Trek Overhauls Checkpoint Gravel Bikes

General
Trek Overhauls Checkpoint Gravel Bikes

Trek has updated its Checkpoint gravel bike series to offer three model levels designed for different riders and riding styles.

While specs and frame details vary, each new 2022 model features updated geometry and room for 45c tires.

According to Trek, the top-of-the-line Checkpoint SLR is "Trek's lightest and fastest gravel bike ever" and is designed around gravel racing. 700 series OCLV carbon frame with Trek's Émonda road bike-inspired Aerotubing is used. Tools can be stored inside the frame, and Trek's IsoSpeed decoupler smooths out bumps and vibrations.

The second stage, the Checkpoint SL, uses a 500 series OCLV carbon frame and is designed for bikepacking and general adventure riding. In addition to a wide variety of mounting points on the frame, it is also compatible with dropper seatposts.

The Checkpoint ALR is an entry-level, do-it-all model that features an aluminum frame with mounting points designed to accommodate any type of gravel riding the rider desires. [Trek has lengthened Checkpoint's front center (the distance from the bottom bracket to the front hub), as well as the chainstays. To compensate for the longer front center, the stem and handlebars are shorter. According to Trek, these changes have resulted in stable and nimble handling, even on rough descents at high speeds.

The cheapest model is the Checkpoint ALR 5, which uses a Shimano GRX 2x11 drivetrain and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, with wheels and tires provided by Bontrager. It weighs 9.75Kg and is priced at £2,250 / $2,399.99 / €2,399.

The Checkpoint SL 6 features a SRAM Rival eTap AXS 1x12 drivetrain, SRAM brakes, and Bontrager components. It is priced at £3,750.00 / $4,099.99 / €3,999.00 and weighs 9.05Kg.

The top-of-the-line model is the Checkpoint SLR 9 with SRAM Red eTap AXS drivetrain, SRAM brakes and Bontrager components. It weighs 8.1Kg and costs £11,000.00 / $11,999.99 / €11,999.00.

Along with Checkpoint, Bontrager is launching a new series of bikepacking bags, including frame bags, handlebar bags, and seat bags.

The Adventure Boss frame bag inherits many of the features of the company's existing Adventure bags, but adds an internal pocket. The bags are available in six sizes to accommodate all frame sizes.

The 9.7-liter Adventure Handlebar Bag is made of the same material as the Frame Bag, but with the addition of ripstop waterproof material in high-wear areas. It also contains a 1.5-liter hydration reservoir in a zippered compartment.

The Adventure Saddle Bag has a 9.7 liter capacity and attaches to the saddle rails with dual buckles and to the seat post with hook and loop straps to prevent sway. [The handlebar bag and saddle bag are £99.99/$119.99; the frame bag is £89.99/$99.99.

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