amount of adventure you can get per dollar spent is a priority for you, you won't do better than Checkpoint ALR 5. Quality parts, a durable alloy frame, and a wealth of features like extra tire clearance and customization options so you can confidently take on bigger, better adventures. Why you'll love it - All-new progressive geometry is quick and nimble yet keeps you stable and in control on fast, choppy descents - This bike is exceedingly versatile and suited to a wide variety of ride styles, including gravel rides, bikepacking, and daily commutes - Massive tire clearance means you can use tires up to 45c for extra traction and stability in any conditions - Integrated frame bag mounts and rack and fender mounts make it easy to carry gear and water

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

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2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review

Are you looking for an affordable, yet powerful mountain bike? Enter the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5. 

This mid-range road and gravel bike is perfect for exploring paved roads, gravel paths and mild backcountry trails.

Trek is one of the biggest producers of bicycles in the world and they’ve managed to cater to cyclists of all levels by providing an impressive range of options. 

One such option is the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 – a light weight, well equipped endurance road bike that can tackle any terrain with ease.

If you’re searching for a reliable and comfortable ride for your next adventure, then look no further than the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5. 

In this review, I’ll discuss what makes this bike so great, including its lightweight frame, impressive components, reasonable price point and agile maneuverability.

Trek’s Checkpoint ALR 5 has become a top pick among cyclists looking for adventure riding. 

The bike is designed to deliver a dynamic, efficient experience over a variety of terrain and surfaces, allowing riders to embark on longer adventures while pedaling further and faster. 

In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features of the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 and examine how it holds up for long rides in tough conditions.

Frame Construction & Design

The Checkpoint ALR 5 is constructed with 300 Series Alpha Aluminum from Trek’s exclusive technology, making it one of the lightest gravel bikes you can find on the market. 

Its frame design is based on Trek’s endurance road geometry for a more comfortable ride when using wider tires than what most road bikes are used to handling. 

The frame also features integrated mudguard and fender mounts, as well as larger headtube clearance spaces that allow you to use tires up to 45mm wide.

The Checkpoint ALR 5 comes stock with Shimano GRX components, including brakes and drivetrain components like shifters, derailleurs and crankset. 

It also includes Bontrager adjustable stem and handlebar that accommodate multiple hand positions while allowing you easily make custom adjustments that fit your body dimensions perfectly. 

Additionally, it offers internal cable routing for seamless shifting performance across all varieties of terrain conditions you may find yourself riding in on your adventures.

Wheels & Tires

This fantastic bike rolls on aluminum Bontrager Paradigm wheels paired with 40mm Bontrager GR1 Team Issue tubeless tires ready for any type of surface or terrain you might be taking it through. 

It also provides optimal traction with its plus-sized tire construction which helps increase grip levels when cornering or climbing technical trails – something many other gravel bikes don’t do as effectively as this one does. 

Plus, its tubeless design means you can take advantage of lower air pressures without fear of flats during long days spent exploring off roads trails or cruising the asphalt avenues back home after another amazing day out on your trusty steed!

Performance

Test rides support what we expected—the Checkpoint ALR 5 delivers an efficient ride with confidence inspiring handling over rough roads thanks to its sturdy carbon construction, plus size wheels and tires combo as well as responsive yet controlled Shimano GRX components package.

Riding this bike across paved surfaces offers smooth stability similar to a road bike but is forgiving enough over dirt paths or rocky terrains without feeling sluggish due to its wider footprint combined with just enough suspension provided by the bigger tires themselves – helping keep your momentum going with minimal effort no matter how rough things get out there!

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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• Rider Notes

2020 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

An aluminum frame gravel bike with upper mid-range components and hydraulic disc brakes. Compare the full range

For This Bike

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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Checkpoint ALR 5

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Add custom gearing

5'1" – 5'5"

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5'5" – 5'9"

5'8" – 6'0"

5'10" – 6'2"

6'0" – 6'4"

• 5'4", size 52cm, Fits large

Updated geometry and differentiated models for speed, adventure, and all purpose riding

Read Review

Sep 2021 · Matthew Pioro

Also, a tour of the revamped Trek Checkpoint lineup of bikes and Adventure bags for mixed-surface adventures

Dec 2020 · Ben Delaney

Gravel bikes abound, but this one checks all the boxes, and at a great price.

Dec 2020 · Benjamin Topf

Trek includes adjustable chainstays on their Checkpoint SL 7 gravel bike and offers new options for future gravel adventures like single-speed builds.

King of the climbs

Quick acceleration

Consistent spec

Many mounting points

Undamped rear flex

Limited adjustment range of the seatmast cap

Tires need more support at high speeds

Jun 2020 · Laura Weislo

On early impressions, Trek's flagship gravel bike, the Checkpoint SL7, looks perfect for seekers of versatility and adventure

Lightweight, agile and responsive ride

IsoSpeed shock adds comfort

Underbody protection for the eye-popping paint job

SRAM Force eTap AXS 1X drive not suited to mixed road/gravel

Top tube is too wide near the seat tube

Toe overlap in the smallest size

Mar 2020 · Abby Mickey

Trek’s Checkpoint was the most popular gravel bike of 2019, according to data Strava sent over last fall. Trek has sold a lot of them. This suggests that it’s a good bike, and indeed it is. But we found that it is good in a generic, pop-music, lowest-common-denominator, unoffensive-to-all kind of way. It takes few […]

An incredibly affordable bike that functions beyond its price, great for bikepacking, commuting, secret “groad” with your buddies, and more.

Heavy. It’s heavy. Also, it definitely needs a tire upgrade from the ones that come with it.

Mar 2020 · Dale Tiessen

Out of the saddle putting down maximum power into the Checkpoint, it feels like a nice carbon road bike.

Feb 2020 · Robin Wilmott

All-road versatility with refined road manners for a fine riding machine

Frame design and mounts, hydraulic Tiagra groupset

Chirpy mudguards

Last updated August 21 Not listed for 1,336 days

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Shop new & used Trek Checkpoint bikes at TPC - The Pro's Closet. Find reviews, specs, weight info, and prices on various models (SL 6, ALR 5) and popular years (2021, 2022 etc). Read our Trek Checkpoint Quick-Take review below.

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Checkpoint ALR 5 - Weight, Specs, Price

2022 trek checkpoint review - a tpc quick-take.

• Versatility galore: Trek has made the Checkpoint an adaptable machine. With tire clearance up to 45mm, it's eager to take on various terrains.
• Integrated mounts: Whether it's a multi-day bikepacking trip or a quick morning spin, the multiple mounts for bags, bottles, and racks mean the Checkpoint is always adventure-ready.
• IsoSpeed decoupler: Borrowed from its Domane sibling, this tech ensures the Checkpoint offers a smoother ride on those jarring gravel routes, reducing fatigue and upping the comfort quotient.
• Weight concerns: For all its merits, the Checkpoint isn't the lightest gravel bike on the block. This extra heft might make those uphill grinds a tad more challenging.
• Price point: Top spec models, with their advanced features, veer into the premium price range. Casual riders might find it hard to justify the investment.
• Not truly race-oriented: While it handles gravel and trails with aplomb, it's not the most aggressive for racing. Those looking for a sharper, race-focused gravel bike might find the Checkpoint tame.
• Complexities for some: The Checkpoint's array of features could be overwhelming for those seeking a simpler, straightforward gravel experience.

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2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 52cm with Carbon Wheels

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