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2023 Trek

Checkpoint ALR Frameset

An aluminum frame gravel frameset.

Manufacturer Price

$1,299
Weight3.3 lbs (frame)  
FrameAluminum
SuspensionRigid
ForkCarbon
Wheels700c
Where to Buy
Similar Bikes
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Insights
Sizing
49cm

5'1" – 5'5"

52cm

5'3" – 5'7"

54cm

5'5" – 5'9"

56cm

5'8" – 6'0"

58cm

5'10" – 6'2"

61cm

6'0" – 6'4"

Rider Fit Notes
  • 6'1", size 58cm, Just right
  • 6'3", size 61, Fits large
  • 5'9", size 54, Just right
  • 5'9", size 54cm, Just right
  • 5'9", size 56cm, Just right
  • 5'6", size 52cm, Just right
  • 5'11", size 54, Just right
  • 5'6", size 49cm, Just right
  • 5'7", size 54, Fits large
  • 5'10", size LG, Just right
Reviews

Summary

The Trek Checkpoint is a versatile gravel bike praised for its balanced handling and comfort, thanks to features like the IsoSpeed decoupler that smooths out rough terrain. It offers ample mounting points and internal storage for adventure riding, making it highly adaptable. While some models are noted for stability and efficiency, others may feel less agile or have minor issues with front-end harshness.

Pros
  • IsoSpeed Decoupler provides a smooth and comfortable ride

  • Versatile with numerous mounting points and internal storage

  • Balanced handling suitable for various terrains

  • Efficient performance with quality componentry

  • Ample tire clearance for wide tires

Cons
  • Front end can feel rigid or harsh on technical terrain

  • Some models are heavy or lack agility

  • Non-removable front derailleur mount on certain builds

  • Cable routing may not be fully watertight

  • Imbalanced comfort between front and rear on some versions

Key Quotes
The result never feels weird though, just a great balance of smoothness, assured but not dull handling and efficient yet comfortable speed across a wide range of surfaces.
Bike Perfect logoBike Perfect
The Checkpoint ALR is perhaps best summed up as being like vanilla ice cream – it does what it’s designed to do well, but doesn’t rock the boat in any way.
BikeRadar logoBikeRadar
The Trek Checkpoint is a bike that just works.
Cycling News logoCycling News
The Checkpoint isn’t the lightest, fastest, or the most comfortable bike.
Gran Fondo Magazine logoGran Fondo Magazine
It’s light, flickable, nimble and fast, while also focusing on comfort for those longer tours
off.road.cc logooff.road.cc

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View all reviews

off.road.cc
Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 gravel bike review

Nov 2024

The Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 is the top-level model in the Wisconsin-based brand's revamped gravel/endurance range and it’s a belter, especially for those who like a ride style on the racier side of things. It’s light, flickable, nimble and fast, while also focusing on comfort for those longer tours, plus the addition of plenty of mounting points, internal frame storage and the ability to run wide tyres doesn’t exclude it from the adventure side of things. Gravel racing - what's next for cycling's fastest growing discipline?

Read Review

Bikerumor
Trek Doubles Down on Gravel Racing w/ New Checkmate SLR, Updated Checkpoint SL

Aug 2024 · Jordan Villella

The all-new Trek Checkmate SLR and Checkpoint SL further solidify the Wisconsin brand's commitment to the gravel arts. 

Read Review

Velo
Review: The New Trek Checkpoint SL Has Golden Retriever Energy

Aug 2024 · Alvin Holbrook

The Trek Checkpoint SL third generation gravel bike has been revised with more tire clearance, more upright geometry, and more mounts.

Read Review

road.cc
Take a look at the smooth-riding Trek Checkpoint SL 6 AXS gravel bike

May 2024 · Mat Brett

Get all the details of this versatile gravel/adventure bike with hidden storage and Trek’s bump-absorbing IsoSpeed technology

Read Review

BikeRadar
Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless review

Nov 2023 · Oscar Huckle

How does the Checkpoint platform translate into aluminium?

Highs
  • Well mannered on tamer terrain

  • Lots of eyelets

  • Eschews integration

  • Clean dropper post actuation

Lows
  • Expensive

  • Not the most exciting ride

  • Harsh through the front end when unloaded

Read Review

Cycling News
Trek Checkpoint SL6 eTap long-term review: Simple done brilliantly

Sep 2022 · Josh Ross

The Trek Checkpoint is the only bike you need to take you on every adventure

Highs
  • SRAM Rival AXS is the perfect groupset for an all-arounder

  • Mud-guard mounts

  • Mounting points for every bag you can think of

  • Non-proprietary seat-post provides options

  • Internal storage is convenient

  • Downtube protection eases worry

  • Threaded bottom bracket

  • Ideal all-around gearing

Lows
  • Short stem for added stability means handlebar/knee interference

  • Lacks included protection for the chain stay

  • Detail behind the fork steerer collects water and is difficult to clean

Read Review

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

Sep 2022 · Steve Williams

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

Highs
  • Stable and predictable

  • Comfortable

  • Great shifting and brakes

Lows
  • Gearing a bit tall for the weight

  • Could use a dropper post

Read Review

Cyclist
Trek Checkpoint SL 6 review

Aug 2022 · Sam Challis

Neat tricks combined with smart design equals good fun. The Checkpoint SL is the sweetspot in Trek's gravel range

Highs
  • Effective geometry

  • Sensible spec

  • Neat extra frame features

  • Comfortable

Lows
  • Heavy

  • Non-removable front derailleur mount

  • Headset cable integration design isn’t watertight

Read Review

Geometry
Specs
Build
Frame

300 Series Alpha Aluminum, tapered head tube, Internal cable routing, 3S chain keeper, T47 BB, rack and fender mounts, integrated frame bag mounts, flat mount disc, 142x12mm thru axle

BB StandardT47, Threaded

Tire Clearance45c

ColorSatin Cobra Blood

Fork

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

Bottom Bracket

T47, threaded

Headset

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

Wheels
Tires

700x45c / 650x2.1" Bontrager tires

Rider Notes
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First added July 1

Last updated June 27

Not listed for 1,067 days