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2020 Trek

Checkpoint SL Frameset

A carbon frame gravel frameset.

Manufacturer Price

$1,999
Weight4.3 lbs (frame)  
FrameCarbon
SuspensionRigid
ForkCarbon
Wheels700c
Where to Buy
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Insights
Sizing
56cm

5'8" – 5'11"

Rider Fit Notes
  • 5'4", size 52cm, Fits large
Reviews

Summary

The Trek Checkpoint is praised for its versatile gravel-specific geometry, offering a balanced blend of comfort and speed on varied terrain. It features IsoSpeed technology for vibration damping, multiple mounts for accessories, and wide tire clearance up to 45mm, making it suitable for long rides and bikepacking. Reviewers note it handles well on both paved roads and rough gravel, though some mention a stiff front end on technical sections.

Pros
  • Versatile geometry suitable for all gravel-riding scenarios

  • IsoSpeed technology for enhanced comfort

  • Multiple mounts for bags and fenders

  • Wide tire clearance up to 45mm

  • Stable and agile handling

Cons
  • Lack of front IsoSpeed decoupler

  • Stiff front end on rough terrain

  • Cable routing may cause knee contact

  • Tall gearing not ideal for steep climbs

  • Limited adjustment in some models

Key Quotes
The new Checkpoint is not just better than the previous generation, it’s one of the best gravel bikes I’ve been on.
Bicycling
IsoSpeed undoubtedly works. The back end of the Checkpoint was as comfortable as any that I’ve experienced on a performance oriented bike.
BIKEPACKING.com
Call me converted as I can confidently call the Checkpoint WSD Queen of the Quiver.
Bikerumor logoBikerumor
Sadly disappointing gravel bike debut from Trek, though fine if you want a fat-tyred road bike
road.cc logoroad.cc

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Bicycling
The New Trek Checkpoint Line Is for Gravel Riders of All Kinds

Sep 2021

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

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Canadian Cycling Magazine
Trek Checkpoint SL 6: A first look at the new do-it-all gravel bike

Sep 2021 · Matthew Pioro

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

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Velo
Bike of the year: Trek Checkpoint SL 5

Dec 2020 · Ben Delaney

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

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Gran Fondo Magazine
Trek Checkpoint SL 7 review

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.

Highs
  • King of the climbs

  • Quick acceleration

  • Consistent spec

  • Many mounting points

Lows
  • Undamped rear flex

  • Limited adjustment range of the seatmast cap

  • Tires need more support at high speeds

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Cycling News
Trek Checkpoint SL7 gravel bike - first ride review

Jun 2020 · Laura Weislo

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

Highs
  • Lightweight, agile and responsive ride

  • IsoSpeed shock adds comfort

  • Underbody protection for the eye-popping paint job

Lows
  • 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

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Cycling Tips
Why you don't need to spend big to hit the gravel: The Trek Checkpoint ALR5 - CyclingTips

May 2020 · Dave Everett

Late last year my beloved yet ageing gravel bike, an Orro Terra, became the apple of someone else’s eye. While I had my nose in the computer (probably editing a video) at the library, someone swiped it. Some savvy scumbag broke the lock and rode away. I’ll also add that said scumbag must be a […]

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Whistler Mountain Bike
2019 TREK Checkpoint SL6 Review

Mar 2020 · Dale Tiessen

Full disclosure, this is my first gravel bike. When gravel bikes entered the scene a few years, I initially remarked to myself this was another bike industry push to create something new and drive sales.

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BikeRadar
Trek Checkpoint AL 4 review

Feb 2020 · Robin Wilmott

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

Highs
  • Frame design and mounts, hydraulic Tiagra groupset

Lows
  • Chirpy mudguards

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Geometry
Specs
Build
Frame

500 Series OCLV Carbon, IsoSpeed, tapered head tube, Control Freak internal routing, 3S chain keeper, rack and fender mounts, flat mount disc, horizontal sliding dropouts, 142x12mm thru axle

Tire Clearance45c

ColorMatte Trek Black

Fork

Checkpoint carbon, tapered carbon steerer, rack mounts, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle

Headset

FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

Wheels
Tires

45c Bontrager tires (49 & 52cm: 40c due to toe overlap), with at least 4mm of clearance to frame

Rider Notes
Riders Also Viewed

First added October 10

Last updated July 25

Not listed for 1,769 days