Trek Checkpoint ALR 5: Fast gravel hybrid

Trek takes a very unique approach to geometry. The aluminium version of the Checkpoint is by far the longest frame in the test, and the riding position is uncompromisingly sporty. In the top-of-the-range SLR carbon version, the Checkpoint’s ‘reach’ is just under 3 cm shorter – something you wouldn’t expect from a race model. What you would expect, however, is that leaning far forward allows you to build up good pressure on the pedals and ensures the front wheel receives plenty of downforce. With advanced riding technique, you can carve a line through any terrain confidently and at a good pace. Applying pressure to the pedals is also good for your back, as the rear end is, as is typical for aluminium, not very flexible; so it’s best not to sit with your full weight on the saddle.

Similar to the 3T Exploro Primo The stretched riding position actually works in the bike’s favour here in terms of riding comfort; despite below-average measurements, bumps from below don’t affect the body, and minor bumps can be absorbed well by the arms and legs, whilst hard ‘impacts’ – such as after a jump – do give you quite a jolt. Those who have been cycling competitively for a long time might just about consider the seating comfort – including the riding position – suitable for long distances, but relaxed cruising is not its strong point.

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5: Upgrade options

If you want to get the most out of the bike, you’ll probably need to fit a larger chainring; there’s plenty of room for this thanks to the asymmetrical chainstays. For a single-chainring crankset, the gear ratios strike a good balance. Alongside the short head tube – which bears a visual resemblance to Trek’s top-of-the-range aero bikes – the abundance of threaded fittings for luggage is striking, although the bike is certainly not a stoically calm and comfortable travelling companion.

This is where it bridges the gap with cyclocross. On the Trek, it’s hard not to go full throttle, despite the aluminium frame and being two pounds too heavy. Anyone who enjoys riding technique, adrenaline and KOMs on forest tracks will find this a hybrid: half road, half gravel.

​A major comparison: 16 gravel bikes put to the test

• ​3T Exploro Primo (Tip: Sports equipment)
• Bergamont Grandurance Expert >> available here
• Bulls Machete
• Canyon Grizl CF SL 6 AXS (Tip: Top pick)
• Conway GRV 9.0
• Corratec Allroad C2
• Fuji Jari Carbon 1.3
• Giant Revolt Advanced 2 (Tip: All-rounder) >> available here
• Koga Colmaro Extreme >> available here
• Marin Headlands 1
• Megamo West 10 >> available here
• Merida Silex 700 (Tip: Off-roaders)
• Rondo Ruut AL1
• Rose Backroad GRX RX820 (Tip: Top pick) >> available here
• Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 (Tip: Value for money) >> available here
• VSF Bicycle Manufactory GX-500 >> available here

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 in detail

• Note: 2.4 (Tip: value for money)
• Price: 2,499 euros >> e.g. available here
• Weight of complete bike: 9.76 kilograms
• Frame sizes: 49 / 52 / 54 / 56 / 58 / 61 cm (test size in bold)

Geometry

• Seat tube/top tube/head tube: 510 / 575 / 125.4 millimetres
• Stack/Reach/STR: 584 / 400 millimetres / 1.46
• Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 637 / 573 millimetres / 1.111
• Wheelbase/Caster: 1040 / 64.7 millimetres

Facilities

• Drive/Gearbox: SRAM Apex (1 x 12; 40, 11–44 t) | Grade: 3.0
• Brakes: SRAM Apex (160/160 mm) | Grade: 1.0
• Tyres: Bontrager GR1 Team Issue TR, 700-40 (effective: 40 mm)| Grade: 2.5
• Wheels: Bontrager Paradigm
• Impeller weights: 1639 / 2306 grams (front/rear)

Pros and cons of the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

• Plus: efficient design, dynamic handling, numerous threaded eyelets
• Minus: Comfort, tyres ‘only’ up to 43 mm, loose rubber plugs in the eyelets

​>> Megamo West 10: A solid gravel bike with no major weaknesses.

>> Koga Colmaro Extreme: Perfect for bike packing.