trek checkpoint alr 5 for touring

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.

Bike Perfect 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.

Gore Wear Endure Gore-Tex Shorts review – super-packable, waterproof ass-savers

The Schwalbe Racing Ray might just be the best front-specific MTB tire around. We’ve been testing it alongside National Champions to find out just how good it is

Continental Kryptotal Trail tire review – a trail tire with a World Championship winning tread

Most Popular

• 2 Gore Wear Endure Gore-Tex Shorts review – super-packable, waterproof ass-savers
• 3 The Schwalbe Racing Ray might just be the best front-specific MTB tire around. We’ve been testing it alongside National Champions to find out just how good it is
• 4 Is the latest version of Schwalbe’s Racing Ralph rear tire still the benchmark blend of straight line speed, sublime feel and surprising grip?
• 5 Rapha Trail Lightweight jacket review – packable lightweight weather-resistant workhorse

• Advertisement

Bikepacking & Adventure Cycling

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review, Overview, and Summary

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is Trek’s best-valued gravel bike in the various Checkpoint model lineup. For the price, it’s a high-quality build that holds up for long, rugged miles on roads, dirt, and even the most treacherous gravel. A gravel bike built for adventure.

With its rugged design and versatile capabilities, the Canyon Grizl has quickly become a favorite among adventure cyclists. In this article, we will take a closer look at this bike, including its design and build quality, performance on various terrains, and value for money. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure cyclist or just starting out, this article will give you a comprehensive understanding of the Canyon Grizl and help you determine if it’s the right bike for you.

The Grizl comes in a plethora of build choices, including;  Grizl 7 Suspension ,  Grizl CF SL 6 ,  Grizl CF SLX 8 1by ,  Grizl CF SLX 8 eTap Suspension ,  Grizl CF SL 7 ,  Grizl 7 ,  Grizl CF SL 7 eTap ,  Grizl CF SL 8 Suspension 1by ,  Grizl CF SLX 8 Di2 ,  Grizl CF SL 8 . And more options  coming soon . With  women’s gravel bike  models starting from XXS size.

Without getting into the minute details that differentiate all these build options we are going to take a closer look at the most common steed of choice amongst the gravel bikepackers of the world.

My Other Videos

https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.557.0_en_au.html#goog_103568060 of 10 minutes, 51 secondsVolume 0%This ad will end in 10 

Take A Look At How Chloe Lost 10 Kilos In 12 Weeks Without Fads Or Sacrifice “I wish I started Lite n’ Easy sooner, I get to eat amazing food and reach my goals.” Not revolutionary. Just good food n’ great results. SPONSORED BY  LITE N’ EASY LEARN MORE

Grizl CF SL 8

We will take a look at the all-new Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 model. An adventure-ready, carbon frame gravel bike with high-end components and hydraulic disc brakes. https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.557.0_en.html#goog_473016062 AFL & NRL Tipping Start your footy tipping comp today with ESPNfootytips SPONSORED BY  ESPN LEARN MORE

The bike is powered by a 2 x 11 GRX 800 groupset. This means a Shimano RX810, Gravel-specific crankset (48/31T) with gear ratios selected to preserve riding rhythm over rough surfaces with wider tires. With a Shimano Ultegra HG800 11-34 cassette. Combined with the DT Swiss G1800 Spline rims and Maxxis Rambler 700c x 45 mm tires. The bike achieves a 25.51″ climbing gear and 122.22″ largest gear. That’s a 0.91 to 4.36 gear ratio.

Just quick for those of you who don’t know much about gear inches. They typically range from 18 (very low gearing) to 70 (medium gearing) to 125 (very high gearing). So low gearing is for going up hills and high gearing is for going fast.

Taking a look at this 25.51″ low gearing on the Grizl it is rather below average for a ‘bikepacking bike’ this bike will in theory struggle to ride steeper trail sections, especially when loaded with bike bags and all your gear. Ideally, you want something around 20″ or lower for bikepacking.

Canyon claims that the Grizl has stable handling and long-distance comfort to take you further across any surface. Ready to go on your next micro-adventure?

More tire clearance for a more comfortable ride, All Grizl models come equipped with wide 45 mm rubber with clearance to take up to 50 mm for extra squish to dampen road chatter. Available in 700c or 650b options

Offering you all the mounting eyelets you could need to turn your bike into a versatile adventure machine.https://aed9e26efaacc0c804a07b999a394bee.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html

Geometry and Comfort

The Grizl hits the sweet spot giving you the best of both worlds, thanks to the extended wheelbase Gravel Pro Geometry. Allowing it to handle the rough stuff on some trails, to racing down fast road descents, or exploring the gravel roads less traveled.

Although this bike looks fast and progressive, it hasn’t sacrificed comfort. designed to stay planted in the saddle over rough terrain. Combining the integrated seatpost clamp twinned with flexible 27.2 mm carbon VCLS seatposts to provide rear comfort when you need it most. Their most progressive gravel bikes yet feature front suspension forks for that extra travel and comfort (more below).

Taking a closer look at the 1.44 stack/reach ratio (medium) I was surprised that it was so aggressive for an adventure bike. For longer days in the saddle, this might be too low and could cause back pain and unnecessary fatigue. Especially if you plan to take this bike on a  long-distance multi-week long trip . A general rule of thumb is 1.5 and more upright is ideal for adventure bikes. But having that said this specification makes me believe that this bike would be better suited for  endurance events/races , where you want a bike that is designed for adventure but you might want to  ride fast . However, the weight might hold you back in this department.

We compared the stack/reach ratio to other bikes that have similar applications and still found it was the most aggressive out of them all. Even a large-size frame offers a 1.48 stack/reach ratio.

the chainstay is mid-range at 435 mm and the wheelbase of 1,037 mm which was the shortest compared to all the bikes we looked at in this above example. And the trail was around 67 mm which means mid-range. Making it a wheel-balanced geometry overall. Unlike the cutthroat for example which has a 79 mm trail making it more on the higher end meaning slower responsiveness when cornering but making it easier when you are carrying a front load.

Canyon Grizl Suspension

Canyon has released some fresh suspension gravel bikes to add that extra cosh on the rougher roads. Allowing you to explore further without losing out on comfort. Let’s be honest I love riding my  Kona Sutra  on some  gnarly trails  combined with the 2.3″ MTB tires it shreds. But after an hour or so of riding, I wish I had some vibration-dampening at the front. This is where the Grizl Suspension comes in.

Featuring the RockShox Rudy fork, which is specifically designed for gravel, with 30 mm of travel in a lightweight chassis, and still offering the Grizl-standard 50 mm tire clearance. 30 mm travel is enough to absorb the high-frequency hits that wear you down as the ride goes on. Save yourself a beating and stay fresher, for longer. The fork is built with a gravel-tuned RockShox Charger Race Day damper and a highly responsive Solo Air spring. They combine to keep your front tire glued to the ground over rough surfaces and loose corners. Keeping you in control.

Canyon Grizl Bikepacking

the Grizl is said to be the bikepackers gravel bike or a bikepacking gravel bike. Making it ideal for mostly gravel road bikepacking adventures with some light/easy trails. You get the option to buy the  Apidura collab bike bags  for your next adventure. Taking a look at these bags we can say that this bike is intended for lighter-weight bikepacking trips, overnighters, and nothing too long-term.

Still makes it a great gravel bikepacking option, but going back to the stack/reach ratios and overall geometry it’s not quite built for epic off-road adventures. With  limited 50 mm tire clearance  and shorter chainstay and wheelbase when compared to other  off-road drop bar bikes .

But if mostly gravel grinding is in your future for your next adventure this is still a great choice. preferably without anything with really strenuous climbs as I feel this bike with the OEM gearing setup might struggle.

Canyon Grizl vs Grail

The Canyon Grail was built to be a bike that maintains similar performance and speed to a road bike on asphalt while also offering the comfort and control, a road bike may lack, on gravel.

While the Canyon Grizl is 300 grams heavier and more focused on adventure geometry which is more comfortable the longer you stay in the saddle. Offering more mounting options to carry all the necessary gear you may need for a bikepacking trip.

When it comes to tire clearance the Grail can fit up to 42 mm while the Grizl fits 50mm. Both are practically identical when it comes to gearing and brakes. Different tires with Grizl running Maxxis Rambler 45 mm and Grail on Schwalbe G-One R 40mm.https://cycletraveloverload.com/canyon-grail-vs-grizl/embed/#?secret=ZeYfYotNWc#?secret=hqynZO2dmn

The main difference is in the bike’s geometries. With the Grail with a more aggressive stack/reach ratio (1.27 vs 1.44), the chainstay is 10 mm longer on the Grizl and Wheelbase is 8 mm longer too. Again making for a more planted feel when under a load. The trail has a slight 1 mm difference between the two and the standover height is around 18 mm lower on the Grizl. However the same BB Drop and BB Heights. This data is for both medium-sized bikes.  Read the full comparison.

Is Canyon Grizl slow?

The Grizl is heavier than some other gravel bikes and most road bikes at around 9.3kg definitely not as light as  this gravel bike . The stack/reach ratio is upright but still rather aggressive but not as aggressive as road bikes, with the Schwalbe G-One Bite 45mm tires. You can expect this bike not to be as quick as something  like this . As aerodynamics is not a main priority for this bike. Putting all this info together e can conclude that the Grizl is not the fastest gravel bike on the block. But thanks to full carbon builds and a mid-focused adventure geometry it makes for a decent-paced bikepacking gravel bike. In the world of bikepacking it definitely isn’t slow.

Is Grizl good on road?

The bike is said to respond well to a broad style of riding styles. The stiffness and handling will make the racers feel at home, while the adventurous types will enjoy the right amount of gear-carrying capabilities, along with technology for comfort on those long days in the saddle.

Canyon Grizl Pros and Cons

• Visually appealing build
• Well thought-out geometry
• Impressively smooth thanks to high-quality carbon and seatpost
• Available in gravel suspension options
• Womens gravel bike options and huge size range XXS to XXL
• Apidura collab bags are cool though
• Mounting points galore
• Widest range of applications
• Stack/reach seems to aggressive for an adventure bike
• Mudguard mounts are Canyon-specific
• Gearing not great for loaded climbs
• Weight is on the heavier side
• Oem Handlebars have minimal flare (8°)

Is Canyon Grizl worth it?

Overall I believe it’s a decent bike to consider, especially if you want a bike that can mix adventure riding with potential road riding without the gear. It has some limits on either end of the spectrum which is why it makes for a good all-rounder gravel bike. That seems more equipped for adventure than most “all-rounder” gravel bikes these days.

Its limited gearing, geometry, and tire clearance turns me away from purchasing if I was looking for something that is solely built for off-road drop bar adventures. As there are some  other options worth checking out for that.

But overall once again it makes for a nice all-rounder gravel bike that’s slightly more equipped for adventure. Making a perfect bike for those looking to get into their first gravel bikepacking adventures or even potentially to use as an endurance bikepacking bike.

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

See author's posts

Tagged in :

More Articles & Posts

Best Rear Bike Bags and Trunk Bags

How Does Bicycle Touring Change Your Life?

Bicycle Touring With Your Dog

• Bike Reviews , Bikes , Gravel Bikes

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review [2021 Guide]

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is a versatile, high-performing gravel bike that appeals to roadies and gravel racers alike, while still offering plenty for the casual gravel rider. With the Checkpoint, Trek Bicycle pulled from their past successes, both in road bikes and cyclocross bikes, and brought to the market an all-around bike that performs on any terrain.

The Trek Checkpoint truly is a quiver-killer, burly and stable enough to take on the roads less travelled while still being light and quick enough to keep up on the weeknight group rides. The Checkpoint puts the rider in a more aggressive riding position than other offerings on the market, with a few geometry tweaks that create a stable and predictable ride compared to its cyclocross cousins.

In short, the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is an all-road, alloy success. Stable enough for technical, off-road riding, and race-inspired enough to feel quick and competitive on the tarmac. Furthermore, the alloy build provides great functionality without burning a hole in your wallet.

For a more detailed breakdown, read on for the full review of the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5.

Table of Contents

Trek Checkpoint Frameset

The frameset for the Checkpoint ALR 5 utilizes Treks 300 Series Alpha Aluminum with a tapered headtube leading to a carbon fiber fork. The frame includes mounts for front and rear racks, mudguards, and multiple bottle cages.

The frame also features internal cable routing, which is not only a nice aesthetic touch but also keeps the cables clean and protected from the off-road environment. The frame has a classic look with hydroformed tubes and clean welds that provide good stiffness and keep it light.

An added versatility of the Checkpoint frame is the sliding horizontal dropouts. They allow the rider to convert to a single-speed, if they so desire, or change their gearing and provide additional clearance for larger tires. I converted my Checkpoint from 2x to 1x after purchase, and the horizontal sliding dropouts provided me with the flexibility to dial in my ideal drivetrain.

ALR 5 Geometry

The geometry of the Checkpoint pulls largely from Trek’s impressive cyclocross bikes, the Boone and the Crocket, sharing the same wheelbase and chainstay length as the Boone. The Checkpoint has a few geometry tweaks, such as a lower bottom bracket and slacker seat tube angle, that make it quick and race-inspired while still being very stable on mixed terrains.

Another interesting benefit of the horizontal sliding dropouts previously mentioned is their impact on frame geometry. By increasing the wheelbase and moving the rear wheel further back in the dropouts, the bottom bracket height is slightly reduced, and the frame tube angles are further slackened. While this geometric adjustment seems slight, it will provide a more upright, stable ride feel that will suit some riders well.

These frame design elements contribute to a frame that is race-inspired and adventure ready. By sporting a frame that’s aggressive and quick on all terrains and still providing stability and predictably off the tarmac, the Checkpoint is well-suited for all-road riding, gravel racing, or being loaded up with gear for a multi-day adventure.

Checkpoint Tires

The Checkpoint comes stock with 700x40mm Schwalbe G-One tires. When the Checkpoint was initially released, it featured 35mm tires, but they have since upped the size to 40mm, which I think is huge improvement.

Out of the box, the 40mm G-Ones serve the Checkpoint well. They are quick on the tarmac, and the 40mm width offers good traction for light gravel riding. They do suffer a bit in the mud; the tread quickly fills with mud, and they get slick. But, for general purpose riding, the G-Ones are a good all-arounder.

When WTB released the new Raddler, I picked up a pair of 700x44mm’s and swapped out my G-Ones. Trek claims that the Checkpoint can accept up to a 45mm tire, so I put that to the test!

Before adjusting my wheelbase with the horizontal sliding dropouts, the Raddler just barely squeaked in there, just clearing the right chainstay by a couple of millimeters. I’ve since adjusted my rear wheel in the dropouts, and there is plenty of clearance for up to a 45mm. I often find myself in very muddy terrain, and I have yet to have any clearance issues of mud jamming up my rear wheel.

The Checkpoint ALR 5 features Bontrager’s TLR tubeless ready wheelset. They aren’t the lightest wheels in the world, but they are very robust and durable and well-suited for rough gravel riding .

Conversion to tubeless with Trek’s TLR wheels is a breeze and is absolutely essential for a gravel bike. It further adds to the versatility of the bike and relieves your worries of pinch flats when you turn off the tarmac. Going tubeless also allows you to run lower tire pressures, which improves traction for off-road riding on loose conditions and provides a smoother ride for long distance adventure rides.

When I purchased my Checkpoint ALR 5 in 2018, Shimano had not yet released their GRX groupset, and the Checkpoint came equipped with a full Shimano 105 groupset. While this represented a great value back then, I felt it was a bit over-geared with a 50/34 compact crank, and I ended up swapping out my drivetrain when Shimano came out with the GRX.

Trek has since updated the Checkpoint ALR 5 and equipped it with a 2x Shimano GRX build, using the higher-end GRX 810 derailleurs. The crankset is a 46/30 with the same 11-34 cassette, providing more low-end gearing that is much more appropriate for off-road riding, especially for the casual gravel enthusiast.

The GRX groupset is, in my opinion, a huge success for Shimano.

I converted my Checkpoint to a 1x GRX 812 drivetrain and fell in love with the GRX 812 rear derailleur. The long cage derailleur allows me to run an 11-42 cassette with a 40t chainring upfront, further increasing my low-end gearing while still providing me the gears up high for pushing the pace on fast descents.

I am a big fan of 1x drivetrains, especially for off-road riding, so my 1x GRX 812 drivetrain has been a dream. The 810 level components are “Ultegra level,” for you roadies out there, but they are more robust for the bumps and vibrations encountered on mixed terrains. I never experience any chain slap, and the shifting is reliable, crisp and quick on any surface.

I can’t speak highly enough of the GRX 810 drivetrain, and I think it is outstanding that Trek offers such high-level components on an aluminum build at an affordable price point. The Checkpoint ALR 5 offers a high value build with its drivetrain selection without the added cost and pain associated with carbon frames.

The Shimano 105 hoods provide plenty of grip and control for my older Checkpoint, but I do wish I had the GRX shifters that now come stock!

Similar to the drivetrain, the Checkpoint ALR 5 was originally released with 105 shifters when I purchased the bike. The front of the hoods on these shifters is raised up high enough that I do not experience any issues sliding too far forward on the hoods when riding on rough roads.

Shimano has since improved on the hood design with the GRX line of shifters. They offer an excellent, raised stop for your hands. This provides even better control and stability off-road, and the GRX shifters now come standard on the Checkpoint ALR 5. While my 105 shifters still get the job done, I am admittedly jealous that I don’t have those robust GRX shifters !

• Lever: ST-RX815
• Lever Adjustability: reach
• Actuation: [brake] hydraulic, [shift] electronic
• Caliper: BR-RX810
• Mount Type: flat-mount

The Checkpoint ALR 5 also comes stock with hydraulic disc brakes. This is pretty standard for any gravel bike, but it is worth noting that the Checkpoint checks this box, as well, providing reliable stopping power, even in harsh conditions.

The saddle that comes on the Checkpoint ALR 5 is the Bontrager Montrose Comp. This saddle is surprisingly plush, when compared to a road saddle, and provides plenty of flex from its shell and central cutout. This makes it very comfortable for long rides, even on rough gravel, and I found it surprisingly comfortable out of the box.

Eventually, I swapped out the Bontrager saddle for my go-to, the Brooks Cambium C17. While the Bontrager saddle is very comfortable, I am a fan of Brooks saddles and like to use them on most of my bikes, especially for road and gravel riding.

The Brooks Cambium C17 is one of my all-time favorite saddles, so, of course, I had to put it on my do-it-all bike: the Checkpoint.

• Rails: steel
• Shell: fiberglass-reinforced nylon
• Cover: vulcanised natural rubber with weatherproof nylon cover
• Seat Length: 283 mm
• Seat Width: 162 mm

The handlebars look a lot like cyclocross handlebars and, in fact, are the exact same bar that Trek puts on the Boone, their top-level cyclocross race bike. The bars are a standard width and do not feature any flare to the drops, something that is becoming more common on gravel bikes, but this maintains the more race-inspired feel that Trek was obviously looking for with the Checkpoint.

One nice touch for the handlebars is the gel padding included underneath the handlebar tape. This dampens vibrations in the handlebar and provides a nice reprieve for your hands and wrists over long rides. This small touch makes a big difference during long days on the road, and I’ve come to appreciate those little pieces of gel.

Where is the Checkpoint ALR 5 Lacking?

Only 700c wheels.

Trek claims that the Checkpoint can not accept 650b wheels; it can only use 700c wheels. I do find this to be a bit disappointing, honestly. Many other gravel bikes on the market, such as the Specialized Diverge, are similar to the Checkpoint but offer the added versatility of 650b wheels.

Running 650b wheels allows riders to increase their tire size for improved off-road control and softer ride quality. With 650b wheels, you can run 27.5” mountain bike tires at widths exceeding 2”. I think having this versatility is extremely valuable in a gravel build, and I do wish I could run a pair 27.5”x2.1” tires, as this would suit my riding style well.

More Race-Inspired than Gravel-Inspired

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 pulls a lot of design elements from their cyclocross line, perhaps too many. While the race-inspired geometry makes a roadie like me feel right at home on the bike, it creates a bike that is simply a good all-arounder.

The Checkpoint performs well on road and light gravel, but it can be challenging to ride on more technical off-road terrain due to its race geometry. When the downhills get steep and loose, the Checkpoint’s more aggressive ride position quickly becomes noticeable, and I sometimes find myself wishing I had a slacker set up.

The handlebars are also reminiscent of a cyclocross race bike or a road bike. It’s more common for gravel bikes to offer wider handlebars with flared drops that provide more control and stability for the rough stuff, but the handlebars on the Checkpoint do not offer that same stable feel when the roads turn especially rough.

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 truly is a great gravel bike. It offers excellent value with a high-quality build for your dollar. If you want to spend your money on high-quality drivetrain components and functional design, rather than dishing out cash on a carbon build that cuts corners on the components, then the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is for you.

The Checkpoint performs well on any terrain, but you may find it lacking in certain areas where other bikes excel. If you know you want to run wider tires for rough off-road riding or are interested in ultra-distance touring or bikepacking, there are better options on the market that will more fully meet your needs. Furthermore, if you aren’t a fan of race-inspired geometry and prefer more of an endurance bike feel, the Checkpoint is not for you.

The Checkpoint ALR 5 is a great all-arounder and can replace a couple of your bikes. Performing well on and off the road gives the Checkpoint potential to replace your quiver of bikes and be a contender for your one do-it-all bike. The Checkpoint ALR 5 truly fits the description of a “jack of all trades, master of none.”

Mitchell Turk is outdoors enthusiast with a lifelong passion for bicycling. He previously worked at his local bike shop before entering the world of engineering, and he may even enjoy geeking out over bike tech more than riding his bike!

Originally a roadie, Mitch dabbled in mountain biking for a couple years and then jumped on the gravel bike bandwagon. He now spends his free time seeking out gravel rides and weekend-long excursions. His ideal outing combines biking, hiking, and climbing for a whole-mountain adventure.

Related posts:

• Trek Marlin 6 Bike Review [2021 Guide]
• Trek Road Bikes Comprehensive Guide
• 5 Best Finiss Bikes [2021 Guide]
• A Guide To Heavy Duty Mountain Bikes for Big Guys [2021 Guide]

What do Bikes Have Carbon Forks? Is the Price Worth the Weight?

They’re all the rage these days: carbon fiber components have emerged as the latest and greatest material in

Can I Put Flat Handlebars on a Road Bike? How to Change your Road Bike Handlebars

The shape and position of your bike’s handlebars have a huge impact on how your bike is going

What Does a Top Tube Adapter Do? What are the Best Top Tube Adapters?

At your latest visit to your local bike store, you may have seen them hanging on the wall:

BIKE ACCESSORIES

5502 S Fort Apache Rd Suite 120, Las Vegas, NV 89148 –  702-552-0577

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.

• Training Tips
• Cycling Coaching
• Fitness Coaching

Absolute Endurance

Copyright 2024

• Privacy Policy

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

The New Trek Checkpoint Line Is For Gravel Riders of All Kinds

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

The Takeaway: A great bike gets better, with geometry updates suited to the evolution of gravel.

• Two centimeters longer reach and front center on all sizes
• One centimeter longer chainstays
• New race-oriented SLR platform
• Additional cargo mounts

Price: $12,000 (SLR 9, as tested) Weight: 17.8 lb. (Size 54cm)

Buy Now View Gallery

Trek’s gravel loving Checkpoint is all new front to rear, with new geometry (covered below) and features for the ever-evolving world of gravel riding. That evolution is why Trek differentiated the three complete bike platforms—SLR, SL, and ALR—for different kinds of gravel riders. I go into more depth below, but the short version is: SLR = race; SL = all-around, ALR = utility.

Cargo and bags are a big part of the gravel experience, so the new Checkpoint has frame bag mounts inside the front triangle. This mates up with a new direct mount Bontrager frame bag—a unique bag for every Checkpoint size—that’s part of that brand’s new Adventure Bag collection . The frame also has a mount for a top tube bag. All sizes of the Checkpoint have a bottle mount under the downtube, a bottle mount on the seat tube and at least one on the downtube: Sizes 54cm and up have two bottle mounts on the downtube. SL and ALR models get three pack mounts on the fork for additional water or cargo capacity. Hoses and housing run internally, which keeps them out of the way of straps and bags. All models get mudguard mounts as well. SL and SLR frames get in frame storage similar to the third generation Domane .

Threaded T47 bottom brackets now grace all Checkpoint frames, but Trek has done away with the sliding dropouts found on the previous generation Checkpoint. All eight builds get gravel gearing and clutch-style rear derailleurs (Shimano GRX or SRAM eTap AXS), as well as 40mm tubeless ready tires and tubeless ready rims. All models, and all sizes, can fit up to 45mm tires with plenty of mud clearance; which means riders in dry conditions can fit in even bigger tires. If you choose, you can fit the Checkpoint with 650b wheels—all models and all sizes come stock with 700c wheels—which bumps tire clearance up to 53mm (2.1 inches).

In the press release, Trek makes mention of “ Émonda -inspired aero tube shapes,” without providing any wind tunnel data. My suspicion is the tube shapes do save a few watts, though Trek isn’t leaning into gravel aero as much as 3T does with its Exploro RaceMax .

Trek Checkpoint — Geometry

Geometry is where the new Checkpoint sees the biggest change. While there are three Checkpoint frame platforms (outlined below), all three share the same, all new, geometry (see table above).

The overall theme to the geometry updates is “more progressive.” Trek took a page from the mountain bike playbook and stretched all sizes of the frame’s reach and front center by about two centimeters. Trek now fits shorter stems and shorter-reach bars to mitigate cockpit length changes. Chainstays on the frame grow by a centimeter (now 435mm on all sizes). Trail is also longer (about six millimeters) even though head angles remain about the same—new fork offset is 45mm, old was 49mm—and wheelbase grows as well. Frame stack bumps up a touch too.

Jordan Roessingh, Trek’s director of road product, says the new geometry aids stability, “It’s a longer bike, so whether you’re doing long Unbound type stuff where you’re just pointing the bike straight or you’re doing high speed stuff on gravel descents in the mountains, we believe this geometry lends itself to confidence. Getting that wheel out in front of you also unweights it makes you feel a lot more confident when you’re doing steep technical stuff—you don’t feel like you’re going to go over the bar. That front wheel is really easy to unweight and allows it to roll over a lot more stuff.”

Roessingh further explained that the new geometry also reduces toe overlap on smaller sizes and allows them to approve larger tires sizes for smaller riders, “On the previous [Checkpoint] we had to limit our small frame size tire size recommendations to only 40mm. Not because the frame didn’t have the capacity for 45, but when you put a 45 it created too much toe overlap.” The issue here was government regulations that outline a production bike’s maximum tire overlap. But with the new bike’s longer front end every size can, officially, run up to a 45mm tire.

One note on the geometry: The new Checkpoint is not suspension fork corrected. However, the Checkpoint has a 1.5-inch lower fork steerer diameter, so you can fit the new RockShox Rudy , a Suntour GVX, or Fox AX, but doing so will raise the front end and slacken its angles.

Trek Checkpoint — Where is the Front IsoSpeed?

One surprising omission from the new Checkpoint is IsoSpeed in the front, a feature found in Trek’s Domane all road bikes . According to Roessingh, IsoSpeed on the front of a bike with big tires, “Doesn’t provide a sufficient gain in compliance to make a real difference to the rider because a [larger than 32mm tire] is such a dominant aspect of the compliance,” so it was left off the new Checkpoint. The benefit is a less complicated front end, and some weight savings.

Rear IsoSpeed continues on all models. Roessingh explains that it has more deflection than front Isospeed so it offers additional compliance benefit even with larger tires.

Trek Checkpoint — Three Frame Platforms

The new Checkpoint comes in three platforms: SLR, SL, and ALR. The top of the line SLR (super light race) platform is new to the Checkpoint line. Previously, Checkpoint topped out with the SL model. All the models have T47 threaded bottom bracket, internal hose and housing routing, 45mm tire clearance, frame bag mounts, fender mounts, and come in six sizes: 49 to 61cm. SLR and SL carbon frames get the same in-frame storage system found on carbon Domane frames.

But though the three platforms share geometry and many features, they’re tuned to suit different riders.

The SLR is race oriented, so it gets the highest-grade carbon composite, a traditionally shaped (not flared) road bar, and forgoes cargo mounts on the fork. This model also has Trek’s no-cut seat mast with (non-adjustable) top tube IsoSpeed.

The SL gets an all-purpose gravel focus. It uses lower grade carbon than the SLR but adds adventure riding features like three-pack mounts on the fork legs, and a flared gravel bar. This model does have Trek’s IsoSpeed decoupler in the seat tube but fits a traditional 27.2mm seatpost: That makes this model dropper-post compatible.

The aluminum framed ALR is the least expensive of the new Checkpoints, and Trek’s representatives expect this to be a popular model with riders looking for a commuter or utility bike. It has the same geometry as the other platforms, and the same rack, fender, framebag and mudguard mounts as the Checkpoint SL, and it gets a flared gravel bar and 27.2mm dropper-post compatibility. The two features it lacks relative to the SL are the in-frame storage and an IsoSpeed decoupler.

Trek Checkpoint — Models, Prices, Weights

There are eight complete bikes for the USA: one ALR, three SL, and four SLR models. Prices and claimed weights are below, with a quick look at the build kits. All complete bikes roll on Bontrager GR1 40mm tubeless ready tires, have tubeless ready rims, and ship with tubeless valves, rim strips, and sealant.

• Checkpoint ALR 5— $2,400, 21.5lb. Shimano GRX600 2x11 with 30/46 rings and 11-34 cassette
• Checkpoint SL 5—$3,200, 21.3lb. Shimano GRX600 2x11 with 30/46 rings and 11-34 cassette, Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels (21mm internal width)
• C heckpoint SL 6 eTap — $4,100, 20.0lb. SRAM Rival eTap AXS 1x12 with 40 ring and 10-44 cassette, Bontrager Paradigm Comp wheels (25mm internal width)
• Checkpoint SL 7 eTap—$6,3,00 19.6lb. SRAM Force Wide eTap AXS 2x12 with 30/43 rings and 10-36 cassette, Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels (25mm internal width)
• Checkpoint SLR 6 eTap—$7,600, 19.1lb. SRAM Rival eTap AXS 1x12 with power meter, 40 ring and 10-44 cassette, Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels (25mm internal width)
• Checkpoint SLR 7—$8,300, 19.4lb. Shimano GRX815 2x11 with 31/48 rings and 11-34 cassette, Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels (25mm internal width)
• Checkpoint SLR 7 eTap—$8,300, 18.6lb. SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x12 with power meter, 40 ring and 10-44 cassette, Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels (25mm internal width)
• Checkpoint SLR 9 eTap—$12,000, 17.9lb. SRAM Red eTap AXS 1x12 with power meter, 40 ring and 10-44 cassette, Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37V carbon wheels (25mm internal width)

Trek Checkpoint — Ride Impressions and Review

Trek sent me the top-of-the-line SLR 9 eTap AXS well ahead of the bike's launch, and I’ve done my usual “gravel” shenanigans on this bike—long gravel rides, mixed media rides, some road riding, and plenty of singletrack.

On anything dirt, and especially on singletrack, the new Checkpoint is not just better than the previous generation, it’s one of the best gravel bikes I’ve been on. I love the previous generations above-average comfort and smoothness and that’s still present, but the geometry updates make the new bike much more capable: And the faster and more technical the dirt, the more the geometry pays off. It’s accurate, but not darty, and composed but appropriately flickable.

Here’s the rub: Give us geometry that lets us go faster and…we’re going to go faster. The Checkpoint is so damn fast on downhills singletrack that I take issue with Trek’s decision to forgo front IsoSpeed or correct the geometry for a suspension fork. I mean, this is a pretty compliant bike overall, but when you go faster the hits get stronger. Many times I wacked stuff that made my hands and arms stung. Bigger tires help, but a 45mm maximum isn’t that big (Canyon’s Grizl fits 50s, for example).

Basically, there were times I felt like the geometry was writing checks the Checkpoint couldn’t cash without some help from suspension. But then, when you add weighty suspension and fatter tires, you have a much different bike; so I’m also not sure that’s the answer. I think we’re at a very interesting point with “progressive” gravel bikes where they are tickling the edges of mountain bike capability and, if they go much further, suspension must be a part of the conversation.

On the flip side of the new Checkpoint’s added capability, it feels less chipper on paved surfaces. The old Checkpoint was almost a road bike that could do gravel while the new one definitely takes cues from the world of mountain bikes. On balance, this works out okay for the most fun and challenging parts of gravel rides, though the Checkpoint bike feels a bit logy on the liaisons between the best bits. That’s a compromise I’m okay with, but if you want more quickness on pavement from your gravel bike you might be happier on something like a Cervelo Aspero 5 or the 3T Exploro Racemax .

Trek isn’t breaking any new ground with the Checkpoint’s geometry and handing traits. This mountain bike influenced longer, more stable, geometry (oh, hello, Chamois Hagar ) is an increasingly popular trend, and already found in bikes like Canyon’s Grizl (which the Checkpoint reminds me of) and some other bikes. I’m curious to see how this geometry goes down with the general riding public, and how far brands push the geometry. When used for actual gravel and off-pavement riding and racing, this geometry makes sense. But if riders are buying gravel bikes because they want more capability and comfort out of a drop bar bike, but are mostly sticking to pavement, I don’t think this geometry suits that kind of rider.

Handling covered, let’s look at the rest of the Checkpoint’s attributes. The added cargo options (in frame storage, direct mount bag in main triangle) are great, almost mandatory, features for a gravel bike. My 54cm frame did have two water bottle mounts on the downtube, but it required a bit of trial and error with a Wolf Tooth B-Rad base to get two bottles to fit comfortably. With the Bontrager frame bag mounted, I needed to reposition the seat tube cage location to fit a bottle. Larger sizes have more space in the main triangle, so this won’t be an issue, but riders on frames smaller than 54 might need to look into alternative ways to carry water if they run the frame bag.

I do have a gripe with the road-bend bar on the SLR models. Trek sees this model as appealing to racers who are coming from a road background. This is why it gets a traditional, and lighter, road bar. But it’s still a gravel bike, and flared drops are awesome for comfort and control. Besides, flared bars are so awesome that once you ride them, you’ll want to put them on your road bikes. Thankfully, Trek didn’t do anything weird with the bar and stem on the new Checkpoint, so riders can fit anything they desire.

That’s my only gripe though. I love this bike, and the rest of the parts kit is dialed. I’m going to throw out special kudos for spec'ing the SRAM-equipped SLR models with power meters from the factory. I think that’s perfectly in line with this bikes purpose and customer.

Overall, the new Checkpoint is a wonderful gravel bike. It’s faster, better handling, and more suited to the needs of the today’s gravel rider.

Trek Checkpoint SLR 9 eTap

Would you like to test new gear for Bicycling ? Click HERE to find out more.

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

Bike Reviews

The Spot Mayhem 140 is Brilliantly Unconventional

The 13 Best Road Bikes of 2024

Firefly’s Custom Gravel Bike is Cycling Artwork

The 14 Best Electric Bikes, Tested by Our Editors

Trek Checkpoint & Checkmate Gravel Bikes Reviewed

This Bike Made Me Laugh, Cry, and Puke—Buy It!

The Specialized Crux DSW Is Simple and Brilliant

Best Hybrid Bikes You Can Buy Right Now

The 10 Best Mountain Bikes You Can Buy Right Now

Giant TCR Advanced Improves on Its Legacy

Speed, Balance, Refinement: Trek's Gen 4 Top Fuel

Tested: Trek’s Eighth-Generation Madone

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review: Is It A Good Bike To Have?

• By Daniel Shakibaie
• Road Bike , Trek Bikes

Your bike should be able to take you everywhere your car can. Sure, it might take longer, but unless you’re looking for a bike that’s only designed to handle asphalt, you’ll probably need something a little more rugged than your average road bike. 

Enter the Trek ALR 5 . While this bike isn’t a mountain bike, it’s a more rugged design and gravel-eating geometry means that you can take this bike… pretty much anywhere. It is one of the most popular rugged bikes of the Trek Checkpoint line.

Still, you should know what you’re getting into before you invest in any new bike, especially a more expensive model like ALR 5. 

The Checkpoint is Trek’s entry into the gravel bike market, but it’s status as a relative newcomer shouldn’t fool you. Instead, consider Trek’s late entry a combination of waiting to see if the market was a fad and waiting until they had a high-quality build that really stood out among the best gravel bike models. 

The ALR 5 is a good mid to premium bike model with a maximum total weight limit of 275 pounds that performs about how you’d expect from a bike in this price range. It’s more rugged design means that this bike won’t ever be the fastest kid on the block, but it’s a well-balanced option. 

Better yet, it accelerates and maintains speed well enough that experienced cyclists might find themselves outpacing the local road bikes, at least as long as they have the component and experience advantage. 

The ALR 5 isn’t a bike that’s really designed for new cyclists. It’s also not really meant for the most technical trails or hardcore crosscheck, which can be a downside for some riders. 

Still, the flexible design makes this a good do it all bike, especially for riders who are looking to have some run and explore more than they’re looking to beat record racing times or rock a near-impossible trail without wiping out. 

Things to Consider Before Buying Gravel Bike 

Gravel bikes are exactly what they sound like. They are designed to handle all-terrain conditions like a mountain bike, but generally don’t have the jump and bump suspension you need for a dirt trail. Instead, gravel bikes like to create a steady and relatively smooth ride quality over difficult surfaces, gravel in particular. 

If you’ve ever ridden a road bike or a commuter bike over treacherous gravel roads, you know why this specialization is so important. 

However, the best value gravel bike is heavier and a little slower and chunkier than their speedy competitors, which makes them less suitable for urban riders. They also don’t usually have the same kind of suspension system as a good mountain bike. 

That’s not to say that you couldn’t hit some mountain trails on a gravel bike, you can. But you should expect that it’s going to perform differently, and you might get hung up on obstacles your mountain bike can easily mount or jump. 

Essentially, remember that a best-value gravel bike isn’t truly designed for everyone, even though it is one of the more popular do-everything bike types. 

Features & Benefits

We’ve talked a little about how Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 performs when it’s all put together, but that isn’t everything. You should still know what kind of components you’re working with and how those components will affect bike performance overall. 

This bike has an aluminum frame instead of a lighter carbon design. The new alloy, 300 Series Alpha Aluminum, performs even better than Trek’s older aluminum frames, absorbing a little more road vibration without adding weight or losing durability. 

Its circular and oval frame shape is fairly straightforward, but a glossy and incredibly clean paint job adds a little flair. 

More importantly, the ALR 5 has consistently good welds, with high durability which makes it much less likely that you’ll break a weld while you’re riding. 

The internal cable routing, aluminum tapered head tube, seat tube and down tube make ALR 5 a professional looking and a great bike. Internal routing also keeps your bike looking and riding cleaner while protecting component wires and reducing the wear and tear on your bike. The 300 series alpha aluminum tapered head or seat tube along with a sturdy down tube of ALR 5 makes your ride smooth and comfortable.

The ALR 5 might not come with any racks or integrated frame bag mounts, but the frame is pre-drilled for all the standard accessories, saving you money and time. 

Suspension System

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 ‘s fork has carbon fiber checkpoint models, which is a lightweight suspension solution a little different from your average suspension fork. Instead of absorbing big impacts and providing travel space for jumps and bumps, this fork is focused on reducing road vibration and preventing constant low-level impacts from traveling up the bike. It also has fender mounts and 12x100mm thru axle.

That means that you’ll be able to ride over gravel without feeling like you’re being shaken apart, but you’ll still feel every pothole on the road. 

While this suspension style is different, it’s very effective overall. 

More: Pure Fix Bike Review: Is It A Good Bike To Have

The tubeless-ready rims are a real boon on this bike since they make it even easier to get a smooth ride over gravel. 

However, you won’t be getting tubeless tires standard and massive tire clearance with the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5. Instead, you’ll be getting a set of fairly standard tires with a reasonable, but slightly outdated, tread. 

The high-pressure tolerance of these tires makes them an understandable choice for Trek, but they’re also one of the first things that many cyclists upgrade when they buy this bike. 

The 21 gears on this bike are a nice, flexible addition to the bike. But, in the gravel bike crowd, many people think that that many gears are overkill and unnecessary. 

Thankfully, Trek seems to have anticipated that complaint and also lets you switch this bike over to a single-speed, and back, very quickly.

The combination of both the 21-speed mode and the single-speed mode makes this bike a good fit for most riding styles and a wider range of trails. 

More: Discover The Best Road Bikes Under $1000 Has to Offer

Like many of the most important components on this bike, the brakes are from Shimano. That means that you’re likely to get high-quality and very consistent results from these brakes, even if you haven’t used a set of flat-mount disc brakes before. 

The hydraulic disc brakes on this model are particularly important since they are much less likely to get gravel stuck in them and cause damage. 

Fortunately, they also offer highly responsive performance without stopping you to fast to be dangerous on gravel trails. 

Is the Trek Emonda ALR 5 Suitable for Riding on Tough Terrains?

The trek emonda alr 5 review reveals that it is a suitable choice for riding on tough terrains. With its aluminium frame and carbon fork, it offers a balanced combination of strength and comfort. The Shimano 105 groupset ensures smooth shifting, while the Bontrager wheels provide stability. Its lightweight design allows for agility in challenging conditions.

Other Customers Reviews

Customers generally love that the Checkpoint ALR 5 is more rugged than many of the more popular bike models out there. It’s also clearly a durable option, and gravel riders love a bike that can take a hit. Take a look for yourself: 

Alternatives

Trek checkpoint alr 5 vs cannondale topstone 105.

Both of these bikes are high-quality gravel bikes with lots of gears and a rugged design that can hold up to a beating. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any major differences between the two. The Topstone 105 has a serious advantage in the dropper component that will let you drop your saddle for more maneuverability on the go. 

The Topstone also comes with tubeless-ready tires (however, no massive tire clearance), which also gives it a little bit of a boost as the more versatile and adaptive of the two bikes. 

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 vs Trek SL5

The Trek SL3 is still a Checkpoint model, but it’s higher price point comes with several important innovations over the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 . The big advantage is that the SL5 smooths your ride even more than the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5. 

It’s snazzier appearance and equally, rugged durability makes the SL5 a good option if you’ve got a little extra cash to spend. 

However, the core of both bikes is similar. The ALR 5 still has the hydraulic disk brakes, tubeless-ready wheels, and high-end carbon fork you want for good gravel and drop bar bike. So while the SL5 does have some performance improvements, many riders will be just as happy with an ALR 5. 

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 vs ALR 4

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 4 has just had a new release for its 2021 model, which comes in several sleek and eye-catching colors, and has the same basic geometry and aggressive rider position as the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 . 

The ALR 4 is the more affordable of the two, and even in this newest model, you’re looking at several slight downgrades in almost every component set. Where it matters you’ll still be getting similar components. 

It’s still a Shimano drivetrain and brake set, for instance. Still, when you put it all together this model will be able to do just a little bit less than the ALR 5. By design. 

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 vs Specialized Diverge Comp E5

Another very similar model, the big difference here is that the Specialized Diverge Comp E5 uses a Tektro mechanical disc brake vs the ALR 5 ‘s Shimano hydraulic flat mount disc brake. Both are great braking systems, though the hydraulic is slightly nicer.  

Really though, we’d say that between these two brake models performance differences are so slight that it’s more a matter of what you prefer rather than what works better. 

More: Kestral Talon X Tri 105 Review

Overall, while the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 isn’t necessarily the best gravel bike you can get your hands on, it’s got a good component set and is a high-value option for its price. When you start looking at better bikes than this one, you’re looking at much bigger cost differentials for smaller and smaller performance increases. 

The extra cost might be worth it for some, but in our opinion, this bike is a solid option for gravel riders at all experience levels. So, next time you stop at a bike shop, don’t miss checking such mountain bikes to ensure you enjoy riding.

About The Author

Daniel Shakibaie

Want To Receive Exclusive Offers, Tips & Freebies?

More To Explore

8 of The Best Cycling Routes in Cotswolds (Unforgettable Rides)

6 best mountain bike brake pads for reliable stopping power.

Uncover the Best Cycling Routes in Jordan for Adventure Seekers

Explore the Best Cycling Routes in Iceland – Adventure Awaits

Subscribe to newsletter.

We hate spam so we pinky promise that we will only send you the good stuff.   Sign up to our weekly newsletter to get tips, tricks & freebies😲

Affiliate Disclaimer

Please note that some of the links on ‘Outdoor Lab With J’ are affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission, at no additional cost to you, if you click through and make a purchase. 

We only endorse products and services that we have personally used or believe to be valuable to our readers. 

Our primary goal is to provide helpful and informative content, and any commissions help us maintain the site and continue to produce quality content. Thank you for your support.

Bikes By Brand

• Priority Bicycle
• Rad Power Bikes

Biking Guides

• Mountain Bike
• Hybrid Bike

Legal & About Us

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Earning Disclaimer

2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless Review

Are you searching for an endurance gravel bike that combines lightweight performance and severe loyalty to the cause? If so, the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless may be the perfect choice for you.

The latest version of the Check Point ALR 5 is a future-proofed long-distance gravel bike that has been heavily developed over several years. 

It features an all-new lightweight Alpha Aluminum frame and some seriously impressive technology, flat mount brakes, hidden fender mounts, and even a small frame bag.

All of this comes together to create an agile, long distance experience that packs in comfort without compromising on speed and control. 

In this review we take a closer look at what makes the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless so special and why it could be one of the best options available on the market today.

The 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless was released recently and the anticipation for the bike has been huge. 

This high-performance all-road gravel bike offers a lightweight, responsive package that is built for long rides and intense races. 

Built with an aluminum frame and carbon fork, this Checkpoint comes packed with features like an 11-speed Shimano drivetrain and hydraulic brakes. 

In this review, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless and seeing how it performs on the trail.

Frame Design

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless features an aluminum alloy frame that is designed to offer good power transfer while remaining light weight. 

The frame has clearance for 700x45c or 650×2.1″ tires, allowing you to take on more challenging road surfaces with confidence. 

The frame also uses Trek’s Control Freak internal cable routing system which helps to streamline the design by tucking away all of the cables inside of the frame.

Groupset and Components

This version of the Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless comes equipped with a Shimano GRX 11-speed groupset which includes a shifter/brake lever combo, front/rear derailleurs and a 11-42t cassette. 

When it comes to braking, this bike features flat mount hydraulic disc brakes from Shimano which offer reliable stopping power even on wet or muddy roads. 

As for suspension, this Checkpoint model uses a rigid carbon fork to provide some comfort without taking too much away from its agile feel.

The wheels on this model are Bontrager Paradigm tubeless compatible wrapped with Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Elite 700x40c tires. 

These rims are strong and light, making them ideal for gravel riding where speed changes frequently and terrain can get rough or technical at times. 

They even include a small bottle of tubeless sealant should you choose to run them tubeless.

Overall Ride Feel

As far as ride feel goes, this Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless has a stiff and snappy feel thanks to its lightweight construction and rigid carbon fork design. 

The geometry of this bike helps foster good power transfer throughout pedal strokes while still allowing you to stay agile around tight corners or when navigating through technical terrain at higher speeds. 

With its dependable components like Shimano’s GRX 11-speed groupset and hydraulic disc brakes you get great performance in any condition whether you’re racing against your friends or just out exploring some local trails.

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

Related Posts

Electra Townie Go! 7D Step-Thru Electric Bike Review

2023 Nukeproof Scout 290 Race Review

Cannondale Moterra Neo 4 Electric Mountain Bike Review

2023 Trek Marlin 8 Gen 2 Review

• Specialized
• Bridge Bikeworks
• Brooklyn Bicycle Co.
• Bunch Bikes
• CYCLE OF GOOD
• DALLINGRIDGE
• Diamondback
• Eddy Merckx
• Electric Bike Company
• EVO Bicycles
• Fahrradmanufaktur
• Flyer by Radio Flyer
• iGO Electric
• Intense 951
• JupiterBike
• Lectric eBikes
• LeMond Bicycles
• Lightweight
• View all brands
• Pivot Cycles
• Qualisports
• Quintana Roo
• Rad Power Bikes
• Raleigh Electric
• Riese & Müller
• Rocky Mountain
• Schindelhauer
• State Bicycle Co.
• Surface 604
• Urban Arrow
• Van Nicholas
• VELO DE VILLE
• Vintage Electric
• Yeti Cycles
• YT Industries

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless

• 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, Internal cable routing, 3S chain keeper, T47 BB, rack and fender mounts, integrated frame bag mounts, flat mount disc, 142x12mm thru axle
• Fork Checkpoint, full carbon, tapered carbon 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 Size: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, Bontrager Paradigm, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, Presta valve; Size: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, Bontrager Paradigm SL, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, Presta valve
• Spokes 14g stainless steel
• Tires Bontrager GR2 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 700x40c
• Chain Shimano HG601
• Crank Size: 49, Shimano GRX RX600, 40T, 165mm length; Size: 52, Shimano GRX RX600, 40T ring, 170mm length; Size: 54, 56, Shimano GRX RX600, 40T, 172.5mm length; Size: 58, 61, Shimano GRX RX600, 40T ring, 175mm length
• Bottom Bracket Praxis, T47 threaded, internal bearing
• Rear Derailleur Shimano GRX RX812, long cage, 42T max cog
• Shifters Size: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, Shimano GRX RX810, 11 speed; Size: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, Shimano GRX RX810 hydraulic disc
• Brakeset Shimano RX810 hydraulic disc, flat mount
• Handlebar Size: 49, Bontrager Elite Gravel, 38cm width; Size: 52, Bontrager Elite Gravel, 40cm width; Size: 54, 56, Bontrager Elite Gravel, 42cm width; Size: 58, 61, Bontrager Elite Gravel, 44cm width
• Saddle Size: 49, 52, Bontrager Verse Comp, steel rails, 155mm width; Size: 54, 56, 58, 61, Bontrager Verse Comp, steel rails, 145mm width
• Seatpost Easton EA70 AX, 27.2mm, 0mm offset, 50mm travel
• Stem Size: 49, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length; Size: 52, 54, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length; Size: 56, 58, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length; Size: 61, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length
• Headset FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

Q: How much is a 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless?

A 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless is typically priced around $2,899 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 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless?

The 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless should I get?

No comments on this bike yet. Why not be the first?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Want more road bikes in your mailbox?

The latest on road bikes delivered straight to your mailbox.

More Bikes in Range View All

Trek Checkpoint ALR Frameset

Trek Checkpoint SL 7

Trek Checkpoint SL 5

More gravel bikes view all.

Vaast A/1 2x Frameset

Trenga KSG 7.2

Deals view all, view all deals, recent posts view all.

What is Road Bike Database?

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, choosing the right road bike can…

Send Feedback

Have a suggestion? Looking for a bike that's not on Road Bike Database? Or perhaps you've spotted an error?

We'd love to hear from you. Let us know with the form below.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. Learn more.

About Road Bike Database

Explore, search and compare thousands of the world’s best road bikes here on Road Bike Database.

Compare prices, components, reviews, images and more on current and past road bikes. You can even share reviews, comments and questions on road bikes. View and compare a huge selection of bikes from brands such as Cervélo , BMC , Trek , Specialized and more .

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information for road bikes on Road Bike Database. If you’ve spotted any issues, please let us know . We also include helpful tools, such as our frame size calculator, to assist you in choosing the right road bike. Bear in mind that these tools serve as a guide and simply provide a general indication. Refer to information provided by your bike manufacturer for the most applicable information for your bike.

Bikes By Brand

Bikes by year, bikes by riding style.

• Electric Road
• folding-bike
• general-road
• general-urban
• long-tail-cargo

Bikes By Wheel Size

Popular bikes.

• 2023 Juliana QUINCY Frame / Carbon CC
• 2022 Riese & Müller Charger3 GT rohloff HS
• 2022 Lapierre Sensium 3.0 Disc
• 2021 Montague M-E1
• 2023 Orro Terra Ti GRX820 Integrated
• 2022 Scott Speedster 50
• 2023 Schindelhauer Arthur VI/IX

Latest Bikes

• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT touring
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT rohloff
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT rohloff HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT vario HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT vario
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT touring HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Roadster4 Mixte vario HS

• Checkpoint ALR 5

We’ll make this a great experience

It’s our mission to provide you with world-class hospitality every time you visit us online or in-store. We’ll always take care of you. It’s the Trek way.

Delivered the way you want

Get your bike delivered to your local shop, directly to your home, or fully assembled and brought to your doorstep. Whatever’s best for you, we’ve got you covered.

30-day Unconditional Guarantee

If for any reason you’re not 100% happy with your online order from trekbikes.com, you can return it in like-new condition within 30 days. No questions asked.

"An excellent gravel race bike"

"Trek's new Checkpoint SLR 9 eTap is an excellent gravel race bike, built with features and geometry that calm rough surfaces without the handling feeling vague or sluggish. After two months on it, I can say that the bike we named the 2021 VeloNews Bike of the Year has only gotten better."

"What Trek gets right with the Checkpoint is the handling, the comfort, the storage options, and the flexibility to alter the cockpit or the drivetrain. The attention to detail...is welcome and warranted for a top-end machine."

"One of the best gravel bikes I’ve been on"

"Overall, the new Checkpoint is a wonderful gravel bike. It’s faster, better handling, and more suited to the needs of the today’s gravel rider."

"More capable….easier to ride on fast on unpaved surfaces"

"As with other bikes with similarly long front ends, the revamped Checkpoint is easier and more confidence-inspiring to ride off-road on even moderately steep or loose terrain than before."

"Progressive geometry and frame storage"

"Trek has revamped its Checkpoint line-up, with the updated gravel bike coming in not one but three different flavours, catering for the needs of go-fast racers, rough-and-ready adventurers and riders looking for a versatile N+1."

More options