How do the Trek Checkmate and Checkpoint Perform?
Whether you're riding on gravel, dirt, or pavement, Trek's new gravel bikes deliver a smooth and stable ride. The wide gear range allows you to conquer steep climbs with ease, while responsive handling makes it easy to navigate tight corners and technical descents. These bikes are truly versatile, making it an easy choice for riders who love to explore off the beaten path.
Checkmate vs Checkpoint
Well, what's the difference? Trek's Checkmate is a dedicated gravel race bike, while Checkpoint is best suited for gravel riding and adventures. Both bikes are fully capable on gravel surfaces but do have different features and intended use cases.
What are the Specific Differences?
- Checkmate SLR has fast and light Full System Foil aero shapes
- Checkmate SLR uses 800 Series OCLV Carbon vs Checkpoint SLR uses 700 Series OCLV Carbon
- Checkmate SLR does not have internal downtube storage to save weight vs Checkpoint SLR does have downtube storage
- Checkmate SLR is overall lighter and faster than Checkpoint SLR
- Checkmate SLR comes with a one-piece aero and ergonomic bar/stem vs Checkpoint SLR comes with a two-piece cockpit system
- Checkmate SLR uses UDH and RCS Headset System for compatibility
NEW Checkpoint vs Previous Generations
- New Gravel Endurance geometry is revamped with shorter and higher reach for a more comfortable, accessible and capable all-day ride
- Improved internal downtube storage with more internal volume, a bigger door and a new BITS bag
- Still maintains the same top tube, frame, downtube, fork, mudguard and rear rack mounts of the previous Gen, but now also has mounts for a front rack
- Frame is now better optimised to store bigger volume bottles, even when the new Bontrager Adventure Half Frame Bag or Adventure Triangle Bag are mounted on the frame
- Bigger tyre clearance can now fit up to 50 mm gravel tyres (as measured)
- Now compatible with 40 mm travel suspension fork (all sizes except XS)
- Maintains the same IsoSpeed comfort tech as before, but the hardware is now visible
- UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger)
- RCS Headset System
- More robust chainstay guard
