TREK has introduced two new gravel bikes. The all-new Checkmate SLR will fill TREK’s top-end gravel berth, while the updated Checkpoint SL brings current gravel-bike features to the brand’s mid-range model. Both bikes come with TREK’s proprietary IsoSpeed, which delivers all-important comfort. Here’s what you can expect…
The all-new Checkmate SLR is Trek’s first-ever dedicated gravel race bike and the lightest and fastest gravel bike the brand has ever made, perfect for crushing the sport’s most epic events. The new Checkpoint SL Gen 3 improves on the previous model with increased comfort and storage capacity, an improved fit, and all-around carbon performance for long gravel rides and overnighters.
Both bikes share Trek’s IsoSpeed comfort tech to smooth bumps in the road and keep adventurers riding stronger longer. Plus, both gravel bikes have frame designs and mounts for Trek’s all-new Adventure Bags, including top tube, frame, and the more aero-efficient triangle bag that’s tucked out of the wind.
CHECKMATE SLR GRAVEL RACE BIKE
TREK’s lightest gravel bike ever: Checkmate is TREK’s lightest gravel bike ever, with premium 800 Series OCLV Carbon, top-tier components, and new lightweight tube shape technology that help drop half a kilogramme off the previous Checkpoint SLR model.
Trek’s fastest gravel bike ever: Checkmate is TREK’s fastest gravel bike ever, with the same new Full System Foil aero tube shapes and aero one-piece bar/stem as the recently launched Madone Gen 8. Plus, Checkmate’s new Gravel Race geometry puts riders in a more aggressive and efficient riding position. Together, these features help make Checkmate 5 minutes and 54 seconds faster than Checkpoint SLR on the 200-mile course at Unbound (at 200W). Unbound is the world’s most prestigious Gravel Race.
New lightweight and aero one-piece bar/stem: Checkmate features the same ultra-light and aero one-piece carbon bar/stem as the Madone Gen 8, with hoods that are 30mm narrower than the drops so riders can choose between a more aero or more controlled position and enjoy more ergonomic comfort on the tops.
Room for up to 45mm tyres: Checkmate comes stock with 38mm tyres but can fit up to 45mm tyres to roll quick over tougher race or training courses.
Customisable in Project One: The best way to get Checkmate is through Project One for the perfect fit, parts, and color. Plus, the new Project One ICON Raw Lithos scheme brings breathtaking earthen hues exclusively to Checkmate customers.
The following models are available in South Africa:
Checkmate SLR 7 R185 000 – See it here.
Checkmate SLR 9: R255 000 – See it here.
These will only be available as Project One models.
CHECKPOINT SL GEN 3 GRAVEL BIKE
Carbon gravel performance: The Checkpoint SL Gen 3 features reimagined tube shapes and 500 Series OCLV Carbon that keeps things lightweight, snappy, and economical.
Optimised storage: The Checkpoint SL Gen 3’s new frame design has more room to fit taller bottles with bags and offers more internal storage. Plus, it has mounts galore for top tube, frame, and triangle bags; fork storage; and front and rear racks.
New confidence-inspiring details: The Checkpoint SL Gen 3’s new Gravel Endurance geometry has a higher and shorter reach that’s more comfortable and capable for all-day gravel rides. Plus, riders get a GR Elite handlebar (on SL 5 and 6) or carbon GR Pro handlebar (on SL 7), which share a more comfortable drop shape and an increased flare of 6cm between hoods and drops for better control and confidence, no matter the terrain.
Room for up to 50mm tyres: The Checkpoint SL Gen 3 comes with 42mm tyres but can fit bigger, beefier gravel tyres to roll over the chunky stuff.
Compatible with dropper post and suspension fork: The new Checkpoint SL Gen 3 is dropper-post compatible and adds suspension fork compatibility with up to 40mm of travel* so customers can enjoy even more capability, comfort, and confidence.
*Available on all sizes except XS
The following models are available in South Africa:
Checkpoint SL 5: MSRP R75 000 – See it here.
Checkpoint ALR 5: MSRP R50 000 – See it here.
Checkpoint ALR 4: MSRP R40 000
